Yes, you can open most bank accounts entirely online

Most banks and credit unions now let you open a checking or savings account from your computer or phone without stepping into a branch. You upload an ID, verify your identity through the bank's system, and fund the account—all without an appointment or a teller. The whole process usually takes 10 to 20 minutes.

Not every bank offers this. Smaller regional banks and some credit unions still require an in-person visit. But the largest national banks—Chase, Bank of America, Wells Fargo, Citibank, and most online-only banks—have fully digital account opening. If you're opening with a bank that has branches near you, check their website first; they'll tell you whether online opening is available for the account type you want.

Key Takeaways

  • Most national banks and online-only banks let you open a checking or savings account entirely online using your ID and a video call or automated verification.
  • You'll need a valid government-issued ID (driver's license, passport, or state ID), proof of address, and your Social Security number to complete the process.
  • The bank verifies your identity by matching your ID photo to your face, checking your Social Security number against records, or asking security questions based on your credit history.
  • Funding your new account can happen immediately through a transfer from another bank account, or you can wait for a debit card to arrive and deposit cash at an ATM.
  • Some banks restrict online opening to people over 18, and a few require a minimum deposit or opening balance before the account is active.

What documents and information you need to have ready

Before you start, gather a valid government-issued ID—a driver's license, passport, or state ID card. The bank will photograph it or scan it as part of the process. You'll also need your Social Security number, current address, and a phone number where the bank can reach you.

If you're opening a joint account (with a spouse or family member), both account holders will need to provide their own ID and Social Security number. Some banks let both people complete the process online; others require the second person to verify in person or by mail. Check the bank's website before you start if you're planning a joint account.

Have a second form of address verification on hand if the bank asks for it—a recent utility bill, lease, or mortgage statement works. Most banks don't ask, but some do, especially if your ID address doesn't match your current address.

How banks verify your identity online

Banks use one of three main methods to confirm you are who you say you are. The most common is a video call with an automated system or a live representative. You hold your ID up to your camera, the system photographs your face, and it compares the two. This usually takes a few minutes and happens in real time.

The second method is knowledge-based verification. The bank asks you security questions based on your credit history—things like "Which of these addresses did you live at in 2019?" or "Which lender issued your car loan?" You answer from multiple choice. This method is faster but less secure, so some banks use it only as a backup if the video method fails.

The third method is database matching. The bank checks your Social Security number, name, and address against records from credit bureaus and government databases. If everything matches, you're verified without a video call. This is the fastest method but the least common; most banks combine it with one of the other two.

Timeline from start to first use

You can complete the online application in 10 to 20 minutes. Identity verification happens immediately or within a few hours. Once you're verified, the account is usually open and active the same day, though some banks take up to one business day.

Getting money into the account is the next step. If you transfer funds from another bank account you own, the money arrives within one to three business days (faster if both banks are in the same network). If you want to deposit cash, you'll need to wait for your debit card to arrive by mail, which typically takes 7 to 10 business days. Some banks let you use their ATMs to deposit cash before the card arrives; ask during signup.

You can usually start using the account for bill pay, transfers, and direct deposit as soon as it opens, even if your debit card hasn't arrived yet. Checks take longer—you'll need to order them separately, and they arrive in 5 to 10 business days.

What happens if the bank cannot verify you online

If the video verification fails—your camera isn't working, your ID photo is too blurry, or the system can't match your face—the bank will offer alternatives. Most will let you try again, send a photo of your ID by email, or complete verification by phone with a representative. A few banks will ask you to visit a branch in person or mail in a copy of your ID.

If your Social Security number doesn't match records, or if you have a thin credit history, the bank may flag your application for manual review. This can add a few days to the process. The bank will contact you by phone or email to ask follow-up questions or request additional documents (like a recent utility bill or tax return).

If you cannot be verified online and the bank requires an in-person visit, you can either go to a branch or close the application and try a different bank. Some online-only banks are more flexible with verification than traditional banks, so if one bank turns you down, another may not.

Age and residency requirements

You must be at least 18 years old to open an account online at any bank. Some banks allow minors to open accounts, but only with a parent or guardian present in person or co-signing online.

You must be a U.S. citizen or permanent resident with a valid Social Security number. If you have an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) instead, some banks will open an account for you, but not all. Call the bank's customer service line before you apply if you have an ITIN.

You must live in the United States. Banks will not open accounts for people living abroad, even if they are U.S. citizens. If you're moving to the U.S. soon, wait until you arrive and have a U.S. address.

Banks that do not offer online account opening

Most credit unions do not offer online account opening. They require you to visit a branch or office in person, even if you're a member of a credit union network that has locations nationwide. Call your credit union before you visit to confirm they have the account type you want and what documents to bring.

Some smaller regional banks and community banks also require in-person opening. If you're set on banking with a specific institution and their website doesn't mention online opening, call their main number and ask. They can tell you whether you can open online or whether you need an appointment.

If you cannot open online with the bank you want, you have two options: open an account online with a different bank (and transfer money later if you change your mind), or schedule an in-person appointment at a branch.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a minimum deposit to open an account online?

Most banks do not require a minimum deposit to open an account online. However, some banks require a small opening deposit (often $25 to $100) before the account becomes active. Check the bank's website or call customer service before you apply if you want to confirm there is no opening deposit required.

Can I open an account if I have been denied by other banks?

Yes. Banks use different criteria to verify identity and assess risk. If one bank denies you, another may approve you. Online-only banks and credit unions sometimes have more flexible verification processes. You can also try a different bank's branch in person if online opening does not work.

What if my address on my ID does not match where I live now?

Tell the bank your current address during signup. Most banks will accept a mismatched ID address as long as you provide your current address and can verify it with a utility bill or lease if asked. Some banks may ask you to update your ID before opening an account.

Can I open a business account online?

Most banks require you to visit a branch in person to open a business account, even if they offer online personal account opening. Some online banks and fintech companies offer online business account opening, but the process is usually more complex and may require additional documents like an EIN or business license.

How long does the account stay open if I do not fund it?

This varies by bank. Some banks close accounts that have no activity and no balance after 90 days to a year. Others keep them open indefinitely. Check your bank's account agreement or call customer service to find out the policy. If you open an account and do not fund it right away, set a reminder to deposit money within a few weeks.