What you need to bring and where to go
You can open a bank account in person at a branch, online through a bank's website, or by phone with some banks. Most banks require a government-issued ID (driver's license, passport, or state ID), proof of your current address (a utility bill or lease dated within the last 60 days), and your Social Security number. Some banks also ask for a second form of ID or additional address verification.
Walk into any branch of a bank or credit union you want to join, or visit their website to start the process online. If you open online, you'll upload photos of your documents and answer questions about yourself. The bank verifies your information, usually within a few minutes to a few hours. If you open in person, the process typically takes 15 to 30 minutes.
You do not need an existing account to open one. You do not need a minimum deposit to start, though some banks require you to deposit money on the day you open the account—this amount varies by bank and account type, from $0 to $300.
Key Takeaways
- Bring a government-issued ID, proof of your address (utility bill or lease), and your Social Security number to open an account in person.
- Online account opening takes minutes and requires you to upload photos of your documents; the bank verifies your identity within hours.
- Some banks require an opening deposit on the day you open the account, while others do not—check the bank's website before you go.
- You can open an account at a bank branch, credit union, or online-only bank; each has different fees and minimum balance requirements.
- After your account opens, you will receive a debit card in the mail within 7 to 10 business days and can start using your account immediately.
Documents you need to bring or upload
A government-issued photo ID is required by every bank. This can be a driver's license, state ID card, passport, or military ID. The ID must not be expired, though some banks accept IDs that expired within the last year.
Proof of your current address must be dated within the last 60 days. A utility bill (electric, gas, water, internet), lease agreement, mortgage statement, or bank statement all work. A piece of mail from your employer or government agency also counts. If you do not have a recent document in your name, some banks accept a letter from a shelter, social services agency, or trusted adult who can confirm your address.
Your Social Security number is required so the bank can report your account to credit bureaus and check for fraud. If you do not have a Social Security number, some banks and credit unions offer accounts for people without one—ask the bank directly whether they can open an account for you.
If you are opening an account for a minor (under 18), you will need to bring the child's birth certificate or passport along with your own ID and proof of address. Some banks require the parent or guardian to be present in person; others allow you to open the account online and add the minor afterward.
Opening an account online versus in person
Opening online is faster and requires no trip to a branch. You visit the bank's website, enter your personal information, upload photos of your ID and address proof, and answer security questions. The bank verifies your identity using the documents you upload and information from credit bureaus. Most online accounts are ready to use within a few hours; some take up to one business day.
Opening in person at a branch takes longer but lets you ask questions and get immediate answers. A bank employee will review your documents, enter your information into the system, and give you a temporary debit card or card number on the spot. You can start using your account the same day. In-person opening is useful if you have questions about account types, fees, or features, or if you prefer to hand over documents rather than upload them.
Some banks offer a hybrid approach: you start online and finish in person at a branch, or you open in person and receive your debit card by mail. Check the bank's website to see which options they offer.
What happens after your account opens
Once your account is open, you can deposit money immediately. If you opened online, you can transfer money from another bank account, deposit a check by taking a photo with the bank's app, or visit an ATM to deposit cash. If you opened in person, the bank may give you a temporary card number or debit card on the spot.
Your permanent debit card arrives in the mail within 7 to 10 business days. You will receive a welcome packet with your account number, routing number, and instructions for setting up online banking and mobile apps. Some banks send these details by email instead of mail.
Before you use your account, set up online banking and a mobile app if the bank offers one. This lets you check your balance, transfer money, pay bills, and deposit checks without visiting a branch. You can also set up direct deposit so your paycheck goes straight into your account.
Fees and minimum balance requirements
Monthly maintenance fees vary by bank and account type. Some banks charge $0 per month; others charge $5 to $15. Many banks waive the fee if you keep a minimum balance (often $500 to $1,500), set up direct deposit, or meet other conditions. Check the bank's fee schedule before you open an account.
Overdraft fees occur when you spend more money than you have in your account. Most banks charge $25 to $35 per overdraft. Some banks offer overdraft protection, which links your checking account to a savings account or credit line so money transfers automatically if you overdraw. This usually costs $0 to $10 per transfer.
ATM fees apply when you use an ATM that does not belong to your bank. Most banks charge $2 to $3 per out-of-network withdrawal. Many banks reimburse these fees if you use their ATM network or if you maintain a high balance. Online-only banks often reimburse ATM fees at any bank's machine.
Choosing between a bank and a credit union
Banks and credit unions both offer checking and savings accounts, but they work differently. A bank is a for-profit business owned by shareholders. A credit union is a nonprofit owned by its members. Credit unions often have lower fees and higher interest rates on savings, but fewer branches and ATMs. Banks have more locations and services but may charge higher fees.
Both banks and credit unions are insured by the federal government. Bank accounts are insured by the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC) up to $250,000 per account holder per bank. Credit union accounts are insured by the National Credit Union Administration (NCUA) up to $250,000 per account holder per credit union. This means your money is protected if the bank or credit union fails.
If you have a low income or no credit history, some credit unions and community banks offer second-chance accounts with lower fees and no credit check. Ask whether the bank or credit union you want to join offers this option.
What to do if you cannot open an account
If a bank rejects your application, it is usually because of a problem with your ID, address proof, or Social Security number. Ask the bank why you were rejected. Common reasons include a mismatch between the name on your ID and the name you provided, an address that is too old, or a Social Security number that does not match your name in the government database.
If you have a history of overdrafts or fraud, some banks may reject you. You can check your banking history through ChexSystems, a company that tracks bank account closures and fraud. You have the right to request a free copy of your ChexSystems report and dispute any errors. Visit chexsystems.com to request your report.
If you cannot open a traditional bank account, consider a credit union, a community bank, or a second-chance checking account. Some banks also offer accounts for people without a Social Security number or with limited credit history. Online banks sometimes have less strict requirements than brick-and-mortar banks.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a minimum deposit to open an account?
It depends on the bank. Some banks require $0; others require $25 to $300 on the day you open the account. Check the bank's website or call a branch to find out before you go. Online banks often have no minimum deposit requirement.
Can I open an account if I do not have a Social Security number?
Some banks and credit unions will open an account for you using an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) instead. Call the bank or credit union directly to ask whether they offer this option. Community banks and credit unions are more likely to say yes than large national banks.
How long does it take to open an account?
Online accounts usually open within a few hours to one business day. In-person accounts open in 15 to 30 minutes. You can start using your account immediately, but your physical debit card arrives in 7 to 10 business days.
What if the address on my ID does not match my current address?
Bring both your ID and a recent document (utility bill, lease, or bank statement) that shows your current address. The bank will use the recent document to verify where you live now. You do not need to update your ID.
Can I open an account for someone else?
You can open a joint account with another adult if you both bring ID and proof of address. For a minor, a parent or guardian must open the account and be listed as the account owner. The minor can be added as an authorized user, but the parent controls the account until the child turns 18.