Banks and credit unions that let you open accounts entirely online
You can open a checking account online at most large banks, many regional banks, and most credit unions. The process typically takes 10 to 20 minutes and requires only your computer or phone, a valid ID, and a Social Security number or tax ID. Some institutions finish the account setup the same day; others take one to three business days before you can use the account.
The major national banks with full online account opening include Chase, Bank of America, Wells Fargo, Citibank, and US Bank. Regional banks like Ally Bank, Charles Schwab Bank, and Discover Bank also handle the entire process online. Credit unions vary by institution — some allow online opening to anyone in their field of membership, while others require you to visit a branch or mail in documents first.
Online-only banks such as Chime, LendingClub, and Varo operate entirely through apps and websites, so opening an account is their standard method. These banks typically have no monthly fees and no minimum balance requirements, though they may charge for certain services like overdrafts or wire transfers.
Key Takeaways
- Most national banks and credit unions let you open a checking account online using your ID, Social Security number, and a computer or phone.
- The process usually takes 10 to 20 minutes, though the account may not be fully active for one to three business days.
- Online-only banks like Chime and Ally typically have no monthly fees and no minimum balance, but you should check what services cost extra.
- Credit unions require membership in their field, so you must confirm you meet their membership rules before starting the online process.
- You will need to provide your Social Security number, date of birth, address, and a valid government ID during the online opening.
What you need to have ready before you start
Gather your documents before you begin the online application. You will need a valid government-issued ID — a driver's license, passport, or state ID card. You will also need your Social Security number or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN), your current address, and a phone number where the bank can reach you.
Some banks ask for additional information depending on your situation. If you are opening a joint account, both account holders must provide their own ID and Social Security number. If you have had banking problems in the past, the bank may ask about closed accounts or negative balances. Having this information ready before you start speeds up the process and reduces the chance of delays.
How the online opening process works
The typical online opening follows this order: you enter your personal information, verify your identity, choose your account type and features, and then fund the account. Most banks verify your identity by asking security questions based on your credit history, or by taking a photo of your ID and a selfie. A few banks use third-party verification services that cross-check your information against public records.
After verification, you choose whether you want a basic checking account, a rewards checking account, or an account bundled with savings. You also decide on features like overdraft protection, debit card rush delivery, or mobile check deposit. Then you fund the account — usually by linking an existing bank account and transferring money, or by providing a routing number so the bank can pull funds from another account.
Once you submit everything, the bank reviews your application. This can take anywhere from a few minutes to three business days. You will receive a confirmation email with your account number and routing number. Some banks issue a temporary debit card number you can use immediately; others mail a physical card that arrives in five to seven business days.
Differences between banks, credit unions, and online-only institutions
| Type | Monthly Fee | Minimum Balance | Debit Card Speed | Customer Service |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| National bank (Chase, Bank of America) | $0–$15, often waived with direct deposit | $0–$500 | 5–7 business days | Phone, chat, branch visits |
| Credit union | $0–$10, varies widely | $0–$100 | 5–7 business days | Phone, chat, member branches |
| Online-only bank (Ally, Chime) | $0 | $0 | 1–3 business days or instant | Phone, chat, email only |
National banks offer the widest branch network and the most customer service channels — phone, chat, email, and in-person. They often waive monthly fees if you set up direct deposit or maintain a minimum balance. Credit unions are member-owned, so fees tend to be lower and customer service more personal, but you must meet their membership rules to open an account.
Online-only banks have no physical locations and no monthly fees, which makes them cheaper to run. They pass that savings to you. The trade-off is that customer service is limited to phone, chat, and email — no branch to visit if something goes wrong. They also tend to have fewer features and partner banks, so withdrawing cash or depositing checks may take longer.
Credit union membership requirements and how to check them
Credit unions restrict membership to people who meet specific criteria — often based on where you work, where you live, or a group you belong to. Before you try to open an account online, check the credit union's website for their field of membership. Some credit unions serve everyone in a county or state; others serve only employees of a specific company or members of a specific organization.
If you do not meet the membership requirement, you have two options. Some credit unions let you join if you open a savings account with a small deposit — often $5 to $25 — at a branch or by mail. Others have a "community charter" that lets anyone in a certain geographic area join. Call the credit union's main number or check their membership page to find out which applies to you.
What happens after your account opens
Once your account is active, you can log into the bank's app or website and see your account number, routing number, and available balance. You can set up bill pay, transfer money to other accounts, and deposit checks using mobile check deposit if the bank offers it. Your debit card will arrive by mail within five to seven business days, unless you requested rush delivery or the bank issued a temporary card number.
Most banks let you make your first transfer or deposit immediately, even if the account shows as "pending" in the system. However, some banks hold deposits for one to three business days before the money is available to spend. Check your account agreement or call customer service to find out your bank's specific hold policy.
If you need to add another person to the account later, most banks let you do this online through their app or website. You will need the other person's Social Security number and ID information. Some banks charge a small fee to add an account holder; others do it for free.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I open a checking account online if I do not have a Social Security number?
Yes, if you have an ITIN (Individual Taxpayer Identification Number) issued by the IRS. Some banks accept ITINs; others do not. Call the bank before you start the online application to confirm they will accept your ITIN. You will still need a valid government ID and a current address.
How long does it take to get my debit card after I open the account online?
Standard delivery takes five to seven business days. Many banks offer rush delivery for a fee of $5 to $15, which cuts the time to two to three business days. Some online-only banks issue a temporary card number you can use immediately in stores and online while you wait for the physical card.
What if the bank rejects my online application?
Banks usually reject applications because of identity verification problems, a history of unpaid overdrafts, or a record in ChexSystems (a banking history database). Ask the bank why you were rejected. If it was a verification issue, you may be able to reapply or visit a branch with your ID. If it was ChexSystems, you can request a copy of your report and dispute errors.
Can I open a joint checking account online?
Yes, most banks let both account holders complete the online process together or one after the other. Both people must provide their own ID, Social Security number, and personal information. Some banks require both people to be present during verification; others let one person start the account and add the other person later.
Do I have to fund the account immediately when I open it online?
No. Most banks let you complete the application and open the account without funding it right away. However, some banks require a minimum opening deposit of $25 to $100. Check the bank's website or the application itself to see whether a deposit is required before you start.