What you need to open an account

Most banks require two pieces of identification and proof of address before they will open an account. The first ID is usually a government-issued photo ID—a driver's license, passport, or state ID card. The second can be another photo ID or a document like a Social Security card or birth certificate. For proof of address, bring a recent utility bill, lease, mortgage statement, or government mail dated within the last 60 days.

Some banks also ask for your Social Security number, which they use to check your banking history through ChexSystems or Early Warning Services. These are consumer reporting agencies that track account closures, overdrafts, and fraud. If you have been flagged in the past, certain banks may decline to open an account with you, though some banks specialize in second-chance accounts for people with banking history issues.

You will need to bring money to fund the account—most banks require a minimum opening deposit, which ranges from $0 to $300 depending on the bank and account type. Some online banks have no minimum; others require $25 or more. Ask before you go in or visit the bank's website to confirm the amount.

Key Takeaways

  • Bring a government photo ID, a second form of ID, and proof of address dated within the last 60 days to open an account in person.
  • Most banks check your history through ChexSystems; if you have been flagged for fraud or overdrafts, you may need to use a second-chance account.
  • Opening deposits range from $0 to $300 depending on the bank, so confirm the requirement before you arrive.
  • You can open an account online, by mail, or in person; online is fastest and often has lower minimums, but in-person lets you ask questions and set up debit cards on the spot.
  • After opening, your debit card usually arrives in 7 to 10 business days, and your account number is available immediately for direct deposit or bill pay.

Opening an account in person at a branch

Walk into any branch of the bank you have chosen and tell the teller or greeter you want to open an account. They will direct you to a banker or new accounts representative who will sit with you, explain the account options, and walk you through the paperwork. Bring all your documents and your opening deposit. The whole process usually takes 15 to 30 minutes.

At the end, you will receive a temporary debit card or be told when your card will arrive by mail. Your account number is active immediately, so you can set up direct deposit or start paying bills online the same day. Some banks offer instant digital debit cards that work right away in the app while you wait for the physical card.

Opening an account online

Online banks and many traditional banks let you open an account entirely through their website or mobile app. You will upload photos of your ID and proof of address, enter your personal information, and fund the account by linking another bank account or using a debit card. The process takes 10 to 20 minutes and can be done at any time of day.

Most online accounts are approved within 24 hours. Your account number appears in the app immediately, but a physical debit card takes 7 to 10 business days to arrive. Some online banks offer a temporary card number you can use for online purchases while you wait. If your application is declined, the bank will send you a letter explaining why, usually within a few days.

Opening an account by mail

Some banks and credit unions still accept applications by mail. You print the application from their website or request one by phone, fill it out by hand, and mail it along with photocopies of your ID and proof of address. Include a check for the opening deposit or instructions for how the bank should withdraw the deposit from another account.

This method is slow—expect 2 to 3 weeks for the bank to receive your documents, review them, and send you a debit card and welcome packet. Use this route only if you cannot visit a branch or access the internet, or if you are opening an account at a credit union that does not offer online opening.

What happens if you are declined

Banks decline new accounts for a few reasons: a ChexSystems flag (usually for unpaid overdrafts, fraud, or too many closed accounts), a Social Security number mismatch, or an address that does not verify. If you are declined, ask the bank why. They are required to tell you, and they must provide the contact information for the consumer reporting agency if the decline was based on a report.

If the issue is a ChexSystems flag, you can dispute it directly with ChexSystems if you believe the information is wrong. Contact them at 1-800-428-9623 or through their website. If the flag is accurate but old, some banks will still open an account after you explain what happened. Second-chance banks and credit unions are designed for people with banking history issues and often have lower or no minimums.

Setting up direct deposit and bill pay

Once your account is open, you can set up direct deposit immediately using your account number and routing number, both of which appear in your online banking portal or on a deposit slip. Give this information to your employer's payroll department or to the organization sending you a payment. Direct deposits usually post within 1 to 2 business days.

You can also set up bill pay through your bank's website or app to pay utilities, rent, loans, or other bills. Most banks let you schedule payments to post on a specific date, and the bank sends a check or electronic payment on your behalf. Bill pay is usually free for checking accounts and takes 1 to 3 business days to reach the recipient, depending on whether you choose standard or expedited delivery.

Choosing between checking and savings accounts

A checking account is designed for frequent deposits and withdrawals—it comes with a debit card, check-writing, and online bill pay. Most checking accounts have no monthly fee if you maintain a minimum balance (often $500 to $1,500) or set up direct deposit. Some banks offer free checking with no minimums at all.

A savings account is designed to hold money and earn interest. It has fewer withdrawal options than checking—typically 6 withdrawals per month before fees apply—and no debit card. Interest rates vary widely, from nearly 0% at traditional banks to 4% to 5% at online banks. Many people open both: a checking account for daily spending and a savings account for emergency funds or goals.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I open a bank account without a Social Security number?

Yes. If you do not have a Social Security number, bring an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) instead. Some banks accept an ITIN in place of an SSN; others do not. Call ahead to confirm. You will still need photo ID and proof of address.

What if I do not have a proof of address document?

If you are homeless or do not receive mail, some banks will accept a letter from a shelter, social services agency, or government office on official letterhead stating your current address. Call the bank first to ask what they will accept. A few banks will also accept a utility bill in someone else's name if you can explain the situation.

How long does it take to get my debit card?

Physical debit cards arrive in 7 to 10 business days by mail. Some banks offer instant digital cards in their app that work immediately for online purchases and contactless payments. If you need a card urgently, visit a branch in person and ask if they can issue a temporary card or expedite shipping.

Can I open an account if I owe money to another bank?

Yes, but the bank you owe money to may place a hold on your new account if they obtain a judgment against you. This is rare and usually happens only after months of unpaid overdrafts or debt collection. If you are worried, contact the bank you owe money to and ask about settling the debt before opening a new account elsewhere.

Do I need to keep a minimum balance after I open the account?

It depends on the account type and the bank. Many checking accounts waive monthly fees if you maintain a minimum balance (often $500 to $1,500) or set up direct deposit. Savings accounts sometimes require a minimum to earn interest. Read the account agreement or ask the banker what the requirements are for your specific account.