The documents banks require before you can open an account

You need a government-issued photo ID, proof of your current address, and your Social Security number or tax ID. Most banks will ask for all three before they let you deposit money. Some banks also ask for a second form of ID or proof of income, depending on the account type and whether you have banking history with them.

The exact list varies by bank and account type. A basic checking account at a large national bank usually needs less documentation than a business account or a high-yield savings account. Online banks sometimes ask for fewer documents than brick-and-mortar branches, but they verify everything remotely, so what you bring has to be clear and current.

Key Takeaways

  • A valid government photo ID, proof of address, and Social Security number are the baseline documents every bank requires.
  • Proof of address can be a utility bill, lease, mortgage statement, or government mail dated within the last 60 days—not a credit card statement.
  • If you do not have a Social Security number, you can use an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) instead, though some banks restrict account types for ITIN holders.
  • Banks may ask for pay stubs, tax returns, or employment verification if you are opening a business account or if you have no prior banking history.
  • Bring originals or certified copies; banks will not accept photos or scans for in-person applications, though online banks handle digital uploads differently.

Government-issued photo ID

This is the first thing a bank will ask for. Acceptable forms include a driver's license, passport, state ID card, or military ID. The ID must be current and not expired. If your ID is expired, most banks will still accept it as long as the expiration date is recent (usually within the last year or two), but call ahead to confirm your bank's policy.

If you do not have a driver's license or passport, you can get a state ID card from your state's Department of Motor Vehicles. This costs money—usually between $10 and $30—but it is the fastest way to get a document banks will accept. Some states offer reduced-fee or free ID cards for people with low income; check your state's DMV website for details.

Proof of your current address

Banks need to know where you live. A utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, or government mail (like a tax form or voter registration card) dated within the last 60 days will work. Credit card statements do not count, even if they show your address. The document must have your name and full address on it.

If you recently moved and do not have a bill or lease in your new name yet, ask your landlord for a signed letter on their letterhead stating your name, the property address, and your move-in date. Some banks accept this; others do not, so call first. If you are staying with someone else temporarily, you can sometimes use a utility bill with the other person's name plus a signed letter from them confirming you live there, though policies vary widely.

Social Security number or tax ID

Banks use your Social Security number (SSN) to check your banking history and run fraud checks. If you do not 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. You will need to bring the IRS letter that assigned you the ITIN.

Some banks restrict what account types ITIN holders can open—they may not offer credit products or certain savings accounts. Call the bank before you go in to confirm they will open an account for you with an ITIN. If they will not, try a credit union or a bank that specializes in serving immigrants; these often have fewer restrictions.

Documents for business accounts or if you have no banking history

If you are opening a business account, the bank will ask for your business license, Employer Identification Number (EIN), and articles of incorporation or partnership agreement. You will also need to bring a personal ID for each owner or authorized signer. Some banks ask for a business plan or proof that the business is active (like recent invoices or tax returns).

If you have never had a bank account before, some banks may ask for proof of income—a recent pay stub, tax return, or letter from your employer. This is less common at large national banks and more common at smaller regional banks or credit unions. If a bank asks for this and you do not have it, explain your situation; many banks will waive the requirement if you are opening a basic checking account with a small initial deposit.

What to bring in person versus what you can upload online

If you are opening an account at a physical branch, bring original documents or certified copies. Banks will not accept photos or photocopies for in-person applications. The teller will look at your ID and address proof in person, verify they are real, and keep copies for their records.

If you are opening an account online, the bank will ask you to upload photos or scans of your documents. Make sure the images are clear, show the entire document, and include both sides if there is text on the back. Most online banks use automated systems to read these images, so poor quality uploads can delay your account opening. If the system rejects your upload, you can usually call the bank and speak to someone who will review the documents manually.

What happens if you do not have the required documents

If you do not have a government photo ID, get a state ID card from your DMV before you go to the bank. This is the only document banks will not work around. If you do not have proof of address, ask your landlord or the person you live with for a signed letter, or wait until you receive a utility bill or government mail at your current address.

If you do not have a Social Security number or ITIN, you will need to get one before opening an account. The Social Security Administration issues SSNs; the IRS issues ITINs. Both processes take time, so plan ahead. In the meantime, some credit unions and community banks may let you open a savings account with just an ID and proof of address, though this is rare.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a passport from another country as my ID?

Most U.S. banks will accept a foreign passport as long as it is current and has your photo and signature. Bring it along with your proof of address. Some banks may ask for a second form of ID as well, so call ahead to confirm.

What if my address on my ID does not match my current address?

Bring both your ID and a separate proof of your current address (utility bill, lease, or government mail). The bank will use the current address for your account. You do not need to update your ID first.

Do I need to bring my Social Security card?

No. You just need to know your Social Security number and tell the bank what it is. The bank will verify it through their system. If you have an ITIN, bring the IRS letter that assigned it to you.

Can someone else open an account for me if I cannot go to the bank?

No. You must be present in person or complete the application online yourself. The bank needs to verify your identity directly. If you are opening an account online, you can do it from anywhere.

What if I lost my ID and do not have time to get a new one?

You cannot open a bank account without a government photo ID. Apply for a replacement at your DMV or passport office. Many states offer expedited processing for an extra fee if you need it quickly.