What you need before you walk in

You need two things to open a bank account: proof of identity and proof of address. Most banks will accept a driver's license or state ID as identity. For address, bring a recent utility bill, lease, mortgage statement, or government mail—something dated within the last 60 days with your name and current address on it.

Some banks also ask for a Social Security number or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN). If you don't have either, ask the bank whether they offer accounts for people without an SSN—some do, though the process takes longer. Bring your original documents, not copies; banks verify them in person.

If you're under 18, you'll need a parent or guardian to co-sign. The adult will need their own ID and proof of address. Some banks have separate teen accounts with limited features; others require a joint account where both people can access the money.

Key Takeaways

  • Bring a government-issued ID and a recent utility bill or lease showing your current address; banks verify originals in person.
  • You can open an account in person at a branch, by phone, or online, depending on the bank—online is fastest if you have all documents ready.
  • The account opens immediately or within one business day; you can deposit money and use a debit card within days.
  • If you have a history of overdrafts or fraud reported to ChexSystems, some banks will reject you, but others specialize in second-chance accounts.
  • Monthly fees vary widely—from zero to $15—and depend on your balance, direct deposits, or account type; ask before you open.

Opening in person at a branch

Walk into any branch of the bank you've chosen with your ID, proof of address, and Social Security number or ITIN. Tell the teller or banker you want to open a checking or savings account. They'll hand you an application—usually one or two pages—and ask you to fill in your name, address, phone number, and employment information.

The banker will review your application, verify your documents, and run a check through ChexSystems, a database that tracks banking history. This takes about 10 minutes. If you pass, they'll ask which account type you want (checking, savings, or both), set your initial deposit amount, and order a debit card. The account opens that day. Your debit card arrives by mail in 5 to 10 business days; you can use your account immediately with a temporary card or online transfers.

If ChexSystems shows a history of overdrafts, bounced checks, or fraud, the bank may deny you on the spot. If that happens, ask whether they offer a second-chance account or refer you to a bank that specializes in people with banking problems—many credit unions and smaller regional banks do.

Opening online or by phone

Most large banks let you open an account entirely online. Go to their website, click "Open an Account," and fill in your personal information. You'll upload photos of your ID and proof of address using your phone or computer camera. The bank verifies these documents electronically, usually within a few hours.

Some banks ask you to verify your identity by answering security questions based on your credit history, or by confirming small deposits they make to an existing account. Once verified, the account opens immediately. You can set up direct deposit, transfer money from another account, or order a debit card—all online. Your card arrives in 5 to 10 business days.

Opening by phone works similarly: call the bank's customer service number, provide your information verbally, and they'll mail you documents to sign and return. This route is slower—usually 1 to 2 weeks—because the bank waits for your signed paperwork before fully activating the account. Online is faster if you have a camera and a clear photo of your documents.

What happens if you don't have an address

If you're unhoused or living temporarily, some banks will accept mail sent to a shelter, a trusted friend's address, or a PO box as proof of address. Call ahead and ask; policies vary. A few banks will open an account with only an ID and no address proof, though they may limit what you can do until you provide one.

Credit unions are often more flexible than large banks on this point. If a mainstream bank turns you down, contact a credit union in your area—they're member-owned and sometimes work with people in unstable housing situations. You can find credit unions near you through the CO-OP network or by searching your state's credit union league.

Choosing between checking and savings

A checking account is for money you spend regularly. It comes with a debit card and check-writing ability. You can make unlimited deposits and withdrawals. Most checking accounts have no interest—your money sits there earning nothing—but you get the convenience of a card and online bill pay.

A savings account is for money you're setting aside. It earns a small amount of interest (currently 0.01% to 5%, depending on the bank and the economy). You can withdraw money, but some banks limit you to six withdrawals per month. Savings accounts have lower fees than checking accounts.

Many people open both: a checking account for bills and daily spending, and a savings account for an emergency fund or a goal. Some banks bundle them together and let you transfer money between them instantly online. Ask whether the bank charges a fee to link accounts or to move money between them.

Monthly fees and how to avoid them

Bank account fees range from zero to $15 per month. Common fees include a monthly maintenance fee (charged just for having the account), overdraft fees (charged when you spend more than you have), and ATM fees (charged when you use an out-of-network ATM). Some banks charge all three; others charge none.

To avoid fees, look for banks that waive the monthly fee if you maintain a minimum balance (often $500 to $1,500), receive direct deposits, or keep a certain amount in savings. Online banks and credit unions typically have lower or no monthly fees because they have fewer physical branches to maintain. Ask the banker or check the bank's website for the fee schedule before you open the account—it's usually listed under "Pricing" or "Account Terms."

If you overdraft (spend money you don't have), the bank charges an overdraft fee, usually $25 to $35 per transaction. Some banks let you turn off overdraft protection, which means your card will be declined instead of charging you a fee. This is worth doing if you're worried about overspending.

After your account opens

Once your account is open, set up online banking immediately. Go to the bank's website, enter your account number and a temporary password, and create a login. Online banking lets you check your balance, transfer money, pay bills, and deposit checks by phone camera—all without visiting a branch.

Set up direct deposit if your employer or a government program (like Social Security or unemployment) sends you money. Direct deposit is faster and safer than checks—the money lands in your account automatically on payday. Your employer or the government agency will ask for your account number and routing number; you can find both on a blank check or in your online banking portal.

Link your account to a savings account or a second bank if you want to move money between them. This takes 1 to 3 business days for the bank to verify the link. Once linked, you can transfer money instantly online.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I open a bank account if I've been denied before?

Yes. If you were denied because of ChexSystems, you can request a copy of your report for free and dispute any errors. Many banks offer second-chance checking accounts specifically for people with banking history problems. Credit unions are also more likely to work with you than large national banks.

How long does it take to get a debit card?

The account opens the same day or next business day. Your physical debit card arrives by mail in 5 to 10 business days. Most banks let you use a temporary digital card in their mobile app or request an expedited card for a fee ($10 to $25) that arrives in 2 to 3 days.

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

You can use an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) instead. Some banks accept ITINs without question; others require extra verification. Call the bank before you go in and ask whether they open accounts for people with ITINs. Credit unions are often more flexible on this than large banks.

Can I open an account with just a phone number and no address?

Most banks require proof of address. However, some will accept a shelter address, a PO box, or a trusted contact's address. A few online banks may open an account with limited features and ask you to provide an address later. Call ahead to ask about the bank's specific policy.

Do I need to keep a minimum balance?

It depends on the bank and account type. Some accounts waive monthly fees if you keep $500 or more; others have no minimum. Check the fee schedule before opening. If you can't maintain a minimum, look for banks that don't require one—many online banks and credit unions don't.