The documents and information banks actually ask for
To open a checking or savings account at a US bank, you need a government-issued photo ID, proof of your current address, and your Social Security number. Most banks will also ask for your initial deposit amount — this can be as little as $25 or $100, though some accounts have no minimum. The entire process usually takes 15 to 30 minutes in person or online.
The specific documents vary slightly by bank and account type, but the core requirements are the same across major institutions like Bank of America, Chase, Wells Fargo, and smaller regional banks. If you're opening an account online, you'll upload images of your ID and address proof. In a branch, you'll show the originals.
Some banks will open an account for you on the spot. Others place a temporary hold on your account while they verify your information — this usually clears within one to three business days. Until then, you can deposit money but may not be able to withdraw it or use a debit card.
Key Takeaways
- You must provide a government-issued photo ID, proof of your current address, and your Social Security number to open any bank account.
- Your initial deposit can range from $0 to $100 depending on the bank and account type, and some accounts waive the minimum entirely.
- Online account opening takes the same documents as in-person but as digital uploads, and approval usually happens within one to three business days.
- If you don't have a Social Security number, some banks will accept an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) instead.
- Banks check ChexSystems, a banking history database, so a history of overdrafts or fraud at other banks may prevent you from opening an account.
What counts as proof of address
Banks accept a narrow list of documents as proof that you live where you say you do. A utility bill (electric, gas, water, or internet), a lease or mortgage statement, a government-issued ID with your current address, or a recent bank statement all work. The document must show your name and address and be dated within the last 60 to 90 days — the exact window varies by bank.
A driver's license or state ID card with your current address printed on it counts as both your photo ID and your address proof, so you only need one document if your ID is current. If your address has changed since you got your ID, bring the ID plus one of the other documents listed above.
Documents that do not work include cell phone bills, credit card statements, insurance policies, or letters from employers or landlords. Some banks will accept a recent tax return if nothing else is available, but this is rare and you should call ahead to confirm.
Social Security number and alternatives
Banks are required by federal law to collect your Social Security number as part of opening an account. They use it to verify your identity and to report interest earned on your account to the IRS. If you don't have a Social Security number, you can use an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) instead — this is a nine-digit number issued by the IRS to people who are not may be able to access for a Social Security number but need to file taxes or open financial accounts.
To get an ITIN, you file Form W-7 with the IRS. The process takes four to six weeks by mail. Some banks will open an account while your ITIN application is pending if you provide the receipt showing you've filed, but this is not may provide — call the bank first to ask.
If you have neither a Social Security number nor an ITIN, some banks will refuse to open an account. Others, particularly community banks and credit unions, may work with you on a case-by-case basis. Your best option is to call ahead and explain your situation rather than showing up in person and being turned away.
Initial deposit requirements and account minimums
Most banks require an opening deposit of $25 to $100, though many now offer accounts with no minimum deposit at all. The amount depends on the account type and the bank. A basic checking account often has a lower minimum than a premium account with extra features like cashback or higher interest rates.
Your opening deposit can come from a check, cash, a transfer from another bank account, or a wire transfer. If you're opening the account online, you'll typically link an existing bank account and transfer money electronically — this takes one to three business days to clear. Some banks will let you deposit cash at an ATM or in a branch after the account is open.
The opening deposit is your money — it goes into your new account and stays there. It is not a fee. Some banks do charge monthly maintenance fees (usually $10 to $15), but these are separate from the deposit and are deducted from your account balance each month. Many banks waive the fee if you maintain a minimum balance or set up direct deposit.
ChexSystems checks and banking history
When you apply for a bank account, the bank runs a check through ChexSystems, a database that tracks banking history across the US. ChexSystems records overdrafts, bounced checks, closed accounts due to fraud, and other negative banking events. If your history shows repeated overdrafts or fraud, a bank may deny your application.
You have the right to know if ChexSystems has a report on you. You can request your report for free from ChexSystems by visiting their website or calling them directly. If the report contains errors, you can dispute them — ChexSystems must investigate within 30 days and correct inaccurate information.
If you've been denied because of ChexSystems, some banks and credit unions specialize in second-chance accounts for people with negative banking history. These accounts often come with higher fees and lower limits on deposits and withdrawals, but they allow you to rebuild your banking record. After 12 to 24 months of clean history, you may be able to move to a standard account.
Opening an account online versus in person
Online account opening is faster and requires the same documents as opening in a branch — a photo ID, proof of address, and your Social Security number — but as digital uploads instead of originals. You'll photograph or scan both sides of your ID and take a photo of your address proof, then upload them through the bank's website or app. The process takes 10 to 20 minutes.
Most banks approve online applications within one to three business days. During this time, your account is open but may be restricted — you can deposit money but not withdraw it or use a debit card. Once the bank verifies your documents, the restriction lifts and you have full access.
Opening in person at a branch is immediate. You show your documents, sign paperwork, make your deposit, and walk out with a debit card (or it arrives in the mail within 5 to 10 business days). The downside is that you have to travel to a branch during business hours. If the bank has no branch near you, online is your only option.
Special situations: minors, non-citizens, and joint accounts
If you're under 18, you'll need a parent or guardian to open an account with you. Some banks allow minors to have their own accounts once they turn 13, but a parent must be a co-owner and sign the paperwork. At 18, you can remove the parent from the account or open a new account in your name alone.
If you're not a US citizen, you can still open a bank account. You'll need a valid passport or visa, proof of address, and either a Social Security number or an ITIN. Some banks ask for additional documentation like a work visa or proof of residency status, so call ahead to confirm what they need.
To open a joint account with another person, both account holders must be present (in person or online) with their own ID and proof of address. Both people will be responsible for the account and have full access to the money. If one person overdrafts the account, both are liable for the debt.
What happens after you open the account
Once your account is approved, your debit card arrives in the mail within 5 to 10 business days. You can use your account before the card arrives by setting up online transfers, mobile payments, or by visiting a branch to withdraw cash. Your account number and routing number are available immediately through online banking or by calling the bank.
You'll receive a welcome packet with your account details, fee schedule, and terms of service. Read the fee schedule carefully — it lists monthly maintenance fees, overdraft fees, ATM fees, and other charges. Many banks offer ways to waive the monthly fee, such as maintaining a minimum balance or setting up direct deposit.
Set up online banking and mobile app access as soon as your account is open. This lets you check your balance, transfer money, pay bills, and monitor for fraud. Most banks offer free fraud monitoring and will reimburse you for unauthorized transactions if you report them within 60 days.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I open a bank account without a Social Security number?
You can use an ITIN (Individual Taxpayer Identification Number) instead. If you don't have either, some community banks and credit unions may work with you, but most major banks will not. Call ahead to ask — do not assume you'll be turned away without asking first.
How long does it take to open an account online?
The application itself takes 10 to 20 minutes. The bank then verifies your documents within one to three business days. During verification, your account is open but may be restricted — you can deposit but not withdraw. Once verified, you have full access.
What if I've been denied a bank account before?
Ask the bank why you were denied — they must tell you. If it's because of ChexSystems, request your report and dispute any errors. If the denial stands, look for second-chance accounts at credit unions or banks that specialize in people with negative banking history.
Do I need to bring original documents or can I use copies?
In person, bring originals. Online, you upload photos or scans. Banks will not accept photocopies or faxes in person — they need to see the original to verify it's real and matches your face on the photo ID.
Can I open a joint account online?
Yes, but both account holders must complete the application together, either in person or online. Both people must provide their own ID, proof of address, and Social Security number or ITIN. Some banks require both people to be present in a branch instead.