Documents and identification you'll need to bring

Most banks require a government-issued photo ID — a driver's license, passport, or state ID card. Some banks accept a tribal ID or military ID. The ID must not be expired, though banks vary on how recently it expired; call ahead if yours is more than a few years old.

You'll also need proof of your current address. A utility bill, lease, mortgage statement, or recent bank statement dated within the last 60 days works at most banks. A few banks accept a government document like a tax return or voter registration card instead. If you don't have a physical address — you're unhoused or living temporarily — ask the bank directly; some have workarounds, others don't.

Bring your Social Security number or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN). The bank will use it to run a background check through ChexSystems, a database that tracks banking history. You don't need to bring a card or document; you'll provide the number verbally or on a form.

Key Takeaways

  • You need a government photo ID that is not expired, proof of your current address dated within 60 days, and your Social Security number or ITIN.
  • Banks run a background check through ChexSystems; if you've had problems at another bank, disclose them upfront rather than waiting for the bank to find them.
  • Minimum opening deposit varies widely — some banks require $0, others $25 to $300 — so call or check the bank's website before you go in.
  • The whole process usually takes 15 to 30 minutes in person, or 10 to 20 minutes online if you open remotely.
  • If you have no credit history or a thin file, you can still open a checking account; banks do not use your credit score for this decision.

How ChexSystems background checks work and what can disqualify you

When you open an account, the bank submits your name, address, and Social Security number to ChexSystems. The company checks whether you've had accounts closed due to overdrafts, fraud, or other problems at other banks. A report comes back within minutes.

If ChexSystems finds a negative mark — unpaid overdrafts, a closed account, or a report of fraud — the bank may deny you. However, you have the right to see what ChexSystems has on file about you. You can request your report free once per year at chexsystems.com or by calling 1-800-428-9623. If the report contains an error, you can dispute it directly with ChexSystems.

If you know you have a problem in ChexSystems, tell the bank before they run the check. Some banks have second-chance programs for people with banking history issues. Others will deny you outright. Being upfront gives you a chance; waiting for them to discover it does not.

Minimum deposit requirements and account types

The amount you need to open an account varies by bank and account type. Large national banks like Chase, Bank of America, and Wells Fargo often require $25 to $300 to open a standard checking account. Credit unions and online banks frequently have no minimum. Some banks waive the minimum if you set up direct deposit.

Ask the bank or check their website for the specific minimum before you arrive. If you don't have that much cash on hand, online banks and credit unions are worth calling first — many will let you open with $0 and deposit money later.

Some banks offer different account tiers: a basic checking account with fewer features and no minimum, and a premium account with perks like higher interest or fee waivers that requires a larger balance. You can always start with the basic account and upgrade later.

Opening an account in person versus online

In-person opening at a bank branch takes 15 to 30 minutes. You bring your ID, proof of address, and the minimum deposit (if required). A banker verifies your documents, runs the ChexSystems check, and you sign paperwork. You walk out with a debit card (or it arrives by mail within 7 to 10 days) and can start using the account immediately.

Online opening takes 10 to 20 minutes and requires a computer or phone. You upload photos of your ID and proof of address, provide your Social Security number, and set up login credentials. The bank runs the same ChexSystems check. Your debit card arrives by mail, usually within 7 to 10 business days. Some online banks let you use your account before the card arrives if you link it to another bank account or set up transfers.

Online opening is faster if you're comfortable with technology and don't need a physical card immediately. In-person opening is better if you want to ask questions, prefer handling documents face-to-face, or need the card right away. Both routes are equally secure.

What happens if you don't have a Social Security number

If you have an ITIN (Individual Taxpayer Identification Number) issued by the IRS, you can open a checking account using it instead of a Social Security number. Bring the same documents — photo ID, proof of address, and your ITIN. The process is identical.

If you have neither a Social Security number nor an ITIN, opening a traditional checking account is difficult. Some banks and credit unions have accounts for people without either, but they're uncommon. Call banks in your area and ask directly; if none offer this, a credit union is more likely to work with you than a large national bank.

Fees and what to watch for

Many banks charge a monthly maintenance fee ($5 to $15) unless you meet certain conditions — maintaining a minimum balance, setting up direct deposit, or making a certain number of debit card transactions each month. Online banks and credit unions often have no monthly fee at all.

Overdraft fees are separate. If you spend more than you have, the bank may charge $25 to $35 per overdraft. Some banks allow one or two free overdrafts per year; others charge for every one. Ask about this when you open the account.

ATM fees also vary. If you use an ATM outside your bank's network, you may pay $2 to $3 per withdrawal. Some banks reimburse out-of-network fees; others don't. If you travel or live far from a branch, this matters.

Timeline from application to first use

If you open in person, your account is active the same day. You can use online banking and bill pay immediately. Your debit card arrives by mail in 7 to 10 business days, though some banks can issue a temporary card on the spot.

If you open online, the account is usually active within 24 hours. Your debit card arrives by mail in 7 to 10 business days. Some online banks let you use a virtual card (a temporary number) for online purchases while you wait for the physical card.

If you need to deposit cash before your card arrives, you can visit a branch in person, use an ATM if your bank has one, or wait for the card. Plan accordingly if you need immediate access to cash.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I open a checking account if I have bad credit?

Yes. Banks do not check your credit score when you open a checking account. They only check ChexSystems, which tracks banking history, not credit history. Bad credit does not disqualify you.

What if I don't have a permanent address?

Some banks require proof of address and will not open an account without it. Others accept a PO box, a shelter address, or a temporary address. Call the bank first and explain your situation. Credit unions are often more flexible than large national banks.

Do I need to bring cash for the minimum deposit?

No. You can bring a check, transfer money from another account, or arrange a wire transfer. Ask the bank what methods they accept when you call.

How long does the ChexSystems check take?

Usually a few minutes. The bank gets a result while you're still there (in-person) or within a few hours (online). If there's a dispute on your report, it may take longer, but the bank will tell you.

Can I open multiple checking accounts at the same bank?

Yes, most banks allow it. You might open one for bills and another for savings, or one for work and one for personal use. Each account needs its own debit card and PIN. There's no limit, though some banks charge a monthly fee for each account.