Documents and information you'll need before you walk in

To open a checking account, you need a government-issued photo ID, proof of your current address, and your Social Security number or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN). Most banks will ask for all three before they hand you a debit card. Some banks also ask for a second form of ID — a passport works, or a state ID card if your driver's license is expired.

Proof of address can be a recent utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, or a government document with your name and current street address. It usually needs to be dated within the last 60 days. If you don't have a recent bill in your name, a bank statement from another institution or a letter from your employer showing your address will work at most banks.

You do not need to bring cash to open an account. You do not need an existing bank account elsewhere. You do not need a job, though some banks ask about employment status on the application form.

Key Takeaways

  • Bring a government photo ID, proof of your current address dated within 60 days, and your Social Security number or ITIN.
  • A utility bill, lease, or mortgage statement counts as proof of address; a bank statement or employer letter works if you don't have a recent bill.
  • You can open an account with zero dollars and add money later, though some banks have minimum opening deposits.
  • Online banks typically require the same documents but let you upload photos of them instead of visiting a branch.
  • If you don't have a Social Security number, an ITIN from the IRS is accepted at most banks.

Minimum opening deposit requirements vary by bank

Some banks let you open a checking account with no money down. Others require a minimum opening deposit of $25, $100, or occasionally more. A few banks waive the minimum if you set up direct deposit of your paycheck. Check the bank's website or call their customer service line to find out what they require before you go in.

The opening deposit is your own money — it goes into your new account immediately. It is not a fee. If you open an account with $100 and never add more, that $100 stays yours and you can withdraw it whenever you want.

What happens after you hand over your documents

The bank employee will enter your information into their system and run a background check through ChexSystems, a database that tracks banking history. This check takes a few minutes. They are looking for a history of overdrafts, fraud, or accounts closed for cause — not your credit score. Most people pass this check without issue.

If you pass, you will sign paperwork (or digital agreements if you are opening online), choose a PIN for your debit card, and sometimes choose whether you want overdraft protection. You will walk out with a debit card or receive one in the mail within 7 to 10 business days. Your account is active immediately, even if your physical card hasn't arrived yet — you can use your account number to set up direct deposit or transfers right away.

Opening an account online versus in person

Online banks and online-only checking accounts work the same way as branch banks, but you upload photos of your ID and proof of address instead of showing them in person. The process usually takes 10 to 15 minutes. You will get a temporary account number to use while your debit card is in the mail.

In-person accounts at a branch bank take 20 to 30 minutes and you leave with a debit card the same day (or sometimes within a few hours). If you are uncomfortable with technology or want to ask questions face-to-face, a branch is simpler. If you want to open an account at midnight or on a Sunday, online is your only option.

If you don't have a Social Security number

You can open a checking account with an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) issued by the IRS. An ITIN is a nine-digit number that looks like a Social Security number but starts with 9. You get one by filing Form W-7 with the IRS; the process takes about two weeks if you mail it, or a few days if you file through an IRS-authorized agent.

Some banks also open accounts for people without a Social Security number or ITIN if you bring additional documents — usually a passport and a second form of ID. Call ahead to ask which banks in your area will do this, because policies vary widely.

What to do if the bank says no

If ChexSystems shows a closed account or unpaid overdrafts from years ago, a bank may refuse to open an account with you. This is rare but it happens. You have the right to see what ChexSystems has on file about you — you can request your report for free at chexsystems.com. If the information is wrong, you can dispute it.

If you are denied, look for a second-chance checking account at a local credit union or a bank that specializes in people with banking history problems. These accounts have higher fees and lower limits on how much you can deposit or withdraw per day, but they are real accounts that build your banking history. After 12 to 24 months of clean activity, you can move to a standard account.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I open a checking account without a Social Security number?

Yes, with an ITIN from the IRS or by bringing a passport and additional ID to a bank that accepts them. Policies vary by bank and location, so call ahead to find one that will work with you.

Do I need to bring cash to open an account?

No. You can open an account with zero dollars at many banks. Others require a minimum opening deposit of $25 to $100, but that money is yours and stays in your account — it is not a fee.

How long does it take to open a checking account?

In person at a branch, 20 to 30 minutes. Online, 10 to 15 minutes. Your account is active immediately, though your physical debit card arrives in the mail within 7 to 10 business days.

What if I don't have proof of my current address?

A utility bill, lease, or mortgage statement works best. If you don't have one, a bank statement from another bank, an employer letter, or a government document with your address usually works. Ask the bank what they accept before you come in.

Will opening a checking account hurt my credit score?

No. Banks check ChexSystems, not your credit report. Opening a checking account does not affect your credit score at all.