What you need to bring and where to go

Opening a checking account takes one visit to a bank or credit union branch, or you can do it online without leaving home. You will need a government-issued photo ID (driver's license, passport, or state ID card), proof of your current address (a utility bill, lease, or bank statement dated within the last 60 days), and your Social Security number. Some banks also ask for a second form of ID or proof of income, though this is less common for basic checking accounts.

You can walk into any branch of a bank or credit union where you want to open the account. Tell the person at the desk you want to open a checking account. They will take you through the paperwork, answer questions about the account features, and ask you to sign the signature card. The whole process usually takes 15 to 30 minutes. If you open online, you upload photos of your ID and address proof, sign electronically, and the account opens within a few minutes to a few hours.

If you do not have a government-issued photo ID, some banks and credit unions will still open an account for you using alternative documents like a passport card, tribal ID, or even a combination of documents like a birth certificate plus a utility bill. Call ahead to ask what your specific branch accepts, because policies vary.

Key Takeaways

  • You need a photo ID, proof of address, and your Social Security number to open a checking account at most banks and credit unions.
  • Opening in person at a branch takes 15 to 30 minutes; opening online takes a few minutes to a few hours.
  • If you do not have a photo ID, call your bank or credit union first to ask what alternative documents they will accept.
  • Your first deposit can be as small as $1 at many banks, though some require a minimum opening deposit of $25 to $100.
  • You will receive a debit card and checks within one to two weeks of opening the account.

Opening online versus in person

Online account opening is faster and requires no trip to a branch. You visit the bank's website, enter your personal information, upload photos of your ID and address proof, review the account terms, and sign electronically. The account is usually ready to use within hours. You can start using your debit card number immediately for online purchases, though the physical card arrives by mail in five to ten business days.

Opening in person at a branch lets you ask questions face-to-face and walk out with temporary checks or a debit card the same day. Some people prefer this if they are unsure about account features or want to make sure everything is set up correctly. The tradeoff is that you have to travel to the branch during business hours.

Both methods are equally secure. Online banks (banks with no physical branches) only offer online opening, but they often have lower fees and higher interest rates on savings because they have fewer overhead costs. Traditional banks with branches offer both options.

What happens after you open the account

Once your account is open, you will receive a debit card by mail within five to ten business days. You will also receive a checkbook if you ordered one, though many people now use their debit card or mobile payment apps instead. Your bank will send you online banking login information by email or mail, so you can check your balance and transfer money from your phone or computer.

Your first deposit can be as small as $1 at many banks, though some require a minimum opening deposit of $25 to $100. You can deposit money by transferring it from another bank account, depositing a check at an ATM or branch, or having your employer direct-deposit your paycheck. If you are opening an account online, you will need to make your first deposit by transfer from another account or direct deposit; you cannot deposit cash until your debit card arrives.

Set up online banking and mobile banking right away so you can monitor your account. Most banks let you set up alerts that notify you when your balance drops below a certain amount or when a large purchase is made. This helps you catch fraud or overdrafts early.

Banks versus credit unions

Banks are for-profit institutions owned by shareholders. Credit unions are nonprofit organizations owned by their members. Both offer checking accounts, but they differ in fees, interest rates, and customer service.

Banks are usually easier to find — most cities have multiple branches and ATMs. They often have lower minimum balance requirements and more account features. However, they typically charge higher monthly fees ($10 to $15 per month is common) and pay little to no interest on checking account balances.

Credit unions usually charge lower or no monthly fees and often pay slightly higher interest on checking accounts. However, they have fewer branches and ATMs, so they work best if you live near a branch or are comfortable banking online and using out-of-network ATMs. Many credit unions are part of shared branching networks or ATM networks that let you use other credit unions' branches and ATMs for free.

To join a credit union, you must meet membership requirements, which vary by union. Some are open to anyone in a geographic area; others require you to work for a specific employer or belong to a specific organization. Check the credit union's website or call to confirm you are may be able to access before you visit.

Accounts for people without a Social Security number

If you do not have a Social Security number, you can still open a checking account using an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN). An ITIN is a nine-digit number issued by the IRS to people who file taxes but do not have a Social Security number. You will need to show your ITIN documentation (IRS Form W-7 or a tax return) along with your photo ID and proof of address.

Not all banks accept ITINs, so call ahead or ask at the branch before you visit. Banks that do accept ITINs sometimes charge higher fees or require a higher minimum balance. Credit unions are often more flexible with ITIN accounts than large national banks.

If you do not have an ITIN yet, you can file Form W-7 with the IRS to get one. This takes four to six weeks. In the meantime, some banks will open a basic account using just your photo ID and proof of address, though you will need to provide your ITIN or Social Security number before you can use the account for direct deposit or other features.

Accounts for people with banking history problems

If you have been denied a checking account in the past or have a history of overdrafts or fraud, you may be listed in ChexSystems, a banking history database. Banks check ChexSystems when you open an account. If you are listed, some banks will still open an account for you, but others will decline.

Second-chance checking accounts are designed for people with banking history problems. These accounts usually have higher fees, lower ATM access, and stricter overdraft policies, but they let you rebuild your banking record. After 12 to 24 months of responsible use, you can often move to a standard checking account.

Online banks and credit unions are sometimes more willing to work with people who have banking history issues. Ask directly whether they check ChexSystems and whether they offer second-chance accounts. Some credit unions do not use ChexSystems at all.

Fees and features to compare

Monthly maintenance fees range from $0 to $15 per month, depending on the bank and account type. Some banks waive the fee if you maintain a minimum balance (usually $500 to $1,500), set up direct deposit, or use online banking. Others charge the fee no matter what.

Overdraft fees are charged when you spend more money than you have in your account. These fees range from $25 to $35 per overdraft. Some banks limit the number of overdraft fees you can be charged per day; others do not. Many banks now offer overdraft protection, which automatically transfers money from a savings account or linked account to cover the overdraft, though this may come with a small fee ($5 to $10).

ATM fees are charged when you use an ATM that is not owned by your bank. These range from $2 to $3 per transaction. Banks with large ATM networks (like Bank of America or Chase) let you use their ATMs for free. Online banks often reimburse out-of-network ATM fees or are part of ATM networks that let you use thousands of ATMs for free.

Interest rates on checking accounts are usually very low or zero. Credit unions and online banks sometimes pay 0.01% to 0.05% annual interest on checking balances, while traditional banks pay nothing. This is not enough to build wealth, but it is better than losing money to inflation.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I open a checking account if I am under 18?

Yes, but you will need a parent or guardian to co-sign the account. Most banks offer teen checking accounts that let young people learn to manage money while parents monitor the account. Some banks allow minors to open accounts independently at age 16 or 17, but policies vary.

What if I do not have a proof of address?

If you do not have a utility bill or lease, you can use other documents like a bank statement, credit card statement, government letter, or insurance policy. Some banks accept a letter from a shelter, social service agency, or employer on letterhead confirming your address. Call your bank first to ask what they will accept.

How long does it take to receive my debit card?

Physical debit cards arrive by mail in five to ten business days. You can usually use your card number for online purchases immediately after opening the account. Some banks offer expedited card delivery for an extra fee, or you can pick up a temporary card at the branch the same day you open the account.

Can I open multiple checking accounts at the same bank?

Yes, most banks let you open multiple accounts. Some people open separate accounts for different purposes, like one for bills and one for savings. However, each account may have its own monthly fee, so check the fee structure before you open a second account.

What should I do if I lose my debit card?

Call your bank immediately — most have a 24-hour fraud line. Your bank will cancel the card and mail you a replacement, which usually arrives within five to ten business days. In the meantime, you can use your checks, mobile banking app, or visit a branch to withdraw cash.