Not every bank account can be opened online, and the ones that can have different requirements depending on where you live and what type of account you want.
Most large banks and online-only banks let you open a checking or savings account entirely online. You'll need a valid government ID, a Social Security number or tax ID, proof of address, and an initial deposit (which varies by bank—some have no minimum, others require $25 to $500). The process usually takes 10 to 15 minutes, and your account opens the same day or within 24 hours.
But some accounts can't be opened online at all. Money market accounts, certificates of deposit (CDs), and certain investment accounts often require you to visit a branch or speak to a representative by phone. Some banks also won't open accounts online if you're under 18, don't have a U.S. address, or are applying from outside the country. A few banks restrict online account opening to existing customers only.
The rules also shift depending on your bank's internal policies and state regulations. A bank that opens accounts online in California might require an in-person visit in another state. Before you start the process, check your specific bank's website or call their customer service line to confirm what they'll accept.
Key Takeaways
- Checking and savings accounts at most large banks and all online-only banks can be opened online with an ID, Social Security number, proof of address, and an initial deposit.
- Money market accounts, CDs, and investment accounts typically require a phone call or branch visit, even at banks that open checking accounts online.
- Banks may refuse online account opening if you're under 18, don't have a U.S. address, or are applying from outside the United States.
- Some banks only allow existing customers to open additional accounts online, so new customers must visit a branch or call first.
- State regulations and individual bank policies vary, so confirm with your bank before starting an online application.
What you need to open an account online
You'll need four things in front of you before you start: a valid government-issued ID (driver's license, passport, or state ID card), your Social Security number or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN), proof of your current address, and the money for an initial deposit.
Proof of address can be a recent utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, or bank statement—usually dated within the last 60 days. Some banks accept a government document with your address on it instead. The initial deposit amount depends on the bank; many online banks have no minimum, but traditional banks often require $25 to $500 to open a checking account and $100 to $1,000 for savings accounts.
You'll also need to be at least 18 years old and a U.S. resident (though not necessarily a citizen). If you're opening an account for a minor, most banks require a parent or guardian to open a custodial account in person at a branch, not online.
Which account types you can open online
Checking accounts are the easiest to open online. Nearly every bank that offers online account opening will let you open a checking account this way. The process is the same whether you're opening at a large national bank like Chase or Bank of America, a regional bank, or an online-only bank like Ally or Charles Schwab.
Savings accounts can also be opened online at most banks. Some banks let you open a savings account linked to an existing checking account online, but if you're a new customer opening both at once, a few banks still require a phone call or branch visit for the savings account portion.
Money market accounts usually cannot be opened online. These accounts combine features of checking and savings and often come with higher interest rates, which is why banks typically require you to speak with someone before opening one. You'll need to call the bank or visit a branch.
Certificates of deposit (CDs) also typically require a phone call or branch visit. Because you're locking your money away for a set period (usually three months to five years) at a fixed rate, banks want to confirm you understand the terms and the penalty for early withdrawal.
Investment accounts (brokerage accounts, IRAs, and similar products) generally cannot be opened online, though some brokerages have streamlined the process to a phone call. These accounts involve more complex paperwork and regulatory requirements.
When banks won't let you open an account online
Age is the most common barrier. If you're under 18, you cannot open an account in your own name online. A parent or legal guardian must open a custodial account at a branch with your Social Security number and their ID.
Location matters too. If you don't have a U.S. address, most banks won't open an account online. Some banks accept a U.S. military address or a U.S. address where mail can be delivered, but they won't open accounts for people living abroad. A few banks also have state-specific restrictions—they may not open accounts online for residents of certain states due to regulatory differences.
Some banks restrict online account opening to existing customers only. If you've never banked with them before, you may need to visit a branch or call to open your first account. After that, you can usually open additional accounts online.
If you have a history of fraud, unpaid overdrafts, or accounts closed for cause, a bank may refuse to open an account for you at all, whether online or in person. Banks check ChexSystems (a banking history report) during the application process, and a negative record can block you.
How the online account opening process works
The process is straightforward and usually takes 10 to 15 minutes. You'll go to the bank's website, click "Open an Account" or similar, and choose the account type. Then you'll enter your personal information: name, date of birth, Social Security number, address, phone number, and email.
Next, you'll upload or photograph your ID. Most banks use automated verification software that reads your driver's license or passport. If the software can't read it clearly, you may be asked to take another photo or provide additional information by phone.
You'll then verify your address by providing a recent utility bill, lease, or bank statement. Some banks do this automatically by checking databases; others ask you to upload a document.
Finally, you'll fund the account. Most banks let you link an external bank account and transfer money, or provide a routing number so you can deposit a check or set up a direct deposit. Some banks mail you a debit card before the account is fully active; others activate it immediately and mail the card later.
You'll receive confirmation by email, and your account number usually appears on screen right away. You can start using the account (for direct deposit, bill pay, or transfers) before the debit card arrives.
What happens if your online application is denied
If your application is denied, the bank will send you a letter explaining why. Common reasons include a negative ChexSystems report, an address that can't be verified, or a mismatch between the name on your ID and the name you provided.
If the denial is due to ChexSystems, you have the right to request a copy of your report and dispute any errors. You can contact ChexSystems directly at 1-800-428-9623 or through their website. If there's an error, you can file a dispute, and ChexSystems must investigate within 30 days.
If your application was denied for another reason—like an address issue—call the bank's customer service line and ask what you can do. Sometimes providing additional documentation or visiting a branch in person will resolve the problem. Some banks will reopen your application if you can clarify the issue.
If you're denied by multiple banks, consider opening an account at a bank that specializes in second-chance banking. These banks have less strict verification requirements and may accept you even if you have ChexSystems issues or a history of overdrafts.
Online-only banks versus traditional banks with online options
Online-only banks (like Ally, Charles Schwab, Discover, and Marcus) almost always let you open accounts online. They have no physical branches, so online account opening is their only option. These banks often have no minimum deposit requirements and higher interest rates on savings accounts because they have lower overhead costs.
Traditional banks with branches (like Chase, Bank of America, Wells Fargo, and regional banks) usually let you open checking and savings accounts online, but they may require a branch visit or phone call for other account types. They often have higher minimum deposit requirements and lower interest rates, but they offer the option to visit a branch if you need help.
Credit unions vary widely. Some credit unions let members open accounts online; others require an in-person visit. If you're not already a member, you may need to visit a branch to join before you can open an account. Check your specific credit union's website to see what they offer.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I open a bank account online if I don't have a Social Security number?
Yes, if you have an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN). Some banks accept ITINs from non-citizens and immigrants. Call the bank first to confirm they accept ITINs, because not all do. You'll still need a valid ID and proof of address.
How long does it take to open an account online?
The application itself takes 10 to 15 minutes. Your account usually opens the same day or within 24 hours. You can start using it for direct deposit and bill pay immediately, though your debit card may take 5 to 10 business days to arrive by mail.
Do I need an existing bank account to open a new one online?
No. You can fund a new account by transferring money from an external bank account (if you have one), by mailing a check, or by setting up direct deposit from your employer. Some banks also let you start with a zero balance and fund it later.
What if I'm opening an account for someone else?
You cannot open an account for another adult online—they must do it themselves or authorize you in writing. For minors, a parent or legal guardian must open a custodial account in person at a branch with the child's Social Security number and the parent's ID.
Can I open multiple accounts at the same bank online?
Usually yes, but only after your first account is open. Most banks let existing customers open additional checking and savings accounts online. Money market accounts and CDs typically still require a phone call or branch visit, even for existing customers.