The documents and information a bank will ask for

Most banks need four things before they will open an account: a government-issued photo ID, proof of your current address, your Social Security number, and an initial deposit (which can be as small as $1 at some banks, or $25 to $100 at others). Some banks also ask for a second form of ID or proof of income, depending on the account type and the bank's own rules. The exact list varies by bank and by state, so calling ahead or checking the bank's website saves you a trip.

You do not need perfect credit, a job, or a history with that bank. You do not need to be a U.S. citizen, though you will need an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) instead of a Social Security number if you are not. Banks are required by federal law to verify your identity and address before opening any account — this is called Know Your Customer (KYC) compliance, and it is the same at every bank.

Key Takeaways

  • Bring a government-issued photo ID (driver's license, passport, or state ID card) — this is required at every bank.
  • Proof of your current address can be a utility bill, lease, mortgage statement, or government mail dated within the last 60 days.
  • Your Social Security number or ITIN is required for tax reporting; the bank will verify it against federal records.
  • An initial deposit is usually required but often as small as $1 to $25, depending on the bank and account type.
  • Some banks ask for a second ID, proof of income, or employment verification — call ahead to know what to bring.

Government-issued photo ID

A bank will not open an account without a photo ID issued by a government agency. A driver's license, state ID card, or U.S. passport all work. A tribal ID is also accepted at most banks. The ID must not be expired — an expired license will be rejected, even if you have a renewal notice in hand.

If you do not have a driver's license or state ID, you can get one from your state's Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV). A passport takes longer to obtain but works at any bank. If you are not a U.S. citizen and do not have a state ID, a passport or national ID from your home country is usually accepted, though some banks have stricter rules — call first.

Proof of your current address

Banks need to confirm where you live. A utility bill (electric, gas, water, or internet), a lease or mortgage statement, or a government letter (tax return, voter registration, or benefits notice) dated within the last 60 days all work. The document must show your full name and current street address.

If you recently moved and do not have a bill or lease in your new name yet, ask your landlord or utility company for a letter on their letterhead confirming your address. Some banks will accept a cell phone bill or credit card statement if the address matches your ID. A few banks will accept a bank statement from another bank as proof of address. If you are homeless or living with someone else, some banks have workarounds — call and explain your situation before you go in.

Social Security number or ITIN

Banks must report account activity to the IRS, so they need your Social Security number (SSN) or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN). You will be asked to provide it verbally or on a form; the bank will then verify it against federal records. This verification can take a few minutes or a few days, depending on the bank's process.

If you do not have an SSN, you can apply for an ITIN through the IRS. The process takes several weeks. If you are waiting for an SSN or ITIN, some banks will hold your application until the number arrives; others will not open the account until verification is complete. Ask the bank what their policy is before you start the process.

Initial deposit

Most banks require you to deposit money when you open an account. The amount varies widely: some online banks require as little as $1, while others ask for $25, $100, or more. A few banks have no minimum deposit at all. The deposit can come from cash, a check, a transfer from another bank account, or a wire transfer.

The deposit does not have to come from you — someone else can deposit money into your new account on your behalf. If you are opening an account with very little money, look for banks that advertise low or no minimum deposits; many online banks and credit unions fall into this category.

Additional documents some banks request

Depending on the bank and the type of account, you may be asked for a second form of ID, proof of income (a recent pay stub or tax return), or employment verification. Business accounts require more documentation: a business license, EIN (Employer Identification Number), and sometimes personal tax returns from the owner. Student accounts sometimes ask for proof of enrollment.

If the bank flags your application for any reason — for example, if your address does not match your ID, or if the name on your documents is inconsistent — they may ask for additional paperwork. This is normal and does not mean you will be denied. Call the bank and ask what they need; most issues are resolved with one extra document.

What happens after you bring everything in

The bank will verify your identity and address against government records, which usually takes a few minutes to a few hours in person. If you are opening an account online, verification can take 1 to 3 business days. Once the bank confirms everything, your account is active and you can start using it immediately — you will receive a debit card and checks within 1 to 2 weeks.

If the bank cannot verify your information, they will contact you and ask for clarification or additional documents. This happens most often when an address does not match, a name is spelled differently on different documents, or a Social Security number does not come back as valid. Bring copies of everything if you can, so you have backup proof on hand.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

Yes, if you have an ITIN. If you do not have either, you can apply for an ITIN through the IRS, which takes several weeks. Some banks will hold your application until your number arrives; others will not open the account until verification is complete. Call ahead to ask the bank's policy.

What if my address on my ID does not match where I live now?

Bring a separate proof of your current address — a utility bill, lease, or government letter dated within the last 60 days. The bank will use both documents: your ID to verify who you are, and the other document to confirm where you live now.

Do I need a job or income to open a bank account?

No. Banks do not require employment or income to open a basic checking or savings account. Some banks ask for proof of income only for certain account types or if they flag your application for review, but most do not ask at all.

Can someone else open a bank account for me?

No. You must be present and provide your own ID and signature. A parent or guardian can open an account for a minor, but the minor must usually be present as well. You cannot authorize someone else to open an account on your behalf.

How long does it take to open a bank account?

In person, it usually takes 15 to 30 minutes. Online, it takes 5 to 10 minutes to fill out the form, but verification can take 1 to 3 business days before your account is fully active. Some banks activate your account immediately and complete verification in the background.