The basics: what banks ask for
To open a checking or savings account at most banks, you need a government-issued photo ID, proof of your current address, and your Social Security number or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN). That is the minimum. Some banks also ask for an initial deposit—amounts vary from $0 to $300 depending on the institution and account type—though many now offer accounts with no minimum.
The photo ID must be current and show your face. A driver's license, passport, or state ID card all work. If you do not have a photo ID, some banks will accept a combination of other documents like a utility bill plus a birth certificate, but this varies by bank and branch. Call ahead if you are in this situation.
Proof of address can be a recent utility bill, lease, mortgage statement, or government mail with your name and current address. It usually needs to be dated within the last 60 days. A cell phone bill counts at some banks but not others, so ask when you call.
Key Takeaways
- You will need a government photo ID, proof of your current address dated within 60 days, and your Social Security number or ITIN to open an account.
- Many banks no longer require a minimum deposit, but some still do; amounts range from $0 to $300 depending on the bank and account type.
- If you do not have a photo ID, some banks accept a combination of documents like a utility bill and birth certificate, but policies vary by location.
- Online banks typically have the same document requirements as brick-and-mortar banks but may verify your identity through video call or upload instead of in person.
- If you have been denied a bank account before, you can still open one at a bank that does not use ChexSystems or at a second-chance banking program.
What happens if you do not have a Social Security number
If you are a non-citizen without a Social Security number, you can use an ITIN instead. You obtain an ITIN from the IRS by filing Form W-7, which takes four to six weeks to process. Some banks will open an account while your ITIN application is pending if you provide the receipt showing you have filed.
A smaller number of banks will open accounts for people without either document, but these are less common. Credit unions sometimes have more flexible policies than large national banks. If you are in this situation, contact your local credit union or a community bank directly to ask what they accept.
Banks that check ChexSystems and what it means for you
Most banks use ChexSystems, a reporting system that tracks banking history. When you apply, the bank checks whether you have unpaid overdrafts, closed accounts due to fraud, or other negative marks. If ChexSystems shows a problem, the bank may deny your account or require you to resolve the issue first.
You have the right to see your ChexSystems report for free. You can request it at www.chexsystems.com or by calling 1-800-428-9623. If there is an error on your report, you can dispute it directly with ChexSystems, and they must investigate within 30 days.
If you have been denied because of ChexSystems, you have options. Some banks do not use ChexSystems at all—you can search for them by calling ahead or checking their website. You can also look for second-chance banking programs, which are accounts designed for people with banking history problems. These accounts often have higher fees and lower limits, but they let you rebuild your banking record.
Opening an account online versus in person
Online banks have the same document requirements as traditional banks but verify your identity differently. Instead of showing documents to a teller, you upload photos of your ID and proof of address, or you complete a video call with a representative who confirms your identity. The process usually takes a few minutes to a few hours.
In-person accounts at a branch take longer if you have to wait, but the process is straightforward: bring your documents, sign forms, and the account opens the same day. Some branches can open accounts in 15 minutes; others take longer depending on how busy they are.
Online accounts are faster if you are applying outside business hours, but they may take longer to fully activate—sometimes one to three business days before you can deposit money or use a debit card. In-person accounts are usually ready to use immediately.
Joint accounts and accounts for minors
If you want to open a joint account with another person, both account holders must provide ID, proof of address, and Social Security number or ITIN. Both people must be present in person at most banks, though some online banks allow one person to apply and add the other later.
For a minor (under 18), a parent or legal guardian must open the account with them. The minor's birth certificate and the adult's ID and proof of address are typically required. Some banks allow minors to have their own account at age 13 or 14 with a parent as a co-owner; others require the parent to be a joint owner until age 18. Policies vary, so ask the bank directly.
What to bring and what to expect on the day
Bring your photo ID, proof of address, and Social Security number or ITIN. Write down your ITIN or Social Security number beforehand so you do not have to search for it. If you are opening a joint account, bring both people's documents. If you are opening an account for a minor, bring the minor and the parent or guardian.
The bank will ask you to sign forms and choose your account type (checking, savings, or both). You may be asked about your employment and income, but this is optional—you can decline to answer. The bank will also ask how you plan to use the account and whether you want online banking and a debit card.
Bring a small initial deposit if you want to fund the account right away, though this is not required. You can deposit money later by transfer, direct deposit, or in person.
Second-chance accounts if you have been denied before
If a bank has denied you because of ChexSystems or past banking problems, second-chance accounts are designed for this situation. These accounts have higher monthly fees (often $10 to $15), lower spending limits, and sometimes require a larger initial deposit. But they report to ChexSystems, so using one responsibly helps rebuild your banking history.
To find a second-chance account, search online for "second chance bank account" plus your state or city, or call your local credit union and ask if they offer accounts for people with banking history issues. Some community banks and credit unions have their own versions of these accounts.
After six months to a year of using a second-chance account without problems, you can often move to a standard account at the same bank or switch to another bank that will accept you based on your improved history.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a minimum deposit to open an account?
Most banks no longer require a minimum deposit, but some do. Amounts range from $25 to $300 depending on the bank and account type. Call the bank or check their website before you go in. If you cannot meet a minimum, look for a bank that offers no-minimum accounts—many online banks and credit unions have them.
What if I do not have proof of address?
If you do not have a recent utility bill or lease, ask the bank what other documents they accept. Some take government mail, bank statements, or insurance documents. If you are homeless or do not have a permanent address, some banks will accept a shelter address or a mail forwarding service address. Call ahead to confirm.
Can I open an account if I have been denied before?
Yes. Check your ChexSystems report to see why you were denied. If the issue is resolved (overdrafts paid, fraud cleared), you can apply at a different bank. If the issue is not resolved, look for a second-chance account or a bank that does not use ChexSystems. Credit unions are often more flexible than large national banks.
How long does it take to open an account online?
The application usually takes 10 to 30 minutes. Identity verification can happen immediately through video call or take a few hours if you upload documents. The account itself may take one to three business days to fully activate before you can deposit money or use a debit card.
Do I have to give my employment information?
No. Banks may ask about your job and income, but you can decline to answer. They cannot deny you an account based on your refusal to provide this information. They can only deny you based on ChexSystems history, lack of required ID, or inability to verify your identity.