Yes, you can open most bank accounts entirely online, but the process and what you need varies by bank and account type
Most banks now let you start a checking or savings account from your computer or phone without visiting a branch. You'll typically need a valid ID, a Social Security number or tax ID, proof of address, and an initial deposit (which may be as small as $0 or as much as $500, depending on the bank). The whole process usually takes 10 to 20 minutes, and you can use the account the same day or within 24 hours.
Some banks still require you to verify your identity in person or by mail before you can withdraw money or use a debit card. Others use video verification or third-party ID checks that happen instantly online. A few banks—particularly credit unions and smaller regional banks—do not offer online account opening at all and require you to walk into a physical location.
The type of account matters. Checking accounts are almost always available online. Savings accounts usually are. Money market accounts and certificates of deposit (CDs) often are, though some banks limit how much you can deposit online on day one. Business accounts, joint accounts with someone who isn't present, and accounts for minors often require additional steps or a visit to a branch.
Key Takeaways
- Most major banks let you open a checking or savings account online in 10 to 20 minutes using your ID, Social Security number, and proof of address.
- Some banks verify your identity instantly through video or third-party checks; others mail you a card or ask you to visit a branch before the account is fully active.
- Credit unions and smaller regional banks may not offer online account opening and may require you to apply in person or by mail.
- Business accounts, joint accounts, and accounts for minors usually require additional verification or a branch visit, even at banks that offer online personal accounts.
What you need to have ready before you start
Gather these items before you begin: a valid government-issued ID (driver's license, passport, or state ID card), your Social Security number, and a document showing your current address (a recent utility bill, lease, or bank statement works). Some banks also ask for your phone number and email address, which you'll have on hand anyway.
You'll need to decide on an initial deposit amount. Most banks accept $0 to start, though some require $25 or $100. Have a debit card, bank account number, or routing number ready if you plan to fund the account immediately by transfer. If you don't have one, you can usually fund it later by mailing a check or setting up a transfer from another bank.
If you're opening an account at a bank where you already have a relationship—you already have another account there—the process is often faster because the bank already has your information on file.
How the online application actually works
You'll go to the bank's website or app and look for a button labeled "Open an Account," "New Account," or "get your free guide." The bank will ask you to choose the type of account (checking, savings, or both). You'll then enter your personal information: name, date of birth, address, phone number, email, and Social Security number.
Next comes identity verification. The bank will ask you to upload a photo of your ID or take a photo of it with your phone camera. Some banks use automated software that reads your ID instantly. Others send it to a person who reviews it within a few hours. A few banks use video verification, where you speak to someone on a video call who confirms your identity in real time.
After verification, the bank will ask you to set up login credentials (username and password), choose a PIN, and agree to the account terms. You'll then be told whether your account is open immediately or whether you need to wait for a debit card to arrive in the mail before you can use it fully.
When the bank needs to verify you in person or by mail
Some banks cannot complete identity verification online and will mail you a letter with a code or ask you to visit a branch. This typically happens when the bank's automated ID verification system cannot read your ID clearly, when your address cannot be verified through public records, or when you're opening a joint account and the other person isn't present.
If the bank mails you a verification letter, it usually arrives within 5 to 10 business days. You'll open it, find a code or instructions, and enter that code into your online account to activate it. Until then, you may not be able to withdraw money or use a debit card, though you can usually see your account balance and set up transfers.
If the bank asks you to visit a branch, you can do so at any location in their network. Bring your ID and the account number or confirmation email the bank sent you. A teller will verify your identity in person and activate your account on the spot, usually within 10 minutes.
Account types that are harder or impossible to open online
Business accounts almost never open entirely online. Most banks require you to bring a business license, tax ID, and proof of business address to a branch, or to mail in copies of those documents. Some banks will start the process online but require a branch visit to complete it.
Joint accounts—accounts owned by two or more people—often require both owners to be present or to verify their identity separately. Some banks let one person open the account online and then add the other person later through a branch visit or by mail. Others require both people to apply together, which usually means at least one person has to go to a branch.
Accounts for minors (people under 18) typically require a parent or guardian to open the account and be listed as a co-owner. Some banks let the parent do this online; others require a branch visit. A few banks offer teen accounts that minors can open themselves online once they reach a certain age (usually 13 or 16), but these accounts have spending limits and require parental oversight.
What happens after your account opens
Once your account is open, you'll receive a debit card in the mail within 7 to 10 business days. Until it arrives, you can still use your account to receive deposits, pay bills online, or transfer money to other accounts. You cannot use the debit card at stores or ATMs until it arrives and you activate it (usually by calling a number on the card or using the bank's app).
Your account number and routing number are available immediately in your online banking portal or app. You can use these to set up direct deposit from your employer or to receive transfers from other people. Some banks let you use a temporary digital debit card in their app before the physical card arrives, which you can use for online purchases or contactless payments at stores.
If the bank requires additional verification before your account is fully active, they'll tell you what's needed and by when. Most banks give you 30 to 60 days to complete verification before they close the account.
Banks that do not offer online account opening
Most credit unions do not let you open an account online. You'll need to visit a branch in person or, at some credit unions, mail in an application with copies of your ID and proof of address. The process takes longer—usually 5 to 10 business days by mail—but credit unions often have lower fees and higher savings rates than large banks.
Some smaller regional banks and community banks also require in-person or mail applications. Before you start the online process, check the bank's website to see whether online account opening is available. If it's not, the website will usually say so clearly and direct you to a branch or to a mailing address.
If you want to open an account at a bank that doesn't offer online opening but you cannot visit a branch, ask whether they accept mail applications. Most do, though it takes longer and you may need to mail original documents or certified copies.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I open a joint account online if the other person lives far away?
It depends on the bank. Some banks let one person open the account online and add the other person later through a separate verification process. Others require both people to verify their identity at the same time, which usually means at least one person has to visit a branch. Call the bank before you start to ask about their specific process for joint accounts.
What if my ID is expired?
Most banks will not accept an expired ID for online account opening. If your ID is expired, you'll need to renew it before you apply. Some banks may make exceptions if your ID expired recently and you have another form of government ID, but this is rare. Call the bank to ask before you try to upload an expired ID.
Do I need a minimum deposit to open an account online?
Most banks let you open a checking or savings account with $0. Some require $25, $100, or more. Check the bank's website before you start—it will tell you the minimum deposit for each account type. You can usually fund the account later by transfer or check if you don't have the money right now.
How long does it take to use my account after I open it online?
If the bank verifies your identity instantly, your account is usually active within minutes and you can use your account number to receive deposits the same day. Your debit card arrives in 7 to 10 business days. If the bank needs to mail you a verification code or ask you to visit a branch, it may take 5 to 10 days before your account is fully active.
Can I open multiple accounts at the same bank online?
Yes. Once your first account is open and verified, you can usually open additional accounts online without going through the full verification process again. The bank already has your information on file. Log into your account, look for an option to add or open a new account, and follow the prompts. It usually takes just a few minutes.