What you need before you walk in or go online
To open a bank account, you need a government-issued photo ID, proof of your current address, and your Social Security number or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN). That's the baseline. Most banks also want to know your employment status and income, though they don't always verify it. Some will ask about your citizenship or immigration status—this varies by bank and by state.
Bring originals, not copies. A driver's license or passport works for ID. For address proof, a recent utility bill, lease, or mortgage statement dated within the last 60 days is standard. If you don't have a utility bill, a bank statement from another institution, a government letter, or a piece of mail from your employer can work—call ahead and ask what that specific bank takes.
If you don't have a Social Security number, an ITIN (issued by the IRS to people who file taxes but aren't may be able to access for a Social Security number) is usually accepted. Some banks also accept an Individual Number for Identification Purposes (INIP) or will open an account without either if you're under 18 and have a parent or guardian co-sign. The rules differ by bank, so call first if you're unsure.
Key Takeaways
- You need a government photo ID, proof of address dated within 60 days, and a Social Security number or ITIN to open most accounts.
- Banks run a background check through ChexSystems or Early Warning Services—a record of unpaid overdrafts or fraud can block you from opening an account elsewhere.
- Opening in person takes 15 to 30 minutes; online takes 5 to 10 minutes but may require a video call to verify your identity.
- Some banks charge monthly fees; others waive them if you maintain a minimum balance or set up direct deposit.
- If you've been denied before, ask which bank's system flagged you and request a copy of your report to correct errors.
The ChexSystems check: what banks see about your history
When you apply, the bank runs your name and Social Security number through ChexSystems or Early Warning Services—two companies that track banking history. They record unpaid overdrafts, closed accounts with negative balances, fraud reports, and repeated NSF (non-sufficient funds) fees. This report stays on file for five years.
If you've been denied a bank account before, it's usually because of a ChexSystems or Early Warning report. You have the right to see what's in your file. Visit chexsystems.com or earlywarning.com and request a free copy. If there's an error—a closed account you thought was settled, or a fraud claim you disputed—you can file a correction request with the company directly. Corrections can take 30 days.
If you're flagged, some banks still open accounts for you, but they may require a higher minimum balance or charge higher fees. Credit unions and online banks are often more flexible than large national banks. If you've had repeated overdrafts, some banks will require you to use a debit card only (no overdraft protection) until you've gone six months without problems.
Opening in person at a branch
Walk in during business hours with your ID, address proof, and Social Security number. Tell the banker you want to open a checking account, savings account, or both. They'll ask you to choose a account type—most people start with a basic checking account. You'll sign paperwork, set up a PIN for your debit card, and choose how you want statements delivered (paper, email, or both).
The whole process takes 15 to 30 minutes. You'll leave with a debit card (though it may take 7 to 10 business days to arrive by mail), a checkbook if you requested one, and online banking login credentials. Your account is usually live the same day, so you can start depositing money immediately. Some banks waive the first month's fee; others charge it right away.
Ask about monthly fees before you sign. Common fees are $5 to $15 per month, but many banks waive them if you maintain a minimum balance (often $500 to $1,500), set up direct deposit, or keep a linked savings account open. If you're on a tight budget, ask about fee-free accounts—most banks have at least one option.
Opening online
Online banks and many traditional banks let you open an account entirely on their website. You'll upload photos of your ID and address proof, enter your Social Security number, and answer questions about your employment and income. The process takes 5 to 10 minutes.
Most online banks then require a video call to verify your identity—a banker or automated system will ask you to show your ID and confirm your address. This call usually happens within 24 hours and takes 2 to 5 minutes. Once verified, your account opens immediately and you can transfer money in the same day using ACH (Automated Clearing House) or wire transfer.
Your debit card arrives by mail in 7 to 10 business days. Until then, you can use your account number and routing number to set up direct deposit or receive transfers from other accounts. Online banks typically have no monthly fees and no minimum balance requirements, which makes them a good choice if you're starting with little money or have a ChexSystems flag.
What happens after you open the account
Your account is active immediately, but some features take time. Your debit card arrives in 7 to 10 business days. Checks (if you ordered them) take 10 to 14 days. If you set up direct deposit, your employer's payroll system needs to process the change—this usually happens on your next pay cycle, which could be one to four weeks away.
Your first deposit may be held for one to five business days, depending on the bank and how you deposit it. Cash deposits at a branch are usually available the same day. Checks are typically held for one to five business days. ACH transfers from another bank take one to three business days. Wire transfers are faster (same day or next day) but may cost $15 to $30.
Once your account is open, you can set up bill pay (usually free), link it to other accounts for transfers, and apply for a credit card or loan if you want to build credit. Many banks offer overdraft protection—a linked savings account or credit line that covers overdrafts—but this costs money and can lead to debt. Ask whether it's automatic or something you have to opt into.
If you're denied or flagged
If a bank denies you, they must tell you why—usually it's a ChexSystems or Early Warning report. Ask for the specific reason in writing. Then request your report from both ChexSystems (chexsystems.com) and Early Warning (earlywarning.com) to see what's there.
Common reasons for denial are unpaid overdrafts, a fraud report, or too many NSF fees. If the report is wrong, file a dispute with the company that issued it. If it's accurate but old (more than two years), some banks will still open an account for you, especially if you explain what happened and show you've fixed the problem.
If you're denied everywhere, try a credit union instead of a bank. Credit unions are member-owned and often have more flexible policies. You may need to join the credit union first (which usually costs $5 to $25 and requires you to live or work in a certain area), but once you're a member, opening an account is straightforward. Some credit unions don't use ChexSystems at all.
Comparing account types and fees
| Account Type | Monthly Fee | Minimum Balance | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Basic Checking | $0–$15 | $0–$1,500 | Everyday spending and bill pay |
| Savings | $0–$10 | $0–$500 | Building emergency funds |
| Money Market | $0–$25 | $2,500–$10,000 | Larger balances earning interest |
| High-Yield Savings | $0 | $0–$1 | Saving money with better interest rates |
The account type you choose depends on how you plan to use it. A checking account is for regular deposits and withdrawals—paying bills, getting cash, making purchases. A savings account earns interest (though the rate is usually very low, under 0.5% per year at traditional banks) and is meant for money you're not spending right away.
Most people open both: a checking account for daily use and a savings account to separate money they want to keep. Some banks charge a fee if you don't maintain a minimum balance in each account, so ask about that. Online banks and credit unions often have no fees and no minimums, which makes them cheaper if you're starting out.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I open a bank account without a Social Security number?
Yes, if you have an ITIN (Individual Taxpayer Identification Number) issued by the IRS. Some banks also accept an INIP or will open an account without either if you're under 18 and have a parent or guardian co-sign. Call the bank first to confirm what they accept, because policies vary.
What if I've been flagged in ChexSystems and can't open an account?
Request a copy of your ChexSystems report and dispute any errors. If the report is accurate, try a credit union instead—many don't use ChexSystems. You can also look for second-chance banking programs, which some banks and credit unions offer to people with banking history problems. These accounts may have higher fees or lower limits, but they're designed to help you rebuild.
How long does it take to open an account?
In person: 15 to 30 minutes. Online: 5 to 10 minutes, plus a video call that takes 2 to 5 minutes. Your account is usually active the same day, but your debit card takes 7 to 10 business days to arrive by mail.
Do I need a minimum balance to keep my account open?
It depends on the bank and account type. Many banks waive the minimum if you set up direct deposit or maintain a linked savings account. Online banks and credit unions often have no minimum at all. Ask before you open the account so you know what to expect.
Can someone else open an account on my behalf?
No. You must be present in person or complete the online process yourself. A parent or guardian can co-sign if you're under 18, but you still have to be there. If you're unable to visit a branch, open the account online instead.