What you need before you walk in or go online

Most banks require two pieces of identification and proof of your current 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 with your name and current address on it — usually from the last 60 days.

Some banks also ask for your Social Security number during the account opening process. If you do not have one, ask the bank whether they can open an account using an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) instead — policies vary by bank. A few banks will open accounts without a Social Security number at all, though this is less common.

Have your initial deposit ready. Many banks require a minimum opening deposit, which ranges from $0 to several hundred dollars depending on the account type and the bank. Some banks waive the minimum if you set up direct deposit or maintain a certain balance. Ask about this before you commit.

Key Takeaways

  • Bring a government photo ID, a second form of ID, and a recent utility bill or lease showing your current address.
  • Most banks require an opening deposit, but the amount varies — some have no minimum, others require $25 to $500 or more.
  • You can open an account in person at a branch or online through the bank's website, and the process usually takes 15 minutes to an hour.
  • After opening, you will receive a debit card and account number, and online banking access is typically available the same day or within 24 hours.
  • If you have a history of overdrafts or fraud reported to ChexSystems, some banks may deny you, but others specialize in second-chance accounts.

Opening an account in person at a branch

Walk into any branch of the bank during business hours with your documents and initial deposit. Tell a teller or banker that you want to open a new account. They will ask you which type of account you want — usually checking, savings, or both. A checking account is for regular spending and bill payments. A savings account earns a small amount of interest and is meant for money you are not spending right away. Many people open both at the same time.

The banker will take your ID and address proof, verify your information, and ask you to sign paperwork. This usually takes 15 to 30 minutes. You will choose a PIN for your debit card and set up online banking access. Before you leave, you will have an account number, and your debit card will either be issued on the spot or mailed to you within 5 to 7 business days. Online banking is usually live the same day.

Opening an account online

Visit the bank's website and look for a button that says "Open an Account" or "New Account." You will enter your personal information — name, address, date of birth, Social Security number — and upload photos of your ID and address proof using your phone or computer. Some banks use video verification, where you hold your ID up to your camera and answer a few questions to confirm you are who you say you are.

The entire process takes 10 to 20 minutes. Once approved, you will receive your account number immediately and can set up online banking and bill pay right away. Your debit card arrives by mail in 5 to 10 business days. Some online-only banks (like Ally or Charles Schwab) have no physical branches, so you cannot deposit cash in person — you deposit checks by photographing them through the app or by mail.

What happens if the bank says no

Banks use a system called ChexSystems to check your banking history. If you have unpaid overdraft fees, a history of bounced checks, or fraud reported by another bank, ChexSystems will flag your record and the bank may deny your application. This does not mean you cannot open an account anywhere — it means you need to find a bank that works with people in your situation.

Some banks specialize in second-chance checking accounts. These accounts may have higher fees, lower limits on debit card spending, or a waiting period before you can write checks, but they are designed for people with ChexSystems records. Credit unions often have more flexible policies than large banks. You can also ask the bank that reported you to ChexSystems to remove the record if you have paid the overdraft fees or resolved the issue — this takes a written request and usually 30 to 60 days.

Fees and account features to compare

Before you open an account, ask about monthly maintenance fees. Many banks charge $10 to $15 per month, but many waive the fee if you maintain a minimum balance (often $500 to $1,500), set up direct deposit, or use online banking only. Some banks have no monthly fee at all.

Ask about overdraft fees — what the bank charges if you spend more than you have in your account. This varies from $25 to $40 per overdraft. Some banks offer overdraft protection, which links your checking account to a savings account or credit line so that money transfers automatically if you overdraw. Ask whether the bank charges a fee for this transfer.

Compare ATM access. If the bank has few branches or ATMs near you, you may pay $2 to $3 every time you withdraw cash at another bank's ATM. Some banks reimburse out-of-network ATM fees; others do not. Online banks often partner with ATM networks so you can withdraw cash for free at thousands of locations.

After your account is open

Your debit card will arrive in the mail. Activate it by calling the number on the back or using the bank's app. Set up online banking by logging in with your username and password. Most banks let you transfer money between your own accounts, pay bills, and send money to other people through their website or app.

If you want to receive paychecks directly into your account, ask your employer for the direct deposit form. You will need to provide your account number and the bank's routing number, which you can find on a check or by logging into online banking. Direct deposit usually takes one to two pay periods to set up.

Consider setting up account alerts. Most banks let you turn on notifications for low balance, large withdrawals, or failed transactions. This helps you catch fraud or overdrafts early.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I open an account if I do not have a Social Security number?

Some banks will open an account using an ITIN (Individual Taxpayer Identification Number) or a passport number instead. Call ahead to ask, because policies vary. Credit unions are often more flexible than large banks on this requirement.

How long does it take to open an account?

In person, 15 to 30 minutes. Online, 10 to 20 minutes. You can use online banking the same day, but your debit card arrives by mail in 5 to 10 business days. Some banks offer expedited card delivery for a fee.

What if I do not have a current address or proof of address?

Some banks will accept a letter from a shelter, social service agency, or government office confirming your address. Call the bank and explain your situation — they may have an alternative process. Online banks sometimes have more flexibility than branches.

Can I open a joint account with someone else?

Yes. Both people need to bring ID and address proof, and both will sign the paperwork. You can decide whether both people need to sign checks or approve transfers, or whether either person can do so alone. Ask the bank about their rules for joint accounts.

What should I do if my debit card is lost or stolen?

Call the bank's customer service number on the back of your card or log into online banking and report it immediately. The bank will cancel the card and mail a replacement, usually within 5 to 7 business days. You are not responsible for fraudulent charges if you report the card missing promptly.