Documents and ID you'll bring to the bank

You need a government-issued photo ID and proof of your current address. A driver's license or passport covers the ID requirement. For address proof, bring a recent utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, or government mail dated within the last 60 days — the bank will tell you which documents they accept when you call or visit.

If you don't have a photo ID, some banks will open an account with a combination of other documents: a state ID card, tribal ID, passport card, or even a school ID plus a second form of ID without a photo. Call ahead to ask what your specific bank accepts, because the rules vary by institution and by state.

Bring the originals, not copies. Banks need to see the actual documents to verify they're real. If you're opening an account online, you'll photograph or scan these documents and upload them — the bank's website will show you exactly what angle and lighting they need.

Key Takeaways

  • You need a government-issued photo ID and proof of your current address dated within the last 60 days.
  • If you don't have a photo ID, ask your bank whether they accept a combination of other documents like a state ID card plus a second form of identification.
  • Opening an account online requires uploading photos or scans of your documents; opening in person requires bringing the originals.
  • You'll need your Social Security number or ITIN, which the bank uses to check your banking history and report account activity to the IRS.
  • Some banks require a minimum opening deposit, which ranges from zero to several hundred dollars depending on the account type and institution.

Your Social Security number or ITIN

Banks are required by federal law to collect your Social Security number (SSN) or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) when you open an account. They use this number to verify your identity, check your banking history through ChexSystems (a banking record database), and report your account activity to the IRS.

If you don't have an SSN, an ITIN works instead. You can get an ITIN from the IRS even if you're not a U.S. citizen — it's a tax identification number used for filing taxes and opening financial accounts. The application process takes several weeks, so apply before you plan to open a bank account.

You cannot open a bank account without providing one of these numbers. If a bank says otherwise, they are not operating legally.

Minimum opening deposit (if required)

Some banks require you to deposit money when you open an account; others don't. The amount varies widely — it might be zero, $25, $100, or $500 depending on the bank and the type of account you're opening. Checking accounts often have lower or no minimum deposits than savings accounts.

You can ask about the minimum deposit requirement when you contact the bank or start the online process. If you don't have the cash on hand, look for banks that advertise no minimum opening deposit — many online banks and credit unions offer this. You can also transfer money from another account if you already have one elsewhere.

The opening deposit is your own money going into your new account, not a fee. It becomes your account balance.

Information about your employment and income

Banks may ask for your employment status and approximate annual income. This is optional information in most cases — you can decline to provide it — but giving it can speed up the process and may affect which account type the bank recommends to you.

If you're unemployed, retired, or a student, you can still open an account. Tell the bank your actual status. Some banks have specific account types for students or seniors with lower fees.

In-person versus online account opening

Opening in person at a bank branch takes 15 to 30 minutes. You bring your documents, show your ID, sign paperwork, and leave with a debit card (or a temporary one) and account number. You can deposit your opening deposit in cash or by check at that time.

Opening online takes 10 to 20 minutes and happens entirely on your computer or phone. You upload photos of your documents, enter your information, and verify your identity — some banks use video verification where you show your ID to a camera. Your account opens immediately or within one business day, and your debit card arrives by mail in 7 to 10 business days.

Online accounts are faster to set up but require you to wait for your physical debit card. In-person accounts give you a card immediately but require a trip to a branch during business hours. Both are equally legitimate; choose based on what's convenient for you.

What happens after you open the account

Once your account is open, the bank will give you an account number and routing number. You'll use these to receive direct deposits, set up bill payments, or transfer money from other accounts. Your debit card arrives by mail within 7 to 10 business days if you opened online, or you receive it immediately if you opened in person.

You can start using your account as soon as it's open — you don't have to wait for the debit card. You can transfer money in, set up direct deposit, or pay bills online using your account and routing numbers. The debit card just gives you another way to access your money.

Some banks charge monthly fees; others don't. Read the fee schedule before you open the account so you know what to expect. Many banks waive fees if you maintain a minimum balance or set up direct deposit.

If you've had banking problems before

Banks check your history through ChexSystems, a database that tracks closed accounts, overdrafts, and fraud. If you've had problems at another bank — unpaid overdrafts, bounced checks, or accounts closed for cause — that information may appear in ChexSystems for up to five years.

Some banks will still open an account for you even with a ChexSystems record; others won't. If you're denied, ask the bank why and request your ChexSystems report. You can dispute errors on your report directly with ChexSystems. Look for banks that specifically work with people who have banking history issues — credit unions and some online banks are more flexible than large national banks.

Being in ChexSystems doesn't prevent you from opening an account everywhere; it just means you may need to shop around or choose a different type of institution.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I open a bank account without a Social Security number?

No. Banks are required by federal law to collect either an SSN or ITIN. If you don't have an SSN, you can get an ITIN from the IRS, which takes several weeks. Some banks may open a temporary account while you're waiting for your ITIN, but this is rare — call ahead to ask.

What if I don't have a current address or proof of residence?

Some banks will open an account with just a photo ID and no address proof, especially if you're opening online. Others require address verification. Call the bank and explain your situation — they may accept a P.O. box, a shelter address, or a letter from a social service agency as proof of residence.

Do I need to open an account in person or can I do it entirely online?

Most banks let you open online, and it's often faster. You'll upload photos of your documents and verify your identity through video or other means. Your account opens within one business day, though your physical debit card takes 7 to 10 days to arrive by mail.

What's the difference between a checking and savings account, and which do I need?

A checking account is for everyday spending — you get a debit card and can write checks. A savings account is for storing money and typically earns interest. Most people open a checking account first. You can open both at the same time, or just one.

Can I open an account if I'm not a U.S. citizen?

Yes. You need a government-issued ID (passport, visa, or travel document) and an ITIN instead of an SSN. Some banks have additional requirements for non-citizens, so call ahead. Credit unions are often more flexible than large national banks.