What you need to open a bank account
To open a bank account, you need a government-issued photo ID, proof of your current address, and your Social Security number or tax ID. Most banks also ask for an initial deposit, which ranges from zero to several hundred dollars depending on the account type and the bank. Some banks waive the deposit requirement if you set up direct deposit or maintain a minimum balance.
You can open an account in person at a branch, online through the bank's website, or by phone with a representative. Online accounts typically open fastest—sometimes within minutes—while in-person accounts may take 15 to 30 minutes. Phone applications usually take 20 to 45 minutes because the representative must verify your identity by asking security questions.
If you do not have a photo ID, some banks will accept a combination of documents like a utility bill, lease, or bank statement as proof of address. A few banks work with people who have no ID at all, though they may limit what you can do with the account until you provide one later. Call ahead to ask what your specific bank accepts.
Key Takeaways
- You need a photo ID, proof of address, and your Social Security number to open most bank accounts, plus an initial deposit that varies by bank and account type.
- Online accounts open fastest, often within minutes, while in-person and phone applications take 15 to 45 minutes.
- After opening, you access your account through online banking, a mobile app, or by visiting a branch or calling customer service.
- Your bank statements and transaction history are stored in your online account and can be downloaded as PDF files or printed at any time.
- If you lose access to your online account, call the bank's customer service line on the back of your debit card or visit a branch with your ID.
Documents you need to bring or provide
The exact documents vary by bank, but most require three things: a government-issued photo ID (driver's license, passport, or state ID card), proof of your current address (utility bill, lease, mortgage statement, or bank statement dated within the last 60 days), and your Social Security number. Some banks also ask for a second form of ID or a phone number where they can reach you.
If you are opening the account online, you will upload photos of these documents or enter the information directly. If you are opening in person, bring the physical documents. If you are opening by phone, the representative will ask you to read the information aloud or may mail you a form to sign and return.
Non-citizens can open accounts with an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) instead of a Social Security number. Some banks require an ITIN to be issued by the IRS before you apply; others will accept an ITIN application receipt. A few banks do not accept ITINs at all, so call ahead if this applies to you.
How to access your account online and download statements
After your account opens, the bank will give you a username and password or a temporary PIN. Log into the bank's website or mobile app using these credentials. Your dashboard will show your account balance, recent transactions, and links to statements and other documents.
To download statements, look for a section labeled "Statements," "Documents," "History," or "Account Statements"—the exact name varies by bank. Click on the month or date range you want, then select "Download" or "Export." Most banks let you save statements as PDF files, which you can then print or store on your computer.
If you cannot find the statements section, check the "Help" or "FAQ" area of the website, or call customer service. Many banks also let you set up automatic delivery: statements can be emailed to you monthly, or you can choose to receive them only online (paperless) to reduce clutter.
What to do if you forget your password or cannot log in
Click "Forgot Password" or "Forgot Username" on the bank's login page. The bank will send a reset link to your email address or phone number on file. Follow the link and create a new password. This usually takes a few minutes.
If you do not receive the reset email or text, check your spam folder first. If it is not there, call the customer service number on the back of your debit card or visit a branch with your ID. A representative can reset your password over the phone or in person and may ask security questions to confirm your identity.
If you have not set up online banking yet, you can do so by calling customer service or visiting a branch. Bring your ID and debit card. The bank will create a username and temporary password, which you can change the first time you log in.
Choosing between online, mobile app, and branch access
Most banks offer all three ways to access your account. Online banking through a web browser works on any computer and is useful for downloading statements, setting up bill pay, or transferring money between accounts. Mobile apps are faster for checking your balance or depositing a check by taking a photo of it.
Visiting a branch in person is necessary if you need to deposit cash, withdraw large amounts, or speak to someone about a problem with your account. Some branches have limited hours or are not open on weekends, so check your bank's website for locations and times near you.
Phone banking—calling a number on your debit card to speak to a representative—works if you do not have internet access or prefer to talk to a person. Wait times vary, but most calls are answered within 5 to 15 minutes during business hours.
Understanding what files your bank keeps for you
Your bank stores several types of files in your online account. Statements show all transactions for a month and your ending balance. Transaction history lists every deposit, withdrawal, and fee in detail, sometimes going back several years. Tax documents like 1099 forms appear in your account if you earned interest or had other reportable income.
Some banks also store account agreements (the terms and conditions you agreed to when you opened the account), fee schedules (what the bank charges for overdrafts, wire transfers, and other services), and notices (changes to your account or the bank's policies). These are usually in a "Documents" or "Legal" section.
You can download all of these files as PDFs and keep copies on your computer or phone. Many people download statements monthly and store them in a folder for tax time or to track spending. Your bank keeps its own copies for at least seven years, so you can always request old statements if you lose yours.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I open a bank account without a Social Security number?
Yes, if you have an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) issued by the IRS. Some banks accept ITINs; others do not. Call the bank before you visit or apply online to confirm they work with ITINs. You may also need a second form of ID or proof of address.
How long does it take to open an account?
Online accounts usually open within minutes to a few hours. In-person applications take 15 to 30 minutes. Phone applications take 20 to 45 minutes. After you open the account, it may take one to three business days for your debit card to arrive by mail, though some banks issue temporary cards immediately.
What if I need statements from years ago?
Log into your online account and check how far back the transaction history goes—many banks show up to seven years. If you need older statements, call customer service and ask them to send copies. Some banks charge a small fee for statements older than a certain date, usually $1 to $5 per statement.
Can I open an account for someone else?
No, the person opening the account must be present (in person or by phone) and provide their own ID and Social Security number. If you want to manage someone else's account, you can be added as an authorized user or power of attorney, but that requires their permission and signature.
What happens if I lose my debit card?
Call the customer service number on your statement or online account immediately to report it lost or stolen. The bank will cancel the card and mail you a replacement, which usually arrives within 5 to 10 business days. You can still access your money through online banking, mobile app, or by visiting a branch during this time.