Bring these documents to open an account
You need a government-issued photo ID and proof of your current address. The ID can be a driver's license, passport, state ID card, or tribal ID. The address proof is usually a recent utility bill, lease, mortgage statement, or government mail — something dated within the last 60 days with your name and street address on it.
Some banks will accept a second form of ID instead of an address document if you cannot produce one. A Social Security card, birth certificate, or military ID can work as that second piece. Call the bank before you go in if you are unsure whether what you have will work.
If you do not have a photo ID at all, some banks and credit unions will still open an account for you, but the process takes longer and requires additional steps — usually a callback verification or a visit with someone who can vouch for you. Ask whether the bank offers this option before you make the trip.
Key Takeaways
- A government-issued photo ID and proof of your current address are the standard documents needed; most banks accept a utility bill or lease as address proof.
- Your Social Security number will be required so the bank can report account activity to the IRS and check your banking history.
- You will need to choose the type of account — checking, savings, or both — and decide whether you want overdraft protection before you sit down with the banker.
- Initial deposit amounts vary by bank and account type; some accounts require no opening deposit, while others ask for $25 to $100.
- The entire process usually takes 15 to 30 minutes in person, or 10 to 20 minutes online if you have a valid ID and can verify your address digitally.
Your Social Security number and banking history
You must provide your Social Security number (SSN). The bank uses it to report your account to the IRS, to check whether you have unpaid debts or fraud flags in the banking system, and to comply with federal anti-money-laundering rules. There is no way around this requirement.
The bank will run a check through ChexSystems or Early Warning Services, two companies that track banking history. This check looks for things like unpaid overdrafts, closed accounts due to fraud, or repeated NSF (non-sufficient funds) fees. If you have been flagged in one of these systems, the bank will tell you and may deny the account or require you to pay off old debts first.
If you have been denied before, you can request your ChexSystems report for free at chexsystems.com or your Early Warning report at earlywarning.com. Both sites let you dispute errors or add a statement explaining what happened. Having a clean explanation on file can help when you apply to a different bank.
Choosing your account type before you arrive
Decide whether you want a checking account, a savings account, or both. A checking account is for regular spending — you get a debit card and checks. A savings account earns interest and is meant for money you do not spend regularly. Many people open both at the same time.
You should also decide whether you want overdraft protection. This allows the bank to cover a purchase or withdrawal even if you do not have enough money, charging you a fee (usually $25 to $35 per overdraft). Some banks link your checking account to your savings account so the transfer happens automatically. Others offer overdraft protection through a line of credit. You can turn this off, but the bank will decline your transaction instead if you do not have funds.
Ask the bank about their fee structure: monthly maintenance fees, ATM fees, minimum balance requirements, and how much interest the savings account pays. These details vary widely and affect how much the account costs you over time.
Initial deposit and minimum balance
Some banks require an opening deposit; others do not. When a deposit is required, it is usually $25 to $100 for a checking account and $25 to $500 for a savings account. Online banks and credit unions often have lower or no opening deposit requirements.
Separate from the opening deposit is the minimum balance — the smallest amount you must keep in the account to avoid a monthly fee. This can be $0, $500, $1,000, or higher depending on the bank and account type. If your balance drops below the minimum, you will be charged a maintenance fee each month until you bring it back up.
Read the account agreement carefully to see which fees apply to you. Some banks waive the minimum balance if you set up direct deposit of your paycheck, or if you maintain a certain balance in a linked savings account.
Opening an account online versus in person
Online accounts are faster and often have lower fees, but they require you to verify your identity digitally. You will need to upload a photo of your ID and sometimes take a selfie. The bank uses facial recognition or manual review to confirm you are who you say you are. This process usually takes a few minutes, though some banks may call you back to verify.
In-person accounts at a branch take 15 to 30 minutes. You sit with a banker who reviews your documents, answers questions, and sets up the account while you watch. You can ask about features and fees in real time and walk out with a debit card (though it may take 7 to 10 business days to arrive by mail).
If you open online, your debit card will arrive by mail in 7 to 14 days. You can usually start using your account and transferring money before the card arrives, but you will not be able to make in-person purchases or withdraw cash from an ATM until it does.
What happens after you open the account
Once your account is open, the bank will issue you a routing number and account number. You need these to set up direct deposit, pay bills by bank transfer, or receive money from someone else. You can find both numbers on the bottom left of your checks, or by logging into your online banking portal.
If you opened online, you will receive login credentials by email. Set up your online banking password and, if the bank offers it, a mobile app. Most banks let you check your balance, transfer money, and deposit checks by photo within minutes of opening the account.
Your debit card will arrive separately by mail. Activate it by calling the number on the back or using the mobile app. Some banks require you to make a small purchase or withdrawal to activate it; others activate it automatically when it arrives.
If you do not have a permanent address
A permanent street address is standard, but some banks and credit unions will open an account using a shelter address, a PO box, or a care-of address (c/o someone else's address). Call ahead and ask whether the bank accepts alternative addresses. Credit unions are often more flexible than large national banks on this point.
If you use a shelter or temporary address, bring a letter from the shelter or organization on their letterhead confirming your stay. Some banks will accept this in place of a utility bill. Once you have a permanent address, you can update it in your online banking portal or by visiting a branch.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I open an account without a Social Security number?
No. Federal law requires banks to collect your SSN for tax reporting and anti-money-laundering compliance. If you do not have an SSN, you may be able to open an account using an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) instead, but this is rare and depends on the bank. Call ahead to ask.
What if I have been flagged in ChexSystems?
Request your report at chexsystems.com and dispute any errors. If the flag is accurate, pay off the old debt if you can, then apply to a bank that specializes in second-chance accounts. Credit unions and online banks are often more willing to work with people who have banking history issues.
Do I need to bring my checkbook or debit card?
No. The bank will issue both after you open the account. Checks arrive by mail in 1 to 2 weeks, and your debit card in 7 to 14 days. You do not need either to start using the account online.
Can someone else open an account for me?
No. You must be present and provide your own ID. A parent or guardian can open an account for a minor, but the minor must usually be present as well. The bank will not open an account based on someone else's documents.
How long does it take to open an account?
In person: 15 to 30 minutes. Online: 10 to 20 minutes for identity verification, though some banks may take 1 to 2 business days if they need to review your application manually. Either way, your account is active the same day, but your debit card arrives by mail later.