What you need before you start
A mobile bank account lives in an app on your phone instead of at a physical branch. You can deposit checks by taking a photo, send money to other people, pay bills, and check your balance without visiting a bank or ATM. Most banks and many online-only banks offer this, and the process takes 10 to 20 minutes on your phone.
Before you open one, have these ready: a valid government ID (driver's license, passport, or state ID), your Social Security number, proof of your current address (a recent utility bill, lease, or bank statement), and a phone number where the bank can reach you. Some banks also ask for a second form of ID or a photo of you holding your ID. If you do not have a physical address, some banks accept a mailing address or PO box instead.
You will also need a smartphone with internet access and an email address. The bank will send you login details and security codes to that email, so use one you check regularly. If you do not have an email address, create one for free at Gmail, Outlook, or Yahoo before you start.
Key Takeaways
- Mobile bank accounts are opened entirely through an app and take 10 to 20 minutes; you do not need to visit a branch or call anyone.
- You will need a valid ID, Social Security number, proof of address, and an email address before you begin the signup process.
- The bank will verify your identity by asking questions about your credit history or by having you take a photo of your ID and your face.
- Once approved, you can deposit checks by photographing them in the app, and most banks fund your account within one to three business days.
- Some banks charge monthly fees; others are free if you meet a minimum balance or set up direct deposit.
Step-by-step signup through the bank's app
Download the bank's app from the Apple App Store or Google Play Store. Open it and look for a button that says "Open an Account," "Sign Up," or "New Customer." Tap it. The app will ask you to enter your email address and create a password — use a password you have not used anywhere else, with at least 12 characters mixing letters, numbers, and symbols.
Next, enter your full legal name, date of birth, phone number, and Social Security number exactly as they appear on your ID. The bank uses this to check your identity against government records and to run a soft credit check (which does not lower your credit score). Then enter your current address. If you recently moved, some banks ask for your previous address too.
The app will then ask you to verify your identity. Most banks do this one of two ways: they either ask you security questions based on your credit history ("Which of these addresses did you live at in 2019?"), or they ask you to take a photo of your ID and a selfie. If the app asks for photos, make sure your ID is fully visible and your face is clearly lit and matches your ID photo. The verification usually takes a few minutes, though some banks review it manually and may take up to 24 hours.
Funding your new account
Once the bank approves you, the app will show you your new account number and routing number. You can fund the account three ways: transfer money from another bank account you own, deposit a check by photographing it in the app, or have your employer or a government agency send your paycheck or benefits directly to this account.
If you transfer from another bank, the app will ask for that bank's login details or will give you wire instructions. Transfers usually take one to three business days. If you deposit a check by photo, photograph the front and back of the check in good light, and the bank will typically credit the money within one to three business days. Some banks limit how much you can deposit by photo in a single day or month — the app will tell you the limit.
If you set up direct deposit, your employer or benefits administrator will need your new account number and routing number. Direct deposit usually starts within one or two pay cycles. Until your account is funded, you cannot use the debit card or make transfers, though you can still log in and see your account details.
Getting a debit card and using your account
Most banks mail a debit card to the address you provided during signup. It typically arrives within 5 to 10 business days. Some banks let you request a digital card that works immediately in Apple Pay, Google Pay, or Samsung Pay while you wait for the physical card. Check the app's settings or card section to see if this option is available.
Once you have a debit card (physical or digital), you can use it to buy things in stores or online, withdraw cash from ATMs, and pay bills through the app. You can also send money to other people using the app if they have a bank account at the same bank or if the bank offers peer-to-peer transfers through services like Zelle or Venmo.
Set up a PIN for your debit card as soon as it arrives. The app will prompt you to do this, or you can set it in the card settings. This PIN protects your card if it is lost or stolen.
Monthly fees and minimum balance requirements
Some mobile banks charge a monthly maintenance fee (typically $5 to $15), while others charge nothing. A few banks waive the fee if you keep a minimum balance (often $500 to $1,500), receive direct deposit, or make a certain number of debit card purchases each month. Check the bank's fee schedule before you finish signing up — the app usually shows this on the account details page or in a document labeled "Pricing" or "Fee Schedule."
If the bank charges a fee and you do not meet the waiver conditions, the fee comes out of your account automatically each month. If your balance drops below zero because of a fee, the bank may charge an overdraft fee on top of it. Read the fee schedule carefully so you know what to expect.
What to do if your signup is denied
If the bank denies your application, the app will usually tell you why: failed identity verification, a problem with your credit history, or a match on a fraud or sanctions list. If it is a verification problem, you can usually try again by uploading clearer photos of your ID or answering the security questions differently.
If the bank says your address or Social Security number does not match their records, contact the bank's customer service through the app or by phone. Bring your ID and proof of address. Sometimes the problem is a typo or an old address in the system, and customer service can fix it and resubmit your application.
If you are denied because of your credit history or a fraud flag, you have the right to know why. Ask the bank for the reason in writing. If the denial was based on a credit report, you can request a free copy of your report from Equifax, Experian, or TransUnion at annualcreditreport.com and check it for errors. If you find an error, dispute it with the credit bureau.
Security and fraud protection on mobile accounts
Mobile bank accounts have the same fraud protections as traditional bank accounts. If someone uses your debit card without permission, report it to the bank within 60 days and you are not responsible for the fraudulent charges. The bank will issue you a new card and refund the money.
To protect your account, never share your password or the codes the bank texts to you. Enable two-factor authentication in the app settings — this means the bank will text you a code every time you log in from a new device or browser. Turn on biometric login (fingerprint or face recognition) if the app offers it; this is faster and safer than typing your password.
If you lose your phone, log into your account from another device and change your password immediately. Then call the bank to report the phone lost and ask them to lock your account until you can verify your identity. Most banks can do this in minutes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I open a mobile bank account if I do not have a credit history?
Yes. Most banks do not require a credit history to open a checking account. They may run a soft credit check, but this does not hurt your credit score and does not require you to have existing credit. If you have been denied before, try a different bank — different banks use different verification methods.
What happens if I deposit a check and the photo is blurry?
The bank will reject the deposit and the app will tell you to try again. Take the photo in bright natural light, hold the check flat, and make sure all four corners and all the text are visible. If you keep having trouble, you can deposit the check at an ATM or a branch instead.
Can I use a mobile bank account without a smartphone?
No. Mobile bank accounts are designed for phones and tablets. If you do not have a smartphone, a traditional bank account with online access through a computer browser may work better for you. Some banks offer both options.
How long does it take to be approved after I submit my application?
Most banks approve you instantly or within a few hours. Some review applications manually and may take up to 24 hours. The app will show your status and let you know when you are approved. Once approved, you can start using your account immediately, though you cannot withdraw or transfer money until you fund it.
What if the bank asks for more information after I submit my application?
The bank will send you a message in the app or an email asking for the additional documents or details. Respond as quickly as you can — the longer you wait, the longer approval takes. Common requests are a clearer photo of your ID, proof of address, or clarification on your employment or income.