The documents banks require to open an account

Most banks ask for two things: proof of who you are and proof of where you live. A driver's license or passport covers identity. For address, a recent utility bill, lease, or mortgage statement works. Some banks will accept a bank statement from another institution if it shows your name and current address.

Beyond those two, you may need your Social Security number or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN). Banks use this to report interest earned and to check your banking history through ChexSystems, a system that tracks closed accounts and fraud. If you do not have a Social Security number, an ITIN (issued by the IRS to non-citizens who file taxes) is usually accepted instead.

A few banks ask for a third document: proof of income, such as a recent pay stub or tax return. This is less common for basic checking or savings accounts and more common for accounts that come with overdraft protection or higher limits. Online banks are typically more flexible and may ask for fewer documents than branches.

Key Takeaways

  • You will need a government-issued photo ID (driver's license, passport, or state ID card) and proof of your current address (utility bill, lease, or mortgage statement).
  • Banks will ask for your Social Security number or ITIN to verify your identity and check your banking history through ChexSystems.
  • Some banks require proof of income such as a recent pay stub or tax return, though this is not standard for basic accounts.
  • Online banks often have fewer document requirements than brick-and-mortar branches and may complete verification entirely through upload or video call.
  • If you lack a traditional address, a bank statement from another institution or a letter from a shelter or social service agency may substitute for a utility bill.

What counts as proof of identity

A government-issued photo ID is the standard. This includes a driver's license, state ID card, passport, or passport card. Some banks also accept a military ID or tribal ID. The ID must not be expired, though banks vary on how recently it expired—some accept IDs expired within the last year, others require current IDs only.

If you do not have a photo ID, some banks will accept a combination of documents instead: a birth certificate plus a Social Security card, or a utility bill plus a credit card in your name. This is less common and usually requires you to visit a branch in person rather than opening an account online. Call ahead to ask whether the bank will accept this route.

What counts as proof of address

Banks need a document showing your name and current street address. A utility bill (electric, gas, water, or internet) dated within the last 60 days is the most straightforward option. A lease or mortgage statement works as well, even if it is older than 60 days. Some banks also accept a recent bank or credit card statement from another institution.

If you do not have a utility bill or lease in your name, a letter from a government agency, social service provider, or shelter stating your address may work. A few banks accept a phone bill or insurance statement. The key is that the document must show your full name and street address—a PO box alone is not enough.

If you are moving and your new address is not yet on any document, some banks will let you provide your old address now and update it after you move. Others will ask you to wait until you have a document showing the new address. Online banks are often more flexible here and may let you self-report your address during signup.

Social Security number or ITIN

Banks are required by federal law to collect either a Social Security number or an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN). They use this to report interest income to the IRS and to run a background check through ChexSystems, which flags accounts closed due to fraud or unpaid overdrafts.

If you have a Social Security number, bring it or have it memorized—you will need to provide it during signup. If you do not have one and are a U.S. citizen, you can apply through the Social Security Administration. If you are not a citizen but file taxes or plan to, you can apply for an ITIN through the IRS. The process takes several weeks, so plan ahead if you need one.

If you have neither a Social Security number nor an ITIN and cannot obtain one quickly, some banks (particularly credit unions and community banks) may open a basic savings account without one, though this is rare. Call your local bank directly to ask.

When banks ask for proof of income

Proof of income is not required for most checking or savings accounts. Banks ask for it when you are opening an account with overdraft protection, a high balance requirement, or investment features. A recent pay stub (from the last 30 days) is the standard. If you are self-employed, a recent tax return or profit-and-loss statement works instead.

If you receive income from Social Security, unemployment, or disability, a recent statement from that program counts as proof. If you do not have recent income documentation, some banks will waive this requirement if you maintain a minimum balance or agree to direct deposit.

Documents you do not need

You do not need a credit card, existing bank account, or credit history to open a bank account. Banks do not pull your credit score for basic accounts. You also do not need to bring original documents—a photocopy or digital image is usually fine, especially for online banks.

You do not need a large opening deposit. Most banks have no minimum, or a minimum of $25 to $100. Some online banks have no minimum at all. If a bank requires a minimum deposit, they will tell you during signup.

What happens if you do not have the standard documents

If you lack a photo ID, a utility bill, or a Social Security number, you have options. Some banks will accept alternative documents: a birth certificate, passport card, or tribal ID instead of a driver's license; a bank statement or letter from a social service agency instead of a utility bill; an ITIN instead of a Social Security number.

Credit unions and community banks are often more flexible than large national banks. If the bank you chose turns you down, try a different institution. If you are unhoused or do not have a lease, mention this to the bank—many have procedures for customers without a traditional address.

If you are opening an account online and the system rejects your documents, call the bank's customer service line. A representative may be able to override the system or suggest alternative documents you can provide.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I open a bank account with just a passport and no driver's license?

Yes. A passport is a government-issued photo ID and is accepted by all banks. You will still need proof of address, such as a utility bill or lease, and your Social Security number or ITIN.

What if my utility bill is older than 60 days?

A mortgage statement or lease is usually accepted even if it is several months old. If you have neither, ask the bank whether an older utility bill is acceptable—policies vary. Some banks will accept it; others will ask you to provide a more recent document.

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

Copies or digital images are fine for most banks, especially online banks. If you are opening an account at a branch, the teller may ask to see the original to verify it is genuine, but they will return it to you and keep only a copy on file.

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

Most banks require either a Social Security number or an ITIN. If you have neither, some credit unions and community banks may open a basic savings account without one, though this is uncommon. Call ahead to ask.

What if I do not have a permanent address?

A letter from a shelter, social service agency, or government office stating your current address may work. Some banks also accept a PO box plus a secondary document showing your name. Call the bank before you visit to confirm what they will accept.