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 also ask for an initial deposit, though the amount varies—some require $25, others $100 or more, and a few have no minimum. Bring these items with you, whether you're opening an account in person or online.

The exact requirements shift slightly between banks and between account types. A checking account may need different paperwork than a savings account. Online banks often ask for less documentation than brick-and-mortar branches. Some banks waive the ID requirement if you already have an account with them. Before you go, call the bank or check their website to confirm what they need from you specifically.

Key Takeaways

  • You must bring a government-issued photo ID (driver's license, passport, or state ID card) to prove who you are.
  • Proof of address—a recent utility bill, lease, or mortgage statement—is required by federal law to prevent money laundering.
  • Your Social Security number or ITIN is needed for tax reporting and fraud prevention, though some banks offer accounts without it.
  • An opening deposit is standard but varies by bank; some accounts start with zero dollars, while others require $25 to $500.
  • Online banks often have fewer requirements than in-person branches and can complete the process in minutes.

Government-issued photo ID: what counts

A driver's license is the most common form of ID banks accept. A state ID card (non-driver), U.S. passport, passport card, or military ID also work. Some banks accept a tribal ID if you're a member of a federally recognized tribe. The ID must not be expired, though banks vary on how recently it expired—some accept IDs expired within the last year, others require current IDs only.

If you don't have a photo ID, options exist but are narrower. Some banks will open an account using a combination of documents: a birth certificate plus a Social Security card, or a utility bill plus a school ID. A few community banks and credit unions are more flexible than national chains. Call ahead rather than showing up without ID—you may waste a trip.

Proof of address: documents that work

Banks need to verify where you live. A recent utility bill (electric, gas, water, internet) in your name works best and is what most banks ask for first. A lease or rental agreement, mortgage statement, property tax bill, or insurance statement also count. The document must show your name and current address and typically must be dated within the last 60 to 90 days, though this varies by bank.

If you're homeless or living with someone else, tell the bank. Some will accept mail from a government agency (like a Social Security statement), a letter from a shelter, or a statement from the person whose address you're using. A few banks have programs specifically for people without stable housing. Again, calling first saves time.

Social Security number or ITIN

Banks are required by federal law to collect your Social Security number (SSN) or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) for tax reporting and to screen against fraud databases. If you don't have an SSN—because you're not a U.S. citizen or permanent resident—an ITIN, issued by the IRS, serves the same purpose. You can apply for an ITIN through the IRS website or by mail using Form W-7.

A small number of banks offer accounts without an SSN or ITIN, though these are rare and often come with higher fees or lower interest rates. Credit unions are sometimes more willing to work around this requirement than national banks. If you need an account and don't have either number, contact local credit unions or community banks first.

Opening deposit and minimum balance requirements

Most banks require money to open an account, but the amount is not fixed. National banks like Chase or Bank of America often ask for $25 to $100. Some online banks (Ally, Charles Schwab) have no opening deposit. Credit unions vary widely—some require $5, others $50 or more. A few banks waive the opening deposit if you set up direct deposit of your paycheck.

The opening deposit is separate from a minimum balance requirement. You might deposit $100 to open the account, but then the bank requires you to keep $500 in the account at all times or face a monthly fee. Read the fee schedule before you open—it tells you the opening deposit, the minimum balance (if any), and what happens if you fall below it.

How opening an account online differs from in person

Online banks can verify your identity without you walking into a branch. You upload a photo of your ID, provide your address, and confirm your SSN or ITIN through the bank's website or app. The process usually takes 10 to 15 minutes. Some online banks use third-party verification services that cross-check your information against public records to speed things up.

In-person accounts at a branch require you to show original documents and sign paperwork. This takes longer but gives you a chance to ask questions and get help if something is unclear. Some people prefer in-person because they can deposit cash immediately; online banks often take a few days to process an initial deposit. If you're opening an account for the first time or have an unusual situation (no address, no SSN), in-person is often easier.

What happens after you open the account

Once approved, you'll receive a debit card in the mail within 7 to 10 business days. Your account is usually active immediately online, so you can set up direct deposit or transfers right away. Some banks let you use a temporary card number while you wait for the physical card to arrive. You'll also receive login credentials so you can check your balance and make transfers.

The bank will send you account statements—either by mail or email, depending on what you choose. Keep these for your records. If you don't use the account for a long time (usually 12 months or more), the bank may close it and send any remaining balance to the state's unclaimed property program. Check your account at least once every few months to keep it active.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I open a bank account without a Social Security number?

Most major banks require an SSN or ITIN by federal law. However, some credit unions and community banks offer accounts to people with an ITIN or even without one, though these accounts may have higher fees. Contact local credit unions first—they're more likely to have programs for non-citizens or people without an SSN.

What if my ID is expired?

Banks vary on this. Some accept IDs expired within the last year; others require a current ID only. Call the bank before you go. If your ID is too old, you can renew it at your state's DMV or apply for a passport card at a post office—both are faster than a full passport.

Do I need to bring the opening deposit in cash?

No. You can bring a check, transfer money from another account, or in some cases, the bank will waive the opening deposit if you set up direct deposit. Ask the bank what payment methods they accept for the opening deposit when you call.

Can someone else open an account on my behalf?

No. Banks require the account holder to be present and to verify their identity in person or online. A parent can open a custodial account for a minor child, but the parent must still show their own ID and the child's birth certificate.

What if I don't have proof of address?

Tell the bank before you arrive. Some accept alternative documents like a government letter, a statement from a shelter, or a letter from someone who can vouch for your address. A few banks have programs for people experiencing homelessness. Calling ahead is essential—showing up without proof of address will likely mean a wasted trip.