The documents most banks require right now

To open a bank account, you will need a government-issued photo ID and proof of your current address. The photo ID is almost always required — a driver's license, passport, or state ID card. For proof of address, banks accept a recent utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, or government mail with your name and address on it. Most banks want both documents in hand before you sit down or start an online application.

Some banks also ask for a Social Security number or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN). If you do not have a Social Security number, you can open an account with an ITIN instead, though not every bank offers this option. A few banks will open an account with just a passport and no U.S. tax ID at all, but these are less common.

The exact list varies by bank and by account type. A basic checking account usually needs less documentation than a savings account or a money market account. Online banks often have simpler requirements than branches, because they verify your identity through the application itself rather than in person.

Key Takeaways

  • You will need a government-issued photo ID (driver's license, passport, or state ID) and proof of your current address (utility bill, lease, or government mail).
  • A Social Security number or ITIN is required by most banks, but some will open an account with an ITIN alone if you do not have a Social Security number.
  • Online banks often require fewer documents than brick-and-branch banks, and verification happens through the application rather than in person.
  • If you do not have a traditional address, a PO box, shelter address, or care-of address may work depending on the bank's policy.

What counts as proof of address

Banks want to see your name and a current street address on the document. A utility bill in your name works — electric, gas, water, or internet. A lease or mortgage statement works. Government mail counts: a tax return, voter registration card, or benefits statement with your address. Most banks want the document to be dated within the last 60 to 90 days, though some accept older documents if nothing more recent is available.

If you do not have a traditional home address, options depend on the bank. Some accept a PO box if you also provide a street address where you receive mail. Others accept a shelter address or a care-of address (someone else's address where you receive mail, written as "c/o [their name]"). Call the bank before you apply to ask whether your situation will work — policies vary widely, and a phone call takes five minutes.

Photo ID requirements and what banks accept

A U.S. driver's license is the most common form of ID banks accept. A state ID card (non-driver) works just as well. A U.S. passport or passport card works. Some banks also accept a military ID, tribal ID, or permanent resident card (green card). The ID must not be expired, though banks sometimes make exceptions for IDs that expired recently.

If you do not have a U.S. photo ID, a passport from another country works at many banks, especially if you also have an ITIN or Social Security number. Some banks will accept a consular ID (an ID issued by your country's embassy or consulate in the U.S.). Again, call ahead — not every bank takes these, and you want to know before you gather documents and make a trip.

Social Security number, ITIN, and alternatives

Most banks require a Social Security number (SSN) or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN). If you have neither, you have fewer options, but they exist. Some banks will open an account with an ITIN alone. A few will open an account with a passport and no U.S. tax ID, though these are rare and usually online-only banks. Credit unions sometimes have different rules than banks and may be more flexible.

If you are working toward getting an ITIN, you can apply through the IRS. The process takes several weeks. In the meantime, some banks will hold your application and complete it once you have an ITIN number. Others will not. Ask the bank whether they can do this before you start the process.

What happens during the verification process

When you apply in person, the bank employee will look at your ID and address proof, write down the information, and run a background check. The background check is not a credit check — it looks at your banking history through ChexSystems or Early Warning Services, two companies that track account closures and fraud. If you have closed accounts or disputes in your history, the bank may deny your application or ask you questions about it.

If you apply online, the bank will ask you to upload photos of your documents or answer security questions to verify your identity. Some banks use a video call where you show your ID to a person on screen. The process usually takes a few minutes to a few hours. You will get a decision the same day or within one business day.

Documents you might need for specific account types

A basic checking account needs only ID and proof of address. A savings account usually needs the same. But if you are opening a business account, a joint account, or an account for a minor, the bank will ask for more. A business account needs your business license or EIN (Employer Identification Number). A joint account needs ID and address proof from every person on the account. An account for a minor needs ID and address proof from the parent or guardian, plus the minor's birth certificate or Social Security card.

If you are opening an account as a representative for someone else (power of attorney, conservator, or guardian), bring a copy of the legal document that gives you that authority. The bank will keep a copy on file.

What to bring if you do not have all the standard documents

If you have a photo ID but no proof of address, some banks will accept a second form of ID instead — a passport card, military ID, or even a credit card with your name on it. If you have neither, ask the bank what alternatives they accept. Some will take a bank statement from another bank, a pay stub, or a letter from an employer on company letterhead.

If you have no photo ID at all, your options narrow. Some credit unions will open an account with just a passport and proof of address. Some banks will accept a consular ID or a state-issued ID card even if it is expired, as long as it is not too old. Call ahead and explain your situation — banks have more flexibility than their websites suggest, and a conversation can save you a wasted trip.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I open an account with just a passport and no Social Security number?

Some banks will, but not most. Online banks are more likely to accept this than branches. You will need to call the specific bank and ask — do not assume based on their website. If they say no, a credit union in your area might say yes.

What if my address proof is older than 90 days?

Many banks will still accept it, especially if you do not have anything more recent. Call the bank first and ask. If they will not take it, a recent pay stub, benefits statement, or letter from your employer or landlord on official letterhead often works as a substitute.

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

If you are opening an account in person, bring the originals. The bank employee will look at them and may make a copy. If you are opening online, you will upload photos or scans. Do not send originals by mail unless the bank specifically asks you to.

What if I was denied because of my ChexSystems history?

You can request a copy of your ChexSystems report and dispute errors. Some banks offer second-chance checking accounts for people with negative banking history. Credit unions are often more willing to work with you than large banks.

Can someone else open an account on my behalf?

No. The person whose name is on the account must be present (in person or by video) to verify their identity. If you are opening an account for a minor, the parent or guardian must be present with the child's documents.