What you need to open a TD Bank account
TD Bank requires a government-issued photo ID, your Social Security number, and a minimum opening deposit to start most accounts. The deposit amount varies by account type—some checking accounts need $25, while others require $100 or more. You can open an account in person at a TD Bank branch, online through their website, or by phone.
Before you start, decide which account type fits your needs. TD Bank offers basic checking, savings, money market, and certificates of deposit (CDs). Each has different features, fees, and minimum balance requirements. Checking accounts are the most common choice for everyday banking.
Have your information ready: your full legal name, date of birth, current address, phone number, and email. If you're opening a joint account, the other person will need to provide the same details. You'll also need to choose how you want to receive statements—online, by mail, or both.
Key Takeaways
- You need a government-issued photo ID, Social Security number, and a minimum opening deposit, which ranges from $25 to $100 depending on the account type.
- TD Bank lets you open an account in person at a branch, online, or by phone, and the process usually takes 10 to 15 minutes.
- Bring or have ready your full legal name, date of birth, address, phone number, and email before you start.
- TD Bank charges monthly maintenance fees on most accounts, but some are waived if you maintain a minimum balance or set up direct deposit.
Opening an account in person at a TD Bank branch
Walk into any TD Bank branch during business hours with your ID, Social Security number, and opening deposit. A banker will ask you which account type you want and verify your information. The whole process takes about 10 to 15 minutes. You'll sign paperwork, choose a debit card design if you're opening checking, and decide on online banking setup.
Bring a checkbook or deposit slip if you have one, though it's not required. The banker can answer questions about fees, overdraft protection, and account features on the spot. If you want to set up direct deposit right away, have your employer's routing number and account information ready—though you can add it later online.
You'll leave with a temporary debit card or a card number to use immediately. Your physical card arrives in the mail within 7 to 10 business days. Your account is active the same day, so you can start using online banking and mobile banking right away.
Opening an account online
Go to tdbank.com and click the link to open a new account. You'll enter your personal information, Social Security number, and choose your account type. TD Bank will ask for your ID information and may request a photo of your ID for verification. The online process takes 10 to 20 minutes and you can complete it from home.
After you submit your information, TD Bank reviews it—this usually takes a few minutes to a few hours. Once approved, you'll receive a confirmation email with your account number and temporary online banking login. You'll need to make your opening deposit within a set timeframe (usually 10 days) to activate the account. You can transfer money from another bank account, mail a check, or visit a branch to deposit cash.
Your debit card ships after your deposit clears. Until it arrives, you can use your account number to set up direct deposit or transfer money electronically. Mobile banking is available immediately after approval, so you can check your balance and view transactions right away.
Opening an account by phone
Call TD Bank's customer service at 1-800-937-8372 to open an account over the phone. A representative will walk you through the same questions as in-person or online: personal information, Social Security number, and account type. Have your ID ready so you can provide details from it. The call usually takes 15 to 20 minutes.
After the call, TD Bank will send you a welcome packet by mail with your temporary debit card or card number. You'll also receive instructions for making your opening deposit. Like online accounts, you'll need to deposit money within the timeframe they give you to fully activate the account.
Phone opening is useful if you have questions during the process or prefer talking to a person. However, you'll still need to verify your identity, so be ready to answer security questions or provide details from your ID.
Fees and minimum balance requirements
TD Bank's monthly maintenance fee varies by account type. Basic checking accounts typically charge $15 per month, but the fee is waived if you maintain a minimum daily balance (usually $500 to $1,500) or set up direct deposit of at least $500 per month. Savings accounts may have lower fees or no monthly fee at all.
Overdraft fees apply if you spend more than your balance. TD Bank charges around $35 per overdraft transaction, though this varies. You can opt into overdraft protection, which links your checking account to savings or a line of credit to cover shortfalls—this usually costs less than an overdraft fee.
ATM withdrawals at TD Bank branches are free. Out-of-network ATM withdrawals may cost $2 to $3 per transaction, depending on the ATM operator. Some TD Bank accounts include a certain number of free out-of-network withdrawals per month.
What happens after you open your account
Your account is active immediately, but your debit card takes 7 to 10 business days to arrive by mail. Until then, you can use your account number to set up direct deposit, pay bills online, or transfer money between accounts. Your temporary card number or digital wallet access may be available the same day.
Set up online banking and the TD Bank mobile app as soon as your account is open. You'll create a username and password, then add security questions. The app lets you check your balance, view transactions, deposit checks by photo, and transfer money without visiting a branch.
If you're switching from another bank, set up direct deposit with your employer and update any automatic bill payments to your new TD Bank account. This usually takes one to two pay cycles to take effect. Keep your old account open for at least one month to make sure all transfers go through smoothly.
Joint accounts and accounts for minors
To open a joint account, both account holders must be present in person or provide their information online. Each person needs their own government-issued photo ID and Social Security number. Both signers have equal access to the account and can withdraw money or close it without the other person's permission.
TD Bank offers accounts for minors, though rules vary by age. Children under 18 typically need a parent or guardian to open the account with them. The adult is the primary account holder and has full control, while the minor can use the debit card and access online banking. Some TD Bank accounts designed for teens allow the minor to manage the account with parental oversight.
Ask a banker about the specific rules for joint accounts or minor accounts at your branch, since requirements can differ based on your state and the account type you choose.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I open a TD Bank account if I don't have a Social Security number?
No, TD Bank requires a Social Security number or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) to open an account. This is a federal requirement for all banks. If you have an ITIN, you may be able to open an account—contact your local branch to confirm.
What if I don't have a government-issued photo ID?
You'll need a government-issued photo ID to open an account. Acceptable forms include a driver's license, passport, state ID card, or military ID. If you don't have one, you'll need to get one before opening a bank account at TD Bank.
How long does it take to get my debit card after opening an account?
Your physical debit card arrives in 7 to 10 business days by mail. You can use your account number to make purchases or withdrawals before the card arrives. Some accounts offer a temporary card number or digital wallet access the same day.
Can I open a TD Bank account if I have a history of overdrafts or closed accounts?
TD Bank checks ChexSystems, a banking history database, when you open an account. A history of overdrafts or closed accounts may affect your opening, but it doesn't automatically disqualify you. Contact TD Bank directly to discuss your situation—some branches may work with you despite past issues.
What's the difference between TD Bank's checking and savings accounts?
Checking accounts are for frequent transactions and come with a debit card and checkbook. Savings accounts earn interest on your balance but limit how many withdrawals you can make per month. Most people use checking for daily spending and savings for money they want to keep separate.