What happens when you open a bank account

Opening a bank account means you give a bank your personal information, they verify who you are, and then you get access to deposit money, withdraw it, and move it around. The bank creates a record tied to your name and Social Security number (or tax ID if you don't have one). You'll receive a debit card, checks if you want them, and online access to see your balance and transactions.

Most banks complete this process in one visit or online session—usually 15 to 30 minutes. You walk out (or log out) with an account number and can start using it the same day or within 24 hours. Some banks let you open an account entirely online without visiting a branch; others require you to come in person.

Key Takeaways

  • You will need a government-issued ID, proof of address, and your Social Security number or tax ID to open an account at most banks.
  • Banks verify your identity by checking your ID in person or online, then run a background check through ChexSystems or Early Warning Services to see if you've had problems with past accounts.
  • Opening an account takes 15 to 30 minutes in person or online, and you can usually start using it the same day.
  • If you don't have an ID or Social Security number, some banks and credit unions offer second-chance accounts or accounts for non-citizens with an ITIN.
  • Monthly fees vary by bank and account type—some charge nothing, others charge $5 to $15 per month, often waived if you keep a minimum balance or set up direct deposit.

Documents and information you need to bring

Bring a government-issued photo ID—a driver's license, passport, or state ID card. The bank needs to see your face and verify the name matches what you're giving them. If you're opening an account online, you'll photograph or scan both sides of your ID.

Bring proof of your current address. This is usually a utility bill, lease, mortgage statement, or bank statement dated within the last 60 days. Some banks accept a government notice with your address. If you're opening online, you may be able to skip this if the bank can verify your address through a third-party database.

Have your Social Security number ready. The bank uses this to run a background check and report your account activity to credit bureaus. If you don't have a Social Security number, ask the bank whether they accept an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) instead—some do, some don't.

If you're opening a joint account (with a spouse, partner, or family member), both people need to be present or complete the process online together, and both need ID and Social Security numbers.

In-person account opening at a bank branch

Walk into a branch during business hours and tell the teller or banker you want to open an account. They'll ask what type of account you want—usually checking, savings, or both. Checking accounts let you write checks and use a debit card; savings accounts earn a small amount of interest and are meant for money you're not spending regularly.

The banker will ask for your ID and proof of address, write down your Social Security number, and ask basic questions: your full name, date of birth, phone number, and email. They'll run a background check through ChexSystems or Early Warning Services—this takes a few minutes and checks whether you've had accounts closed due to fraud, unpaid overdrafts, or other problems.

If the check passes, they'll show you the account terms, fees, and minimum balance requirements. Read these carefully—some accounts charge monthly fees, others don't. Some require you to keep $500 or $1,000 in the account to avoid fees. Ask about waiving fees through direct deposit or maintaining a minimum balance.

Once you sign the paperwork, the account is open. The banker will give you a temporary debit card or order one to arrive in 7 to 10 days. You'll get your account number and routing number immediately so you can start depositing money or setting up direct deposit from an employer.

Opening an account online

Many banks let you open an account entirely online. Go to the bank's website, click "Open an Account," and follow the steps. You'll enter your name, date of birth, Social Security number, and address. The bank will ask you to photograph or upload both sides of your ID and sometimes a proof of address.

Some banks use identity verification software that compares your photo ID to your face in real time—you take a selfie and the software checks whether it matches. This usually takes a minute or two. Others verify you by asking security questions based on your credit history or public records.

Once verified, the bank runs a ChexSystems check. If you pass, the account opens immediately and you can log in to see your account number and routing number. A physical debit card arrives in 7 to 10 business days. Some banks let you use a temporary digital card in your phone's wallet right away.

Online accounts are faster than in-person, but you can't deposit cash immediately—you'll need to set up a transfer from another bank account or wait for a check to clear. Some banks let you deposit checks by photographing them through their mobile app.

What happens if the bank declines you

If ChexSystems shows a closed account, unpaid overdrafts, or fraud, the bank may deny you. You have the right to see what ChexSystems reported about you. Contact ChexSystems at 1-800-428-9623 or go to chexsystems.com to request your report. If information is wrong, you can dispute it.

If you're declined, ask the bank why. Some banks have second-chance accounts designed for people with ChexSystems problems—these usually have higher fees or lower limits, but they let you rebuild. Credit unions often have looser requirements than big banks.

If you don't have a Social Security number, look for banks or credit unions that accept an ITIN. Some also open accounts for non-citizens with a passport and proof of address. Call ahead to confirm before visiting.

Fees and minimum balances

Monthly maintenance fees range from $0 to $15 per month depending on the bank and account type. Some banks charge nothing if you keep a minimum balance (often $500 to $1,500) or set up direct deposit. Others charge nothing regardless.

Overdraft fees—charged when you spend more than you have—typically run $25 to $35 per transaction. Some banks let you opt out of overdraft protection, which means transactions will be declined instead of charged a fee. Ask about this when you open the account.

ATM fees vary. Using your bank's ATM is free; using another bank's ATM usually costs $2 to $3. Some banks reimburse out-of-network ATM fees if you maintain a high balance or have a premium account.

Wire transfer fees, cashier's check fees, and stop-payment fees also vary. Ask the banker for a full fee schedule before you sign up.

After your account is open

Set up online banking and a strong password immediately. Enable two-factor authentication if the bank offers it—this sends a code to your phone when you log in from a new device, protecting your account from hackers.

If your employer offers direct deposit, provide them with your account number and routing number. Direct deposit usually arrives on payday and often waives monthly fees. You can find your routing number on the bank's website or by calling customer service.

Download the bank's mobile app so you can check your balance, deposit checks by photo, and transfer money. Set up account alerts so the bank texts or emails you when your balance drops below a certain amount or when a large transaction occurs.

Keep your debit card safe. If it's lost or stolen, call the bank immediately—they'll cancel it and send a replacement. You're not responsible for fraudulent charges if you report the card missing quickly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I open a bank account without a Social Security number?

Some banks and credit unions accept an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) instead. Others require a Social Security number. Call the bank before you visit to confirm. Non-citizens can sometimes open accounts with a passport and proof of address, though requirements vary by bank.

How long does it take to open an account?

In person, 15 to 30 minutes. Online, 10 to 20 minutes. The account is usually ready to use the same day, though a physical debit card takes 7 to 10 business days to arrive. Some banks offer a temporary digital card you can use immediately.

What if I have a bad ChexSystems report?

Request your ChexSystems report at chexsystems.com and dispute any errors. If the report is accurate, look for a second-chance account at your bank or try a credit union, which often has looser requirements. These accounts may have higher fees but let you rebuild.

Do I need to keep a minimum balance?

It depends on the bank and account type. Some accounts require $500 to $1,500 to avoid monthly fees; others have no minimum. Ask when you open the account. If you can't meet the minimum, look for a no-minimum account at another bank.

Can I open a joint account with someone else?

Yes. Both people need to be present in person or complete the process online together. Both need a government ID and Social Security number. Either person can withdraw money or close the account unless you set up restrictions with the bank.