The documents you'll need depend on the bank, but most require an ID and proof of address

Every bank has its own list, but the core requirements are almost always the same: a government-issued photo ID, proof of your current address, and your Social Security number or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN). Some banks add a second form of ID or ask for employment information. A few will open an account with just a phone number and a video call. The fastest way to know what a specific bank needs is to call their customer service line or visit a branch — don't guess and show up unprepared.

If you don't have a photo ID yet, or if your address doesn't match your ID, you have options. Many banks will work with you on timing or accept alternative documents. The key is knowing what you're missing before you walk in or log on.

Key Takeaways

  • A government-issued photo ID (driver's license, passport, or state ID card) is required by every bank to prevent fraud and comply with federal law.
  • Proof of address usually means a recent utility bill, lease, mortgage statement, or government mail — typically dated within the last 60 days.
  • Your Social Security number or ITIN is required for tax reporting; banks cannot open accounts without one or the other.
  • Some banks ask for a second ID, employment verification, or initial deposit amount — call ahead to confirm what your chosen bank requires.
  • If you lack a photo ID, some banks and credit unions will accept alternative documents or allow you to open an account online and verify later.

Government-issued photo ID: what counts and what doesn't

Banks must verify your identity under federal law (the Bank Secrecy Act), so a photo ID is non-negotiable. A driver's license or state ID card is the standard. A U.S. passport works. A passport card works. A military ID works. A tribal ID issued by a federally recognized tribe works.

What doesn't work: a school ID, a work badge, a library card, or an expired ID. The ID must be current or very recently expired — most banks accept IDs expired within the last year, but some are stricter. If your ID is expired by more than a year, call the bank first. If your ID is lost or stolen, you'll need to get a replacement from your state's DMV or the passport office before you can open an account, unless the bank offers an alternative path (some do).

The name on your ID must match the name you use to open the account. If you've recently changed your name, bring both your old ID and a document proving the change — a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order. The bank will note the name change in your file.

Proof of address: documents the bank will accept

Banks need to know where you live. They accept recent mail or documents showing your name and current address. Most banks want the document dated within the last 60 days, though some go back 90 days. A few will accept older documents if you can explain why.

Common proof-of-address documents include: a utility bill (electric, gas, water, internet, or phone), a lease or rental agreement, a mortgage statement, a property tax bill, a homeowners insurance policy, a bank or credit card statement, a government check or tax return, or mail from a government agency. If you're homeless or living with someone else, some banks will accept a letter from a shelter, a social services agency, or the person whose address you're using — call ahead to ask what form the letter should take.

If your address on file doesn't match your ID, bring both documents and explain the change. If you just moved and haven't received mail at your new address yet, some banks will accept a lease or utility bill in your name, or a bill addressed to "Current Resident" at your new address. A few will let you update your address after opening the account.

Social Security number or ITIN: why it's required and what to do if you don't have one

Banks report account activity to the IRS for tax purposes. Federal law requires them to collect either a Social Security number (SSN) or an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN). You cannot open a bank account without one or the other.

If you have a Social Security number, bring your Social Security card or a document showing your number — a tax return, a W-2, a pay stub, or a Social Security statement. If you don't have the card itself, the bank can verify your number through the Social Security Administration's database.

If you don't have a Social Security number but you're a U.S. resident, you can apply for an ITIN through the IRS. The process takes several weeks. You'll need to file Form W-7 with the IRS, along with proof of identity and proof of residency. Some banks will let you open an account while your ITIN application is pending if you can show proof that you've applied. Call the bank to ask whether they'll hold an account open while you wait for your ITIN to arrive.

Initial deposit and minimum balance requirements

Some banks require you to deposit money when you open an account. The amount varies widely — some banks ask for $25, others for $100 or more. Some have no minimum at all. A few banks waive the minimum deposit if you set up direct deposit of your paycheck.

Minimum balance requirements are separate from the opening deposit. Many banks require you to keep a certain amount in the account at all times to avoid monthly fees. This might be $100, $500, or more. Some accounts have no minimum. If you can't meet the minimum, ask whether the bank offers a different account type that does, or whether you can waive the fee by setting up direct deposit or automatic transfers.

Ask about the minimum before you open the account. If the bank won't tell you, that's a sign to look elsewhere.

Additional information banks sometimes request

Beyond the core documents, some banks ask for employment information, a phone number, an email address, or a second form of ID. These requests vary by bank and by account type.

Employment information might include your employer's name, your job title, or your annual income. Banks use this to assess risk and to comply with anti-money-laundering rules. You don't have to be employed to open an account — if you're retired, unemployed, or self-employed, say so. The bank will still open the account.

A second form of ID might be a passport, a military ID, a state ID, or a utility bill. Some banks ask for this if your first ID is close to expiring or if they want extra verification. If you don't have a second form of ID, ask whether the bank will accept something else — a lease, a pay stub, or a letter from an employer.

Phone number and email are standard. The bank uses these to contact you about fraud alerts, account changes, and promotional offers. You can usually opt out of promotional emails later.

What to do if you're missing a document

If you don't have a photo ID, start by applying for one. A state ID card (non-driver) is usually faster and cheaper than a driver's license. You'll need to visit your state's DMV with proof of identity (a birth certificate, passport, or other government document) and proof of address. The process takes a few days to a few weeks depending on your state.

While you wait, some banks and credit unions will open an account online using alternative verification methods — a video call, a security question, or a callback to a phone number you provide. Online banks are more likely to offer this than brick-and-mortar branches. If you're in a hurry, call a few banks and ask which ones can open an account without a photo ID.

If you don't have proof of address, ask the bank what alternatives they accept. A lease, a utility bill, or a government check in your name usually works. If you're homeless, bring a letter from a shelter or social services agency. If you're living with family and have no mail in your name, ask whether the bank will accept a utility bill addressed to "Current Resident" or a letter from the person whose address you're using.

If you don't have a Social Security number or ITIN, apply for an ITIN before you open the account. The application takes several weeks. Some banks will let you open an account while you wait if you show proof of your application.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I open a bank account with an expired ID?

Most banks accept IDs expired within the last year. Some are stricter and require a current ID. Call the bank before you go in. If your ID is expired by more than a year, you'll need to renew it at your state's DMV or passport office first.

What if my name on my ID doesn't match the name I want to use for the account?

Bring both your old ID and a document proving the name change — a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order. The bank will update your file and open the account under your new name. The process takes a few extra minutes but is routine.

Do I need to bring original documents or can I show copies?

Banks require originals or certified copies for in-person applications. For online applications, you'll upload photos or scans of your documents. The bank will verify them electronically. Ask the bank what format they need before you apply.

Can I open a bank account if I don't have a Social Security number?

No, but you can apply for an ITIN through the IRS using Form W-7. The process takes several weeks. Some banks will open an account while your ITIN application is pending if you show proof that you've applied. Call ahead to ask.

What if I'm homeless and don't have proof of address?

Bring a letter from a shelter, a social services agency, or a government program stating your name and the shelter's or agency's address. Some banks will accept this in place of a utility bill or lease. Call the bank first to confirm they'll accept a shelter letter.