What you can do over the phone, and what you cannot
You can start the account-opening process over the phone with most banks, but you cannot complete it entirely by phone. A bank representative can answer questions, collect basic information, and send you forms to sign. What you cannot do over the phone is verify your identity in the way the bank requires—that step almost always needs to happen in person, through video, or by mail with documents.
The reason is federal law. Banks must verify your identity under the Customer Identification Program (CIP), which is part of anti-money-laundering rules. A phone call alone does not meet that standard. The bank needs to see a government ID, confirm your address, or use a video call where they watch you hold up documents. Some banks have moved to video verification, which counts as remote, but a voice-only phone call does not.
If you want to open an account without leaving home, video verification is your fastest option. If your bank does not offer video, you will need to visit a branch, mail in copies of your ID and proof of address, or use a third-party verification service the bank contracts with.
Key Takeaways
- Banks can take your initial information over the phone, but federal law requires them to verify your identity before the account is active.
- Video verification is the fastest remote option and is now offered by most large banks; a phone call alone does not meet legal requirements.
- If you cannot do video, you will need to visit a branch, mail documents, or wait for the bank to verify you through a third-party service.
- Have your Social Security number, address, and a government ID ready before you call, because the bank will ask for these details.
Which banks offer phone-to-video account opening
Large national banks including Chase, Bank of America, Wells Fargo, and Citibank now offer video verification for new accounts. The process usually works like this: you call or start online, provide basic information, and the bank sends you a link to a video appointment. During the call, a representative watches you hold up your ID and proof of address, takes a photo or screenshot, and verifies your information against databases.
Credit unions vary widely. Some large credit unions like Navy Federal and Alliant offer video opening; many smaller ones do not. Call your credit union directly to ask whether they can open an account over video, because their websites do not always list this clearly.
Online-only banks like Chime, Ally, and Marcus also use video verification, and some have streamlined it further—you may be able to start and finish the entire process on your phone using their app, with video verification built in. Read the bank's website or call to confirm the exact steps before you start.
What documents and information you need ready
Before you call, gather a government-issued ID (driver's license, passport, or state ID card), your Social Security number, and proof of your current address. Proof of address can be a recent utility bill, lease, mortgage statement, or bank statement—something dated within the last 60 days with your name and address on it.
If you are opening the account for a business, the bank will also ask for an Employer Identification Number (EIN) or your Social Security number as the owner, and may ask for business formation documents like articles of incorporation or a DBA certificate. Have these ready before you call so the representative does not have to put you on hold or schedule a callback.
Some banks also ask about your employment, income, and the reason you are opening the account. This is routine and helps them comply with anti-money-laundering rules. Answer honestly; the bank is not making a credit decision at this stage.
How long the phone-to-account process takes
If you use video verification, the entire process can take 15 to 30 minutes from start to finish. The bank sends you a link, you complete the video call, and your account is usually active within a few hours or by the next business day.
If you mail documents instead, expect 5 to 10 business days for the bank to receive them, verify them, and activate your account. Some banks send you a temporary account number while they wait for the documents, so you can start using the account before verification is complete.
If the bank uses a third-party verification service, the timeline depends on that service's schedule. Ask the bank for a specific date when you can expect the account to be active, and ask whether you can use the account before verification is finished.
What happens if you cannot do video verification
If your bank does not offer video and you cannot visit a branch, ask whether you can mail in copies of your ID and proof of address. Most banks accept this, though it takes longer. Make copies (not originals) of both documents, write your name and the date on the back of each copy, and mail them to the address the bank provides. Do not send originals; banks do not return them and you may need yours for other purposes.
Some banks also use a service called DocuSign or similar platforms where you upload photos of your documents through a secure link. This is faster than mailing and counts as remote verification for most banks.
If none of these options work, you will need to visit a branch in person. Many banks have reduced branch hours, so call ahead to confirm when they are open and whether you need an appointment.
What to do if the bank denies your account
Banks can refuse to open an account if your identity verification fails, if you have a history of fraud or unpaid overdrafts reported to ChexSystems (a banking history database), or if you do not meet the bank's minimum deposit or other requirements. If this happens, ask the bank why. They are required to tell you the reason.
If the reason is a ChexSystems report, you can dispute it. Request your ChexSystems report at chexsystems.com and look for errors. If you find one, file a dispute with ChexSystems and ask the bank to reconsider once the error is corrected.
If the reason is something else—a failed identity verification, for example—ask whether you can try again with different documents or at a branch. Some banks will reconsider if you provide additional proof of address or visit in person.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I open a business account over the phone?
You can start the process over the phone, but you will still need to verify your identity and the business's identity through video, mail, or in person. Business accounts often require more documents than personal accounts, including proof of business registration and sometimes a business license. Call the bank's business banking line to ask what they need before you start.
What if I do not have a government ID?
Most banks require a government ID as part of their verification process. If you do not have one, ask the bank whether they accept a passport, tribal ID, or military ID. If you have none of these, you may need to visit a branch in person so a representative can verify you using alternative documents or methods. Some banks have exceptions for specific situations; it is worth asking.
Can I open an account if I am not a U.S. citizen?
Yes, but you will need an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) or a valid passport instead of a Social Security number. Some banks have stricter rules for non-citizens and may require additional documentation. Call ahead and ask what the bank needs; do not assume you will be turned down without asking first.
Do I need a minimum deposit to open an account over the phone?
Minimum deposit requirements vary by bank and account type. Some banks have no minimum; others require $25 to $500 to open. Ask the bank about their minimum before you start the process. If you cannot meet it, ask whether the bank waives it for direct deposit or other conditions.
What if the video call fails or my internet is bad?
If your video call drops, the bank can usually reschedule it or offer an alternative like mailing documents. Call the bank's customer service line and explain what happened. They will not penalize you for a technical failure and can set up a new appointment or send you a mailing address for documents.