Yes, you can open most bank accounts entirely online

Most banks and credit unions now let you open a checking or savings account from your computer or phone without visiting a branch. The process usually takes 10 to 15 minutes. You'll need a valid ID, a Social Security number or tax ID, proof of your current address, and an initial deposit (which varies by bank—some have no minimum, others require $25 or more).

Not every account type is available online. Some banks still require you to come in person for certain products, like business accounts or accounts for minors under 13. A few smaller banks and credit unions only open accounts in their physical locations. But for standard personal checking and savings accounts, online opening is now the default at most institutions.

Key Takeaways

  • You can open a checking or savings account online at most banks and credit unions in 10 to 15 minutes using your ID, Social Security number, and proof of address.
  • You'll need to fund the account with an initial deposit, which ranges from zero to several hundred dollars depending on the bank.
  • Some account types—business accounts, accounts for young children, and certain specialty products—may still require a visit to a physical branch.
  • Your account is usually active within one to three business days, though you may not be able to use a debit card immediately.
  • Online banks typically have lower fees and higher interest rates on savings than traditional banks, but offer no in-person support.

What you need before you start

Gather these documents before you begin the application. You'll need a government-issued photo ID—a driver's license, passport, or state ID card. You'll also need your Social Security number (or an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number if you don't have a Social Security number). Have your current address handy; the bank will ask you to verify it, and it must match your ID or a recent utility bill or lease.

Some banks ask for a second form of ID or proof of address, especially if your ID is expired or your address has recently changed. If you're opening an account with another person (a joint account), both people will need to provide ID and Social Security numbers. Have your initial deposit ready—this can be a transfer from another bank account, a check you deposit through the bank's mobile app, or a wire transfer, depending on what the bank accepts.

The online application process, step by step

Go to the bank's website or download their mobile app and look for a button that says "Open an Account" or "get your free guide." You'll be asked to choose the type of account—checking, savings, or both. The bank will then ask for your personal information: full name, date of birth, Social Security number, current address, phone number, and email. Answer honestly and exactly as it appears on your ID.

Next comes identity verification. Some banks use a simple knowledge-based quiz (questions only you should know the answer to, drawn from your credit history). Others ask you to photograph your ID with your phone camera or upload a scan. A few require a video call with a bank employee who watches you hold up your ID. This step usually takes five to ten minutes.

After verification, you'll set up login credentials—a username and password, and often a PIN or security questions for phone support. You'll review the account terms and disclosures, then fund the account. The bank will show you deposit options: transferring money from another bank account (which takes one to three business days), depositing a check through the app (which takes two to five business days), or wiring money (which is faster but may cost a fee).

Once you submit, you'll get a confirmation number and an email receipt. Your account number usually appears on screen immediately, but the account itself may not be fully active for one to three business days. During that time, you can log in and see your account details, but you typically cannot withdraw money or use a debit card yet.

Differences between online banks and traditional banks with online options

An online-only bank (like Ally, Charles Schwab, or Marcus) has no physical branches. You do everything by phone, email, or app. These banks usually have no monthly fees, no minimum balance requirements, and higher interest rates on savings accounts. The trade-off is that you cannot deposit cash or get in-person help. If you need to deposit a check, you photograph it with the app. If you have a problem, you call or email customer service.

A traditional bank with online opening (like Chase, Bank of America, or Wells Fargo) lets you open an account online but also has branches you can visit. These banks often charge monthly maintenance fees unless you meet certain conditions (like keeping a minimum balance or setting up direct deposit). Interest rates on savings are typically lower than online-only banks. The advantage is that you can deposit cash, get a debit card in person, and speak to someone face-to-face if something goes wrong.

A credit union may or may not offer online opening—it depends on the union. Some credit unions let you open an account entirely online; others require at least one in-person visit. Credit unions are member-owned and often have lower fees and better customer service than banks, but they may have fewer ATMs and branches. If you're joining a credit union for the first time, check their website to see if online opening is available.

What happens after your account opens

Your account is officially open once the bank's system shows it as active, which usually takes one to three business days. You can log in and see your account number, routing number, and any initial deposit you made. You cannot withdraw money or use a debit card until the account is fully activated, even if you can see it online.

If you funded the account by transferring money from another bank, that transfer is still in progress during this time. ACH transfers (the standard method) take one to three business days to complete. If you deposited a check through the app, the bank will hold it for five to seven business days before the funds are available, even though the account is active. Wire transfers and transfers from the same bank are usually faster.

Your debit card will arrive by mail within 7 to 10 business days. Some banks let you use a temporary digital card in their app immediately, so you can make purchases online or with your phone before the physical card arrives. Check your account settings or call the bank to see if this option is available.

Account types you may not be able to open online

Most banks require you to visit a branch to open a business account, even if you're a sole proprietor. They want to verify your business license or EIN in person and discuss your expected transaction volume. Some banks also require an in-person visit to open an account for a child under 13, because a parent or guardian must be present to sign.

Certain specialty accounts—like trust accounts, accounts for non-U.S. citizens, or accounts tied to a mortgage or investment product—may also require a branch visit. If you're not sure whether your situation qualifies for online opening, call the bank's customer service line or use their online chat before you start the application. It's faster than beginning the process and hitting a dead end.

What to do if your online application is denied or stuck

Banks use automated systems to verify your identity and check for fraud. If your application is denied, the bank will send you a letter explaining why—common reasons include a mismatch between your ID and the information you provided, a flag in your credit history, or a problem with the address verification. Do not reapply immediately; call the bank instead and ask what went wrong.

If your application is stuck (you submitted it but haven't heard back after 24 hours), log into your account if you can and check for a message asking for more information. If there's no message, call the bank's customer service line and give them your confirmation number. Sometimes the system needs you to verify your phone number or email before it can proceed.

If you were denied because of an identity issue, you may be able to reapply after correcting the problem—for example, if you recently moved and your address didn't match your ID, wait a few days for your address to update in the system, then try again. If you were denied for fraud concerns or a banking history issue, the bank may ask you to visit a branch in person with additional documentation.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a minimum deposit to open an account online?

It depends on the bank. Many online-only banks have no minimum deposit requirement. Traditional banks often require $25 to $300 to open a checking account and $100 to $500 for a savings account. Check the bank's website before you start the application—the minimum will be listed on the account details page.

How long does it take to use my debit card after I open an account online?

Your account is usually active within one to three business days, but your physical debit card arrives by mail in 7 to 10 business days. Many banks offer a temporary digital card you can use immediately in their app or with your phone for online and in-store purchases. Ask the bank whether this is available when you open your account.

Can I open an account online if I don't have a Social Security number?

Yes, if you have an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN). Some banks accept ITINs; others do not. Call the bank before you apply to confirm they can open an account for you. You may need to visit a branch in person and bring additional documentation, like a passport or visa.

What if the bank asks me to verify my identity with a video call?

The bank will send you a link to a video meeting. You'll need a device with a camera and microphone. Have your ID ready and be prepared to hold it up to the camera so the bank employee can see it. The call usually takes 5 to 10 minutes. Make sure you're in a quiet place with good lighting.

Can I open a joint account online with someone else?

Yes, but both account owners must complete the application and verify their identity. The process is the same as opening an individual account, except you'll provide both people's information. Some banks let both people apply at the same time; others require one person to open the account first, then add the second person afterward. Check the bank's website or call to confirm their process.