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 most checking or savings accounts. 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 phone call to verify your identity.

You'll also need a valid email address and a phone number where Wells Fargo can reach you. If you're opening an account for a minor, a parent or legal guardian must be present and provide their own ID and Social Security number.

Key Takeaways

  • You need a government photo ID, Social Security number, and initial deposit to open most Wells Fargo accounts.
  • Online account opening takes 10 to 15 minutes and you can start using your account the same day in most cases.
  • Wells Fargo offers different account types with different minimum balances and monthly fees, so compare options before you choose.
  • If you don't have a Social Security number, Wells Fargo can issue an ITIN (Individual Taxpayer Identification Number) account instead.

Opening an account online

Go to wellsfargo.com and click "Open an Account" or "New Customer." Select the account type you want—checking, savings, or money market. You'll enter your personal information: full name, date of birth, address, phone number, email, and Social Security number. Wells Fargo will ask for your driver's license or passport number and state of issue.

Next, you'll choose how much to deposit initially. Most Wells Fargo checking accounts require a $25 minimum opening deposit, though some accounts have no minimum. You can fund the account with a debit card, credit card, or by transferring money from another bank account. After you submit your information, Wells Fargo verifies your identity using the details you provided. If verification is instant, your account opens immediately and you can set up online banking right away.

If Wells Fargo needs to verify your identity by phone, a representative will call the number you provided within one business day. Once verified, you'll receive your debit card in the mail within 7 to 10 business days. You can request expedited shipping for a fee, or use a temporary digital debit card in your mobile app while you wait.

Opening an account at a Wells Fargo branch

Bring your government-issued photo ID, Social Security number, and initial deposit to any Wells Fargo branch. A banker will walk you through the account application on a computer or tablet. The process is the same as online, but happens in real time with a representative present. Your identity is verified on the spot, and your account opens immediately.

If you open an account in-branch, you can request a debit card right away. Some branches can issue a temporary card on the spot, or you can use your digital card in the Wells Fargo app while your physical card arrives by mail. Bring your initial deposit as a check, cash, or be ready to transfer from another account.

Account types and their costs

Wells Fargo offers several checking and savings accounts, each with different features and fees. The Wells Fargo Everyday Checking account has a $25 minimum opening deposit and charges a $10 monthly service fee, though the fee is waived if you maintain a $500 minimum daily balance or set up direct deposit. The Wells Fargo Premier Checking account requires a $500 opening deposit and charges a $15 monthly fee, waived with a $1,500 minimum balance or direct deposit.

For savings, the Wells Fargo Savings Account has a $25 opening deposit and a $5 monthly fee, waived with a $500 minimum balance. Wells Fargo also offers Money Market Accounts and Certificates of Deposit (CDs), which have higher opening deposits and different interest rates depending on how long you lock your money away.

All Wells Fargo accounts come with online banking, mobile app access, and the ability to link to other banks. Checking accounts include a debit card and check-writing privileges. Savings accounts limit you to six transfers or withdrawals per month (a federal rule that applies to most banks).

Setting up online banking and your debit card

Once your account is open, log into wellsfargo.com or download the Wells Fargo mobile app using your Social Security number and a password you create. You'll set up security questions and can add a PIN for extra protection. In the app, you can check your balance, transfer money between your Wells Fargo accounts, pay bills, and deposit checks by taking a photo.

Your debit card arrives in the mail within 7 to 10 business days. When it arrives, you'll activate it by calling the number on the back of the card or using the Wells Fargo app. You can use your debit card at any ATM, in stores, or online. Wells Fargo offers fraud protection: if someone uses your card without permission, you can dispute the charge and Wells Fargo will investigate.

If you don't have a Social Security number

Wells Fargo can open an account using an ITIN (Individual Taxpayer Identification Number) instead of a Social Security number. An ITIN is issued by the IRS to people who file taxes but don't have a Social Security number, including some immigrants and visa holders. You'll need your ITIN, a government-issued photo ID, and your initial deposit.

The process is the same as opening a regular account, but you'll provide your ITIN instead of a Social Security number. Some Wells Fargo branches are more experienced with ITIN accounts than others, so if you encounter difficulty online, visit a branch in person or call Wells Fargo at 1-800-869-3557 to ask which branches near you handle ITIN accounts regularly.

What happens after you open your account

Your account is active immediately after online verification or in-branch opening. You can log into online banking and use your digital debit card in the Wells Fargo app right away. Your physical debit card and any checks you order will arrive by mail. If you set up direct deposit, your employer can start depositing your paycheck within one or two pay periods.

Wells Fargo will send you account statements monthly by email or mail, depending on what you choose during setup. You can change this preference anytime in your online banking settings. If you have questions about your account after opening, call Wells Fargo customer service at 1-800-869-3557 or visit a branch.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I open a Wells Fargo account if I have bad credit?

Wells Fargo does not run a credit check to open a checking or savings account. However, they do check ChexSystems, a banking history database. If you were flagged for fraud or unpaid overdrafts at another bank, Wells Fargo may deny your application. You can request a copy of your ChexSystems report to see if you're flagged.

How long does it take to get my debit card?

Physical debit cards arrive in 7 to 10 business days. You can use a temporary digital card in the Wells Fargo app immediately after your account opens. If you need a card faster, some branches can issue a temporary card in-person, or you can pay for expedited shipping when you open your account.

What's the difference between checking and savings accounts?

Checking accounts are for everyday spending—you get a debit card, checks, and unlimited transactions. Savings accounts earn interest and limit you to six withdrawals per month. Most people use checking for bills and daily expenses, and savings to set money aside.

Do I need a minimum balance to keep my account open?

No minimum balance is required to keep your account open, but monthly fees apply unless you meet the waiver requirements. For example, Everyday Checking waives its $10 fee if you maintain a $500 daily balance or set up direct deposit. Check your account terms to see which waiver option works for you.

Can I open an account for someone else?

No, the person whose name is on the account must open it themselves or be present in-branch. If you're opening an account for a minor, a parent or legal guardian must be present with their own ID and Social Security number.