What you need to open a UnionBank savings account

UnionBank offers several types of savings accounts, and the documents you bring depend on which one you choose and whether you're opening it in person or online. For most accounts, you'll need a valid government-issued ID (passport, driver's license, or national ID), proof of address (utility bill or lease dated within the last three months), and your Social Security number or Tax Identification Number.

If you're opening an account online, UnionBank will ask you to upload photos of your ID and proof of address through their website or mobile app. If you're going to a branch in person, bring the originals — the teller will verify them on the spot. Some accounts have minimum opening deposits; others do not. Check the specific account type on UnionBank's website before you go, because requirements vary.

If you're under 18, a parent or legal guardian must be present and will need to provide their own ID and proof of address as well. UnionBank offers youth savings accounts with different rules than adult accounts.

Key Takeaways

  • You need a valid government ID, proof of address from the last three months, and your Social Security or Tax ID number to open any UnionBank savings account.
  • Online applications take about 5 to 10 minutes and can be completed through UnionBank's website or mobile app, with account approval usually within one business day.
  • In-person applications at a branch take 15 to 30 minutes and let you deposit money and receive your debit card the same day.
  • UnionBank has different savings account types with different features and minimum balances, so compare them before you start the process.
  • If you don't have a physical address, bring a letter from a shelter or social service agency stating your current residence.

Opening an account online through UnionBank's website

Go to UnionBank.com and look for the "Open an Account" button, usually on the homepage. Click it and select "Savings Account" from the account type menu. You'll be asked to choose which savings product you want — UnionBank typically offers options like a basic savings account, a high-yield savings account, or a money market account. Read the features and minimum balance requirements for each before you choose.

Fill in your personal information: full name, date of birth, Social Security number, current address, phone number, and email. UnionBank will ask you to create a username and password for online banking. Then you'll upload a photo of your ID (front and back) and a photo of your proof of address. Make sure both photos are clear and the documents are not expired.

Review the account agreement and disclosures, then submit your application. UnionBank will send you a confirmation email within a few minutes. Your account is usually approved within one business day. Once approved, you can log into online banking and set up direct deposit or transfer money from another bank account to fund your new savings account.

Opening an account in person at a UnionBank branch

Find your nearest UnionBank branch using the branch locator on UnionBank.com. Bring your original ID, original proof of address, and your Social Security card or Tax ID documentation. Go during business hours — most branches are open Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., and some have Saturday hours.

Tell the teller you want to open a savings account. They'll show you the account options available and explain the features, fees, and minimum balance for each. Ask questions about anything you don't understand — interest rates, monthly maintenance fees, and withdrawal limits vary by account type. Once you've chosen, the teller will fill out the account paperwork with you.

You can deposit money into your new account the same day. If you want a debit card, the teller will order one and it will arrive by mail in 7 to 10 business days. You'll receive temporary access to online banking before you leave the branch, so you can check your balance and set up transfers right away.

What happens after you submit your application

If you applied online, UnionBank will review your information and run a background check through ChexSystems, which is a banking history database. This check looks for fraud or unpaid overdrafts at other banks. Most people pass this check within a few hours. You'll receive an email confirming whether your account is approved.

If you applied in person, the teller completes the ChexSystems check while you're at the branch. If there's an issue, the teller will tell you immediately and explain what it means. In rare cases, UnionBank may ask for additional documentation or deny the account. If that happens, ask the teller for the specific reason and whether you can appeal the decision.

Once your account is open, you can start using it right away. Set up direct deposit through your employer or transfer money from another bank account. Your first debit card will arrive by mail; if you need cash before then, you can withdraw from any UnionBank ATM using your online banking login or by visiting a branch.

Minimum balance requirements and fees

UnionBank's savings accounts have different minimum opening deposits depending on the account type. Some accounts have no minimum; others require $25, $100, or more. Check the specific account you're interested in before you apply, because if you can't meet the minimum, you won't be able to open that account.

Monthly maintenance fees also vary. Some UnionBank savings accounts charge $5 to $10 per month if your balance falls below a certain level, while others waive fees entirely. Interest rates change based on the Federal Reserve's decisions and the type of account you choose. High-yield savings accounts typically pay more interest than basic savings accounts, but may have higher minimum balances.

Ask about fee waivers before you open your account. Some UnionBank accounts waive monthly fees if you maintain a minimum balance, set up direct deposit, or link the account to a checking account. Understanding these details upfront prevents surprises later.

If you don't have a permanent address

UnionBank requires proof of address, but it doesn't have to be a home you own or rent. If you're staying at a shelter, transitional housing, or with family, bring a letter from the facility or the person whose address you're using. The letter should state your name, the address, and that you currently live there. A utility bill, lease, or government mail addressed to that location also works.

If you're experiencing homelessness, some UnionBank branches will work with you using a shelter address or a social service agency's address as your proof of address. Call your local branch directly and ask what documentation they accept in your situation. Having a savings account is possible even without a permanent home.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take to open a UnionBank savings account?

Online applications take 5 to 10 minutes to complete, and your account is usually approved within one business day. In-person applications at a branch take 15 to 30 minutes, and your account is active immediately. You can deposit money and start using your account the same day you apply in person.

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

No. UnionBank requires a Social Security number or Individual Tax Identification Number (ITIN) to open any account. If you have an ITIN but no Social Security number, bring your ITIN documentation to the branch or upload it during the online application.

What if I'm denied a UnionBank savings account?

UnionBank may deny an account if ChexSystems finds unpaid overdrafts, fraud, or other banking issues. Ask the bank for the specific reason in writing. You can dispute inaccurate information with ChexSystems directly. Some people denied at one bank are later approved at another, so you can try again after fixing the issue.

Do I need a checking account to open a savings account at UnionBank?

No. You can open a savings account without a checking account. However, linking a checking account to your savings account may waive monthly fees or give you other benefits, so ask about that when you apply.

Can I open a joint savings account at UnionBank?

Yes. Both account holders must be present in person or both must submit online applications with their own IDs and proof of address. Each person will need their own Social Security number. Joint accounts let both people access the money and make decisions about the account.