You can open a Wells Fargo savings account online in about 10 minutes using a computer or the Wells Fargo mobile app

Wells Fargo lets you open most savings accounts entirely online without visiting a branch. The process takes roughly 10 minutes and requires a valid government ID, your Social Security number, and a way to fund the account. You'll need to be at least 18 years old and a U.S. citizen or permanent resident with a U.S. address.

The account opens immediately once you complete the application and verify your identity. You can start using it the same day, though transfers from external banks may take one to three business days to arrive. If you already have a Wells Fargo checking account, the process is faster because the bank already has your information on file.

Key Takeaways

  • You need a valid government ID, Social Security number, and a U.S. address to open an account online.
  • The application takes about 10 minutes on the Wells Fargo website or mobile app and you'll know immediately if you're approved.
  • You can fund the account with a transfer from another bank, a wire transfer, or a check deposit through the mobile app.
  • If you already have a Wells Fargo checking account, you can link your new savings account to it for easier transfers.

What you need before you start

Gather these items before you begin the online application. You'll need a valid government-issued ID—a driver's license, passport, or state ID card all work. Have your Social Security number ready and know your current address exactly as it appears on official documents.

You'll also need a way to fund the account. This can be a debit card, a bank account at another institution, or a wire transfer. If you're funding from another bank account, have that account number and routing number available. The minimum opening deposit varies by account type—some Wells Fargo savings accounts require $0 to open, while others ask for $25 or more. Check the specific account details on the Wells Fargo website before you start.

Steps to open the account on the website

Go to wellsfargo.com and look for the "Open an Account" button, usually near the top of the page. Click it and select "Savings Account" from the account type options. Wells Fargo will show you the different savings products available—compare the interest rates and features to pick the one that fits your needs.

Enter your personal information: full name, date of birth, Social Security number, and current address. Wells Fargo will ask about your employment status and annual income, though you can select "prefer not to answer" for income questions. Next, you'll verify your identity. Wells Fargo typically does this by asking security questions based on your credit history, or by requesting a photo of your ID. Follow the prompts on screen—this usually takes two to three minutes.

Choose how much to deposit to open the account and select your funding method. If you're transferring from another bank, enter that account's routing number and account number. If you're using a debit card, enter the card number and expiration date. Review all the information you entered, then submit the application. You'll see a confirmation screen with your new account number.

Opening an account through the mobile app

The Wells Fargo mobile app has an "Open an Account" option in the main menu. The steps are nearly identical to the website version: select savings account, choose the product, enter your personal details, verify your identity, and fund the account. The mobile app may ask for permission to access your camera so you can photograph your ID for verification.

One advantage of the app is that you can deposit a check to fund the account using mobile check deposit, if you have another Wells Fargo account already. Simply photograph the front and back of the check and submit it through the app. The funds typically appear within one to two business days.

What happens after you submit the application

Wells Fargo reviews your application in real time. Most people receive approval or denial within minutes. If approved, your account opens immediately and you'll see your new account number on screen. You can log into your Wells Fargo online banking or mobile app right away to view your account.

If Wells Fargo needs more information—for example, to verify your address or employment—you'll receive a message explaining what's needed and how to provide it. This usually happens within 24 hours. If your application is denied, Wells Fargo will explain the reason. Common reasons include insufficient credit history, an address mismatch, or a Social Security number that doesn't match their records. You can call Wells Fargo at 1-800-869-3557 to discuss a denial and ask about other account options.

Funding your new account

You can fund your savings account in several ways. The fastest method is using a debit card—the funds appear immediately. Transfers from another bank account take one to three business days because the banks must verify the transfer. Wire transfers arrive the same business day if you send them before 2 p.m. ET, though your bank may charge a wire fee.

If you already have a Wells Fargo checking account, you can transfer money between your accounts instantly through online banking or the mobile app. Simply log in, go to "Transfer Money," select your checking account as the source and your new savings account as the destination, and enter the amount. The transfer completes immediately.

You can also deposit a check using mobile check deposit if you have the Wells Fargo app. Photograph both sides of the check, enter the amount, and submit it. The bank typically credits the funds within one to two business days. Checks deposited this way count toward any daily deposit limits Wells Fargo may have on your account.

Linking your savings account to other banks

Once your Wells Fargo savings account is open, you can link it to accounts at other banks to move money in and out. In Wells Fargo online banking or the mobile app, go to "Transfer Money" and select "Link an External Account." Enter the routing number and account number of the other bank, then verify the link by confirming two small deposits Wells Fargo sends to that account (usually $0.01 and $0.02). This verification takes one to two business days.

After verification, you can transfer money from that external account to your Wells Fargo savings account, or vice versa. Transfers out of Wells Fargo to external accounts take one to three business days. Transfers into Wells Fargo from external accounts also take one to three business days. Wells Fargo does not charge fees for linking external accounts or for transfers between your own accounts.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I open a Wells Fargo savings account if I don't have a Social Security number?

No. Wells Fargo requires a valid Social Security number to open any account. If you are a non-citizen without an SSN, you may be able to open an account using an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN), but you'll need to visit a branch in person and bring additional documentation. Call 1-800-869-3557 to ask about ITIN options at your nearest branch.

What if I'm under 18?

You cannot open an account online if you're under 18. However, Wells Fargo offers custodial savings accounts for minors, which a parent or guardian opens and manages. You'll need to visit a branch with the minor and bring government IDs for both the adult and the child. Some branches also allow parents to open custodial accounts online if they already have a Wells Fargo account.

How long does it take to receive my debit card?

Wells Fargo typically mails a debit card within 7 to 10 business days of account opening. You can request expedited shipping in some cases, though this may incur a fee. You can withdraw cash at any Wells Fargo ATM without a debit card by using your account number and PIN at the ATM.

Can I open multiple savings accounts at Wells Fargo online?

Yes. Once you have one account open, you can open additional savings accounts online using the same process. Each account will have its own account number and can be used for different savings goals. You can transfer money between your own Wells Fargo accounts instantly through online banking.

What if my online application is denied?

Wells Fargo will explain the reason for denial in a message. Common reasons include address mismatches, Social Security number issues, or banking history concerns. You can call 1-800-869-3557 to discuss the denial and ask whether you can reapply or open a different type of account. Visiting a branch in person sometimes allows you to resolve documentation issues on the spot.