The documents you need depend on the bank and the account type, but most require an ID, proof of address, and your Social Security number
Every bank has its own list, but the core documents are nearly always the same: a government-issued photo ID, proof of your current address, and your Social Security number or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN). Some banks add a second form of ID or ask for employment information. A few will open an account with just an ID and a phone number if you're opening online. The fastest way to know what a specific bank needs is to call their customer service line or check their website before you go in — most banks list their requirements in the "Open an Account" section.
If you don't have a Social Security number, you can use an ITIN, which the IRS issues to people who file taxes but aren't may be able to access for a Social Security number. If you have neither, some banks and credit unions will open a basic account, but options are limited and you may face restrictions on transfers or deposits.
Key Takeaways
- You will need a government-issued photo ID (driver's license, passport, or state ID card), proof of your current address, and your Social Security number or ITIN for nearly every bank account.
- Proof of address can be a utility bill, lease, mortgage statement, or government mail dated within the last 60 days — the bank will tell you what they accept.
- Online banks often require fewer documents than branches and can verify your identity using your ID number alone, though some still ask for address proof.
- If you don't have a Social Security number, bring your ITIN; if you have neither, call ahead because many banks cannot open accounts without one.
- Bring originals or certified copies, not photos or screenshots — banks will not accept digital images of documents.
Government-issued photo ID: what counts
A driver's license or state ID card is the standard. A U.S. passport works. A passport card works. A tribal ID card issued by a federally recognized tribe works. Military ID works. A few banks accept a permanent resident card (green card) or a foreign passport if you also bring additional proof of address.
The ID must not be expired, though some banks will accept an ID that expired within the last year — call ahead if yours is close. The name on your ID must match the name you're using to open the account. If your name has changed since the ID was issued, bring a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order showing the name change, along with your current ID.
If you don't have a photo ID, some credit unions and a few online banks will work with you using a combination of other documents — a Social Security card, birth certificate, and utility bill — but this is rare and takes longer. Most mainstream banks will turn you away without a photo ID.
Proof of address: documents the bank will accept
The bank needs to confirm you live where you say you live. A utility bill (electric, gas, water, internet, or phone) dated within the last 60 days is the standard. A lease or mortgage statement works. A property tax bill works. Government mail — a tax return, voter registration card, or benefits statement — works. Some banks accept a bank statement from another bank.
The document must show your name and current address. A PO box does not count as an address for this purpose. If you're homeless or living with someone else and don't have mail in your name, ask the bank what they can accept — some will take a letter from a shelter, a social services agency, or the person whose address you're using, along with a utility bill or lease in that person's name.
Bring the original document or a certified copy. A photocopy, screenshot, or photo of the document will not be accepted. If the document is digital (a PDF of a utility bill from your provider's website), print it out before you go to the bank, or ask whether they can view it on your phone or computer during your visit.
Social Security number or ITIN
You will need to provide your nine-digit Social Security number or ITIN. The bank will ask for it verbally or on a form — you do not need to bring a physical card. If you have your Social Security card, bringing it can speed things up, but it is not required.
If you have an ITIN but no Social Security number, bring a letter from the IRS showing your ITIN. You can request this letter online through the IRS website or by calling the IRS at 1-800-829-1040. The letter takes one to two weeks to arrive by mail.
If you have neither a Social Security number nor an ITIN, tell the bank before you visit. Some will open a basic savings account without one, but most will not. Credit unions are more likely to work with you than large banks. You may also face limits on how much you can deposit or transfer each month.
Additional documents some banks request
A second form of ID is sometimes asked for — a credit card, library card, or passport card if you already brought a driver's license. This is more common at branches than online. If the bank asks and you don't have one, ask whether a utility bill or lease can substitute.
Employment information is occasionally requested, especially for business accounts or if you're opening a high-yield savings account. You may be asked for a recent pay stub, a letter from your employer, or simply the name and address of your employer. If you're self-employed or unemployed, the bank may ask how you fund the account — be straightforward about this.
Some banks ask whether you have accounts at other banks. This is for their internal records and does not disqualify you. Answer honestly.
What to bring: a checklist
| Document | Format | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Government photo ID | Original | Driver's license, state ID, passport, or military ID. Must not be expired. |
| Proof of address | Original or certified copy | Utility bill, lease, mortgage statement, or government mail dated within 60 days. |
| Social Security number or ITIN | Verbal or written | Card not required, but letter from IRS required if you have ITIN. |
| Second ID (if requested) | Original | Credit card, library card, or passport card. Not always required. |
| Employment info (if requested) | Original or verbal | Pay stub or employer name and address. Required for some account types. |
Opening an account online versus in person
Online banks typically ask for fewer documents. Many will verify your identity using your photo ID number alone — you photograph or upload your ID, and their system confirms it is real. Some online banks skip the address proof step if you provide a phone number they can text to confirm. The whole process can take 10 to 15 minutes.
In-person at a branch, you will hand over physical documents, and a banker will review them. This takes longer but gives you a chance to ask questions and confirm the account is set up correctly before you leave. Some people prefer this; others find it slower.
If you open online and the bank cannot verify your ID automatically, they may mail you a code or ask you to visit a branch to finish the process. This can add a week to the timeline.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a passport card instead of a driver's license?
Yes. A passport card is a valid government-issued photo ID. You will still need proof of address and your Social Security number or ITIN. If the passport card is your only ID, some banks may ask for a second form of ID, but many will not.
What if my address on my ID is old?
Bring your old ID and a recent proof of address document showing your current address. The bank will use both to confirm who you are and where you live now. You do not need to update your ID first.
Can I open an account if I don't have a Social Security number?
Most banks cannot. If you have an ITIN, bring a letter from the IRS showing it. If you have neither, call credit unions in your area — some will open a basic account without one, though options are limited and you may face deposit or transfer restrictions.
Do I need to bring my Social Security card?
No. You only need to provide your nine-digit number verbally or on a form. Bringing the card can speed up the process, but it is not required.
What if I don't have a recent utility bill for proof of address?
A lease, mortgage statement, property tax bill, or government mail (tax return, voter card, benefits statement) dated within 60 days will work. If you have none of these, ask the bank what they can accept — some will take a letter from a landlord or social services agency.