Documents and identification you'll bring

Wells Fargo requires a government-issued photo ID and proof of your current address. A driver's license or passport covers the ID requirement. For address proof, bring a recent utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, or bank statement dated within the last 60 days — the name on the document must match the name on your ID.

If you don't have a current address document, you can use a government benefit statement, insurance policy, or official mail from a federal, state, or local agency. Some branches will accept a cell phone bill if it shows your name and address, though policies vary by location.

You'll also need your Social Security number. Wells Fargo uses it to run a credit check and verify your identity through ChexSystems, a banking history database. If you don't have a Social Security number, bring your Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) instead.

Key Takeaways

  • Bring a government photo ID and a document showing your current address dated within the last 60 days — a utility bill or lease works.
  • You'll need your Social Security number or ITIN; Wells Fargo will check your banking history through ChexSystems.
  • You can open an account in person at a branch, online, or by phone, and the process takes 10 to 15 minutes in most cases.
  • Wells Fargo offers several account types with different minimum balances and monthly fees, so confirm which one fits your situation before you arrive.
  • If ChexSystems flags a problem from a past account, ask Wells Fargo what the issue is — you have the right to dispute inaccurate information.

Account types and their minimum balances

Wells Fargo offers three main checking accounts: Everyday Checking, Premier Checking, and Platinum Checking. Everyday Checking has no minimum balance requirement and no monthly fee if you set up direct deposit or keep a $500 minimum balance. If you don't meet either condition, the monthly fee is $10.

Premier Checking requires a $500 minimum daily balance to avoid a $13 monthly fee. Platinum Checking requires a $1,000 minimum daily balance to avoid a $20 monthly fee. Both Premier and Platinum come with higher interest rates and additional perks like fee waivers and travel benefits.

For savings accounts, Wells Fargo offers Savings and Money Market accounts. Savings has no minimum balance requirement and no monthly fee. Money Market requires a $2,500 minimum balance to avoid a $25 monthly fee, but pays higher interest rates.

How to open an account in person

Visit a Wells Fargo branch during business hours with your ID, address proof, and Social Security number or ITIN. Tell the representative you want to open a new account and which type interests you. They'll explain the features, fees, and minimum balance requirements for each option.

The representative will enter your information into their system, run the ChexSystems check, and ask you to sign documents. You'll choose a debit card design and set up online banking access. The entire process usually takes 10 to 15 minutes. Your debit card arrives by mail within 7 to 10 business days, though you can request expedited delivery for a fee.

Your account opens immediately, and you can begin using it the same day — you'll receive a temporary card number for online purchases if you need to spend before your physical card arrives. You can deposit money at any Wells Fargo ATM or branch right away.

Opening an account online or by phone

You can start an account application on Wells Fargo's website without visiting a branch. You'll enter your personal information, Social Security number, and address, then upload photos of your ID and address proof. The process takes about 10 minutes. Wells Fargo will review your documents and contact you within one business day to confirm.

Once approved, you'll receive a welcome package by mail with your debit card and account details. You can begin using your account online immediately — set up bill pay, transfer money, or link external accounts. ATM and debit card access begins when your physical card arrives, typically within 7 to 10 business days.

You can also open an account by phone by calling Wells Fargo's customer service line. A representative will walk you through the same process as the online application and may ask you to mail or upload documents. Phone applications take longer than in-person or online — expect 2 to 3 business days for approval.

What happens if ChexSystems finds a problem

Wells Fargo checks ChexSystems, which tracks closed accounts, unpaid fees, fraud disputes, and other banking issues. If ChexSystems shows a negative mark — such as an account you closed with an outstanding balance or a pattern of overdrafts — Wells Fargo may deny your application or offer you a restricted account.

You have the right to know what ChexSystems reported about you. If Wells Fargo denies your application, ask them to tell you which item caused the denial. You can then contact ChexSystems directly to dispute inaccurate information. ChexSystems must investigate your dispute within 30 days and remove incorrect data.

If the information is accurate but old, some negative marks fall off after five years. In the meantime, you may be able to open a second-chance checking account at Wells Fargo or another bank that specializes in customers with banking history issues. These accounts usually have higher fees but no ChexSystems check.

Fees to know before you open

Monthly maintenance fees range from $0 to $20 depending on the account type and whether you meet the minimum balance or direct deposit requirement. Overdraft fees are $35 per transaction if you spend more than your balance. Wells Fargo allows up to four overdraft fees per day, so a single day of overspending can cost $140.

ATM fees are free at Wells Fargo ATMs and at most MoneyPass network ATMs. Using an out-of-network ATM costs $2.50 per withdrawal. Wire transfer fees are $15 for domestic transfers and $45 for international transfers. Cashier's check fees are $10 each.

If you close your account within 90 days of opening it, Wells Fargo may charge a $25 early closure fee. Some account types waive this fee, so ask before you open.

What to do after your account opens

Set up online banking immediately by visiting Wells Fargo's website or downloading their mobile app. You'll create a username and password, then add security questions. Enable two-factor authentication so Wells Fargo sends a code to your phone or email when you log in from a new device.

Link any external bank accounts you want to transfer money from or to. This takes 1 to 3 business days for verification. Set up direct deposit with your employer so your paycheck deposits automatically — this also waives the monthly fee on Everyday Checking if you don't maintain a $500 balance.

Review your account settings and notification preferences. You can set up alerts for low balances, large transactions, or failed login attempts. Confirm your mailing address so statements and your debit card arrive at the right place.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

Yes. Bring your Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) instead. Wells Fargo will still run a ChexSystems check and verify your identity using the ITIN and your address documents. The process is the same as for customers with a Social Security number.

How long does it take to get my debit card?

Standard delivery takes 7 to 10 business days from the date your account opens. You can request expedited delivery at the branch or online for an additional fee — usually $15 to $25 — and receive your card within 2 to 3 business days. You can use your account online and at ATMs immediately while you wait.

What if I don't have a current address document?

Wells Fargo accepts government benefit statements, insurance policies, and official mail from federal, state, or local agencies as address proof. Some branches accept cell phone bills. Call your local branch before you visit to confirm what documents they'll take, since policies vary by location.

Can I open an account if I've been denied by another bank?

It depends on why you were denied. If ChexSystems shows accurate negative information, Wells Fargo may still deny you or offer a restricted account. Ask Wells Fargo what the specific reason was, then contact ChexSystems to dispute any errors. If the information is correct, look into second-chance checking accounts designed for customers with banking history issues.

Do I need to make an initial deposit to open an account?

No. Wells Fargo does not require an opening deposit. You can open the account and deposit money later, either online, at a branch, or at an ATM. However, some account types charge a monthly fee if you don't maintain a minimum balance, so confirm the fee structure for the account you choose.