The documents and information you'll need before you walk in
To open a bank account, you need a government-issued photo ID, proof of your current address, and your Social Security number or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN). Most banks will also ask for your phone number and email. That's the core set. Some banks add extra steps depending on their own policies, but these five things cover what nearly every institution requires.
The ID must be current and show your face—a driver's license, passport, or state ID card all work. The address proof can be a recent utility bill, lease, mortgage statement, or government mail dated within the last 60 days. If you don't have a utility bill in your name, a bank statement from another institution, a phone bill, or even a letter from a government agency showing your address will usually do. Call the bank branch first if you're unsure whether what you have will work.
You'll also need to decide what type of account you want—checking, savings, or both—before you arrive. This affects which forms you sign but not which documents you bring.
Key Takeaways
- Bring a current government photo ID, proof of your address from the last 60 days, and your Social Security number or ITIN to any bank branch.
- Address proof can be a utility bill, lease, mortgage statement, or government mail—it doesn't have to be in your name if it shows your current address.
- Some banks require a minimum opening deposit, which ranges from zero to several hundred dollars depending on the institution and account type.
- Online banks typically have lower or no minimum deposits but require you to verify your identity through video call or by uploading documents instead of visiting a branch.
- If you don't have a Social Security number, an ITIN from the IRS works for most banks, though some have restrictions on ITIN-only accounts.
Minimum deposit requirements vary by bank and account type
Some banks let you open an account with no money down. Others require a minimum deposit—typically $25 to $300—before the account is active. This amount stays in the account; it's not a fee. The requirement depends on which bank you choose and which type of account you're opening. A checking account at one bank might have a $100 minimum while a savings account at the same bank has none.
Online banks and credit unions often have lower or no minimums because they have fewer physical branches to maintain. Traditional brick-and-mortar banks vary widely. Call or visit the bank's website to check the specific requirement before you go in, so you know whether you need to bring cash or a check to fund the account on opening day.
If you don't have the minimum on hand, some banks will let you make an initial deposit later—usually within a set number of days—but confirm this before you start the process. Don't assume it's flexible.
Online accounts require identity verification but no branch visit
If you open an account online instead of at a branch, you won't need to print and bring documents. Instead, you'll upload photos of your ID and address proof directly through the bank's website or app, or you'll complete a video call with a bank representative who verifies your identity in real time. The documents themselves are the same; the delivery method changes.
Online verification usually takes a few minutes to a few hours. Some banks approve you instantly; others take up to one business day. You can fund the account immediately after approval by linking an existing bank account or providing a debit card number. If you're opening your very first account and have no other bank to link, ask the bank whether you can mail a check or make an initial deposit another way.
Online accounts move faster than branch visits, but you lose the chance to ask questions face-to-face. If you're new to banking or unsure about account features, a branch visit may be worth the extra time.
What to bring if you don't have a standard Social Security number
If you have an ITIN—an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number issued by the IRS—most banks will open an account for you using that instead of a Social Security number. Bring the same documents as anyone else: your photo ID, address proof, and your ITIN. Some banks ask to see the IRS letter that assigned you the ITIN, so bring that if you have it.
A small number of banks restrict ITIN-only accounts—they may not offer certain features, require higher minimums, or limit how you can fund the account. Call ahead to confirm the bank you're considering accepts ITIN accounts and what restrictions apply. Credit unions are often more flexible than large national banks on this point.
If you don't have either a Social Security number or an ITIN, you cannot open a standard personal bank account at a U.S. bank. Some banks offer accounts for non-residents or people without a tax ID, but these are rare and often come with higher fees or lower limits. Contact the bank directly to ask whether they have options for your situation.
Joint accounts and accounts for minors require extra steps
If you're opening a joint account with another person, both account holders must be present (in person or online) and provide their own ID, address proof, and Social Security number or ITIN. The bank will ask which person is the primary account holder and confirm that both of you agree to the account terms. Both names go on the account, and both people can withdraw money and make decisions about the account.
For a minor (someone under 18), a parent or legal guardian must open the account with them. The adult provides their own ID and address proof; the minor provides theirs if they have a state ID or passport. Some banks allow minors to have their own debit card tied to the account; others require the adult to manage all transactions. Ask the bank what options they offer for youth accounts before you open one.
If you're opening an account on behalf of someone else who is not present—a child, an elderly relative, or someone else—you typically cannot do this. Banks require the account holder themselves to consent and verify their identity, even if you're a family member or caregiver. Power of attorney documents don't override this requirement.
What happens after you open the account
Once the bank approves your account, you'll receive a debit card in the mail within 5 to 10 business days (or sometimes instantly if you're at a branch). You'll also get online banking login information, either on the spot or via email. Your account is usable immediately for transfers and bill pay, even if your debit card hasn't arrived yet.
The bank will send you a welcome packet with your account number, routing number, and initial disclosures. Keep these documents—you'll need the routing and account numbers to set up direct deposit or to receive wire transfers. If you lose them, you can find both numbers on any check the bank sends you, or log into online banking and look them up there.
You can start using the account right away, but don't close any existing accounts until you're sure the new one is working as expected. Test a small transfer or deposit first if you're moving money from another bank.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I open a bank account without a photo ID?
No. A government-issued photo ID is required by federal law (part of Know Your Customer rules). If you don't have a driver's license or passport, you can get a state ID card from your DMV. Some banks accept a passport card or tribal ID as alternatives, so call ahead if your ID is unusual.
What if I don't have proof of address?
If you're homeless or don't receive mail, ask the bank what alternatives they accept. Some will use a phone bill, a letter from a shelter or social service agency, or even a statement from another bank. A few banks will waive the address requirement if you provide additional ID or let a current customer vouch for you, though this is uncommon.
Do I need to open an account in person, or can I do it entirely online?
Most banks let you open online, but some require at least one in-person visit. Online opening is faster and works if you have a camera to photograph your documents. In-person opening takes longer but lets you ask questions and sometimes get your debit card immediately.
What's the difference between a checking and savings account, and do I need both?
A checking account is for frequent deposits and withdrawals—paying bills, getting paid, everyday spending. A savings account earns interest and is meant for money you're not using right now. You don't need both, but many people keep one of each. Ask the bank which account type fits how you plan to use the money.
Can I open an account if I've had banking problems before?
It depends on what happened. If you owe a bank money or closed an account with a negative balance, that bank may refuse to open a new account for you. Other banks won't know about it. You can try a different bank, a credit union, or a second-chance banking program designed for people with banking history issues. Call ahead and ask whether they work with people in your situation.