What you need to open a checking account

Most banks and credit unions will ask for a government-issued ID, proof of your current address, and your Social Security number or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN). Some institutions also ask for an initial deposit, though many now offer accounts with no minimum. A few banks let you open an account online without visiting a branch, while others require you to come in person.

The exact documents vary by bank. A driver's license or passport works for ID. For address proof, a recent utility bill, lease, or bank statement dated within the last 60 days usually works. If you don't have a Social Security number, an ITIN (which you can get from the IRS if you file taxes) is accepted at most banks, though some credit unions have stricter rules.

If you've had banking problems in the past—overdrafts you didn't pay back, accounts closed for fraud—the bank may check ChexSystems, a database that tracks banking history. Some banks specialize in second-chance accounts for people with this history, though they may charge higher fees.

Key Takeaways

  • You will need a government ID, proof of your address, and a Social Security number or ITIN to open most checking accounts.
  • Many banks now let you start the process online, but some require you to visit a branch in person to finish.
  • Credit unions often have lower fees and easier approval than large banks, but membership requirements vary.
  • If you have a history of overdrafts or closed accounts, look for banks that offer second-chance checking accounts.
  • Initial deposits range from zero to several hundred dollars depending on the bank; ask before you go in.

Opening an account online versus in person

Many large banks—Chase, Bank of America, Wells Fargo, and others—let you start a checking account on their website. You upload photos of your ID and proof of address, enter your Social Security number, and fund the account with a debit card or bank transfer. The whole process takes 10 to 15 minutes, and your account is usually active the same day or within 24 hours.

Smaller banks and credit unions often require you to visit a branch. You bring your documents, speak with a banker, and sign paperwork in person. This takes 30 minutes to an hour. Some banks do a hybrid: you start online but must visit a branch within a set number of days to verify your identity in person before the account fully opens.

Online opening is faster, but in-person opening lets you ask questions about fees, overdraft policies, and features before you commit. If you're unsure which account fits your needs, the in-person route gives you a chance to talk it through.

What happens after you submit your information

After you provide your documents and initial deposit (if required), the bank verifies your identity and checks your banking history. This usually takes one to three business days. During this time, your account is open but you may not be able to use your debit card yet.

Once verification is complete, the bank sends you a debit card by mail (usually 7 to 10 business days) and gives you online banking access right away. You can start using the account to receive direct deposits or transfers before the card arrives. Some banks offer a temporary digital card number you can use online or with your phone's digital wallet while you wait for the physical card.

If the bank cannot verify your identity or finds a problem with your documents, they will contact you by phone or email. This is your chance to provide additional paperwork or clarify information. Do not ignore these messages—if you don't respond, the bank may close the account.

Choosing between a bank and a credit union

Banks and credit unions both offer checking accounts, but they work differently. Banks are for-profit businesses; credit unions are member-owned nonprofits. Credit unions typically charge lower fees, pay higher interest on savings, and approve accounts more easily for people with past banking problems. The trade-off is that credit unions have fewer branches and ATMs, though most participate in shared branching networks that let you use other credit unions' ATMs for free.

To join a credit union, you usually need to meet a membership requirement—living in a certain area, working for a specific employer, or belonging to an organization. Some credit unions have opened their membership to anyone, so it's worth asking. Credit unions also tend to have lower minimum deposits or no minimum at all.

If you want many branches and ATMs nearby, a large bank is more convenient. If you want lower fees and more personalized service, a credit union may be worth the extra step to join. Many people keep accounts at both.

Second-chance checking if you have banking history issues

If you've had an account closed for overdrafts, fraud, or other reasons, mainstream banks may deny you. ChexSystems, the banking history database, keeps records for five years. Some banks will not open an account for anyone on this list.

Second-chance checking accounts are designed for this situation. Banks like Chime, LendingClub, and some regional banks offer them. These accounts usually have higher monthly fees (often $10 to $15), may limit how many transactions you can make, and sometimes require a small initial deposit. But they report to ChexSystems as positive activity, which helps rebuild your banking history.

Credit unions are often more forgiving than banks about past problems. Call a few credit unions in your area and ask directly whether they will open an account for someone with ChexSystems history. Many will, especially if you explain what happened.

Documents to bring and what to avoid

Bring originals or clear copies of your ID and address proof. A driver's license or passport is best for ID. For address, a utility bill, lease, mortgage statement, or recent bank statement works. If you don't have these, some banks accept a government benefits letter or tax return dated within the last 60 days.

Do not bring expired ID—banks will not accept it. Do not try to open an account with someone else's Social Security number or documents; this is fraud and will result in account closure and possible legal trouble. If you're opening an account for a minor, bring their birth certificate and your ID as the parent or guardian.

If you don't have a Social Security number, bring your ITIN letter from the IRS. If you don't have either, some banks and credit unions will work with you, but options are limited. Ask before you go in.

Fees and features to compare before you open

Checking accounts vary widely in cost. Some have no monthly fee at all; others charge $10 to $15 per month. Common fees include overdraft fees (charged when you spend more than you have), out-of-network ATM fees, and minimum balance fees. Read the fee schedule before you open the account.

Compare these features: Does the account come with a debit card? Are there limits on how many times you can withdraw money per month? Does it pay interest on your balance? Can you set up automatic bill pay? Does the bank offer overdraft protection (linking your checking to a savings account to prevent overdrafts)? Some banks waive fees if you set up direct deposit or keep a minimum balance.

A free checking account with no minimum balance and no overdraft fees exists—online banks and some credit unions offer them. If a bank charges fees, make sure the features justify the cost.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

Yes, if you have an ITIN (Individual Taxpayer Identification Number) from the IRS. Some banks and most credit unions will open an account with an ITIN instead of a Social Security number. Call ahead to confirm, because policies vary. A few banks require a Social Security number and will not accept an ITIN.

How long does it take to get my debit card after I open the account?

Most banks mail debit cards within 7 to 10 business days. Some offer a temporary digital card number you can use online or in your phone's wallet while you wait. A few banks have in-branch card printing, so you can walk out with a card the same day you open the account.

What if the bank rejects my documents?

The bank will contact you by phone or email to explain why and ask for additional paperwork. Respond quickly—if you ignore the message, the bank may close the account. Common reasons for rejection are expired ID, address proof older than 60 days, or a name mismatch between documents. Bring updated documents to a branch or upload them online.

Do I have to keep a minimum balance in my checking account?

It depends on the bank. Many checking accounts now have no minimum balance requirement. Some banks waive the minimum if you set up direct deposit or keep a linked savings account open. Read the account terms before you open to know what's required.

Can I open a checking account for my child?

Yes, but you will need to be a joint owner or custodian. Bring your child's birth certificate, your ID, and proof of your address. Most banks let you set spending limits on a child's debit card and monitor their account online. Some offer accounts designed for teens with parental controls.