Documents and information TD will ask for
TD Bank requires a government-issued photo ID, proof of your current address, and your Social Security number or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) to open a checking account. Bring your ID in person to a TD branch — they will not open an account over the phone or online without verification. The address proof can be a utility bill, lease, mortgage statement, or government document dated within the last 60 days.
If you do not have a U.S. address yet, TD will work with you on alternatives, but you will need to visit a branch to discuss options. Non-citizens can open accounts with an ITIN instead of a Social Security number, though some branches may ask additional questions about your immigration status or work authorization.
Bring your original documents, not copies. TD staff will verify them in front of you and return them. If you are opening an account for a minor, you will need to bring the child's birth certificate or passport along with your own ID and proof of address.
Key Takeaways
- You must visit a TD Bank branch in person with a government photo ID, proof of address dated within 60 days, and your Social Security number or ITIN.
- TD does not open checking accounts online or by phone — in-person verification is required for all new accounts.
- Proof of address can be a utility bill, lease, mortgage statement, or any government document showing your current street address.
- If you are opening an account for a child, bring the child's birth certificate or passport in addition to your own documents.
- Non-citizens can open accounts with an ITIN, but some branches may request additional documentation about work authorization.
What happens during your branch visit
When you arrive at the branch, tell the representative you want to open a checking account. They will ask you to fill out an account application form with your name, address, date of birth, and contact information. The form also asks whether you want online banking and a debit card, and whether you want paperless statements or paper statements mailed to you.
The representative will verify your ID and address documents, run a background check through ChexSystems (a banking history database), and ask you to sign the account agreement. The entire process usually takes 15 to 30 minutes. You will leave with a temporary debit card or a card number to use immediately, though your physical card may arrive by mail within 5 to 10 business days.
Initial deposit requirements
TD does not require a minimum opening deposit for most checking accounts, though some account types may have minimum balance requirements to avoid monthly fees. You can open the account with zero dollars and deposit money later, either at the branch, through an ATM, or by transferring funds from another bank once your account is set up.
If you are transferring money from another bank, you will need the routing number and account number from that bank. TD can help you set up a transfer during your visit, or you can do it yourself through online banking once your account is active.
Age and residency rules
You must be at least 18 years old to open a checking account in your own name. If you are under 18, a parent or legal guardian must open a joint account with you or a custodial account, depending on what TD offers at your branch.
You do not have to be a U.S. citizen, but you must have a valid government-issued ID and a U.S. address or a mailing address where TD can send statements and your debit card. If you are in the country on a visa, bring your visa documentation along with your other ID.
What to do if you do not have all the documents
If you do not have a government photo ID, some TD branches will accept a passport or a state ID card that is expired within the last year. Call your local branch before you visit to ask what alternatives they accept — policies can vary slightly by location.
If you do not have proof of address, bring two documents that show your name and address, such as a lease agreement and a utility bill in your name, even if one is older than 60 days. Some branches will also accept a letter from your employer or a government agency on letterhead confirming your address.
If you do not have a Social Security number, bring your ITIN documentation. If you do not have either, ask the branch whether they can open an account and what steps you need to take to provide a tax ID later.
Online and mobile banking setup
During your branch visit, the representative will ask whether you want to set up online banking. If you say yes, they will give you a temporary password or a link to create one. You can log in to TD's website or mobile app as soon as your account is open, usually within a few hours.
Online banking lets you check your balance, transfer money between accounts, pay bills, and deposit checks by taking a photo with your phone. You will need to set up a username and password, and TD may ask you to verify your identity through a security question or a code sent to your phone or email.
Account types and features to choose
TD offers several checking account types with different fees and features. The most common is the TD Checking account, which has a monthly fee unless you meet a minimum balance or set up direct deposit. Ask the representative which account type is best for your situation — some accounts waive fees for students, seniors, or people who receive direct deposit.
You can also choose whether to link a savings account, set up overdraft protection, or add a second person to the account as a joint owner. These decisions can be made during your visit or changed later through online banking or by calling customer service.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I open a TD checking account without going to a branch?
No. TD requires you to visit a branch in person with your ID and proof of address. They do not open accounts online or by phone. However, once your account is open, you can manage it entirely online or through their mobile app.
What if I do not have a Social Security number?
You can use an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) instead. Bring your ITIN documentation to the branch. If you do not have either, ask the branch whether they can open an account and what timeline you have to provide a tax ID.
How long does it take to open an account?
The process takes 15 to 30 minutes at the branch. Your account is usually active the same day, and you can use your debit card number immediately. Your physical card arrives by mail within 5 to 10 business days.
Do I need money to open the account?
No. TD does not require a minimum opening deposit for most checking accounts. You can open with zero dollars and deposit money later at a branch, ATM, or through a transfer from another bank.
Can I add someone else to my account?
Yes. You can open a joint account with another person, or add them later as a joint owner. Both people will need to visit the branch with their ID and proof of address, or you can ask the branch about their process for adding someone after the account is open.