Yes, you can open a bank account with an ITIN, but not every bank will do it

An ITIN (Individual Taxpayer Identification Number) is a nine-digit number issued by the IRS to people who need to file taxes but don't have a Social Security number. Many banks will accept an ITIN as your primary identification for opening a checking or savings account. However, some banks refuse ITIN holders outright, and others require additional documents or proof of address that go beyond what they ask from Social Security number holders.

The reason varies by bank. Some follow stricter anti-money-laundering rules than federal law requires. Others have decided the compliance cost isn't worth it. A few banks have explicit policies welcoming ITIN holders. Your best move is to call ahead and ask directly whether the bank accepts ITINs before you visit a branch or apply online.

Key Takeaways

  • Banks that accept ITINs include some large national chains and many community banks and credit unions, but policies vary by branch and by state.
  • You will need your ITIN, a valid passport or national ID, and proof of your current address (utility bill, lease, or bank statement dated within the last 60 days).
  • Some banks ask for a second form of ID or a letter from your employer or tax preparer confirming your ITIN is real.
  • Call the bank's customer service line before applying to confirm they accept ITINs and to ask what documents they specifically need.
  • If your local bank refuses, credit unions and online banks are more likely to accept ITIN holders than traditional banks.

Which banks accept ITIN numbers

No single list covers every bank nationwide, because policies change and vary by branch. However, some banks have publicly stated they accept ITINs. Wells Fargo, Bank of America, and Chase have accepted ITIN holders in the past, though individual branches may still refuse. Citibank and TD Bank have also opened accounts for ITIN holders in some regions.

Community banks and credit unions are often more flexible than national chains. If you belong to a credit union or have a relationship with a local bank, start there. Online banks like Chime, LendingClub, and Wise have reported accepting ITIN numbers, though you should confirm before you apply because policies shift.

The safest approach is to contact the bank directly. Call the main customer service number and ask: "Do you accept ITIN numbers for opening a checking account?" If they say yes, ask what documents you need to bring. If they say no or seem uncertain, move to the next bank on your list.

Documents you will need to bring

At minimum, bring your ITIN and a valid photo ID. The ID should be a passport, national ID card, or driver's license from your country of origin. A U.S. driver's license works too if you have one.

You will also need proof of your current address. This means a document dated within the last 60 days showing your name and where you live. A utility bill, lease agreement, or recent bank statement all work. A letter from your employer or landlord can work if it includes your address and is dated recently. A government-issued mail (tax notice, court document) also counts.

Some banks ask for a second form of ID or a letter from your tax preparer or employer confirming your ITIN. A few ask for a reference from someone who already banks there. Ask the bank what they need before you go in, so you don't make a wasted trip.

What happens if a bank refuses you

If a bank says no, it is not a reflection on you or your ITIN. Banks make their own risk decisions, and some decide ITIN accounts cost too much to monitor. You have other options.

Credit unions are a strong second choice. Many credit unions have fewer restrictions than banks and are more willing to work with ITIN holders. You may need to join the credit union first (which sometimes requires living or working in a certain area, or being a member of a may have access to group), but membership is usually free or very cheap.

If you cannot find a bank or credit union locally, online banks remove the face-to-face barrier and sometimes have more flexible policies. They still need the same documents, but you can upload them from home and get an answer in days rather than waiting for a branch appointment.

Opening an account online versus in person

Online banks let you apply from your computer or phone and upload photos of your documents. The process is faster — you can finish in 15 minutes — and you get an answer within a few business days. The downside is that if the bank rejects a document, you have to upload a new one and wait again. You also cannot ask questions face-to-face if something is unclear.

Opening in person at a branch takes longer (plan for 30 to 45 minutes) but gives you a chance to ask questions and hand over documents directly. The banker can tell you on the spot if something is missing or unclear, and you can fix it right then. If you are nervous about the process or your English is not strong, in-person is often easier.

Some banks let you start online and finish in person, or vice versa. Ask what options they offer when you call.

What to do if you do not have proof of address

If you just moved or do not have a utility bill in your name, you have other options. A lease agreement or rental contract works if it is dated and shows your name and address. A bank statement from another bank works. A letter from your landlord or employer on letterhead, dated within 60 days and showing your address, usually works too.

If you truly have nothing dated within 60 days, call the bank and explain your situation. Some will accept an older document plus a letter from your employer or a government agency confirming your current address. A few will accept a phone bill or insurance document even if it is older. Banks have some flexibility here, especially if you can show you are trying to comply.

Do not forge or alter a document. Banks check these carefully, and fraud will get your application rejected and may trigger a report to authorities.

After your account opens: what happens next

Once your account is open, you can use it like any other bank account. You can deposit checks, set up direct deposit, pay bills online, and use a debit card. Some banks may put a hold on your account for the first 30 days while they verify your information, which means you cannot withdraw money immediately. Ask the bank about this when you open the account.

Keep your ITIN letter and any documents the bank gave you. If the bank ever asks you to re-verify your identity (which happens occasionally), you will need these. If you move, update your address with the bank so mail reaches you and so the bank's records stay current.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I open an account online if I have an ITIN?

Yes, some online banks accept ITIN holders. You upload photos of your ITIN letter, ID, and proof of address. The process is faster than going to a branch, but you cannot ask questions in real time. Call the bank first to confirm they accept ITINs before you spend time uploading documents.

Do I need a Social Security number to open a bank account?

No. An ITIN works at many banks. Some banks ask for either a Social Security number or an ITIN, so if you have an ITIN, you can use that. A few banks ask for both, but that is rare.

What if the bank asks for a second form of ID and I only have a passport?

A passport is a strong form of ID and usually satisfies the requirement on its own. If the bank insists on a second form, ask what they will accept. An ITIN letter, a driver's license from your home country, or a national ID card usually works. If you have none of these, ask whether an employer letter or reference from another bank can substitute.

Can I use my ITIN to open a business account?

Some banks will open a sole proprietor business account with an ITIN, but many require an Employer Identification Number (EIN) instead. Call the bank's business banking line and ask. If they refuse, a credit union or online bank may be more flexible.

What if I lose my ITIN letter?

Contact the IRS and request a replacement. You can call 1-800-829-1040 or visit irs.gov. The replacement takes a few weeks. In the meantime, your bank account stays open — the ITIN letter is only needed if you are opening a new account or the bank asks you to re-verify.