What you can do without a government ID

You can open a bank account without a government-issued ID at some banks and credit unions, but the process is slower and requires more paperwork. Most banks will ask for an ID because federal law requires them to verify your identity—but that verification doesn't have to come from a driver's license or passport. Instead, you can use alternative documents that prove who you are and where you live.

The banks most likely to work with you are smaller credit unions, community banks, and some online banks. Large national banks like Chase, Bank of America, and Wells Fargo almost always require a government ID in person, though a few have started accepting alternatives for online accounts. If you're opening an account in person at a branch, bring multiple documents even if you don't have an ID—the bank will decide on the spot whether what you have is enough.

Key Takeaways

  • Credit unions and community banks are more likely to accept accounts without government ID than large national banks.
  • You'll need to prove your identity with documents like utility bills, lease agreements, tax returns, or bank statements—usually two or three of them together.
  • The process takes longer without an ID because the bank has to do extra verification steps, sometimes adding days or weeks.
  • Online banks vary widely: some accept alternative documents, others require ID no matter what, so call and ask before you start.
  • If you have an ITIN (Individual Taxpayer Identification Number) instead of a Social Security number, bring that document—many banks will accept it as proof of identity.

Documents that work instead of a government ID

Banks use a combination of documents to verify you are who you say you are. A utility bill (electric, gas, water, or internet) with your name and current address is one of the strongest alternatives. A signed lease or rental agreement works the same way. Tax returns from the past two years, W-2 forms, or 1099 forms all show your name and Social Security number or ITIN, which the bank can cross-check.

Bank statements from another bank, credit union, or online payment service (like PayPal or Venmo) can also work, especially if they show your name and address. Some banks will accept a school ID if it's current and has your photo, though this is less common. A few will take a library card, passport card, or state ID card that expired within the last year. The key is bringing multiple documents—most banks want to see at least two, and ideally three, that together show your name, address, and identity.

Write down what you have before you go to the bank. If you're missing an address document, bring a recent piece of mail with your name on it—a medical bill, insurance statement, or letter from a government agency. The bank will tell you whether it's enough.

Why the process takes longer without ID

When you hand over a government ID, the bank can verify it instantly against their system. Without one, the bank has to do what's called manual verification—a person looks at your documents, checks them against databases, and sometimes calls you to confirm details. This step can add three to seven business days to account opening.

Some banks will also run a more thorough background check or contact your previous bank to confirm you've had an account there. If you're opening an account online without ID, the bank may ask you to upload photos of your documents and wait for a human to review them. A few banks will ask you to come in person to a branch even if you started the process online, just so they can see you and your documents face-to-face.

Credit unions versus banks

Credit unions are generally more flexible about ID requirements than banks. Many credit unions will open an account with alternative documents alone, especially if you're a member of the community they serve or if you have a family member who already banks there. Some credit unions don't require any ID at all for a basic savings account, though they will still ask for your name, address, and Social Security number or ITIN.

Community banks—smaller, locally owned banks—are also more likely to work with you without a government ID. They often know their customers personally and may be willing to open an account based on documents and a conversation. Call your local credit union or community bank and ask directly: "Can I open an account without a government ID, and what documents do you need?" This saves you a trip if they can't help.

Online banks are a mixed bag. Some, like Chime and LendingClub, have reported working with customers who don't have government ID. Others, like Ally and Marcus, require ID no matter what. The only way to know is to call their customer service line or check their website for their specific policy.

If you have an ITIN instead of a Social Security number

An ITIN (Individual Taxpayer Identification Number) is a nine-digit number issued by the IRS to people who file taxes but don't have a Social Security number. If you have an ITIN, bring your ITIN letter or your most recent tax return showing the number. Many banks will accept this as proof of identity and will open an account for you.

Some banks treat an ITIN the same way they treat a Social Security number—it's enough on its own, combined with your name and address. Others will still ask for additional documents. A few large banks have policies against opening accounts for people with only an ITIN, so if you run into that, move on to a credit union or community bank. Bring your ITIN letter (the official document from the IRS) rather than just a tax return, because it's clearer and harder to dispute.

What happens after you open the account

Once the account is open, the bank may put a temporary hold on deposits or limit how much you can withdraw while they finish verifying your identity. This is normal and usually lasts a few days to a week. You'll be able to use your debit card and make transfers once the hold is lifted.

If the bank later finds a problem with your documents or identity verification, they will contact you. This is rare, but it can happen if documents don't match or if the bank's verification system flags something. Keep your account documents and the papers you brought to the bank in case you need to provide more information later.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I open an account online without ID?

Some online banks will let you open an account by uploading photos of alternative documents like utility bills or tax returns. Others require a government ID no matter what. Call the bank's customer service line before you start—they can tell you whether your documents will work for their online process.

What if I don't have a Social Security number or ITIN?

This is harder but not impossible. Some credit unions will open a basic savings account with just your name, address, and date of birth, though they may not let you use online banking or get a debit card. You'll need to ask in person at a local credit union. A few banks also work with people who are applying for an ITIN or Social Security number—bring whatever identity documents you do have.

Do I need to bring original documents or can I bring copies?

Most banks want to see originals so they can verify they're real. If you're opening an account in person, bring the originals. If you're opening online, the bank will ask you to photograph or scan them—they'll usually accept digital copies at that point.

What if the bank says no?

Try a different bank or credit union. If you've been turned down by multiple banks, call a credit union in your area and explain your situation. Credit unions often have more flexibility, and some specialize in serving people who have had trouble with traditional banks.

How long does it take to open an account without ID?

It usually takes three to ten business days instead of the one or two days it takes with a government ID. Some banks are faster if you come in person to a branch. Online banks are usually slower because they have to review your documents manually.