The documents you'll need depend on the bank and account type, but most require ID and proof of address

Every bank has its own list, but the core documents are almost always the same: a government-issued photo ID, proof of your current address, and your Social Security number or tax ID. Some banks add a second form of ID or ask for employment information. A few banks—mostly online-only—let you open an account with just an ID and a video call. The fastest way to know exactly what your bank wants is to call their customer service line or check their website before you go in; most banks post their requirements online.

The reason banks ask for these documents is federal law. The Bank Secrecy Act requires banks to verify your identity and address before opening an account. This protects both you and the bank from fraud and money laundering. If you're missing a document, the bank will tell you what to bring instead—they often have alternatives.

Key Takeaways

  • A government-issued photo ID (driver's license, passport, or state ID card) is required by every bank.
  • Proof of address typically means a recent utility bill, lease, mortgage statement, or government mail dated within the last 60 days.
  • Your Social Security number or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) is required for tax reporting, but you can use an ITIN if you don't have an SSN.
  • Online banks often need fewer documents than brick-and-mortar branches and may complete verification through video or phone.
  • If you don't have a standard document, most banks accept alternatives—ask what they'll take instead before making a trip.

Government-issued photo ID

This is non-negotiable. Banks need to see your face and verify that you are who you say you are. A driver's license or state ID card is the most common choice. A U.S. passport works just as well. A passport card (the wallet-sized version) also counts. Some banks accept a tribal ID if you're a member of a federally recognized tribe.

The ID must be current or expired no more than five years ago—most banks won't accept an ID that expired longer than that. If your ID is expired and you can't renew it quickly, call the bank first and ask if they'll make an exception or what they'll take instead.

If you don't have a driver's license or passport, you can get a state ID card from your state's Department of Motor Vehicles. The process usually takes a few weeks, but many states offer expedited service for a higher fee. Bring your birth certificate, proof of address, and Social Security card (or a letter from Social Security if you don't have the card).

Proof of your current address

Banks need to confirm where you live. A recent utility bill is the gold standard—electric, gas, water, internet, or phone bill all work. The bill must show your name and current address and be dated within the last 60 days. If you don't have a utility bill in your name, a lease or mortgage statement works just as well, as long as it's recent and shows your name and address.

Other documents that count include a bank statement from another bank, a credit card statement, a government benefits statement (like unemployment or Social Security), a property tax bill, or a letter from your employer showing your address. Some banks accept mail from government agencies—a tax return, voter registration card, or court document with your name and address. A few banks will accept a recent cell phone bill if it shows your address.

If you're homeless or living with someone else and don't have mail in your name, ask the bank what they'll accept. Some banks will take a letter from a shelter, a social services agency, or even a friend or family member confirming your address. A few will let you use a P.O. box or a mail forwarding service address. Call ahead so you know what to bring.

Social Security number or tax ID

Banks report interest and other account activity to the IRS, so they need a tax identification number. For most people, that's your Social Security number. If you don't have an SSN, you can use an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN), which the IRS issues to people who are not may be able to access for an SSN but need to file taxes or report income. You'll need to bring the IRS letter that assigned you the ITIN.

If you're applying for an SSN, you can often open an account while your application is pending. Bring a receipt or letter from Social Security showing that you've applied, along with your other documents. The bank will hold the account until your SSN arrives, then update their records. This process usually takes a few weeks.

If you're a non-citizen without an SSN or ITIN, some banks will still open an account—ask whether they accept a passport number or another form of identification instead. Banks that work with immigrant communities often have experience with this situation.

Secondary ID or additional verification

Some banks ask for a second form of ID to reduce fraud. This might be a credit card, a passport card, a military ID, or a student ID. It doesn't have to be government-issued, but it should show your name and photo. If you don't have a second ID, most banks will skip this step—it's a preference, not a requirement.

A few banks ask for employment information: your employer's name, your job title, and how long you've worked there. This is usually just for their records and doesn't affect whether you can open an account. If you're unemployed, retired, or a student, just say so—banks don't turn people away for lack of employment.

What to bring if you're opening an account online

Online banks often need fewer documents because they verify your identity through other means. Many will let you upload photos of your ID and proof of address through their app or website. Some use video verification: you'll have a brief call with a bank representative who watches you hold up your ID and take a photo of yourself. This usually takes five to ten minutes.

A few online banks use third-party verification services that check your identity against public records and credit bureaus. If you go this route, you'll answer security questions about your past addresses, previous loans, or other details from your credit file. This is faster than uploading documents and usually takes just a few minutes.

Even online banks need your Social Security number or ITIN. You'll type it in during the account setup process. Make sure you're on the bank's official website or app before entering sensitive information—check the URL and look for the lock icon in your browser.

What to do if you're missing a document

Call the bank before you visit or apply online. Most banks have alternatives for every document. If you don't have a driver's license, they might accept a passport or state ID. If you don't have a utility bill, they might take a lease, mortgage statement, or bank statement. If you're waiting for an SSN, they might accept a receipt from Social Security.

If you're in a tight spot—no ID, no address proof, no SSN—some banks and credit unions will work with you, especially if you have an existing relationship with them. A credit union in your area might be more flexible than a large national bank. Community development financial institutions (CDFIs) often specialize in opening accounts for people in difficult situations. Call ahead and explain your situation; they'll tell you what they can do.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I open an account without a Social Security number?

Yes, if you have an ITIN (Individual Taxpayer Identification Number) issued by the IRS. Bring the letter from the IRS that assigned you the ITIN. If you've applied for an SSN but don't have it yet, bring your receipt from Social Security and the bank will update your account once your number arrives.

What if my address on my ID doesn't match my current address?

Bring both your ID and a separate proof of your current address—a utility bill, lease, or recent bank statement. The bank will use the ID to verify your identity and the other document to confirm where you live now. You don't need to update your ID first.

Can I use a P.O. box as my address?

Most banks won't accept a P.O. box as your residential address because they need a physical street address. If you're homeless or don't have a permanent address, ask the bank what they'll accept instead—some take a shelter address, a social services agency address, or a letter from a community organization confirming your location.

Do I need to bring original documents or can I bring copies?

Banks usually want to see the original documents so they can verify they're real. If you're opening an account online, you'll upload photos or scans, which is fine. If you're going to a branch in person, bring the originals. The bank will look at them and hand them back—they don't keep copies unless you're opening a business account.

How long does it take to open an account once I bring my documents?

At a branch, it usually takes 15 to 30 minutes. Online, it can be instant if you use video verification, or it might take a few business days if the bank needs to review your documents. Some banks put a hold on your account for a day or two while they verify everything, then send you a confirmation email.