What you need to bring and why
To open a bank account, you will need a government-issued photo ID, proof of your current address, and your Social Security number or tax ID. The bank uses these to verify who you are and to comply with federal anti-money-laundering rules. Bring originals, not copies — most banks will not accept photocopies of your ID.
Proof of address can be a utility bill, lease, mortgage statement, or government mail dated within the last 60 days. If you do not have a current address or live at a shelter, some banks will accept a letter from a social service agency or a temporary address. Call ahead to ask what your specific branch accepts, because policies vary by location.
If you do not have a Social Security number, you can use an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) instead. Bring the letter from the IRS that issued it. Some banks also ask for a second form of ID — a state ID, passport, or military ID — so bring more than one if you have it.
Key Takeaways
- You need a photo ID, proof of your address from the last 60 days, and your Social Security number or ITIN to open an account at most banks.
- You can open an account in person at a branch, by phone with some banks, or online through a bank's website — each method takes a different amount of time.
- The bank will run a background check through ChexSystems or Early Warning Services to see if you have had problems with past accounts; a record there may delay or block your account.
- You will choose between a checking account, savings account, or both, and the bank will explain fees, minimum balances, and how you access your money.
- Your account is usually active within one to five business days, though online banks may take longer to verify your identity.
Opening an account in person at a branch
Walk into any branch of the bank you want to use during business hours. Tell the person at the desk you want to open an account. They will take you to a banker or new accounts representative, who will ask you questions about yourself — your name, address, date of birth, employment, and how you plan to use the account.
The banker will show you the types of accounts the bank offers and explain the fees, minimum balance requirements, and how you access your money (debit card, online, mobile app, ATM). They will ask whether you want direct deposit set up, which is when your employer or government agency sends your paycheck or benefits straight to your account. You do not have to set it up right away, but having it ready speeds the process.
You will sign documents — usually a signature card and a deposit agreement that explains the bank's rules. The banker will run a background check through ChexSystems or Early Warning Services, which are databases that track account history at other banks. If you have never had a problem, this takes a few minutes. If there is a record, the banker will tell you and may ask questions about it.
You can deposit money the same day. Your account is usually active within one business day, though you may not be able to withdraw cash or write checks until the next day.
Opening an account online or by phone
Many banks let you open an account without visiting a branch. Go to the bank's website, click "Open an Account" or "New Customer", and fill out a form with your name, address, Social Security number, and employment information. You will upload photos of your ID and proof of address using your phone camera or computer.
The bank will verify your identity by asking security questions based on your credit history, or by sending a code to your phone or email that you enter to confirm it is really you. Some banks use video verification — you video call a representative who watches you hold up your ID and answer questions.
Once your identity is verified, you choose your account type and set a PIN for your debit card. You can deposit money by transferring it from another bank account, mailing a check, or waiting for direct deposit to begin. Your account is usually active within three to five business days, though some online banks take longer.
If you open by phone, call the bank's customer service number and ask to speak with someone in new accounts. The process is similar to opening online, but the representative walks you through each step.
What happens if you have a ChexSystems record
ChexSystems and Early Warning Services track whether you have had accounts closed due to overdrafts, fraud, or other problems. If you have a record, the bank will see it during the background check. This does not automatically block you from opening an account, but it may delay approval or result in a denial.
If the bank denies you, ask why. You have the right to know what information they found. You can also request a copy of your ChexSystems report for free by visiting chexsystems.com or calling 1-800-428-9623. If the information is wrong, you can dispute it in writing.
If you have a record but want to open an account anyway, look for banks that offer "second chance" checking accounts. These are designed for people with past banking problems and usually have higher fees or lower limits, but they let you rebuild your banking history. Credit unions sometimes offer these accounts too, and may be more flexible than large banks.
Choosing between checking and savings
A checking account is for money you use regularly — paying bills, buying groceries, getting cash. You get a debit card and checks, and you can set up automatic payments. Most checking accounts have no monthly fee if you keep a minimum balance or set up direct deposit, though some charge a fee regardless.
A savings account is for money you want to keep and grow. It earns interest, which means the bank pays you a small percentage of your balance each month. You can withdraw money, but there are limits — federal rules allow only six withdrawals per month, though many banks have removed this limit. Savings accounts usually have lower fees than checking accounts.
You can open both at the same time. Many people use checking for daily spending and savings for an emergency fund or a goal. Ask the banker which combination makes sense for how you plan to use the account.
Fees and minimum balances to watch for
Banks charge different fees depending on the account type and how you use it. Common fees include a monthly maintenance fee (usually $5 to $15), overdraft fees (charged when you spend more than you have, typically $25 to $35 per transaction), and ATM fees (charged when you use another bank's ATM, usually $2 to $3).
Many banks waive the monthly fee if you keep a minimum balance — often $500 to $1,500 — or if you set up direct deposit. Some banks charge no fees at all. Ask the banker what fees apply to your account and what you can do to avoid them.
If you cannot keep a minimum balance, look for a no-minimum account. Online banks and credit unions often have these. You will pay a small monthly fee instead, but it may be cheaper than overdraft fees if you sometimes run low on money.
After your account opens: what to do next
Once your account is active, set up online banking and mobile banking so you can check your balance, transfer money, and pay bills from your phone or computer. The bank will give you a username and password, or you can create them yourself. Write them down somewhere safe, or use a password manager.
If you set up direct deposit, give your employer or benefits administrator your account number and routing number. These are printed on your checks or shown in your online banking portal. Direct deposit usually takes one to two pay periods to start.
Set up alerts so the bank texts or emails you when your balance drops below a certain amount, or when a large transaction happens. This helps you catch fraud or overdrafts early. Most banks offer this for free.
Keep your debit card and checks safe. If your card is lost or stolen, call the bank immediately — you are protected from fraud if you report it within two business days. If someone uses your account without permission, report it to the bank and the Federal Trade Commission at reportfraud.ftc.gov.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I open a bank account without a Social Security number?
Yes. If you have an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) from the IRS, you can use that instead. Bring the letter that issued it. Some banks also accept a passport or other government ID in place of a Social Security number, though this varies by bank and location.
How long does it take to open an account?
In person at a branch, it usually takes 15 to 30 minutes. Online or by phone, it takes 10 to 20 minutes to fill out the form, but your account may not be fully active for three to five business days while the bank verifies your identity. Some online banks take longer.
What if I do not have a current address?
Call the bank and ask what they accept as proof of address. Many will take a letter from a shelter, social service agency, or government office. Some accept mail addressed to a temporary address or a PO box. Policies vary, so ask before you go in.
Can I open an account if I have been denied before?
Yes. If you were denied because of a ChexSystems record, you can try a different bank or look for a second chance checking account. If you were denied for another reason, ask the bank why and what you can do differently. You may need to bring more documentation or wait a certain amount of time before trying again.
Do I have to keep a minimum balance?
It depends on the account. Some accounts require a minimum balance to avoid a monthly fee, while others charge a fee no matter what. Ask the banker about your specific account. If you cannot keep a minimum, look for a no-minimum account at a different bank or credit union.