Yes, you need ID to open a bank account, but the type and amount depends on the bank and the account

Every bank in the United States is required by federal law to verify your identity before opening an account. This is part of the Know Your Customer (KYC) rule enforced by the Financial Crimes Enforcement Network (FinCEN). What counts as acceptable ID varies by bank, but most will accept a driver's license, state ID card, or passport. Some banks accept additional forms of ID like a military ID, tribal ID, or even a combination of documents if you don't have a primary photo ID.

The specific documents a bank asks for also depends on what you're opening. A basic checking account usually requires less documentation than a savings account or a money market account. Online banks may have different requirements than brick-and-mortar branches. If you're opening an account for a business or a minor, you'll need additional paperwork beyond your personal ID.

Key Takeaways

  • Federal law requires banks to verify your identity before opening any account, so you must bring some form of ID.
  • A government-issued photo ID like a driver's license, state ID, or passport is the standard requirement at most banks.
  • If you don't have a photo ID, some banks will accept a combination of documents like a Social Security card, birth certificate, or utility bill.
  • Online banks may have different ID requirements than branch banks, and some accept verification through video call or third-party services.
  • Bring your Social Security number or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) along with your ID, as banks need this to set up your account.

What counts as acceptable ID at most banks

A government-issued photo ID is the gold standard. This includes a driver's license, state ID card, U.S. passport, passport card, or military ID. Most banks will accept any of these without asking for anything else. If you're opening an account in person at a branch, bring the physical card or document.

If you don't have a photo ID, many banks will accept a combination of non-photo documents. Common alternatives include a Social Security card, birth certificate, utility bill (showing your current address), lease agreement, or tax return. The bank will typically ask for two or three of these together. Some banks also accept a notarized document or a letter from a government agency confirming your identity.

Online banks sometimes use different verification methods. Instead of showing a physical ID, you may be asked to answer security questions, verify your identity through a video call with a bank representative, or use a third-party identity verification service. A few online banks will verify you using only your Social Security number and other personal information you provide digitally.

What you need besides your ID

Your ID alone is not enough. Banks also need your Social Security number (SSN) or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) to open an account. This is required by the IRS for tax reporting purposes. If you don't have an SSN or ITIN, you cannot open a standard bank account at a federally regulated bank.

You'll also need to provide your current address. If your ID doesn't show your current address, bring a recent utility bill, lease, or other document that proves where you live. Banks use this to comply with anti-money-laundering rules and to send you statements and notices.

Some banks ask for additional information depending on the type of account. If you're opening a business account, you'll need your Employer Identification Number (EIN) and business formation documents. If you're opening an account for a minor, you'll need to show your own ID as the parent or guardian, plus the minor's birth certificate or Social Security card.

Opening an account without a photo ID

If you don't have a driver's license or passport, you have options. Many banks will open an account using a combination of documents. Bring your Social Security card or ITIN letter, a birth certificate, and a utility bill or lease showing your current address. Some banks will accept a state ID card even if it's expired, as long as the photo is recognizable.

If you've never had a photo ID, consider getting one before you go to the bank. A state ID card (not a driver's license) is available from your state's Department of Motor Vehicles and usually costs between $10 and $30. You'll need a birth certificate and proof of address to get one. This process typically takes a few days to a few weeks, depending on your state.

Credit unions sometimes have more flexible ID requirements than traditional banks. If a bank turns you down, contact a credit union in your area and ask what documents they accept. Community banks may also be more willing to work with you if you can bring multiple forms of non-photo ID and proof of address.

Online banks and ID verification

Online banks still need to verify your identity, but they do it differently because you're not visiting a branch. Most online banks ask you to upload a photo of your ID using your phone or computer. You'll also enter your personal information (name, address, date of birth, Social Security number) into their website or app, and the bank verifies it against databases.

Some online banks use video verification. A representative will call you or start a video chat, and you'll show your ID to the camera. This method is common at banks that want to verify you're the person in the photo. The call usually takes 5 to 10 minutes.

A few online banks use third-party verification services like Socure or Jumio. These services check your information against public records and may ask you to answer security questions or verify your identity in other ways. If you're opening an account online and the bank asks you to use a third-party service, that's normal and does not mean the bank is less legitimate.

What happens if you can't provide ID

If you cannot provide any form of ID or proof of identity, you cannot open a bank account at a federally regulated bank. This is a legal requirement, not a bank policy. However, you have a few alternatives.

Second-chance banking accounts are designed for people with banking history problems, but some also serve people without ID. These accounts have higher fees and lower limits, but they exist. Contact banks in your area and ask if they offer second-chance accounts and what ID they require.

If you're an immigrant without a U.S. ID, some banks accept an ITIN (Individual Taxpayer Identification Number) in place of a Social Security number. You can apply for an ITIN through the IRS even if you're not authorized to work in the U.S. Bring your ITIN letter along with a passport from your home country or another form of ID your bank accepts.

If you're unhoused or don't have a current address, some banks will accept a shelter address or a mailing address at a social services organization. Bring a letter from the shelter or organization on their letterhead confirming your address. This counts as proof of address for banking purposes.

Bringing your documents to the bank

If you're opening an account in person, bring your original ID document, not a copy. Banks need to see the physical card or passport to verify it's real. Bring your Social Security card or ITIN letter as well. If your ID doesn't show your current address, bring a utility bill, lease, or recent bank statement showing where you live.

Arrive during business hours and allow 15 to 30 minutes for the process. The bank representative will ask you questions to verify your identity, review your documents, and enter your information into their system. They'll explain the account terms, fees, and features before you sign anything.

If you're opening an account online, you'll upload photos of your ID and other documents through the bank's website or app. Make sure the photos are clear and show the entire document. The bank will review these within a few hours to a few days and contact you if they need clarification or additional documents.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use an expired ID to open a bank account?

Most banks will accept an expired ID as long as the photo is still recognizable and the document itself is not damaged. However, some banks have policies against expired IDs. Call your bank before you go in, or bring an additional form of ID just in case. Online banks are usually more flexible with expired IDs because they can verify you through other means.

What if my ID name doesn't match my current legal name?

If you've changed your name through marriage, divorce, or legal petition, bring your ID plus a document showing the name change. This could be a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order. The bank will update your account to your current legal name. If you haven't updated your ID yet, the combination of your old ID and the name-change document is usually enough.

Do I need ID if someone else is opening the account for me?

No. The person opening the account needs to show their ID. If you're a minor, your parent or guardian shows their ID. If you're giving someone power of attorney to open an account on your behalf, they show their ID and the power-of-attorney document. You don't need to be present, but the bank may require a notarized authorization letter.

Can I open a bank account with just my passport?

Yes. A U.S. passport or passport card is a government-issued photo ID and is acceptable at all banks. You'll still need to provide your Social Security number and proof of current address, but the passport alone satisfies the ID requirement.

What if I'm opening an account for my child?

You'll need to show your own ID as the parent or guardian. The bank will also ask for the child's Social Security number and may ask for the child's birth certificate. Some banks allow you to open a custodial account for a child under 18 without the child being present. Others require the child to be there in person, especially if the child is a teenager.