What you need to open a Wells Fargo checking account
Wells Fargo requires a government-issued photo ID, your Social Security number, and an initial deposit to open a checking account. You can start the process online, by phone, or in person at a branch. Most accounts open the same day if you complete the steps online or in a branch, though the deposit may take one to two business days to clear depending on how you fund the account.
The initial deposit amount varies by account type. Wells Fargo's standard checking accounts typically require $25 to $100 to open, though some accounts have no minimum. If you're opening an account online, you'll fund it by linking an existing bank account or providing a debit card number. In a branch, you can deposit cash or a check.
You'll also need a current mailing address. Wells Fargo will send your debit card and checks to this address, which usually takes five to seven business days for the debit card and up to two weeks for checks.
Key Takeaways
- You need a photo ID, Social Security number, and initial deposit to open an account, whether online, by phone, or in a branch.
- Online account opening takes about 10 minutes and your account is typically active the same day, though your debit card arrives in five to seven business days.
- Wells Fargo offers several checking account types with different fees and features, so compare them before you choose one.
- If you don't have a photo ID or Social Security number, you can still open an account in person at a branch with alternative documents.
Opening an account online
Go to wellsfargo.com and select "Open an Account" from the homepage. Choose the checking account type you want—Wells Fargo offers Everyday Checking, Premier Checking, and Attune Checking, among others. Each has different monthly fees, minimum balance requirements, and benefits like ATM fee reimbursement or interest.
Enter your personal information: full name, date of birth, Social Security number, address, phone number, and email. Wells Fargo will run a soft credit check and check ChexSystems (a banking history database) to verify you don't have outstanding issues with other banks. This does not affect your credit score.
Link an existing bank account or provide a debit card to fund your new account. If you link a bank account, Wells Fargo will make two small test deposits (usually under $1 each) to verify the account is yours. You'll confirm those amounts in your existing bank's online portal. If you use a debit card, the deposit posts immediately. After funding, your account opens and you can use it right away, though your physical debit card and checks arrive by mail.
Opening an account in person at a branch
Bring your 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 checking account for your needs. The entire process takes about 15 to 20 minutes.
You can deposit cash or a check to fund the account on the spot. Your account opens immediately and you can request a temporary debit card at the branch, which you can use right away. Your permanent debit card arrives by mail in five to seven business days. If you want checks, the banker can order them during your visit; they typically arrive within two weeks.
Opening in person is useful if you have questions about account features, want to set up additional services like bill pay or alerts, or prefer to speak with someone face-to-face. It's also the best option if you don't have a Social Security number but have other forms of ID.
Opening an account by phone
Call Wells Fargo at 1-800-869-3557 to open an account over the phone. A representative will ask for your personal information, Social Security number, and photo ID details. You'll choose your account type and discuss funding options.
To fund by phone, you'll provide your existing bank account number and routing number, or a debit card number. Wells Fargo will initiate the transfer, and your account opens once the deposit clears. This usually takes one to two business days. Your debit card and checks arrive by mail.
Phone opening works well if you prefer not to visit a branch or use a computer, but it takes longer than online or in-person because the deposit must clear before you can use the account fully.
Wells Fargo checking account types and their fees
| Account Type | Monthly Fee | Minimum Balance | Key Features |
|---|---|---|---|
| Everyday Checking | $10 (waived if you maintain $500 minimum or set up direct deposit) | $500 to waive fee | Basic checking, no interest, standard ATM access |
| Premier Checking | $15 (waived with $5,000 minimum or direct deposit) | $5,000 to waive fee | Higher ATM reimbursement, priority customer service, higher debit card limits |
| Attune Checking | $0 | None | No monthly fee, limited features, designed for basic banking |
Most Wells Fargo checking accounts charge a monthly maintenance fee, but you can waive it by maintaining a minimum balance or setting up direct deposit. Direct deposit is the easiest way to waive fees—once your paycheck or government benefit deposits automatically, the fee disappears.
Wells Fargo also charges overdraft fees (typically $35 per transaction) if you spend more than your balance. You can opt out of overdraft protection, which means transactions will be declined rather than charged a fee. Overdraft fees can stack up quickly if you're not careful, so many people choose to decline overdraft coverage.
What happens after you open your account
Your debit card arrives in five to seven business days. You can use it immediately at any Wells Fargo ATM or at merchants that accept Visa. Your checks arrive within two weeks if you ordered them. Until your physical debit card arrives, you can use your account number and routing number to set up bill pay or direct deposit.
Wells Fargo sends your account statements monthly by email or mail, depending on what you choose during setup. You can view your balance and transactions anytime through the Wells Fargo mobile app or website. Set up account alerts to notify you of low balances, large transactions, or failed deposits.
If you need to close the account later, you can do so online, by phone, or in person. Make sure your balance is zero and any pending transactions have cleared before you close it.
If you don't have a Social Security number
You can open a Wells Fargo checking account with an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) instead of a Social Security number. You'll need to open the account in person at a branch and bring your ITIN documentation along with your photo ID and proof of address.
Some Wells Fargo branches are more experienced with ITIN accounts than others. If your local branch says they can't open one, ask to speak with a manager or call ahead to confirm the branch can handle it. The account works the same way as a standard checking account once it's open.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I open a Wells Fargo checking account if I'm under 18?
Yes, but you'll need a parent or guardian to co-sign. Both of you must be present in person at a branch with photo IDs and Social Security numbers. The account will be in both names until you turn 18 or reach the age of majority in your state.
What if Wells Fargo denies my account?
Wells Fargo may deny an account if you have a history of overdrafts, fraud, or negative ChexSystems records. You can request a copy of your ChexSystems report at chexsystems.com to see what's on file. If there's an error, you can dispute it. Some banks offer second-chance checking accounts if you've been denied elsewhere.
Do I need a minimum balance to keep my account open?
It depends on your account type. Everyday Checking and Premier Checking require a minimum balance to waive the monthly fee, but you won't lose the account if your balance drops below it—you'll just pay the fee. Attune Checking has no minimum balance requirement.
Can I open multiple checking accounts at Wells Fargo?
Yes, you can open more than one checking account. Some people open separate accounts for different purposes, like one for bills and one for savings. Each account has its own debit card and routing number.
How long does it take to receive my debit card and checks?
Debit cards typically arrive in five to seven business days. Checks take longer, usually one to two weeks. If you need either sooner, you can request expedited shipping at a branch or through the Wells Fargo app, though this may cost extra.