What you need to open a UnionBank checking account

UnionBank offers checking accounts through both in-person visits and online. The path you take depends on whether you already bank with UnionBank and what documents you have on hand. If you are a new customer with no existing UnionBank account, you will need to start online or visit a branch in person — there is no phone-only option to open your first account.

For any new checking account at UnionBank, you will need a valid government-issued photo ID (driver's license, passport, or state ID card) and a Social Security number or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number. If you are opening the account online, you will also need an email address and a phone number where UnionBank can reach you. Some account types require a minimum opening deposit, which varies by the specific checking product you choose.

If you already have a UnionBank savings account or other product, opening a checking account is faster because UnionBank already has your information on file. You can often do this online or by calling customer service without visiting a branch.

Key Takeaways

  • New UnionBank customers must open a checking account either online through the website or in person at a branch — phone-only opening is not available for first-time customers.
  • You will need a valid photo ID, Social Security number or ITIN, and an email address; some account types require a minimum opening deposit.
  • Existing UnionBank customers can often open a checking account online or by phone without visiting a branch.
  • The online process typically takes 10 to 15 minutes and you can begin using your account the same day or within one business day.
  • After opening, you will receive debit card information by mail within 7 to 10 business days, though you can use your account for transfers and bill pay before the card arrives.

Opening an account online as a new customer

Visit unionbank.com and look for the "Open an Account" or "New Accounts" button, usually located on the homepage. Select the checking account product that fits your needs — UnionBank typically offers several options, such as a basic checking account and premium checking with higher interest rates or fee waivers. Read the account details carefully because minimum balance requirements and monthly fees vary by product.

The online form will ask for your full name, date of birth, address, phone number, email, and Social Security number or ITIN. You will also need to upload or photograph your government-issued ID. UnionBank's system will verify your identity using the information you provide. This verification usually happens in real time, though in some cases it may take a few minutes.

Once your identity is confirmed, you will choose a username and password for online banking, set up security questions, and review the account terms. If the account requires a minimum opening deposit, you will be asked to link a bank account or provide a debit card to fund it. After you submit everything, you should receive confirmation on screen and by email within minutes.

Opening an account in person at a branch

Find your nearest UnionBank branch using the branch locator on unionbank.com. Bring your valid photo ID, Social Security number or ITIN, and proof of your current address (a recent utility bill, lease, or bank statement dated within the last 60 days). If you plan to make an opening deposit, you can bring cash or a check, or you can link an outside bank account during the appointment.

Tell the branch representative you want to open a checking account. They will walk you through the account options, explain fees and features, and have you sign the account agreement. The entire process usually takes 15 to 30 minutes. You will leave with your account number and temporary debit card information, and your full debit card will arrive by mail within 7 to 10 business days.

In-person opening is useful if you prefer to ask questions face-to-face, if you have trouble with online verification, or if you want to make a large opening deposit in cash. Some branches may also offer same-day debit card printing, though this is not may provide at all locations — call ahead to ask.

Opening an account if you are already a UnionBank customer

Log into your existing UnionBank online banking account and look for an option to "Add Account" or "Open New Account." The process is much shorter because UnionBank already has your identity verified. You will select the checking account type, review the terms, and confirm. Most existing customers can complete this in 5 to 10 minutes.

You can also call UnionBank customer service at the number on the back of your existing card or on your account statements. A representative can walk you through the options and open the account over the phone. This route is useful if you have questions about which account type suits you best or if you want to discuss fee structures before committing.

What happens after you open your account

Your checking account is active immediately after you complete the opening process, whether online or in person. You can log into online banking, set up bill pay, transfer money between your accounts, and receive direct deposits right away. However, your physical debit card will arrive by mail in 7 to 10 business days.

While you wait for your card, you can use your account number and routing number to set up automatic payments or direct deposit from your employer. If you need to make a purchase before your card arrives, you can request a temporary card number through online banking, or some branches can issue a temporary card in person. Ask your branch or customer service what options are available.

UnionBank will send you a welcome packet by mail that includes your debit card, PIN, and account information. Keep this secure. If your card does not arrive within 10 business days, contact customer service to request a replacement or to confirm your mailing address is correct.

Minimum deposit requirements and account types

UnionBank's checking accounts have different minimum opening deposits depending on the product. Some basic checking accounts may have no minimum, while premium or interest-bearing checking accounts often require $500 to $1,000 to open. Check the specific account details on the UnionBank website or ask a representative before you begin the opening process so you know what to expect.

If you cannot meet the minimum deposit right away, ask whether UnionBank offers a lower-tier account you can open first, then upgrade later. Some customers open a savings account with a small deposit, then add a checking account once they have saved enough for the minimum.

Troubleshooting if your online opening is declined

If UnionBank's online system cannot verify your identity, you will see a message explaining why. Common reasons include a mismatch between the name or address you entered and what appears in verification databases, or a Social Security number that does not match your ID. Double-check that you entered everything exactly as it appears on your government ID — middle initials, hyphens, and spelling all matter.

If you still cannot open online after correcting your information, visit a branch in person. A representative can verify your identity using your physical ID and open the account on the spot. This is always an option if the online system is giving you trouble, and it usually resolves the problem immediately.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

You can use an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) instead of a Social Security number. You will need to bring documentation of your ITIN when opening in person, or upload it during the online process. Contact UnionBank customer service if you have questions about what documents they accept.

How long does it take to use my checking account after I open it?

Your account is active immediately after you complete the opening process. You can transfer money, set up bill pay, and receive direct deposits the same day. Your physical debit card arrives in 7 to 10 business days, but you can request a temporary card number to use online or in stores before then.

What if I do not have proof of address when I open in person?

Bring whatever documents you have — a lease, utility bill, or recent bank statement all work. If you have none of these, ask the branch representative what alternative documents they accept. Some branches may allow a phone bill or government mail as proof of address.

Can I open a joint checking account at UnionBank?

Yes, but both account holders must be present in person or complete the online process separately with their own credentials. Contact UnionBank to ask whether you can both sign up online together or whether you need to visit a branch to set up a joint account.

What is the routing number for UnionBank checking accounts?

UnionBank's routing number is 122000248. You will need this number to set up direct deposit or automatic payments. You can also find it on your checks or in your online banking account under account details.