The short answer: almost anyone, but not everyone

You can open a bank account in the US if you have a valid government-issued ID and a Social Security number or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN). Most banks will open an account for you on the spot. But some people hit barriers: those without an ID, those with a history of fraud or unpaid overdrafts reported to ChexSystems, and non-citizens without an ITIN may face rejection or need to use a different path.

The rules are set by each bank, not by federal law. One bank might turn you away while another down the street accepts you. This means your options depend on which banks operate near you and what their internal policies are.

Key Takeaways

  • You need a valid government ID and either a Social Security number or ITIN; without both, most mainstream banks will reject you.
  • ChexSystems is a private database that tracks overdrafts and fraud; if you are listed there, many banks will refuse your account even if you have ID and an ITIN.
  • Non-citizens with an ITIN can open accounts at most banks, but some require additional documentation like a passport or visa.
  • If mainstream banks turn you down, credit unions and online banks often have looser rules, and some banks offer second-chance accounts specifically for people with ChexSystems records.
  • Undocumented immigrants without an ITIN have very limited options; a few banks and credit unions accept an Individual Number for Identification Purposes (INIP) or a consular ID instead.

What banks actually check before opening your account

When you walk in or apply online, the bank runs your name and Social Security number through ChexSystems, a private reporting agency that tracks checking account history. If you have unpaid overdrafts, bounced checks, or fraud on record there, the bank can and usually will deny you. This is not a government blacklist — it is a private database — but it functions like one because most banks subscribe to it.

The bank also verifies your ID is real and matches your name. They confirm your Social Security number or ITIN is valid through the Social Security Administration or IRS. They may ask for a second form of ID, proof of address (a utility bill or lease), and your phone number. Some banks also run a soft credit check, though this does not affect your credit score.

If you have been flagged in ChexSystems, you can request your own report for free at chexsystems.com. You have the right to dispute errors. If the record is accurate, you will need to either wait (most records fall off after five years) or find a bank that does not use ChexSystems or that has a second-chance program.

Non-citizens and ITIN holders

A non-citizen with a valid ITIN can open a bank account at most major banks and credit unions. You will need your ITIN letter from the IRS, a valid passport or visa, and proof of a US address. Some banks ask for all three; others ask for just the ITIN and passport.

The process is the same as for a citizen: the bank verifies your ITIN through the IRS, checks ChexSystems, and confirms your ID. A few banks — notably Bank of America and Wells Fargo — have explicit policies welcoming ITIN holders. Smaller regional banks and credit unions vary widely, so calling ahead saves a wasted trip.

If you do not have an ITIN yet, you can apply through the IRS. The process takes several weeks. In the meantime, some credit unions will open accounts for non-citizens using a passport alone, though this is less common at large banks.

Undocumented immigrants without an ITIN

This is the hardest situation. Most banks require either a Social Security number or ITIN, and without one, they will turn you away. However, a small number of banks and credit unions have made exceptions.

Some banks accept a consular ID (an ID issued by your country's embassy or consulate in the US) in place of a Social Security number or ITIN. Others accept an Individual Number for Identification Purposes (INIP), which is a number some states issue to residents without a Social Security number. These options are rare and vary by location and by bank.

Your best bet is to contact local credit unions directly. Immigrant-focused nonprofits in your area often know which credit unions will work with you. Some cities also have municipal banks or community development financial institutions (CDFIs) that have looser requirements. Calling ahead is essential — policies change, and a bank that accepted accounts last year might not this year.

People with ChexSystems records

If you have unpaid overdrafts, bounced checks, or fraud on your ChexSystems record, most banks will deny you. But you have options. Some banks offer second-chance checking accounts specifically for people in this situation. These accounts often come with higher fees, lower limits on deposits or withdrawals, and a shorter grace period before overdraft fees kick in. But they are real accounts, and using one responsibly can help you rebuild.

Banks that offer second-chance accounts include Chime, LendingClub, GoBank, and some regional banks. Online banks are generally more flexible than brick-and-mortar ones. Credit unions are also worth trying — they are less likely to use ChexSystems and more likely to consider your full history rather than just the negative marks.

Before you apply anywhere, pull your ChexSystems report and dispute any errors. If the record is accurate, wait at least five years if you can — records typically age off after that time. In the meantime, a second-chance account is a legitimate path forward.

Minors and joint accounts

A minor (under 18) cannot open an account alone. A parent or legal guardian must open a joint account with them, and both names go on the account. The adult is responsible for all activity on the account and for any overdrafts.

Some banks allow minors as young as 13 to have their own debit card linked to a parent's account, with the parent controlling spending limits. Others require the minor to be 16 or older. Rules vary by bank, so ask before you go in.

People without a government ID

Most banks will not open an account without a valid government-issued ID — a driver's license, passport, state ID card, or tribal ID. If you do not have one, you will need to get one first. This is a barrier for homeless people, people who have lost documents, and people who cannot afford the fee for a state ID.

A few credit unions and community banks will make exceptions if you bring other documents: a birth certificate, Social Security card, utility bill, and a letter from a social service agency or employer confirming your identity. But this is uncommon. Your best move is to contact your local social services office or a nonprofit that serves homeless or low-income people — they often know which banks in your area will work with you.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I open a bank account if I have been deported or have a criminal record?

A criminal record does not automatically disqualify you from a bank account. Banks check ChexSystems and run background checks for fraud or financial crimes, not for criminal history in general. If your record involves check fraud or identity theft, the bank may refuse you. Otherwise, you should be able to open an account.

What if I do not have a Social Security number or ITIN?

Most mainstream banks will not open an account without one. Your options are credit unions (which are more flexible), banks that accept a consular ID, or banks that accept an INIP if your state issues one. Contact local credit unions and immigrant-focused nonprofits to find out what is available in your area.

How long does a ChexSystems record stay on file?

Most negative records fall off after five years. You can request your report for free at chexsystems.com and dispute any errors. If the record is accurate, you can either wait for it to age off or open a second-chance account in the meantime.

Can I open an account online if I do not have an ID?

Online banks still require a valid government ID and a Social Security number or ITIN. They verify these through the same systems as brick-and-mortar banks. Without both, you will be rejected online just as you would in person.

Do I need a minimum deposit to open an account?

Most banks do not require a minimum deposit to open a checking or savings account, though some do. Online banks and credit unions are more likely to have zero-minimum accounts. Check the bank's website or call before you apply.