The documents you need to bring
Most banks require two things: a government-issued photo ID and proof of your current address. The photo ID is almost always a driver's license, passport, or state ID card. For proof of address, bring a recent utility bill, lease, mortgage statement, or bank statement dated within the last 60 days — the exact timeframe varies by bank, so call ahead if you're unsure.
Some banks ask for a third document: your Social Security number or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN). You don't need to bring a card; you can simply tell the banker your number and they'll verify it. If you don't have a Social Security number, many banks will still open an account with an ITIN, which is issued by the IRS to people who file taxes but aren't may be able to access for a Social Security number.
If you're opening an account for a child, you'll need to bring your own ID and proof of address, plus the child's birth certificate or Social Security card. Some banks require both parents or guardians to be present; others allow one. Call your bank first to confirm what they need.
Key Takeaways
- Bring a government photo ID and a recent utility bill or bank statement showing your current address — these are the two documents almost every bank requires.
- You'll need to provide your Social Security number or ITIN, but you don't need to bring the card itself.
- Different banks have different rules about address verification timeframes and whether they accept ITIN instead of a Social Security number, so confirm requirements before you go.
- If you're opening an account for a minor, bring your ID and proof of address plus the child's birth certificate, and check whether the bank requires both parents present.
- Opening an account usually takes 15 to 30 minutes in person, or 10 to 15 minutes online if the bank offers it.
What happens if you don't have a photo ID
If you've lost your ID or never had one, you have options. Some banks will open an account with a passport, even if it's expired, or with a state ID card you can get from your local DMV. A few banks accept a tribal ID, military ID, or consular ID from your home country.
If you have none of these, call banks in your area and ask which ones accept alternative documents. Some will take a combination of documents instead — for example, a birth certificate plus a utility bill plus a letter from an employer or social service agency confirming your identity. This takes longer and may require a manager's approval, but it's not impossible.
Online accounts versus in-person accounts
Online banks often have lower document requirements than brick-and-mortar banks. Many will let you open an account with just a photo ID and proof of address, verified through your phone camera or by uploading a scan. You won't need to visit a branch, and the whole process takes 10 to 15 minutes.
The tradeoff is that online banks have no physical location. If you need to deposit cash, you'll have to use an ATM or mail a check. Some online banks partner with ATM networks so you can deposit at thousands of locations; others charge you a fee for out-of-network deposits. Read the fee schedule before you open the account.
Traditional banks let you walk in, hand over your documents, and leave with a debit card the same day. You can deposit cash at the teller window and talk to someone if something goes wrong. But they may require more documents, and some charge monthly maintenance fees.
What banks do with the information you provide
When you open an account, the bank runs your information through a federal database called ChexSystems. This system tracks whether you've had accounts closed due to fraud, unpaid overdrafts, or other problems. If you show up in ChexSystems with a negative mark, some banks will deny you. Others will still open an account but may restrict what you can do with it.
The bank also reports your account to the IRS using your Social Security number or ITIN. This is required by law and happens whether you want it to or not. The bank doesn't share your information with other companies for marketing purposes without your permission, though they may send you offers for their own products.
Minimum deposits and account types
Most banks don't require a minimum deposit to open a checking or savings account, though some do. Online banks almost never require a minimum. Traditional banks may require $25 to $100 to open, or sometimes nothing if you set up direct deposit.
When you open an account, the banker will ask whether you want checking, savings, or both. Checking accounts are for everyday spending — they come with a debit card and checks. Savings accounts earn interest and are meant for money you're not spending right away. The interest rate varies wildly depending on the bank; online banks typically pay more than traditional banks.
Some banks offer special accounts for students, seniors, or people with low income. These may have lower fees or no monthly maintenance charge. Ask whether your bank has one.
What to expect during the account opening process
In person, the banker will ask you to sign documents and verify your information. They'll explain the account terms, show you the fee schedule, and ask whether you want online banking and a debit card. The whole visit takes 15 to 30 minutes. You'll leave with a temporary debit card or a card number you can use immediately; the physical card arrives by mail in 7 to 10 days.
Online, you'll upload photos of your ID and proof of address, enter your personal information, and review the account terms on screen. You'll create a username and password, set up a PIN, and choose whether to link a bank account for transfers. Within a few minutes, your account is open and you can start using it. Some banks send a debit card by mail; others let you use your phone to pay instead.
If the bank denies you
If a bank says no, ask why. Common reasons are a negative ChexSystems record, unpaid overdrafts at another bank, or fraud. You have the right to see your ChexSystems report for free. Visit chexsystems.com or call 1-800-428-9623 to request it. If there's an error, you can dispute it.
If you're denied because of ChexSystems, try a second-chance bank account. These are designed for people with banking history problems and usually have higher fees, but they're real accounts that report to ChexSystems. After 12 to 24 months of good behavior, you can move to a regular account.
If you're denied because you don't have a Social Security number or ITIN, try banks that specifically serve immigrants or unbanked communities. Some credit unions also have looser requirements than traditional banks.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I open a bank account without a Social Security number?
Yes. You can use an ITIN instead, which the IRS issues to people who file taxes but aren't may be able to access for a Social Security number. Some banks accept ITIN; others don't. Call ahead to confirm. Credit unions are often more flexible than traditional banks on this point.
Do I need to bring original documents or can I bring copies?
Banks require originals so they can verify the documents are real. You can bring a copy of your address proof if the original is at home, but your photo ID must be the actual card. Some online banks accept photos or scans instead.
What if I'm homeless and don't have proof of address?
Some banks will accept a letter from a shelter, social service agency, or trusted person confirming your current address. Others will let you use a PO box or the address of a friend or family member. Call ahead and explain your situation — many banks have workarounds for this.
How long does it take to open an account?
In person, 15 to 30 minutes. Online, 10 to 15 minutes. Your account is usually active immediately, though your debit card arrives by mail in 7 to 10 days. Some banks let you use a temporary card number or mobile payment right away.
Can I open an account if I've been denied before?
Yes. If you were denied because of ChexSystems, request your report to see what's on it and dispute any errors. Then look for a second-chance account or a credit union, which often have more lenient policies. After 12 to 24 months of good standing, you can move to a regular account.