The documents and information banks actually require
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 also want to know your employment status and income, though they do not verify this the way a loan application does. Some banks will open an account with just an ID and Social Security number if you already have an online presence they can cross-check.
The specific documents vary slightly by bank and by state. A driver's license or passport works for ID. For address proof, banks accept a recent utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, or government mail with your name and current address. If you do not have a recent document in your name, some banks will accept a bank statement from another institution, a pay stub, or a letter from a government agency.
You do not need an opening deposit to start the account at most banks, though some require a minimum balance to avoid monthly fees. That minimum is usually between $25 and $300, depending on the bank and the account type. You can often meet the minimum with your first direct deposit or transfer rather than cash on the spot.
Key Takeaways
- Bring a government photo ID, proof of your current address, and your Social Security number or ITIN to open an account in person.
- Address proof can be a utility bill, lease, mortgage statement, or government mail — it just needs your name and current address.
- Most banks do not require an opening deposit, but some charge monthly fees if you do not maintain a minimum balance of $25 to $300.
- Online banks often have lower document requirements and no minimum balance, but you cannot deposit cash without a linked account at another bank.
Opening an account in person versus online
If you walk into a bank branch, bring your ID, address proof, and Social Security number. The banker will ask you questions about your income and employment, fill out the account agreement, and hand you a debit card on the spot or mail it within a few days. The whole process takes 15 to 30 minutes. You leave with an account number and routing number the same day, so you can set up direct deposit immediately if your employer needs it.
Opening online is faster but requires you to upload photos of your documents instead of showing originals. You will need to take a clear photo of both sides of your ID and a photo of your address proof. Some online banks use video verification instead — you show your ID to a camera and answer questions to confirm your identity. Online accounts are usually active within one to three business days, though you cannot deposit cash until you have a linked account elsewhere or visit a branch.
Online banks typically have no minimum balance requirement and lower or no monthly fees. Traditional banks often charge $10 to $15 per month if your balance drops below their minimum, but they let you deposit cash at any branch. Choose based on how you plan to use the account: if you receive direct deposit and rarely need cash, online is cheaper; if you deposit cash regularly or want face-to-face help, a branch bank makes sense.
What happens if you do not have a Social Security number
If you have an ITIN issued by the IRS, most banks will open an account using that instead of a Social Security number. An ITIN is a nine-digit number that looks like a Social Security number and is used for tax purposes. You need an ITIN application (Form W-7) filed with the IRS, which takes four to six weeks to process. Some banks ask for an ITIN letter from the IRS as proof; others accept the ITIN number alone.
A few banks will open accounts without either number if you have a passport or other government ID and can provide a second form of identification. Call ahead to ask — policies vary by branch and by bank. Some credit unions are more flexible than national banks on this point. If you are turned down at one bank, try a different one or a local credit union before assuming you cannot open an account.
Minimum balance requirements and monthly fees
Banks set their own minimum balance rules, so the amount varies widely. Common minimums are $25, $100, $300, or $500. If your balance falls below the minimum, the bank charges a monthly maintenance fee — usually $5 to $15. Some banks waive the fee if you set up direct deposit, maintain a certain number of debit card transactions per month, or keep a linked savings account open.
Read the fee schedule before you open the account. Many banks post this online under "Pricing" or "Fees." If the minimum is too high for you right now, look for a bank with no minimum or a very low one. Online banks and credit unions often have no minimum at all. Some banks offer a "student" or "basic" account with lower minimums for people under 25 or with lower income.
What to bring if you are opening an account for someone else
If you are opening an account as a parent or guardian for a minor, bring your own ID and proof of address, plus the child's birth certificate or Social Security card. Some banks require the child to be present; others do not. Ask the bank before you go. The account will be in the child's name, but you will have access to it until they reach the age of majority (usually 18 or 21, depending on state law).
If you are opening an account as a power of attorney or conservator for an adult, bring your legal document proving that authority, plus the person's ID and Social Security number if possible. The bank will verify your authority before opening the account. This process takes longer than a standard account opening and may require a manager's approval.
What banks check before opening your account
Banks run your name and Social Security number through ChexSystems, a banking history database. ChexSystems records closed accounts, overdrafts, and fraud reports from other banks. If you have a history of overdrafts or closed accounts due to negative balances, some banks will deny you or require a deposit. You can request your ChexSystems report for free once per year at www.chexsystems.com.
Banks also check your identity against government databases to prevent fraud and money laundering. This is a routine check and does not affect your credit score. If the bank cannot verify your identity — for example, if your name does not match government records — they will ask you to provide additional documents or visit a branch in person.
Getting your account number and routing number
Once your account is open, the bank gives you an account number and routing number. The routing number is the same for all accounts at that bank branch; the account number is unique to you. You need both to set up direct deposit, arrange wire transfers, or give someone your banking information to send you money. The bank prints these on your debit card and in your account agreement. You can also find them online by logging into your account or calling the bank's customer service line.
Some banks mail you a temporary debit card and a permanent one arrives a few days later. Others issue a card on the spot if you open in person. Ask when you will receive your card so you know when you can start using it. In the meantime, you can transfer money into the account online or ask someone to deposit cash at a branch if you need access to funds immediately.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I open a checking account without a Social Security number?
Yes, if you have an ITIN or a valid passport. Most banks will open an account with an ITIN instead of a Social Security number. Some banks and credit unions will open an account with just a passport and a second ID, though this is less common. Call the bank ahead of time to confirm their policy.
What if I have been denied a checking account before?
You were likely flagged in ChexSystems for overdrafts or fraud. Request your free ChexSystems report to see what is on file. If the information is wrong, you can dispute it. Even with a ChexSystems record, some banks and most credit unions will still open an account for you. Ask about second-chance checking accounts, which are designed for people with banking history issues.
Do I need money to open a checking account?
Most banks do not require an opening deposit. However, some charge monthly fees if you do not maintain a minimum balance. You can meet the minimum with your first direct deposit or transfer instead of bringing cash. Online banks and credit unions often have no minimum balance at all.
How long does it take to open an account online?
The application takes 10 to 15 minutes. The bank reviews your documents and verifies your identity within one to three business days. Your account is usually active and ready to use by the third business day, though your debit card may arrive a week or two later.
Can I open a joint checking account with someone else?
Yes. Both people need to bring their own ID, proof of address, and Social Security number or ITIN. If you open in person, both of you should be present. Online, one person applies and the other verifies their identity separately. Both names appear on the account and both have full access to the money.