What you need to bring and where to go
Opening a bank account requires you to visit a bank or credit union in person or complete an online application, depending on the institution. Most banks and credit unions will ask for a government-issued photo ID, proof of your current address, and your Social Security number or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN). Some institutions also ask for a second form of ID or a utility bill dated within the last 60 days to confirm your address.
You can open an account at a traditional bank branch, a credit union, or online-only banks. Each route has different requirements. A brick-and-mortar bank or credit union branch lets you hand over documents and ask questions face-to-face. Online banks skip the branch visit but require you to upload photos of your documents and may take a few business days to verify them. Credit unions typically require membership, which sometimes means living in a certain area or working for a specific employer, though many now open to the general public.
Key Takeaways
- You will need a government photo ID, proof of address, and your Social Security number or ITIN to open an account at most banks and credit unions.
- In-person applications at a branch are usually approved on the spot, while online applications can take one to three business days to verify.
- Some banks require a minimum opening deposit, which ranges from zero to several hundred dollars depending on the account type and institution.
- If you have been denied a bank account before, you can still open one at a second-chance bank or credit union that specializes in serving people with banking history issues.
Documents to gather before you apply
Start by collecting your government-issued photo ID. This can be a driver's license, passport, state ID card, or military ID. The ID must not be expired, though some banks accept IDs that expired within the last year. If you do not have a photo ID, you can use a passport card or apply for a state ID at your local Department of Motor Vehicles.
Next, gather proof of your current address. A utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, or government mail dated within the last 60 days usually works. A cell phone bill or credit card statement may also be accepted, but call the bank first to confirm. If you are homeless or do not have mail in your name, some banks accept a letter from a shelter, social services agency, or trusted person vouching for your address.
Have your Social Security number ready. If you do not have one and are not a U.S. citizen, you can use an ITIN, which you obtain from the IRS. Bring any paperwork related to your ITIN when you apply. If you have been told you are on ChexSystems or a similar banking database because of past account closures or overdrafts, bring documentation explaining what happened—some banks will still open an account if you can show the issue has been resolved.
Opening an account in person at a branch
Walk into a branch during business hours with your ID, proof of address, and Social Security number or ITIN. Tell the banker you want to open a checking or savings account—or both. They will ask you questions about how you plan to use the account, whether you want online banking, and whether you want a debit card. Answer honestly; these questions help the bank set up the right account for you, not determine whether you can have one.
The banker will enter your information into their system and run a background check through ChexSystems, which is a database of banking history. This check takes a few minutes. If you pass, they will print out account agreements for you to sign. Read these carefully—they explain monthly fees, minimum balance requirements, overdraft policies, and other rules. Ask questions about anything you do not understand. Once you sign, your account is open and you can usually start using it immediately, though some banks wait 24 hours before activating the debit card.
If the bank denies you, ask why. Common reasons are a negative ChexSystems report, unpaid overdrafts at another bank, or fraud flags. If the reason is a mistake or an old issue you have resolved, ask the banker what you can do to fix it. Some banks will reconsider if you bring proof that you paid off old debts or that the information in ChexSystems is wrong.
Opening an account online
Online banks let you start the process from home. Go to the bank's website and click "Open an Account" or similar. You will enter your name, address, phone number, email, and Social Security number or ITIN. Then you will upload photos of both sides of your ID and a photo of your proof of address. Make sure the photos are clear and show all four corners of the document.
The bank will verify your documents, which usually takes one to three business days. During this time, you may receive an email or text asking you to confirm your identity by answering security questions or clicking a link. Respond quickly—delays in verification can slow down your account opening. Once approved, the bank will send you a confirmation email with your account number and login details. You can start using your account for transfers and bill payments right away, though the debit card may take five to ten business days to arrive by mail.
If your application is denied online, the bank will send you a letter explaining why. Unlike in-person denials, you may not get a chance to ask follow-up questions immediately. Call the bank's customer service number to understand the reason and ask whether you can reapply or provide additional information.
Minimum deposits and account fees
Some banks require you to deposit money when you open the account. This minimum opening deposit varies widely. Many online banks and some credit unions require zero dollars—you can open the account and fund it later. Traditional banks often require $25 to $100 for a basic checking account, and $500 or more for premium accounts. Ask about the minimum before you apply so you know whether you can meet it.
Monthly maintenance fees also vary. Many banks charge $10 to $15 per month for a checking account, though some waive the fee if you maintain a minimum balance, set up direct deposit, or meet other conditions. Online banks and credit unions often have lower or no monthly fees. Before opening an account, compare the fees at three or four institutions—the difference over a year can be significant.
If you have been denied before
If a bank has closed your account or denied you in the past, you may still be able to open one. Second-chance banks and credit unions specialize in serving people with banking history issues. These institutions do not use ChexSystems or use it differently, and they focus on helping you rebuild trust with the banking system rather than turning you away.
To find a second-chance bank, search online for "second-chance bank accounts" or "banking for people with ChexSystems issues" along with your state. Call ahead and ask whether they work with people in your situation. Bring the same documents you would bring to any bank, plus any explanation you have for why your previous account was closed. Be honest—these banks have heard it before and are more likely to work with you if you are straightforward about what happened.
What happens after your account opens
Once your account is open, you will receive a debit card by mail, usually within five to ten business days. You will also get online banking access so you can check your balance, transfer money, and pay bills from your computer or phone. Set up a strong password and enable two-factor authentication if the bank offers it—this protects your account from fraud.
Read your first statement carefully to make sure all the information is correct and there are no unauthorized charges. If you see something wrong, contact the bank immediately. Most banks have a window of 60 days to dispute charges, so report problems quickly. If you set up direct deposit for your paycheck, it usually takes one or two pay periods to start—confirm with your employer that they have your correct account and routing number.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I open a bank account without a Social Security number?
Yes. If you are not a U.S. citizen or do not have a Social Security number, you can use an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) instead. You obtain an ITIN from the IRS by filing Form W-7. Some banks accept ITINs without question; others may ask additional questions about your immigration status. Call the bank before you visit to confirm they accept ITINs.
What if I do not have a government photo ID?
You can apply for a state ID at your local Department of Motor Vehicles. Bring your birth certificate, proof of address, and Social Security number or ITIN. The process takes one to two weeks and costs $10 to $30 depending on your state. Some banks will hold your application while you get an ID, or you can return once you have one.
How long does it take to open an account?
In person at a branch, it takes 15 to 30 minutes and your account is usually active the same day. Online, it takes one to three business days for the bank to verify your documents and approve your application. Some online banks are faster and approve within hours.
Can I open an account if I owe money to another bank?
Most traditional banks will deny you if you owe overdraft fees or have unpaid balances at another bank. However, second-chance banks and some credit unions will still open an account for you. Pay off the old debt if you can, or bring proof that you have set up a payment plan—this improves your chances.
Do I need to open an account in person, or can I do it entirely online?
Many banks let you open an account entirely online. However, if you have banking history issues or do not have a clear photo ID, opening in person at a branch gives you a chance to explain your situation to a banker face-to-face, which can improve your chances of approval.