You can open a bank account in person at a branch, online through a bank's website, or by phone with some institutions
Most banks and credit unions will let you open a checking or savings account by walking into a branch with an ID and initial deposit. Some let you start the process online and finish it in the branch the same day. A few banks operate entirely online and let you complete everything from your computer or phone without visiting a location. The fastest route depends on whether you already have a relationship with a bank, whether you have the documents they ask for, and how quickly you need the account open.
What you bring matters more than where you go. Every bank needs to verify your identity and confirm you are not opening an account under a false name — this is a federal requirement called Know Your Customer (KYC). The specific documents they accept vary, but a government-issued ID is standard. Some banks also ask for proof of address, a Social Security number, or an initial deposit before they will open the account.
Key Takeaways
- You will need a government-issued ID (driver's license, passport, or state ID card) and your Social Security number to open an account at any bank or credit union.
- Most banks require an initial deposit to open a checking or savings account, though the amount varies from zero to several hundred dollars depending on the institution.
- Online banks can open your account in minutes if you have an ID and Social Security number, but some still require you to verify your identity by video call or mail.
- Credit unions often have lower fees and easier approval than banks, but you must be a member of the organization or group they serve.
- If you have been denied a bank account before, a second-chance checking account or prepaid card may be your faster route.
What documents and information you need to bring
A valid government-issued ID is the baseline. This means a driver's license, state ID card, passport, or tribal ID. Some banks also accept military ID or a passport card. The ID must not be expired, though some banks will accept an ID that expired within the last year.
Your Social Security number (or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number if you do not have a Social Security number) is required by federal law. The bank will use it to check your identity and to report interest earned on your account to the IRS. You do not need to bring a Social Security card — you can simply tell the bank your number.
Proof of address is often requested but not always required. If the bank asks for it, bring a recent utility bill, lease, mortgage statement, or government mail addressed to you. A bill dated within the last 60 days usually works. If you do not have proof of address, ask the bank whether they will accept a second ID or a letter from an employer instead.
An initial deposit is standard at most banks. The amount ranges from zero at some online banks to $25, $100, or more at traditional branches. Ask the bank what the minimum is before you go in. If you do not have cash or a check to deposit, some banks will let you link a bank account you already have and transfer money electronically.
Opening an account in person at a bank or credit union branch
Walk into any branch during business hours with your ID, Social Security number, and initial deposit. Tell the teller or banker you want to open a checking or savings account. They will hand you an application — either on paper or on a tablet — and ask you to fill in your name, address, phone number, and Social Security number. This takes about 10 minutes.
The banker will then run a background check through ChexSystems or Early Warning Services, two companies that track banking history. This check looks for unpaid overdrafts, closed accounts with negative balances, or fraud. If you have a clean history, the account opens immediately and you walk out with a debit card (or a temporary one) and account number. If the check flags something, the banker will tell you on the spot and may deny the account or ask you to explain what happened.
Credit unions follow the same process but add a membership step. You must join the credit union before you can open an account. Membership is usually free and automatic — you become a member when you open your first account — but some credit unions require you to work for a specific employer, live in a specific area, or belong to a specific organization. Ask about membership before you apply.
Opening an account online
Online banks like Ally, Charles Schwab, and Discover let you start an account from your computer or phone. Go to their website, click "Open an Account," and fill in your name, address, Social Security number, and ID information. This takes 5 to 10 minutes. You will be asked to upload a photo of your ID or answer security questions to verify your identity.
Some online banks approve you instantly and give you an account number and routing number the same day. Others require a video call with a representative to confirm your identity — this usually happens within 24 hours and takes about 5 minutes. A few still require you to mail in a copy of your ID or wait for a small deposit to arrive before the account is fully active.
Once your account is open, you can deposit money by transferring it from another bank account, mailing a check, or using mobile check deposit (if the bank offers it). You will not receive a physical debit card immediately — most online banks mail it to you within 5 to 10 business days. Some offer a temporary digital card you can use right away in online stores or through a digital wallet like Apple Pay or Google Pay.
What happens if a bank denies your account
Banks can refuse to open an account if ChexSystems or Early Warning Services reports unpaid overdrafts, closed accounts with negative balances, or fraud. They can also deny you if you provide false information or if they cannot verify your identity. If this happens, the bank must tell you why — either in person or by mail within a few days.
You have the right to see what ChexSystems or Early Warning Services has on file about you. Visit chexsystems.com or earlywarning.com to request your report for free. If there is an error — a closed account that was not yours, an overdraft you already paid, or fraud you reported — you can dispute it directly with the company. Disputes usually take 30 to 60 days to resolve.
While you wait for a dispute to clear, consider a second-chance checking account. These are designed for people with banking problems in their history. They usually come with higher fees and lower limits on how much you can withdraw per day, but they are easier to open. Banks like Chime, LendingClub, and some regional banks offer them. You can also use a prepaid card — load money onto it like a gift card and use it anywhere debit cards are accepted — while you work on clearing your ChexSystems record.
Comparing banks, credit unions, and online options
| Type | Time to Open | Minimum Deposit | Monthly Fees | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Traditional Bank Branch | Same day (in person) | $0–$500 | $5–$15 | People who want a physical location and in-person help |
| Credit Union | Same day (in person) | $0–$100 | $0–$10 | People who may have access to for membership and want lower fees |
| Online Bank | Minutes to 24 hours | $0–$25 | $0–$5 | People comfortable managing money online and wanting low fees |
| Second-Chance Checking | Same day | $0–$100 | $10–$30 | People denied by traditional banks due to ChexSystems history |
Traditional banks have physical branches where you can deposit cash, speak to a banker, and get help if something goes wrong. They charge monthly fees (usually $5 to $15) unless you meet conditions like keeping a minimum balance or setting up direct deposit. Most require an initial deposit of $25 to $500.
Credit unions are member-owned and often charge lower fees than banks. Many have no monthly fee at all. They usually require a smaller initial deposit and are more willing to work with people who have had banking problems. The trade-off is that they have fewer branches and ATMs, and you must be a member to open an account.
Online banks have no monthly fees and no minimum deposit (or a very small one). They are fast and convenient if you are comfortable managing money on your phone or computer. The downside is that you cannot deposit cash directly — you have to transfer it from another account or mail a check. If you need help, you reach customer service by phone, email, or chat, not in person.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a Social Security number to open a bank account?
Yes, federal law requires it. If you do not have a Social Security number, you can use an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) instead. Some banks accept ITINs; others do not. Call ahead or ask at the branch before you go in.
Can I open an account if I have been denied before?
Yes. If you were denied because of ChexSystems or Early Warning Services, dispute any errors on your report and wait 30 to 60 days for the resolution. In the meantime, a second-chance checking account or prepaid card will let you bank while you clear your record.
How long does it take to get a debit card after I open an account?
At a branch, you usually get a temporary or permanent debit card the same day. Online banks mail debit cards within 5 to 10 business days, though many offer a digital card you can use immediately in stores and online.
What is the difference between a checking and savings account?
A checking account is for regular spending — you get a debit card and checks, and there are no limits on how many times you can withdraw money. A savings account earns interest but limits how many times you can withdraw per month. Most people open both.
Can I open an account without an initial deposit?
Some online banks and credit unions allow it. Traditional bank branches usually require a deposit of at least $25. Ask the specific bank or credit union what their minimum is before you apply.