Yes, you can open most Frost Bank accounts online, but the process stops short of full completion
Frost Bank allows you to start an account application online through their website, but you cannot finish it entirely without visiting a branch or speaking to someone by phone. You can enter your personal information, choose your account type, and review terms online, but the bank requires identity verification and a signature before the account becomes active. This means the online step gets you most of the way there, but you will need to complete the final step in person or by phone call.
The exact process depends on which Frost Bank account you want. Checking and savings accounts follow one path; business accounts follow another. Frost operates primarily in Texas, with branches in the Austin, Dallas, Houston, and San Antonio areas, plus a few locations in other states. If you live near a branch, the in-person finish is usually faster than waiting for phone verification.
Key Takeaways
- You can begin a Frost Bank account application online, but the bank requires identity verification and a signature before the account opens, which means you cannot complete it entirely online.
- Personal checking and savings accounts can be opened through a combination of online application and either a branch visit or phone call.
- Frost Bank will ask for a government-issued ID, proof of address, and your Social Security number during the verification step.
- If you live near a Frost branch, visiting in person is often faster than completing verification by phone.
What you need before you start the online application
Gather these documents before you open your browser: a government-issued photo ID (driver's license, passport, or state ID card), proof of your current address (a recent utility bill, lease, or bank statement), and your Social Security number. Frost will verify this information before your account opens, so have the exact details ready.
You will also need to decide which account type fits your needs. Frost offers personal checking accounts with different fee structures, savings accounts, and money market accounts. Review the current terms on their website before you apply, because monthly fees, minimum balances, and interest rates vary by account. If you are opening a business account, you will need your Employer Identification Number (EIN) or Social Security number as a business owner, plus documentation of your business structure.
The online application step
Go to the Frost Bank website and select "Open an Account." You will enter your name, date of birth, address, phone number, email, and Social Security number. The form will ask whether you want checking, savings, or another product. You will review the account terms and fee schedule, then electronically sign the account agreement. This entire step takes about 10 to 15 minutes.
After you submit the online form, Frost will send you a confirmation email. This is not your account opening confirmation—it is confirmation that your application was received. At this point, your application is pending identity verification. You will receive instructions on how to complete the next step, either by scheduling a branch appointment or by phone.
Completing verification in person at a branch
If you choose to finish in person, you will visit a Frost Bank branch with your government ID and proof of address. A banker will review your application, verify your identity against your documents, and have you sign the final account agreement in person. This usually takes 15 to 30 minutes. Your account opens immediately after you sign, and you can receive a debit card on the spot at some locations or have it mailed to you within 7 to 10 business days.
Branch hours vary by location, but most Frost branches are open Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., with limited Saturday hours at some locations. Call ahead or check the branch locator on the Frost website to confirm hours and whether you need an appointment. Some branches accept walk-ins, but scheduling ahead prevents a wait.
Completing verification by phone
If you cannot visit a branch, Frost can verify your identity by phone. After you submit your online application, a Frost representative will call you at the number you provided. They will ask you to confirm your personal information and may ask security questions based on your credit history. This call typically lasts 10 to 15 minutes. You will then receive a link via email to electronically sign your account agreement, and your account opens once you sign.
Phone verification usually happens within one to three business days of your online application. If you do not hear from Frost within that window, call their customer service line to check on your application status. Your debit card will be mailed to you after phone verification, arriving within 7 to 10 business days.
Timeline and what happens after your account opens
From the moment you submit your online application to the moment your account is active, expect three to five business days if you verify by phone, or the same day if you verify in person at a branch. Once your account is open, you can immediately set up direct deposit, transfer money from another bank, or begin using online banking. Your debit card arrives by mail within 7 to 10 business days; you can request expedited delivery at some branches for a fee.
Frost provides online banking and a mobile app for managing your account after it opens. You can view your balance, transfer money between your Frost accounts, pay bills, and deposit checks by phone or app. ATM access includes Frost's own ATM network plus access to other networks depending on your account type.
Reasons your online application might be delayed or denied
Frost may delay your account opening if your identity cannot be verified through the information you provided. This can happen if your address does not match records, if your name appears differently on your ID than on your application, or if there are discrepancies in your Social Security number. If this occurs, Frost will contact you to clarify. Bring additional documents to your branch visit or be ready to answer more questions during your phone call.
Frost may deny your application if you have a history of fraud, unpaid overdrafts at other banks, or if you appear on ChexSystems (a banking history report). If your application is denied, Frost will send you a letter explaining the reason. You can request a copy of your ChexSystems report to see what information they reviewed. Some reasons for denial can be addressed; others cannot.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use my account before my debit card arrives?
Yes. Once your account opens, you can transfer money in from another bank, set up direct deposit, or pay bills online. You can also visit a Frost branch to withdraw cash or deposit checks using your account number. Your debit card arrives by mail within 7 to 10 business days.
What if I do not have a government-issued ID?
Frost requires a government photo ID to open an account. If you do not have one, you will need to obtain a state ID card or passport before you can open an account. Visit your state's Department of Motor Vehicles or the U.S. State Department website for instructions.
Can I open a joint account online?
You can start the application online, but both account owners must complete identity verification. If you are opening a joint account, both people will need to visit a branch together or complete phone verification separately. Frost will coordinate this during the verification step.
What if I live outside Texas?
Frost Bank has branches in a few states beyond Texas, including Arizona and Colorado. Check the branch locator on their website to see if there is a location near you. If there is not, you can still open an account by completing the online application and phone verification, though you cannot finish in person.
Is there a minimum deposit to open an account?
Minimum opening deposits vary by account type. Some Frost checking accounts require no minimum deposit, while others require $100 or more. Review the specific account terms on the Frost website before you apply, or call a branch to ask about current requirements.