You can open most bank accounts entirely online without visiting a branch

Most banks and credit unions now let you open a checking or savings account from your computer or phone. You upload an ID, provide your Social Security number, and fund the account—all without stepping into a physical location. The process usually takes 10 to 20 minutes, and your account is active the same day or within one business day.

The banks that offer this are not a small subset. Major national banks like Chase, Bank of America, Wells Fargo, and Citibank all do it. So do smaller online-only banks like Ally, Charles Schwab, and Discover. Credit unions vary—some have full online opening, others require you to start online but sign documents in person or by mail. The key difference is what you need to open the account and how quickly you can use it.

Key Takeaways

  • National banks, online-only banks, and many credit unions let you open accounts online using an ID, Social Security number, and initial deposit.
  • Online-only banks typically have no monthly fees and higher savings rates, but no physical branches if you need to deposit cash or speak to someone in person.
  • National banks charge monthly maintenance fees on many accounts but offer ATM networks and branch access nationwide.
  • Credit unions may require you to join the union first or complete paperwork by mail, even if the initial application is online.
  • You will need a valid government ID, your Social Security number, and proof of address to complete any online application.

What you need to open an account online

Every bank requires the same basic documents. You need a valid government-issued ID—a driver's license, passport, or state ID card. You need your Social Security number. You need proof of your current address, which can be a recent utility bill, lease, or bank statement. Some banks will verify your address using information they already have on file from credit bureaus, so you may not have to upload a separate document.

You also need an initial deposit. This varies by bank. Some require $25, others $100 or $500. A few online-only banks have no minimum. Check the specific bank's website for the amount before you start the application, because if you do not have enough to fund the account, the application will be rejected and you will have to start over elsewhere.

Finally, you need a way to fund the account—either a debit card, an existing bank account (for an ACH transfer), or a wire transfer. If you are opening your very first bank account and have none of these, you will need to use a wire transfer or a check, which takes longer.

National banks versus online-only banks

National banks like Chase, Bank of America, and Wells Fargo have physical branches in most cities and large ATM networks. You can deposit cash, get a cashier's check, or speak to someone face-to-face. The trade-off is monthly fees. Many checking accounts charge $12 to $15 per month unless you meet conditions like keeping a minimum balance or setting up direct deposit. Savings accounts often pay very low interest rates—sometimes under 0.01% annually.

Online-only banks like Ally, Charles Schwab, Discover, and Marcus have no physical locations. You cannot walk in to deposit cash or speak to a teller. However, they typically charge no monthly fees and pay higher interest on savings accounts—often 4% to 5% annually on savings, depending on the current rate environment. They offer ATM networks (some reimburse out-of-network fees), and customer service is by phone or chat.

Choose a national bank if you regularly deposit cash, need in-person service, or want a recognizable name. Choose an online-only bank if you rarely use cash, are comfortable with digital banking, and want to avoid fees and earn better interest.

How credit unions differ from banks

Credit unions are member-owned, not shareholder-owned. To open an account, you usually have to become a member first. Some credit unions let you join online and open an account in the same session. Others require you to join first (which may involve a small fee or a deposit into a share account), then apply for a checking or savings account separately.

A few credit unions require you to complete membership and account paperwork by mail or in person, even if you start online. Before you begin an application at a credit union, check their website or call to confirm whether the entire process is online or whether you will need to mail documents or visit a branch.

Credit unions often have lower fees and better rates than national banks, but their ATM networks are smaller. Many participate in shared branching networks, which means you can conduct some transactions at other credit unions' branches, but this is not the same as having your own bank's ATM on every corner.

Steps to open an account online

Start by visiting the bank's website and finding the "Open an Account" or "Sign Up" button. This is usually on the homepage. Click it and select the type of account—checking, savings, or both. You will be asked for your name, date of birth, Social Security number, and current address.

Next, you will upload or photograph your ID. Most banks use software that reads the ID automatically, so the photo needs to be clear and well-lit. If the software cannot read it, you will be asked to try again or upload a different document.

Then you will verify your identity. Some banks ask security questions based on your credit history. Others use third-party verification services that check public records. This step usually takes a few minutes and happens in real time.

After that, you will choose your account settings—overdraft protection, linked savings accounts, debit card design. You will review the account agreement and disclosures, then agree to them. Finally, you will fund the account by linking a debit card, transferring from another bank account, or arranging a wire transfer. Once you submit, the account is usually active within minutes to one business day.

When you can use your account after opening it

Your account number and routing number are usually available immediately after approval. You can use these to set up direct deposit or bill payments right away. However, your debit card takes 7 to 10 business days to arrive by mail. If you need to access cash before then, you can withdraw from an ATM using your temporary digital card (if the bank offers one) or visit a branch.

If you funded your account with a transfer from another bank, that transfer may take 1 to 3 business days to complete, depending on whether it was an ACH transfer or a wire. Your account is open and usable, but the money may not be there yet. Check your account status on the bank's app or website to see when the transfer arrives.

What to do if your online application is rejected

Banks reject applications for a few common reasons. Your ID may not have been readable—try uploading again with better lighting. Your address may not match what is on file with the credit bureaus—update your address with the credit bureaus first, then try again at a different bank. Your Social Security number may not match your name in the system—contact the Social Security Administration to verify your record.

If you have been rejected multiple times, call the bank's customer service line and ask why. Do not apply at five banks in one day—multiple applications in a short time can trigger fraud alerts. Wait a few days between applications and ask each bank what went wrong before you try the next one.

If you cannot open an account online due to identity verification issues, you can open one in person at a branch. Bring your ID, Social Security card, and proof of address. A teller can verify your identity on the spot and open the account immediately.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a Social Security number to open an account online?

Yes. All banks are required by law to collect your Social Security number for tax reporting and fraud prevention. If you do not have a Social Security number, you can open an account in person at a branch with an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) or a passport, but online applications will not accept an ITIN.

Can I open an account if I have been rejected by ChexSystems?

ChexSystems is a banking history database. If you are flagged there for unpaid overdrafts or fraud, most banks will reject your application. Some banks that do not use ChexSystems—like Chime, LendingClub, and certain credit unions—may still open accounts for you. Call ahead to confirm before applying.

How long does it take to receive my debit card?

Standard mail delivery takes 7 to 10 business days. Some banks offer expedited shipping for a fee (usually $10 to $20) and deliver in 2 to 3 business days. Many banks also issue a temporary digital debit card you can use immediately in your phone's wallet.

Can I open an account if I do not have a permanent address?

Most banks require a current address. If you are unhoused, use a shelter address, a trusted friend's address, or a mail forwarding service address. Call the bank first to confirm they will accept it. Some banks and credit unions have programs specifically for people without permanent housing.

What if I want to open an account but do not have an ID?

Online applications require a valid government ID. If you do not have one, visit your state's DMV or passport office to get a state ID card or passport. Once you have it, you can open an account online. In the meantime, you can open an account in person at a bank branch with alternative documents like a birth certificate and utility bill, though this varies by bank.