What you need to open a Santander account

Santander requires a government-issued photo ID, your Social Security number, and proof of your current address to open a checking or savings account. You can bring a driver's license, passport, or state ID card. For proof of address, use a recent utility bill, lease agreement, or bank statement dated within the last 60 days.

You'll also need an initial deposit. The amount varies by account type — some checking accounts require $25 to $100, while others have no minimum. Santander offers accounts online, by phone, or in person at a branch. The fastest route is usually online, which takes about 10 to 15 minutes and gives you access to your account the same day.

If you don't have a Social Security number, you can open an account using an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) instead. Bring the same documents plus your ITIN letter from the IRS. Not all branches handle ITIN accounts, so call ahead to confirm.

Key Takeaways

  • You need a photo ID, Social Security number or ITIN, and proof of address dated within the last 60 days.
  • Opening online takes 10 to 15 minutes and your account is active the same day; opening in person may take longer depending on branch traffic.
  • Minimum deposit amounts range from zero to $100 depending on the account type you choose.
  • Santander offers different checking and savings accounts with different fees, so compare options before you deposit money.

Opening an account online

Go to Santander's website and select "Open an Account" from the homepage. You'll choose between checking, savings, or money market accounts. Read the fee schedule for each option — some have monthly maintenance fees that waive if you keep a minimum balance or set up direct deposit.

Enter your personal information: name, date of birth, address, phone number, and email. You'll provide your Social Security number and driver's license number. Santander will ask security questions based on your credit history to verify your identity. Answer them accurately; if you get too many wrong, the system will ask you to verify in person at a branch instead.

Review the account terms and disclosures, then submit your application. Santander will send you a confirmation email with your account number and temporary login credentials. Your debit card arrives by mail in 7 to 10 business days. You can start using your account immediately through the Santander mobile app or online banking, even before the card arrives.

Opening an account in person at a branch

Bring your photo ID, Social Security number, and proof of address to any Santander branch. A representative will walk you through the account options and help you choose based on your banking habits. This is the best route if you want to ask questions about fees or features before committing.

The representative will enter your information into their system and verify your identity using the same security questions as the online process. You'll sign the account agreement and deposit your initial funds. The account opens immediately, and you can use it right away through online banking or the mobile app.

Your debit card is ordered during the appointment and arrives by mail in 7 to 10 business days. Some branches can issue a temporary card on the spot, but this varies by location — ask when you arrive.

Account types and what they cost

Santander's checking accounts include the Performance Checking account and the Premier Checking account. Performance Checking has a lower monthly fee (or no fee if you meet certain conditions like setting up direct deposit or maintaining a minimum balance). Premier Checking offers higher interest rates and more features but typically has a higher minimum balance requirement.

Savings accounts include the Regular Savings account and the Money Market account. Regular Savings has a low minimum deposit and modest interest rates. Money Market accounts require a higher opening deposit but pay higher interest and allow a limited number of withdrawals per month.

All accounts come with online banking, mobile app access, and the ability to link external accounts for transfers. Overdraft protection is available but not automatic — you can opt in during account setup or later through your online banking portal. Overdraft fees apply if you use it.

What happens after you open your account

Your account is active immediately after opening, whether online or in person. You can log into online banking or the mobile app using your temporary credentials. Set up a permanent password during your first login.

Your debit card arrives in 7 to 10 business days. Activate it by calling the number on the back of the card or through the mobile app. Until it arrives, you can use your account number and routing number to set up direct deposit or make transfers.

If you opened online, Santander may ask you to verify your identity in person within 30 days. This is random and depends on your application. If you're selected, you'll receive a notice by email or mail with instructions. You can verify at any Santander branch by showing your photo ID.

If you have no credit history or a poor credit score

Santander does not run a hard credit check to open a checking or savings account, so your credit score does not affect whether you can open one. The bank does check ChexSystems, a banking history database that tracks closed accounts, overdrafts, and fraud. If you have a history of overdrafts or closed accounts due to negative balances, Santander may deny your application.

If you're denied, ask why. Santander will send you a notice explaining the reason. If it's a ChexSystems issue, you can dispute inaccurate information directly with ChexSystems. If it's something else, try applying again in a few months or visit a branch to discuss your options.

Some Santander branches offer second-chance checking accounts for people with banking history issues. These accounts have higher fees and lower limits on debit card transactions, but they're designed to help you rebuild. Call your local branch to ask if this option is available.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I open a Santander account if I don't have a Social Security number?

Yes, you can use an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) instead. Bring your ITIN letter from the IRS along with your photo ID and proof of address. Not all branches handle ITIN accounts, so call ahead to confirm your local branch does.

How long does it take to open an account online?

The application takes 10 to 15 minutes. Your account is active the same day, and you can use it through online banking or the mobile app immediately. Your physical debit card arrives in 7 to 10 business days.

What if I'm denied when I apply online?

Santander will send you a notice explaining why. Common reasons include ChexSystems issues like unpaid overdrafts or fraud. You can dispute inaccurate information with ChexSystems or visit a branch to discuss second-chance account options.

Do I need to keep a minimum balance to avoid fees?

It depends on the account. Some checking accounts waive the monthly fee if you maintain a minimum balance (usually $500 to $1,500) or set up direct deposit. Read the fee schedule for your specific account type before you deposit money.

Can I open an account for someone else?

No, the account holder must open the account themselves using their own ID and Social Security number. If you want to add someone else to your account later, you can set up a joint account or add an authorized user through your online banking portal or at a branch.