What you need before you open an account
Wells Fargo requires a government-issued photo ID, your Social Security number, and an initial deposit to open most accounts. The ID can be a driver's license, passport, or state ID card. You'll also need a current mailing address and a phone number where Wells Fargo can reach you.
The initial deposit amount depends on the account type. Wells Fargo's basic checking account (called Everyday Checking) requires a minimum opening deposit, though this amount can vary. Some savings accounts have different minimums. You can fund the account with a debit card, transfer from another bank, or cash if you open in person at a branch.
If you don't have a Social Security number, Wells Fargo can open accounts using an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) instead, though you'll need to visit a branch in person and bring additional documentation.
Key Takeaways
- You need a government photo ID, Social Security number or ITIN, current address, and phone number to open an account.
- Wells Fargo offers online account opening for most checking and savings products, which takes about 10 minutes and funds the account immediately.
- Opening in person at a branch takes longer but may be necessary if you have an ITIN or want to discuss account options with a banker.
- Your account number and routing number arrive by mail within 7 to 10 business days, though you can see them online immediately after opening.
- Wells Fargo charges monthly maintenance fees on most accounts unless you meet balance or direct deposit requirements, so review the fee schedule before you open.
Opening an account online
The fastest way to open a Wells Fargo account is through their website or mobile app. Go to wellsfargo.com, select "Open an Account," and choose the account type you want—Everyday Checking, Savings, or Money Market are the most common. The process asks for your name, date of birth, address, phone number, email, and Social Security number.
Wells Fargo will run a soft credit check and verify your identity through ChexSystems, which is a banking history database. This check does not affect your credit score. If you pass verification, you can fund the account immediately using a debit card or by transferring money from another bank account. The entire process takes about 10 minutes.
After you complete the online application, your account opens right away and you can start using it. Your debit card arrives by mail in 7 to 10 business days. Your account number and routing number appear in the app and online banking immediately, so you can set up direct deposit or transfers before the card arrives.
Opening an account at a Wells Fargo branch
You can also open an account by visiting a Wells Fargo branch in person. Bring your photo ID, Social Security number, and the initial deposit. A banker will walk you through the account options, answer questions about fees, and complete the application on a computer or tablet in front of you.
Opening in person takes 20 to 30 minutes. You'll receive a temporary debit card on the spot in some cases, or your card will be mailed to you. Your account is active immediately, and you can use online banking and transfers right away. This route is useful if you want to discuss which account type fits your needs or if you have an ITIN instead of a Social Security number.
To find a branch near you, use the Wells Fargo branch locator on their website. Some branches have limited hours or may be closed on certain days, so check before you go.
Understanding account types and fees
Wells Fargo offers several checking and savings accounts with different features and fee structures. Everyday Checking is the standard option for most people and includes online banking, bill pay, and a debit card. Everyday Savings is a basic savings account with a lower interest rate but lower fees than other savings products.
Most Wells Fargo accounts charge a monthly maintenance fee—typically $10 to $15 for checking accounts and $5 to $10 for savings accounts. You can waive the fee by maintaining a minimum balance (usually $500 to $1,500), setting up direct deposit, or meeting other requirements that vary by account. Review the fee schedule for the specific account you're considering before you open it.
Wells Fargo also offers premium accounts like Gold Checking and Platinum Savings, which have higher minimum balances but lower fees and better interest rates. If you plan to keep a large balance or want to avoid monthly fees, these accounts may be worth the higher opening deposit.
What happens after your account opens
Your account is ready to use immediately after you open it online or in person. You can log into online banking, set up bill pay, and transfer money to other accounts right away. Your debit card arrives by mail in 7 to 10 business days and is activated automatically when it arrives—you don't need to call to activate it.
Your account number and routing number are available in your online banking portal and mobile app as soon as the account opens. You'll need these numbers to set up direct deposit with your employer or to receive transfers from other people. Wells Fargo's routing number is the same for all accounts at the bank, but your account number is unique to you.
If you opened the account online, you'll receive a welcome packet by mail with your account details, a temporary check, and information about online banking features. If you opened in person, the banker will give you some of this information on the spot.
Verifying your identity and ChexSystems
Wells Fargo uses ChexSystems to verify your banking history and identity. ChexSystems is a third-party database that tracks checking and savings accounts, overdrafts, and fraud reports. When you open an account, Wells Fargo checks this database to confirm you don't have a history of fraud or unpaid overdrafts at other banks.
A ChexSystems check is a soft inquiry and does not affect your credit score. Most people pass verification instantly. If Wells Fargo cannot verify your identity or finds a problem in your ChexSystems report, they will contact you by phone or email to ask for more information or documents.
If you've been denied an account at another bank due to ChexSystems, you can still open a Wells Fargo account, but you may need to visit a branch in person and provide additional documentation. Ask Wells Fargo what documents they need before you go to the branch.
Setting up online banking and security
Once your account opens, set up online banking immediately. Go to wellsfargo.com, click "Sign On," and select "Enroll Now" to create your username and password. Wells Fargo requires a strong password with uppercase letters, numbers, and symbols. You'll also set up security questions and a recovery email address.
After you enroll, you can log in to view your balance, transfer money, pay bills, and download statements. Wells Fargo offers two-factor authentication through their mobile app—you can approve logins with a code sent to your phone. Turn this on to protect your account from unauthorized access.
Download the Wells Fargo mobile app to manage your account on your phone. The app lets you deposit checks by taking a photo, send money to other people through Wells Fargo Pay, and set up alerts for low balances or large transactions.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much money do I need to open a Wells Fargo account?
The minimum opening deposit varies by account type. Most checking accounts require $25 to $100, and savings accounts typically require $25 to $100 as well. Some premium accounts have higher minimums. Check the specific account details before you open to confirm the exact amount.
Can I open a Wells Fargo account without a Social Security number?
Yes, if you have an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN). You'll need to open the account in person at a branch and bring your ITIN documentation, passport or visa, and proof of address. Call Wells Fargo at 1-800-869-3557 before you visit to confirm what documents the branch needs.
What if Wells Fargo denies my account opening?
Wells Fargo will tell you why they denied the account and give you a phone number to call if you want to dispute the decision. Common reasons include a ChexSystems report showing fraud or unpaid overdrafts, or an inability to verify your identity. You can ask Wells Fargo to review the ChexSystems report and correct any errors before you reapply.
Can I open multiple accounts at Wells Fargo?
Yes, you can open multiple checking and savings accounts. Each account has its own number and can be used for different purposes—for example, one for bills and one for savings. However, monthly maintenance fees apply to each account separately, so review the fee structure if you plan to open more than one.
How long does it take to receive my debit card?
Your debit card arrives by mail in 7 to 10 business days. If you opened the account in person at a branch, you may receive a temporary card on the spot in some cases. You can use your account number and routing number to set up direct deposit or transfers before your card arrives.