What you need to open a Wells Fargo account

Wells Fargo requires a government-issued photo ID, your Social Security number, and an initial deposit to open a checking or savings account. You can open an account online, by phone, or in person at a branch. The process takes about 10 to 15 minutes online or in-branch, though some account types require a minimum opening deposit that ranges from $0 to $25 depending on which account you choose.

You will also need a valid email address and a phone number. If you are opening an account online, Wells Fargo will verify your identity using information from your credit report and may ask security questions about your financial history. If you open in person, bring your ID and Social Security card or number.

Key Takeaways

  • You need a government photo ID, Social Security number, and an email address to open any Wells Fargo account online or in branch.
  • Online account opening takes 10 to 15 minutes and you can start using your account the same day in most cases.
  • Different account types have different minimum opening deposits, ranging from $0 to $25, so choose based on how you plan to use the account.
  • If you cannot open online due to identity verification issues, visiting a branch in person is faster and does not require a credit check.

Opening an account online

Go to wellsfargo.com and select "Open an Account" from the homepage. Choose the account type you want—Wells Fargo offers checking accounts, savings accounts, and money market accounts. Enter your personal information: full name, date of birth, Social Security number, email, and phone number. You will also need your current address and employment status.

Wells Fargo will then verify your identity using information from your credit report. This is not a hard credit inquiry and will not lower your credit score. Answer any security questions the system asks about your financial history. Once verification is complete, you can fund your account by linking a bank account you already have or by providing a debit card number. Your account will be active within minutes, and you can use it to set up direct deposit or make transfers right away.

Opening an account in person at a branch

Visit any Wells Fargo branch with your government-issued photo ID and Social Security number. Tell the banker you want to open a new account and which type you prefer. The banker will walk you through the application, which takes about 10 to 15 minutes. You will provide the same information as online: name, date of birth, Social Security number, address, and employment status.

In-branch opening does not require an identity verification check against your credit report. Once you complete the application, you can make your opening deposit in cash, check, or by transferring funds from another account. Your debit card will be ordered and arrive in 7 to 10 business days. You can use your account immediately for transfers and bill pay, even before the card arrives.

Opening an account by phone

Call Wells Fargo at 1-800-869-3557 to open an account over the phone. A representative will guide you through the application and ask for the same information: name, date of birth, Social Security number, address, and employment status. The call takes about 15 to 20 minutes. You will need to provide your government-issued photo ID number during the call.

After the call, you will receive a confirmation email with your new account number and login credentials. You can fund your account by transferring money from another bank account or by mailing a check to Wells Fargo. Your debit card will arrive in 7 to 10 business days. Phone opening is useful if you prefer not to visit a branch or if you have questions during the process.

Choosing the right account type

Wells Fargo offers several account types, each with different features and minimum opening deposits. Wells Fargo Checking has no minimum opening deposit and includes online bill pay, mobile banking, and a debit card. Wells Fargo Savings has a $0 minimum opening deposit and earns interest on your balance. Wells Fargo Money Market Account requires a $25 minimum opening deposit and typically offers a higher interest rate than savings accounts.

If you are unsure which account fits your needs, consider how you plan to use it. A checking account is best if you pay bills regularly and want a debit card. A savings account works if you want to set money aside and earn interest. A money market account is useful if you have a larger balance and want higher interest earnings. You can open more than one account type at Wells Fargo, so you can start with checking and add savings later.

What happens after you open your account

Once your account is open, you can log in to your Wells Fargo online banking portal or mobile app using your username and password. Set up direct deposit by providing your employer with your account number and routing number (Wells Fargo's routing number is 121000248 for most accounts). You can also transfer money from other banks, set up bill pay, and manage your account settings.

Your debit card will arrive in 7 to 10 business days if you opened online or by phone. If you opened in person, the banker may give you a temporary card number you can use immediately. Once your card arrives, activate it by calling the number on the back or using the Wells Fargo app. You can then use it to withdraw cash at ATMs, make purchases, and access your account at any Wells Fargo branch.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a minimum deposit to open a Wells Fargo account?

Most Wells Fargo checking and savings accounts have no minimum opening deposit. The Money Market Account requires a $25 minimum. Check the specific account type you are interested in, as minimums can change. You can open with $0 and deposit money later if you choose an account with no minimum.

How long does it take to open an account online?

Online account opening takes 10 to 15 minutes from start to finish. Your account is active immediately after you complete the application and fund it. Your debit card will arrive in 7 to 10 business days, but you can use your account for transfers and bill pay right away.

Can I open a Wells Fargo account if I do not have a Social Security number?

Wells Fargo requires a Social Security number or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) to open an account. If you have an ITIN, you can use that instead. Contact a Wells Fargo branch directly to discuss your situation and learn about your options.

What if my identity verification fails online?

If Wells Fargo cannot verify your identity online, you can open an account in person at a branch instead. Bring your government-issued photo ID and Social Security number. In-branch opening does not require a credit check and is usually approved on the spot.

Can I open a joint account with someone else?

Yes, you can open a joint account with another person. Both account holders must be present in person at a branch, or you can open online and add the second person later. Each person needs their own government-issued photo ID and Social Security number.