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. The whole thing takes about 15 minutes if you do it online, or longer if you go to a branch because you may have to wait.

The initial deposit amount depends on the account type. Wells Fargo's standard checking account (called Everyday Checking) requires a minimum opening deposit, though that amount varies by region and changes periodically—call 1-800-869-3557 or check your local branch to confirm the current requirement for your area. Some accounts have no minimum deposit at all.

You'll also need a mailing address and a phone number. If you're opening the account online, you'll need an email address too. Wells Fargo will use these to send statements, account alerts, and tax documents.

Key Takeaways

  • You need a photo ID, Social Security number, and an initial deposit to open an account, though deposit minimums vary by account type and location.
  • Online account opening takes about 15 minutes and you can start using a debit card within days, while in-branch opening is slower but gives you immediate access to a teller.
  • Wells Fargo runs a background check through ChexSystems, and if you have unpaid overdrafts or fraud flags from another bank, you may be denied.
  • You can link an existing bank account to fund your initial deposit, or bring cash or a check to a branch.
  • Your debit card arrives by mail in 7 to 10 business days, but you can use your account number to set up direct deposit or bill pay before it arrives.

Opening an account online

Go to wellsfargo.com and click "Open an Account" or "New Checking Account." You'll choose which type of checking account you want—Everyday Checking is the most common. The form asks for your name, date of birth, Social Security number, address, phone number, and email.

Wells Fargo will ask how you want to fund the account. You can link a bank account from another bank and transfer money, or you can choose to deposit cash or a check at a branch later. If you link another account, the transfer usually takes one to two business days. After you submit the form, Wells Fargo sends a confirmation email with your account number.

Your debit card ships within 5 to 7 business days. You can't use it until it arrives and you activate it, but you can start using your account number for direct deposit or bill pay right away. Some people set up direct deposit before the card arrives so their paycheck lands in the account on their first day.

Opening an account in person at a branch

Bring your photo ID, Social Security number, and your initial deposit (cash or a check from another bank). A Wells Fargo representative will fill out the account paperwork with you and answer questions about account features. The whole process takes 20 to 45 minutes depending on how busy the branch is.

You'll get a temporary debit card on the spot that you can use immediately at ATMs and in stores. Your permanent card arrives by mail in 7 to 10 business days. You'll also get a checkbook order form if you want checks, though most people use their debit card or online bill pay instead.

In-person opening is useful if you have questions about account types, want to set up additional services like a savings account at the same time, or prefer to hand over cash rather than link another bank account online.

What happens after you submit your application

Wells Fargo runs a background check through ChexSystems, which is a banking history database. The check looks for unpaid overdrafts, fraud, or other problems at previous banks. This usually takes a few minutes, but Wells Fargo may take up to 24 hours to complete the check.

If you have a history of overdrafts you didn't pay back or fraud flags, Wells Fargo may deny your account. If that happens, you'll get a letter explaining why. You can dispute inaccurate information in ChexSystems by contacting them directly at 1-800-428-9623.

If your account is approved, you'll see your account number in your confirmation email or on your receipt. Write it down—you'll need it to set up direct deposit or to give your employer before your first paycheck arrives.

Funding your account after it opens

If you didn't link another bank account during signup, you can fund your account by depositing cash or a check at any Wells Fargo branch. You can also have your paycheck deposited directly using your account number and routing number (Wells Fargo's routing number is 121000248, but confirm this with your employer because it can vary by region).

Another option is to transfer money from another bank using that bank's online bill pay or transfer service. This usually takes one to three business days. You'll need your Wells Fargo account number and routing number to complete the transfer.

If you're moving money from another bank for the first time, Wells Fargo may place a temporary hold on the deposit while they verify it cleared at the other bank. This is normal and usually lifts within one business day.

Account features and fees

Everyday Checking comes with online banking, a debit card, bill pay, mobile app access, and ATM access at all Wells Fargo locations. You can also use ATMs at other banks, though out-of-network ATM fees apply (usually $2.50 per transaction unless you have a higher-tier account).

Wells Fargo charges a monthly maintenance fee on most checking accounts, though the amount varies by account type. Some accounts waive the fee if you maintain a minimum balance or set up direct deposit. Ask about current fees when you open your account, or check wellsfargo.com for the most recent fee schedule.

Overdraft protection is optional. If you turn it on, Wells Fargo will cover overdrafts by transferring money from a linked savings account or credit line, and they charge a fee for each transfer. If you turn it off and you overdraw your account, Wells Fargo charges an overdraft fee per transaction.

What to do if your account is denied

If Wells Fargo denies your account, the denial letter will explain the reason. Most denials are because of ChexSystems records—unpaid overdrafts, fraud flags, or closed accounts with negative balances.

You can dispute the ChexSystems record by contacting them in writing or by phone at 1-800-428-9623. Ask for a copy of your report first so you know what they have on file. If the information is wrong, ChexSystems has to investigate and correct it within 30 days.

If the denial is accurate and you can't fix it, you may still open a checking account at another bank. Some banks have second-chance checking programs designed for people with banking history problems. You can also look into credit unions, which sometimes have less strict approval requirements than large banks.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take to get my debit card?

Your debit card arrives by mail in 5 to 10 business days after your account opens. You can use your account number for direct deposit or bill pay before the card arrives. If you opened your account in person at a branch, you get a temporary card immediately that works at ATMs and in stores.

Can I open an account if I'm not a U.S. citizen?

Yes, but you need a valid government-issued ID and an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) instead of a Social Security number if you don't have one. Bring these documents to a branch or call 1-800-869-3557 to open an account by phone.

What's the difference between Everyday Checking and other Wells Fargo checking accounts?

Wells Fargo offers several checking accounts with different fees and features. Everyday Checking is the basic option with a monthly fee (waived if you meet certain conditions). Premium accounts have higher fees but offer benefits like higher ATM reimbursement limits or lower overdraft fees. Compare them on wellsfargo.com or ask a branch representative which fits your needs.

Can I open an account for someone else?

No, the person whose name is on the account must be present to sign the paperwork and provide their own ID and Social Security number. Parents can open custodial accounts for minors, but the minor's information is still required. Ask a Wells Fargo representative about youth accounts if you're opening for a child.

What if I don't have a Social Security number?

You can use an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) instead. You'll need to open the account in person at a branch and bring your ITIN documentation along with your ID. Call your local branch first to confirm they can process ITIN applications, as not all branches do.