Yes, you can open a bank account with an ITIN, but not every bank will do it

An ITIN (Individual Taxpayer Identification Number) is a nine-digit number the IRS issues to people who need to file taxes but don't have a Social Security number. Many banks will accept an ITIN as proof of identity when you open a checking or savings account, but the rules vary by bank and by state. Some banks require an ITIN plus additional documents; others won't accept an ITIN at all and will ask for a Social Security number instead.

The key difference is that an ITIN proves your tax identity to the IRS, but it doesn't prove your immigration status to a bank. Banks use ITIN accounts to comply with federal anti-money-laundering rules, but they treat ITIN holders differently depending on their own policies and the state where you're opening the account.

Key Takeaways

  • Many large banks and most credit unions will open accounts for ITIN holders, but you will need to bring your ITIN letter, a government-issued photo ID, and proof of address.
  • Some banks require an ITIN plus a state ID, passport, or consular ID; others accept only an ITIN letter from the IRS as sufficient identification.
  • Banks may place limits on ITIN accounts—lower transaction limits, no online banking, or higher minimum balances—depending on their internal policies.
  • If your bank declines an ITIN, credit unions and online banks are more likely to accept one, though you should call ahead to confirm before visiting or applying.

Which banks accept ITIN numbers

Large national banks vary in their ITIN policies. Chase, Bank of America, Wells Fargo, and Citibank have all opened accounts for ITIN holders in the past, but their policies change and differ by branch and state. The safest approach is to call the specific branch where you plan to open the account and ask directly whether they accept ITIN numbers for new accounts.

Credit unions are generally more flexible with ITIN accounts than large banks. Many credit unions will open a checking or savings account for an ITIN holder without requiring a Social Security number. If you belong to a credit union or can join one (through your employer, school, or community), that is often the fastest route. Online banks like Chime, LendingClub, and Varo have also opened accounts for ITIN holders, though policies shift and you should verify before applying.

Regional and community banks vary widely. Some accept ITIN numbers as a matter of course; others do not. Call ahead rather than visiting in person, because a teller may give you incomplete information or turn you away unnecessarily.

What documents you will need to bring

At minimum, bring your ITIN letter from the IRS. This is the official document that proves your ITIN number. If you don't have it, you can request a replacement by calling the IRS at 1-800-829-1040 or visiting an IRS office in person. The letter shows your ITIN, your name, and the date it was issued.

You will also need a government-issued photo ID. This can be a passport, a state driver's license, a state ID card, or a consular ID (an ID issued by your country's embassy or consulate in the United States). Some banks accept only certain types of ID; ask when you call to confirm what the branch will accept.

Finally, bring proof of your current address. This can be a utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, or government mail dated within the last 60 days. A bank statement from another bank will also work if you have one. The document must show your name and your current address.

Restrictions and limits on ITIN accounts

Some banks place restrictions on accounts opened with an ITIN. These may include lower daily transaction limits (for example, $5,000 per day instead of $10,000), no online banking access, no debit card, or a higher minimum balance to keep the account open. These restrictions are not universal—they depend on the bank's policy and sometimes on your state.

A few banks will not allow you to open an account online if you have only an ITIN; you must visit a branch in person. This is less common now, but it still happens. If a bank's website says you need a Social Security number, call the branch directly before assuming you cannot open an account there.

Some banks may also require you to maintain a higher minimum balance or pay higher monthly fees for an ITIN account. Ask about fees and minimum balance requirements when you call, so you understand the full cost before you open the account.

What happens if a bank declines your ITIN

If the bank you approach will not accept an ITIN, your next step is to try a credit union or an online bank. Credit unions are your best bet because they often have more flexible policies and because many credit unions allow you to join even if you don't live in their service area. You can search for credit unions that accept ITIN holders by visiting the Credit Union Locator on the CO-OP Network website or calling 1-888-358-8828.

Online banks are another option. Some online banks have fewer restrictions on ITIN accounts because they don't operate physical branches and can serve customers across state lines more easily. However, online banks vary in their policies, so you will need to contact them directly to ask whether they accept ITIN numbers.

If you are declined by multiple banks and credit unions, you may want to explore whether you are now may be able to access for a Social Security number. If your immigration status has changed or if you have work authorization, you may be able to apply for an SSN through your local Social Security office. This would make opening a bank account easier at most institutions.

How to apply for an account with your ITIN

Call the bank or credit union branch where you want to open the account. Tell them you want to open a checking or savings account and ask whether they accept ITIN numbers. If they say yes, ask what documents you need to bring and whether you can open the account in person or online. Write down the name of the person you spoke with and the date and time of the call, in case there is confusion when you arrive.

Visit the branch in person with your ITIN letter, photo ID, and proof of address. Bring originals, not copies, unless the bank specifically says copies are acceptable. Tell the banker you want to open an account with your ITIN. They will verify your identity, run a background check through ChexSystems (a banking history database), and ask you to sign the account agreement. The process usually takes 15 to 30 minutes.

If you are opening an account online, upload clear photos of both sides of your ITIN letter and your photo ID. Some online banks will also ask you to verify your address by mail or by answering security questions. Once the bank approves your application, your account will be active and you can begin using it.

ITIN accounts and banking services

Once your account is open, you can use it like any other bank account: deposit checks, transfer money, pay bills, and set up direct deposit. However, some services may not be available. For example, some banks will not issue a debit card to an ITIN account holder, or will issue one only after you have held the account for a certain period of time. Ask about this when you open the account.

Credit building is another consideration. Most banks do not report ITIN account activity to credit bureaus, so opening a bank account with an ITIN will not help you build a credit score. If you want to build credit, you will need to open a credit card or take out a loan. Some credit unions and online lenders will work with ITIN holders to build credit, but you will need to ask about this separately.

If you later obtain a Social Security number, you can usually link it to your existing ITIN account or close the ITIN account and open a new one with your SSN. Contact your bank to ask how they handle this transition.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a Social Security number to open a bank account?

No. Many banks will accept an ITIN instead. However, some banks require an SSN and will not accept an ITIN. If your bank declines your ITIN, try a credit union or online bank, which are more likely to accept one.

Can I open an account online with an ITIN?

Some online banks and credit unions allow you to open an account online with an ITIN, but not all. You will need to contact the bank directly to ask. If they say no, you can usually open an account in person at a physical branch.

Will my ITIN account help me build credit?

No. Banks do not report ITIN account activity to credit bureaus, so opening a bank account will not build your credit score. To build credit, you will need a credit card or loan. Some credit unions and online lenders work with ITIN holders on credit building.

What if my ITIN letter is expired or lost?

Call the IRS at 1-800-829-1040 or visit an IRS office to request a replacement ITIN letter. You can also request one by mail using Form W-7. The replacement usually arrives within two to four weeks.

Can I use my ITIN account to send money internationally?

Yes, but some banks place restrictions on international transfers from ITIN accounts. Ask your bank about their policy on wire transfers and international payments before you open the account, or call after you open it to confirm what you can do.