What TD Bank requires to open an account

TD Bank requires a government-issued photo ID, proof of your current address, and your Social Security number to open a checking or savings account. You'll also need an initial deposit—the amount varies by account type, but many TD accounts have no minimum. You can open an account in person at a TD branch, online through their website, or by phone.

The process takes about 15 minutes in a branch or 10 to 15 minutes online. If you open online, TD will verify your identity using information from your credit file, so you won't need to upload documents. If you open in person or by phone, bring or have your documents ready before you start.

Key Takeaways

  • You need a government photo ID, proof of address, and your Social Security number—these are required by federal law, not TD's choice.
  • Most TD checking and savings accounts have no minimum deposit requirement, though some premium accounts do.
  • Opening online is fastest and requires no documents to upload; TD verifies you using your credit file instead.
  • If you open in a branch, bring your ID and proof of address; the whole process takes about 15 minutes.
  • You can fund your new account immediately with a debit card, transfer from another bank, or a check deposit.

Documents you need to bring or have ready

Government-issued photo ID is the first requirement. TD accepts a driver's license, passport, state ID card, or military ID. The ID must not be expired, though TD may accept an ID that expired within the last year—call your local branch to confirm their policy.

Proof of your current address is the second document. TD accepts a recent utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, or government mail with your name and address. The document should be dated within the last 60 days. If you don't have one, a bank statement from another institution or a credit card statement will work.

Your Social Security number is required by federal law. TD uses it to check your banking history through ChexSystems, a database that tracks account closures and fraud. You'll provide this verbally in a branch, type it online, or say it over the phone.

Opening an account online versus in person

Opening online is the fastest route if you have a Social Security number and a valid email address. TD's website walks you through the process step by step. You'll enter your personal information, choose your account type, and set up online banking access. TD verifies your identity using data from your credit file—you don't upload documents or wait for approval. Your account opens immediately, and you can start using it the same day.

Opening in a branch takes longer but may be easier if you prefer talking to a person or if you want to deposit cash immediately. Bring your ID, proof of address, and Social Security number. A TD banker will review your documents, answer questions about account features, and help you set up online banking. You'll leave with a debit card order (which arrives in 7 to 10 business days) and temporary access to your account.

Opening by phone is an option if you call TD's customer service line, though it's less common. You'll need to provide the same information as online, and TD will mail you account materials and a debit card. This route typically takes the longest—usually 5 to 7 business days before your account is fully active.

Account types and what they cost

TD offers several account types, each with different features and fees. A TD Checking account has no monthly fee if you maintain a minimum balance (usually $100 to $500, depending on your branch) or set up direct deposit. Without either, the monthly fee is typically $15. This account includes online banking, bill pay, and a debit card.

A TD Savings account earns interest on your balance and has no monthly fee if you maintain a minimum balance or link it to a TD checking account. The interest rate changes based on the Federal Reserve's rate, so check TD's website for the current rate before opening.

TD also offers Money Market accounts and Certificates of Deposit (CDs), which require higher minimum balances and offer higher interest rates. These are better if you have money you won't need to touch for a set period. Ask a TD banker which account makes sense for your situation.

What happens after you open your account

Once your account is open, you can fund it immediately. If you opened online or in a branch, you can transfer money from another bank account using your routing number and account number. TD's routing number is 011000015 for most locations, though some branches have different routing numbers—check your account materials or TD's website to confirm.

You can also deposit a check using TD's mobile app or by mailing it to your branch. If you opened in a branch, you can deposit cash immediately. Your debit card will arrive in 7 to 10 business days if you ordered it in a branch or online; you can use your account online and by transfer before the card arrives.

Set up online banking as soon as your account opens. You'll use your email address and a password you create. Online banking lets you check your balance, transfer money, pay bills, and deposit checks by photo. If you have questions about your account, you can message TD through their app or call customer service.

If you don't have all the documents

If you don't have a government photo ID, TD may still open an account with alternative documents—ask your local branch what they accept. Some branches will take a passport card, tribal ID, or even a recent utility bill plus a secondary document like a credit card.

If you don't have a Social Security number, you can open an account using an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) instead. You'll need to visit a branch in person and bring your ITIN documentation plus your ID and proof of address. This process takes longer because TD has to verify your ITIN through the IRS.

If you don't have proof of address, bring two secondary documents instead—a credit card statement, bank statement, or insurance policy. Some branches will also accept a letter from your employer or a government agency with your name and address.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I open a TD account if I'm under 18?

Yes, but you'll need a parent or guardian to open a joint account with you. Bring your ID, proof of address, and Social Security number, plus your parent's or guardian's ID and Social Security number. TD offers student checking accounts with no monthly fee and no minimum balance.

How long does it take to get my debit card?

If you order a debit card when you open your account, it arrives in 7 to 10 business days. You can use your account online and by transfer before the card arrives. If you need a card faster, ask a TD banker about expedited options at your branch.

What if I have a ChexSystems record?

ChexSystems tracks account closures and fraud, and TD checks it when you open an account. If you have a record—for example, from an overdraft or closed account—TD may still open an account for you, but they may deny you or require a higher minimum balance. Call your local branch to ask before you apply.

Can I open multiple accounts at the same time?

Yes. You can open a checking account and a savings account in the same visit or online session. Each account has its own number and can have different features. This is useful if you want to separate spending money from savings.

Do I need to be a U.S. citizen to open an account?

No, but you do need a Social Security number or ITIN. If you have an ITIN, you can open an account by visiting a branch in person with your ITIN documentation, ID, and proof of address. The process takes longer because TD verifies your ITIN with the IRS.