Yes, but the bank will ask for a different form of ID
You can open a checking account without a Social Security Number or ITIN. Banks are required by federal law to verify your identity, but they have options beyond the SSN. Most will accept a passport, national ID card, driver's license from your home country, or a state ID card. Some banks also accept a combination of documents — for example, a passport plus a utility bill or lease showing your current address.
The catch is that not every bank offers this. Large national chains like Bank of America, Wells Fargo, and Chase have stricter policies and often require an SSN or ITIN before opening an account. Smaller regional banks, credit unions, and online banks are more likely to work with you. Your best path is to call ahead and ask whether they accept non-SSN customers and what documents they need.
If you do have an ITIN (Individual Taxpayer Identification Number), the process becomes simpler — most banks treat it the same way they treat an SSN. You can get an ITIN from the IRS even if you are not authorized to work in the United States.
Key Takeaways
- Banks can open accounts for people without an SSN or ITIN, but they must verify your identity with another form of government-issued ID like a passport or national ID card.
- Credit unions and smaller regional banks are more likely to accept non-SSN customers than large national chains.
- Call the bank before you visit to confirm they accept your type of ID and ask what additional documents (like proof of address) they need.
- An ITIN makes the process easier because most banks treat it the same as an SSN, and you can get one from the IRS without work authorization.
- Online banks vary widely — some accept international IDs and some do not, so check their website or contact them directly.
What documents banks will accept instead of an SSN
A valid passport is the most widely accepted document. It has your photograph, signature, and date of birth, which is what banks need to verify your identity under federal anti-money-laundering rules. A national ID card from your home country works the same way if it includes a photo and signature.
A driver's license from your home country is also acceptable at many banks, though some will ask for a second document showing your current U.S. address — a utility bill, lease, or bank statement. A state ID card (non-driver) issued in the United States works as primary ID at most banks, even if you do not have an SSN yet.
Some banks will accept a combination of documents if no single one is sufficient. For example, a passport plus a utility bill, or a national ID plus a lease. Ask the bank what combinations they accept before you gather documents.
Which banks are most likely to open accounts without an SSN
Credit unions are your strongest option. Many credit unions have fewer restrictions than banks and will open accounts for non-citizens and people without an SSN. You will need to join the credit union first (membership requirements vary), but once you are a member, opening a checking account is straightforward. Start by searching for credit unions in your area or by industry — some serve specific communities or professions.
Smaller regional and community banks are the next best option. They have more flexibility than national chains and often work with immigrant communities. Call local banks in your area and ask directly whether they open accounts for people without an SSN. Be prepared to provide your passport or national ID.
Online banks vary. Some, like Wise (formerly TransferWise), are built for international customers and do not require an SSN. Others require one. Check the bank's website for their ID requirements, or contact their customer service before you start the application. National chains like Chase, Bank of America, and Wells Fargo typically require an SSN or ITIN.
What to bring when you open the account
Bring your passport or national ID card. Bring proof of your current U.S. address — a utility bill, lease, bank statement, or government mail. The document should show your name and address and be dated within the last 60 to 90 days (banks vary on this). If you do not have a U.S. address yet, some banks will accept a foreign address, but call ahead to confirm.
Bring your phone number and email address. You will need these to set up online banking and receive account alerts. If you have a U.S. phone number, bring that; if not, bring your international number and ask whether the bank can use it.
Bring a small initial deposit if the bank requires one. Most checking accounts require a minimum opening deposit of $25 to $100, though some have no minimum. Ask when you call.
Getting an ITIN if you want to simplify the process
An ITIN is a nine-digit number issued by the IRS for tax purposes. You do not need work authorization to get one, and you do not need an SSN. Once you have an ITIN, most banks will treat it the same as an SSN, which removes a major barrier to opening an account.
To get an ITIN, you file Form W-7 with the IRS. You can file by mail or in person at an IRS office. The form asks for your name, date of birth, country of citizenship, and passport or national ID information. Processing takes about four weeks by mail. You will receive your ITIN by mail.
You do not need to have U.S. income to get an ITIN. Many people get one before they start working or even if they never work in the U.S., simply to open a bank account or build credit history.
What happens after you open the account
You will receive a debit card in the mail within 7 to 10 business days. You can set up online banking immediately and start using your account number for direct deposits or transfers before the card arrives. Some banks let you use a temporary digital card in their mobile app right away.
You will not be able to write checks until your checkbook arrives, which takes 1 to 2 weeks after you open the account. If you need checks sooner, ask the bank whether they can order expedited checks or provide temporary check stock.
Your account will be subject to the same rules as any other checking account — overdraft fees, minimum balance requirements (if any), and monthly statements. The bank will report your account activity to the credit bureaus, which helps you build a U.S. credit history.
What to do if a bank refuses to open an account
Ask why. Some banks have blanket policies against non-SSN customers, but others will make exceptions if you bring the right documents. If the first bank says no, try a credit union or a smaller regional bank in your area.
If you are having trouble finding a bank that will work with you, contact a community organization that serves immigrants in your area. Many have partnerships with banks or credit unions and can point you to institutions that accept non-SSN customers. You can also search online for "second chance banking" or "banking without SSN" plus your city name.
Consider getting an ITIN if you plan to stay in the U.S. for more than a few months. It removes the SSN barrier and makes opening an account much simpler at most banks.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I open an account with just a passport and no address?
Most banks require proof of a current U.S. address, but some will accept a foreign address if you do not have one yet. Call the bank first and ask. If you have a friend or family member in the U.S., you may be able to use their address temporarily, but be honest with the bank about whether you actually receive mail there.
Will the bank report my account to immigration?
No. Banks are required to verify your identity for anti-money-laundering purposes, but they do not report account holders to immigration authorities. Opening a bank account does not affect your immigration status.
Do I need a U.S. phone number to open an account?
Most banks prefer a U.S. phone number for account alerts and customer service, but many will accept an international number. Call ahead and ask. You can also add a U.S. number later if you get one.
What if I have an ITIN but the bank still asks for an SSN?
Tell the bank you have an ITIN and provide it. If they still refuse, ask to speak to a manager or try a different bank. Most banks accept ITINs, but some customer service representatives may not be familiar with them.
How long does it take to open an account without an SSN?
The process is the same as for anyone else — usually 15 to 30 minutes in person or a few minutes online. You will have access to your account immediately or within one business day. Your debit card and checks arrive by mail within 1 to 2 weeks.