What you need before you walk in or go online
Most banks require a government-issued photo ID, proof of your current address, and your Social Security number or tax ID. Bring your driver's license or passport, a recent utility bill or lease, and know your SSN. Some banks also ask for an initial deposit — this varies from $0 to $300 depending on the bank and account type, so call ahead if you want to know the exact amount.
If you don't have a photo ID yet, you can still open an account at some banks and credit unions, but the process takes longer. You'll need to provide additional documents like a birth certificate, passport card, or state ID card. A few banks will let you start online with just your SSN and address, then mail in ID verification later.
If you're under 18, you'll need a parent or guardian to co-sign. They'll need their own ID and proof of address. Some banks have youth accounts that don't require a co-signer but have limits on how much you can deposit or withdraw each month.
Key Takeaways
- You need a photo ID, proof of address, and your Social Security number; bring these documents in person or have them ready if you open online.
- The initial deposit required ranges from $0 to $300 depending on the bank and account type — call or check the bank's website to confirm before you go.
- Opening an account takes 15 to 30 minutes in person or 10 to 20 minutes online, and you can usually start using it the same day.
- If you don't have a photo ID, some banks and credit unions will still open an account for you, but you'll need to mail in ID verification within a set timeframe.
Opening an account in person at a branch
Walk into any branch of the bank you've chosen during business hours. Tell the teller or ask for an account representative that you want to open a new account. They'll ask you which type of account you want — checking, savings, or both — and walk you through the paperwork. Bring your ID, proof of address, and your SSN.
The representative will enter your information into the bank's system, show you the account terms, and ask you to sign. You'll choose a PIN for your debit card and set up online banking access if you want it. If there's an initial deposit requirement, you can pay it with cash, a check, or a transfer from another account. The whole process usually takes 15 to 30 minutes.
You'll leave with a debit card (or a temporary one that works immediately, with the permanent card arriving by mail in 7 to 10 days), your account number, and routing number. Your account is active right away, though some banks hold the first few deposits for a day or two while they verify them.
Opening an account online
Go to the bank's website and click "Open an Account" or "Sign Up." You'll enter your name, address, phone number, email, and Social Security number. The bank will ask you to create a username and password for online banking. Some banks verify your identity instantly using a third-party service that checks your SSN against credit bureaus; others ask you to upload a photo of your ID.
If the bank uses instant verification, your account opens in 10 to 20 minutes and you can start using it the same day. If they need you to upload ID, that usually takes 24 to 48 hours to review. A few banks ask you to mail in a copy of your ID instead, which can take 5 to 10 business days.
Once your account is open, you can transfer money in from another bank account, set up direct deposit, or wait for your debit card to arrive by mail. The card typically takes 7 to 10 business days. Until it arrives, you can still access your money online or through the bank's app, and you can request a temporary card number for online purchases.
What happens after you open the account
Your account is live as soon as the bank confirms it, but some transactions take time to clear. If you deposit a check, it may take 1 to 3 business days to show up in your account. If you transfer money from another bank, it usually takes 1 to 2 business days for ACH transfers, or same-day for wire transfers (though wire transfers cost money).
Your debit card will arrive by mail within 7 to 10 business days. You'll need to activate it before you can use it — most banks send instructions with the card, or you can activate it through the app or website. Your online banking login works immediately, so you can check your balance, set up bill pay, and transfer money between your own accounts right away.
Some banks charge a monthly fee if you don't keep a minimum balance or set up direct deposit. Read the account agreement to see what fees apply to your account type. If you want to avoid fees, ask the representative or check the website for accounts with no monthly maintenance charge.
Opening an account without a photo ID
If you don't have a driver's license or passport, you can still open an account at most banks and credit unions, but the process is slower. You'll need to bring other documents: a birth certificate, state ID card, passport card, tribal ID, or military ID. Some banks accept a combination of documents — for example, a birth certificate plus a utility bill in your name.
Call the bank's customer service line or visit a branch to ask which documents they accept. Some banks will let you open an account online with just your SSN and address, then mail in ID verification within 30 days. Others require you to come in person with whatever ID documents you have. The timeline is usually 5 to 10 business days longer than a standard opening.
If you're working toward getting a photo ID, many states offer free or low-cost ID cards through the DMV. Some nonprofits also help people get ID documents. Having a photo ID will make opening accounts faster in the future.
Choosing between a bank and a credit union
Banks and credit unions both offer checking and savings accounts, but they work differently. Banks are for-profit companies owned by shareholders. Credit unions are nonprofit organizations owned by their members — you become a member when you open an account. Credit unions often have lower fees and higher interest rates on savings, but they may have fewer branches and ATMs.
To open an account at a credit union, you usually need to meet a membership requirement — for example, you might need to live in a certain county, work for a certain employer, or belong to a certain organization. Some credit unions have no restrictions. Call the credit union to ask if you're may be able to access before you go in.
Both banks and credit unions are insured by the federal government — banks through the FDIC (Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation) and credit unions through the NCUA (National Credit Union Administration). This means your money is protected up to $250,000 if the institution fails.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I open a bank account without a Social Security number?
Most banks require an SSN or tax ID number. If you don't have one, ask the bank if they accept an ITIN (Individual Taxpayer Identification Number) instead. Some banks and credit unions will work with you if you're in the process of getting an SSN — call ahead to ask what documents they need.
How much money do I need to open an account?
It depends on the bank and account type. Some accounts have no minimum deposit; others require $25 to $300. Check the bank's website or call to confirm the amount before you go. If you don't have the deposit amount, ask if the bank has a no-minimum account option.
What if I don't have proof of address?
Bring whatever document you have with your name and current address — a utility bill, lease, bank statement, or government mail. If you have none of these, ask the bank what they accept. Some will take a letter from a shelter, employer, or social services agency confirming your address.
Can I use someone else's address as my proof of address?
No. The address on your proof of address must be where you actually live. If you're staying with someone temporarily, use their address only if you're officially living there. The bank may ask follow-up questions if the address doesn't match your ID.
How long does it take to get my debit card?
Standard delivery takes 7 to 10 business days. Some banks offer expedited shipping for a fee, which takes 2 to 3 business days. You can use your account online or through the app before the card arrives, and some banks provide a temporary card number for online purchases.