What you can open online depends on the bank, not the account type
Most banks let you open a checking or savings account online without visiting a branch. The account itself—whether it's checking, savings, money market, or CD—is the same whether you open it in person or on a website. What changes is the bank's requirements and how fast the process moves.
The real constraint is identity verification. Banks are required by federal law to confirm who you are before they let you deposit money. Some banks do this entirely online using your Social Security number, driver's license number, and answers to questions about your credit history. Others ask you to verify in person, by mail, or through a video call. A few still require you to walk into a branch, though this is becoming rare.
The fastest online openings happen at banks that already have your information on file—if you're a customer moving money between accounts, or if you've had a credit card with them. New customers at those same banks often face longer verification, sometimes 24 to 48 hours.
Key Takeaways
- Most national banks and online-only banks let you open checking or savings accounts entirely online, but verification methods vary by bank.
- You will need a valid government ID, Social Security number, and proof of current address to open any account, whether online or in person.
- Online-only banks (sometimes called neobanks) typically have the fastest online opening process because they have no branches to fall back on.
- Some banks use instant verification through your credit history; others require you to upload documents or wait for a video call.
- Your account may not be fully active for deposits until the bank completes identity verification, which can take a few hours to a few business days.
National banks that let you open accounts online
Chase, Bank of America, Wells Fargo, Citibank, and US Bank all allow online account opening for checking and savings accounts. The process is similar across all of them: you enter your personal information, Social Security number, and driver's license details on their website or app. The bank then verifies your identity using your credit file and public records.
If verification succeeds immediately, you can start using your account the same day. If the bank needs more information—because your name doesn't match records exactly, or your address is new—they will ask you to upload a photo of your ID or call you to confirm details. This step can add 24 to 48 hours.
These banks also let existing customers open additional accounts online faster, sometimes in minutes, because they already have your verified identity on file.
Online-only banks with the fastest opening process
Online-only banks (Ally, Charles Schwab, Discover, Marcus, Chime, and others) have streamlined the online opening process because they have no physical branches. They rely entirely on digital verification and often complete it in minutes.
Ally and Discover typically verify you instantly using your Social Security number and driver's license information. Charles Schwab uses a similar method but may ask for additional verification if you're opening a brokerage account alongside a bank account. Chime and other neobanks aimed at younger customers often skip the credit-file check and instead verify through your phone number and email, making the process even faster.
The trade-off is that online-only banks have no branch network. If you need to deposit cash, you'll use ATM networks (which vary by bank) or mobile deposit through your phone. Some online banks partner with retail chains like Walmart or CVS to let you deposit cash at their registers.
What documents and information you need to have ready
Before you start, gather these items: a valid government-issued photo ID (driver's license, passport, or state ID), your Social Security number, and proof of your current address. Proof of address can be a recent utility bill, lease, mortgage statement, or bank statement in your name.
Have your phone nearby. Many banks send a verification code to your phone or email during the opening process. Some also call you to confirm your identity, especially if the online verification flags anything unusual.
If you're opening an account for a business, you'll need an Employer Identification Number (EIN) instead of a Social Security number, plus documentation showing you're authorized to open the account on behalf of the business. Most online banks do not offer business accounts through their website; you'll need to call or visit a branch.
How long it takes from start to first deposit
The timeline depends on the bank's verification method. If the bank verifies you instantly using your credit file, your account opens and you can deposit money the same day. Your debit card arrives by mail in 7 to 10 business days.
If the bank needs to verify additional information—uploading your ID photo or answering security questions—add 24 to 48 hours. If they call you, the process moves faster once you answer, usually within a few hours.
Some banks let you use your account before your debit card arrives by setting up transfers from another bank account or using a temporary digital card in their app. Others hold your account in a limited state until the physical card arrives.
Banks that still require in-person verification
A small number of banks, mostly regional or community banks, do not offer full online account opening. They may let you start the application online but require you to visit a branch with your ID to complete it. This is less common than it was five years ago, but it still happens at some credit unions and smaller local banks.
If you're considering a bank that isn't a major national chain or well-known online bank, check their website or call before you start the application. The website will usually say "open online" or "open in branch" clearly on the account page.
What happens if verification fails or takes longer
If the bank cannot verify your identity online, they will contact you by phone or email to ask for more information. Common reasons include a name mismatch (if you recently married or changed your name), a new address that hasn't appeared in public records yet, or a Social Security number that doesn't match your ID.
In these cases, the bank will ask you to upload a photo of your ID, provide a utility bill or lease showing your current address, or answer additional security questions. This usually resolves the issue within 24 hours. If it doesn't, you may need to visit a branch or call the bank's verification team directly.
Rarely, a bank will deny your application if they cannot verify your identity or if you have a history of fraud or unpaid accounts. If this happens, the bank will tell you why and give you a chance to dispute the decision. You can also try opening an account at a different bank.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I open an account online if I don't have a driver's license?
Yes. You can use a passport, state ID, or other government-issued photo ID. Some online banks also accept a passport card. The bank needs a photo ID and your Social Security number; the specific type of ID matters less than having one that's current and matches your name.
Do I need an existing bank account to open a new one online?
No. You can open your first account online at most banks. However, some banks ask for a phone number or email linked to a previous account to speed up verification. If you have no banking history, verification may take longer because the bank has fewer records to check, but you can still open an account.
What if I'm opening an account for someone else, like a minor or an elderly parent?
You cannot open an account in someone else's name online, even if you have power of attorney. The person whose name is on the account must verify their own identity. For minors, most banks require a parent or guardian to open a joint account in person or through a video call. For elderly parents, you can help them through the online process, but they must provide their own information and verify their identity.
Can I open multiple accounts at the same bank online?
Yes. Once your first account is open and verified, you can open additional checking, savings, or money market accounts online in minutes. The bank already has your verified identity on file, so the process is much faster than your first account.
What if the bank asks me to verify through a video call?
Some banks use video verification when online checks don't confirm your identity clearly. You'll schedule a short call (usually 5 to 10 minutes) with a bank representative who will ask you to show your ID and answer a few questions. This is secure and common. Have your ID ready and make sure you're in a quiet place where you can hear clearly.