What you need to open a Wells Fargo account
You can open a Wells Fargo checking or savings account in person at a branch, online through their website, or by phone. The bank requires a government-issued photo ID, your Social Security number, and an initial deposit (the amount varies by account type). You'll also need a current address and a phone number.
Wells Fargo offers several account types: everyday checking, premier checking, savings accounts, and money market accounts. Each has different minimum balance requirements and monthly fees. Before you start, decide which account fits your needs — checking if you need a debit card and regular transactions, savings if you want to set money aside and earn interest.
The entire process takes 10 to 15 minutes online or in branch. You'll receive a debit card within 7 to 10 business days if you open online, or immediately if you open in person at a branch.
Key Takeaways
- You need a government photo ID, Social Security number, current address, and an initial deposit to open any Wells Fargo account.
- Online account opening is fastest and takes 10 to 15 minutes; in-branch opening gives you a debit card the same day.
- Different account types have different minimum balances and monthly fees, so compare them before you choose.
- Your debit card arrives by mail within 7 to 10 business days if you open online, or you can get it immediately at a branch.
- You can fund your new account with a transfer from another bank, a check deposit, or cash if you open in person.
Opening an account online
Go to wellsfargo.com and click "Open an Account" or "get your free guide." You'll choose your account type, then enter your personal information: full name, date of birth, Social Security number, current address, phone number, and email. Wells Fargo will ask for your driver's license or state ID number and issue date.
Next, you'll set up login credentials — a username and password — and choose security questions. Wells Fargo will verify your identity by checking your information against credit bureaus and banking records. This verification is instant in most cases.
You'll then choose your initial deposit method. You can transfer money from another bank account (this takes 1 to 3 business days), deposit a check using mobile deposit once your account is active, or link an external account to fund it. The minimum deposit ranges from $25 to $100 depending on the account type.
After you submit, you'll receive a confirmation email with your account number. Your debit card ships within 7 to 10 business days. You can use your online login to access your account immediately, even before the card arrives.
Opening an account in person at a branch
Bring your government-issued photo ID, Social Security number, and current address to any Wells Fargo branch. A banker will walk you through the account options and help you choose the right one for your situation. The entire process takes 15 to 20 minutes.
You'll provide the same information as you would online: name, date of birth, Social Security number, address, phone, and email. The banker will verify your identity using your ID and may run a soft credit check. You'll set up your username and password on a branch computer.
At the end, you'll make your initial deposit. You can bring cash, a check, or authorize a transfer from another bank account. If you bring cash or a check, the funds post immediately. If you authorize a transfer, it takes 1 to 3 business days.
You'll receive your debit card on the spot at the branch. You can use it the same day. Your online access is active immediately, and you can start using your account right away.
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 process and answer questions about account types and features. You'll need your ID, Social Security number, and address information ready.
The phone representative will verify your identity, collect your personal information, and help you choose an account type. You'll set up your username and password during the call. The entire call takes 15 to 20 minutes.
For your initial deposit, the representative will walk you through your options: transferring from another bank, mailing a check, or setting up a future transfer. Your debit card will be mailed to you within 7 to 10 business days. You can access your account online immediately after the call ends.
Account types and what they cost
Wells Fargo's everyday checking account has no minimum balance requirement and no monthly fee if you set up direct deposit or maintain a $500 daily balance. If you don't meet either condition, the monthly fee is $10. This account includes a debit card, online banking, and mobile check deposit.
Premier checking requires a $500 minimum daily balance to avoid the $15 monthly fee. It includes the same features as everyday checking plus higher ATM reimbursement limits and priority customer service. This account is useful if you keep a larger balance and want extra perks.
Wells Fargo savings accounts have no monthly fee and no minimum balance. They earn interest, though the rate is low — typically less than 0.01% annually, though this varies. You can make up to six withdrawals per month without penalty.
Money market accounts require a higher minimum balance (usually $2,500 to $10,000) and offer slightly higher interest rates in exchange. They also limit your withdrawals to six per month.
What happens after your account opens
Once your account is open, you can log in online or through the Wells Fargo mobile app to check your balance, transfer money, pay bills, and deposit checks by phone camera. Your debit card works at any ATM and any store that accepts Visa.
If you opened online or by phone, your debit card arrives within 7 to 10 business days. You can activate it by calling the number on the back of the card or through your online account. Until it arrives, you can still access your money through online transfers or by visiting a branch.
Wells Fargo will send you a welcome packet with your account details, debit card, and information about setting up direct deposit. Direct deposit is the fastest way to fund your account — your employer can deposit your paycheck directly, and it usually posts the same day or next business day.
If you already have a Wells Fargo account
If you're an existing Wells Fargo customer and want to open a second account, you can do so online, in branch, or by phone using the same process. You won't need to re-verify your identity — Wells Fargo already has your information on file. The process is faster, usually taking 5 to 10 minutes.
You can link multiple accounts together in your online login so you can transfer money between them instantly. This is useful if you want a checking account for daily spending and a savings account for goals.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a minimum deposit to open a Wells Fargo account?
Yes. The minimum initial deposit is $25 to $100 depending on the account type. You can fund it with a transfer from another bank, cash if you open in person, or a check. The deposit must clear before your account is fully active, though you can access it online immediately.
Can I open a Wells Fargo account without a Social Security number?
No. Wells Fargo requires a Social Security number to open any account. If you don't have one, you'll need to obtain an ITIN (Individual Taxpayer Identification Number) from the IRS first. Some branches may have additional options — call ahead to ask.
What if I don't have a government ID?
You'll need a government-issued photo ID to open an account. This can be a driver's license, state ID card, passport, or military ID. If you don't have one, you'll need to obtain one before opening an account. Online and phone opening require your ID number; in-person opening requires you to show the physical ID.
How long does it take to open a Wells Fargo account?
Online and phone opening takes 10 to 15 minutes. In-person opening at a branch takes 15 to 20 minutes. Your account is active immediately, but your debit card takes 7 to 10 business days to arrive by mail if you open online or by phone. In-branch opening gives you a card the same day.
Can I open a Wells Fargo account if I'm not a U.S. citizen?
Yes, but you'll need a valid government-issued photo ID and either a Social Security number or ITIN. Some branches accept passports from other countries. Call your local branch or 1-800-869-3557 to confirm what documents they accept before you visit.