What banks ask for when you walk in
Most banks need two things before they open a checking account: a government-issued photo ID and proof of your current address. The photo ID is almost always a driver's license, passport, or state ID card. The address proof can be a recent utility bill, lease, mortgage statement, or bank statement — something dated within the last 60 days with your name and address on it.
Some banks also ask for a Social Security number or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN). They use this to run a background check through ChexSystems, a banking history database that flags accounts closed for fraud or unpaid overdrafts. If you don't have a Social Security number, ask whether the bank offers accounts for people with an ITIN instead — many do, though the process takes longer.
A few banks will ask for a second form of ID or a phone number to verify. Bring your phone and be ready to answer a verification call on the spot. If you're opening an account online instead of in person, you'll upload photos of your ID and address proof, and the bank may ask you to verify your identity through a video call.
Key Takeaways
- You need a government photo ID and proof of your current address dated within the last 60 days to open a checking account at most banks.
- Banks run a ChexSystems check using your Social Security number or ITIN to look at your banking history, which can delay approval if you have unpaid overdrafts or fraud flags.
- If you don't have a Social Security number, ask the bank whether they offer accounts for ITIN holders before you apply, because not all branches do.
- Online account openings require you to upload photos of your ID and address proof and may include a video verification call with a bank representative.
- Bring your phone when you open an account in person, because the bank may need to verify your identity by calling you immediately.
What happens during the ChexSystems check
When you give the bank your Social Security number, they submit it to ChexSystems, which is run by a company called Fiserv. ChexSystems holds records of closed accounts, overdrafts you didn't pay back, and fraud reports filed against you. The check usually takes a few minutes in person, but online applications can take one to three business days.
If ChexSystems finds something on your record, the bank will tell you before they open the account. Common issues that slow things down include an unpaid overdraft from years ago, an account closed by the bank for negative balance, or a fraud report. You can ask to see what ChexSystems has on file about you — you have the right to request your report for free once per year at www.chexsystems.com.
If you have a ChexSystems record that's causing problems, some banks offer second-chance checking accounts that don't run the check or that overlook older issues. These accounts usually come with lower limits on how much you can withdraw per day and higher fees, but they let you rebuild your banking history.
Minimum opening deposit and account fees
Most banks require a minimum opening deposit to start a checking account, though the amount varies widely. Some banks ask for $25, others for $100 or $500. A few banks have no minimum at all. The deposit goes into your account as your first balance — it's your money, not a fee.
Ask about monthly maintenance fees before you open the account. Many banks waive the fee if you keep a certain balance (often $500 to $1,500), set up direct deposit, or make a certain number of debit card transactions per month. Some banks charge $5 to $15 per month with no way to avoid it. Online banks and credit unions often have lower or no monthly fees than traditional brick-and-mortar banks.
You should also ask about overdraft fees, ATM fees, and whether the bank charges to close the account early. Some banks charge $25 to $35 each time you overdraw, and some charge a fee just to close an account within the first 90 days. These details matter more than the monthly fee if you're living paycheck to paycheck.
Age and residency requirements
You must be at least 18 years old to open a checking account in your own name at any U.S. bank. If you're under 18, you can open a joint account with a parent or guardian, who will have full access to the account and can see all transactions.
You do not need to be a U.S. citizen to open a checking account, but you do need to be a U.S. resident. Most banks define this as having a U.S. address and a valid ID issued by a U.S. state or the federal government. If you're in the country on a visa, bring your visa documentation along with your ID and address proof.
Some banks ask whether you have an existing account at another bank. This is not a disqualifying question — they're asking to prevent fraud, not to turn you away. Answer honestly.
Documents to bring if you're opening an account online
Online account openings require you to upload clear photos of both sides of your government ID and a photo of your address proof. The ID photo should show your full name, date of birth, and the ID's expiration date. The address proof should show your full name and complete address.
Take the photos in good lighting and make sure all text is readable. Blurry or cut-off photos will be rejected, and you'll have to resubmit. Some banks also ask you to take a selfie holding your ID next to your face to verify you're the person in the ID photo.
After you upload the documents, the bank will send you a link to a video call or a series of verification questions. Have your phone or computer ready, and make sure you're in a quiet place where you can hear clearly. The verification call usually takes five to ten minutes.
What to do if the bank denies your account
If a bank turns you down, ask them why. They must tell you the reason — usually it's a ChexSystems issue, a fraud flag, or an address that doesn't match their records. If it's a ChexSystems issue, you can dispute the information on your report at www.chexsystems.com if it's wrong or outdated.
If one bank denies you, try a different bank or a credit union. Credit unions often have more flexible policies for people with banking history problems, and some specialize in second-chance accounts. You can also look for online banks, which sometimes have lower barriers to entry than traditional banks.
If you believe the bank discriminated against you based on race, national origin, gender, or another protected characteristic, you can file a complaint with the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) at www.consumerfinance.gov. The CFPB investigates discrimination complaints and can take action against banks that violate fair lending laws.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I open a checking account without a Social Security number?
Yes, if you have an ITIN (Individual Taxpayer Identification Number). Not all banks offer ITIN accounts, so call ahead and ask. The process takes longer because the bank can't run a ChexSystems check, and they may ask for additional documents like a passport or visa.
What if my address proof is older than 60 days?
Most banks will reject it and ask for something more recent. If you don't have a recent utility bill or lease, ask whether they accept a bank statement, credit card statement, or government letter with your name and address. Some banks are flexible about the date if you can explain why you don't have something newer.
Do I have to open an account in person, or can I do it entirely online?
Most banks let you open an account online from start to finish. You upload your documents, verify your identity through a video call or security questions, and the account opens within one to three business days. You don't need to visit a branch unless you want to deposit cash or speak to someone in person.
What if I have an old overdraft from another bank on my ChexSystems record?
It will likely show up during the check, but it doesn't automatically disqualify you. Banks weigh how old the overdraft is, how much it was, and whether you've had problems since then. If it's more than a few years old, many banks will overlook it. If it's recent, ask about second-chance checking accounts instead.
Can someone else open an account on my behalf?
No. You must be present in person or verify your identity online yourself. The bank needs to confirm you're the person applying and that you're doing so of your own will. A parent or guardian can open a joint account with you if you're under 18, but they can't open an account in your name alone.