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. Most banks also ask for an initial deposit, though some have zero-minimum accounts. You can open an account in person at a branch, online through a bank's website, or by phone with some institutions.
The process takes 15 minutes to an hour depending on the bank and whether you choose in-person or online. Online accounts often open faster—sometimes within minutes—but you may need to verify your identity through a video call or by uploading documents. In-person accounts are immediate, though the bank may place a hold on your deposit while they verify your information.
Different banks have different requirements. Some accept a utility bill or lease as proof of address; others want a driver's license that shows your current address. A few banks work with people who don't have a Social Security number by using an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) instead. Call ahead or check the bank's website to confirm what documents they accept before you go in.
Key Takeaways
- You will need a photo ID, proof of address, and your Social Security number or ITIN to open most bank accounts.
- Online accounts often open in minutes, while in-person accounts are immediate but may take longer if the bank needs to verify your identity.
- Initial deposit requirements vary by bank and account type—some accounts have no minimum, while others require $25 to $500.
- Banks place holds on deposits while verifying information, so your money may not be available for one to five business days.
- If you do not have a traditional photo ID, some banks accept alternative documents like a state ID card, passport, or tribal ID.
Gather your documents before you start
Have your photo ID ready. A driver's license, passport, state ID card, or tribal ID all work. The ID does not have to show your current address—banks accept a separate proof of address document for that.
Bring proof of your current address. A recent utility bill (electric, gas, water, or internet), lease agreement, mortgage statement, or bank statement dated within the last 60 days will work. Some banks accept a government letter with your name and address, such as a tax notice or voter registration card. A few banks now accept a cell phone bill, though this varies by institution.
Have your Social Security number available. If you do not have one, bring your ITIN and be prepared to explain your immigration status—some banks work with ITINs, but not all. Call the bank first if you are unsure whether they accept ITINs.
Know how much you want to deposit. Most banks require a minimum opening deposit of $0 to $500, depending on the account type. If you are opening a savings account, the minimum is often lower than for a checking account. Some online banks have no minimum at all.
Open an account online
Online accounts are the fastest route if you have a computer or phone and can verify your identity digitally. Go to the bank's website, click "Open an Account" or "Sign Up," and fill in your personal information. You will enter your name, address, phone number, email, Social Security number, and employment status.
The bank will ask you to verify your identity. Most use one of three methods: uploading a photo of your ID and proof of address, answering security questions based on your credit history, or completing a video call with a bank representative. Video verification is becoming more common and usually takes 5 to 10 minutes.
Once your identity is verified, you will set up login credentials and choose a username and password. The bank will then ask how you want to fund the account—you can link an existing bank account and transfer money, use a debit card, or wire funds. Some banks mail you a debit card; others issue a temporary card number you can use immediately.
Your account opens as soon as the bank confirms your information, which is usually within minutes for online applications. However, your deposit may be on hold for one to five business days while the bank clears the transfer. You can see your account balance right away, but you may not be able to withdraw or spend the money until the hold lifts.
Open an account in person at a branch
Walk into any branch of the bank you choose with your photo ID, proof of address, and Social Security number. Tell the teller or banker you want to open an account. They will ask which type—checking, savings, or both—and answer questions about how you plan to use the account.
The banker will fill out an account application on their computer or on paper, asking for your name, address, phone number, email, Social Security number, and employment information. They will verify your documents and may ask follow-up questions about your income or the source of your opening deposit. This conversation usually takes 10 to 20 minutes.
Once the application is complete, the banker will process your opening deposit. If you brought cash or a check, they will take it and give you a receipt. Your account opens immediately, and you will receive a temporary debit card or a card number on the spot. A permanent card arrives by mail in 7 to 10 business days.
Ask the banker about holds on your deposit. If you deposited a check, the bank will typically hold it for one to five business days. Cash deposits are usually available immediately. The banker will tell you when your money will be fully available and answer questions about fees, minimum balances, and how to use online banking.
What happens after your account opens
Your bank will send you a welcome packet by mail within one to two weeks. This packet contains your account number, routing number, and information about online banking, mobile apps, and customer service. Keep this information safe—you will need your account and routing numbers to set up direct deposit or to receive wire transfers.
Set up online banking as soon as you receive your login information. Most banks send this by email or text within hours of opening your account. Log in, review your account settings, and update your contact information if needed. Many banks let you set up alerts for low balances, large transactions, or suspicious activity.
Download the bank's mobile app if you plan to use your phone for banking. Most apps let you check your balance, transfer money, deposit checks by taking a photo, and pay bills. Some apps also let you set spending limits or freeze your debit card if it is lost or stolen.
Your debit card will arrive in the mail within 7 to 10 business days. When it arrives, call the number on the back or use the mobile app to activate it before you use it. Some banks activate cards automatically; others require you to call or text to confirm you received it.
Fees and minimums to watch for
Different account types have different costs. A basic checking account may have no monthly fee, while a premium checking account might charge $10 to $15 per month in exchange for higher interest rates or waived fees. Savings accounts usually have no monthly fee but may charge you if you make more than a certain number of withdrawals per month.
Watch for overdraft fees. If you spend more money than you have in your account, the bank will either decline the transaction or charge you an overdraft fee—typically $25 to $35 per transaction. Some banks offer overdraft protection, which links your checking account to a savings account or credit line so overdrafts are covered automatically.
Ask about minimum balance requirements. Some accounts require you to keep a certain amount in the account at all times, such as $500 or $1,000. If your balance falls below the minimum, the bank may charge a monthly fee. Other accounts have no minimum at all.
Check whether the bank charges for common services. ATM withdrawals at the bank's own machines are free, but using another bank's ATM may cost $2 to $3 per transaction. Wire transfers, cashier's checks, and account research requests may also carry fees. Ask the banker for a fee schedule before you open the account.
If you have no ID or credit history
Some banks work with people who have no traditional photo ID. Bring whatever government-issued ID you have—a passport, consular ID, tribal ID, or state ID card. If you have none of these, ask the bank whether they accept alternative documents, such as a letter from a government agency, a utility bill with your name, or a reference from an existing customer.
If you have no credit history or a poor credit history, most banks will still open an account for you. Banks do not run a credit check to open a checking or savings account—they check ChexSystems, a database of banking history, to see whether you have had problems with previous accounts. If you have never had a bank account, ChexSystems will show nothing, and you can open an account normally.
If you have been denied a bank account in the past, ask why. Some banks will not open an account if you owe money to another bank or if you have a history of overdrafts or fraud. Other banks, including some credit unions and online banks, are more flexible. Call ahead and explain your situation—many banks have second-chance accounts designed for people with banking problems.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to open a bank account?
Online accounts open in minutes to a few hours once your identity is verified. In-person accounts open immediately, though your deposit may be on hold for one to five business days. You can use your account right away, but you may not be able to withdraw money until the hold lifts.
Can I open an account without a Social Security number?
Some banks accept an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) instead of a Social Security number. Call the bank first to confirm they work with ITINs. You may need to provide additional documentation, such as a passport or visa, to prove your identity and immigration status.
What if I do not have a current address?
If you are homeless or do not have a lease, some banks accept a letter from a shelter, social services agency, or government office that confirms your name and a mailing address. Others may accept a cell phone bill or a letter from an employer. Call the bank and explain your situation—many have options for people without traditional proof of address.
Do I need to deposit money to open an account?
Most banks require an opening deposit of $0 to $500, but some online banks have no minimum. Check the bank's website or call to confirm the opening deposit requirement for the specific account type you want. Even if there is no minimum, depositing money immediately helps you start using the account right away.
What is a hold on my deposit?
A hold is a temporary delay before your money becomes available. Banks place holds on deposits—especially checks—while they verify the funds are real and the account has enough money. Holds typically last one to five business days. Cash deposits are usually available immediately, while check deposits may take longer.