You need a government ID, proof of address, and your Social Security number or ITIN

Every bank requires three core things before they will open an account: a valid government-issued ID (driver's license, passport, or state ID card), proof that you live where you say you do, and either a Social Security number or an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN). Some banks ask for all three on the same day; others let you bring proof of address later. A few banks have different rules for people without a Social Security number, so call ahead if that applies to you.

The ID must be current and have your photograph on it. An expired ID usually does not work, though some banks make exceptions if the expiration is recent. The address on your ID does not have to match your current address — that is why banks ask for separate proof of where you live now.

Proof of address can be a utility bill, lease, mortgage statement, or government mail with your name and current address. It typically needs to be dated within the last 60 days, though this varies by bank. If you do not have a utility bill or lease, a bank statement from another institution, a property tax bill, or even a piece of mail from your employer can work.

Key Takeaways

  • Bring a current government-issued photo ID, a recent utility bill or lease showing your current address, and your Social Security number or ITIN.
  • If you do not have a Social Security number, ask the bank whether they accept ITINs or whether they have accounts for non-citizens before you visit.
  • Some banks let you open an account online with just your ID and Social Security number, then mail proof of address later.
  • If you have had banking problems in the past, the bank will check ChexSystems or Early Warning Services to see your history with other banks.
  • Bring a small opening deposit if the account requires one — amounts range from zero to several hundred dollars depending on the bank and account type.

What happens if you do not have a Social Security number

Banks are required to verify your identity and report certain account information to the IRS, so they need either a Social Security number or an ITIN. If you are not a U.S. citizen and do not have a Social Security number, you can get an ITIN from the IRS by filing Form W-7. The process takes several weeks, and you will need a passport or other travel document plus proof of your immigration status.

Some banks accept ITINs without hesitation. Others do not, or they require additional documentation like a visa or work permit. Call the bank before you go — do not assume they will turn you away, but do not assume they will accept an ITIN without asking first. A few banks have accounts specifically designed for non-citizens and may have different rules.

Opening an account online versus in person

Many banks let you start the process online using your ID and Social Security number, then mail or upload proof of address within a set number of days — often 10 to 30 days. This is faster than going to a branch if you have a scanner or smartphone camera. The bank will send you a temporary account number while they verify your address, and your account becomes fully active once they receive and confirm the documents.

Opening in person takes longer on the day you visit but is finished immediately. You hand over your documents, the bank staff verify them on the spot, and your account is ready to use. This route works well if you need the account to be active the same day or if you are uncomfortable uploading documents online.

Some banks require in-person opening for certain account types, particularly business accounts or accounts for minors. Ask which method the bank accepts for the specific account you want.

Bank verification systems and your banking history

When you open an account, the bank checks your history with other banks using ChexSystems or Early Warning Services — two databases that track closed accounts, overdrafts, and fraud. If you have had problems at another bank, the new bank will see it. This does not automatically disqualify you, but it may affect which accounts you can open or whether the bank asks for a larger deposit.

If you were closed out of an account for fraud or repeated overdrafts, tell the bank upfront. Explain what happened and what you have done differently since then. Some banks have second-chance accounts designed for people with banking problems in their past. Being honest is better than hoping the bank does not notice.

You can request your own ChexSystems report for free at chexsystems.com. If there is an error on your report, you can dispute it with the company directly.

Opening deposits and minimum balances

Some accounts require an opening deposit — the amount you put in when you create the account. This is different from a minimum balance, which is the smallest amount you must keep in the account at all times. Opening deposits range from zero to several hundred dollars depending on the bank and account type. Checking accounts often have no opening deposit requirement, while savings accounts and money market accounts sometimes do.

If an account has a minimum balance requirement and your balance drops below it, the bank may charge a monthly fee. Some banks waive the fee if you set up direct deposit or keep a linked savings account above a certain balance. Ask about these waivers before you open the account — they can save you money if you cannot maintain a high balance.

You can use money from another account to make the opening deposit, or you can deposit cash at the branch. If you are opening online, the bank will tell you how to transfer the opening deposit after your account is created.

Documents for joint accounts and accounts for minors

If you are opening a joint account with another person, both of you need to be present (in person or online, depending on the bank) and both need to provide ID, proof of address, and Social Security number or ITIN. The bank will ask how you want the account to work — whether both people can withdraw money, whether one person can close the account without the other's permission, and what happens if one person dies.

For a minor's account, a parent or guardian must open it and provide their own ID and Social Security number. The minor may need to be present in person, or the parent may be able to open it alone — this varies by bank. Some banks require the minor to be at least 13 or 16 years old to have their own account; younger children can only be on a parent's account.

What to bring on the day you open the account

Bring your government-issued photo ID, your proof of address (utility bill, lease, or recent bank statement), and your Social Security number or ITIN written down. If you are opening a joint account, bring the same documents for the other person. If you are opening an account for a minor, bring the minor's birth certificate or Social Security card along with your own ID and proof of address.

Bring a checkbook or debit card application if the bank offers one, though most banks issue these after the account is open. Bring the opening deposit if the account requires one — cash, a check from another account, or a transfer from an existing account. Bring a phone number where the bank can reach you if they have questions while processing your application.

Do not bring original documents you cannot afford to lose — bring copies of your lease or utility bill, not the originals. The bank will not ask to keep them, but it is safer to have a copy.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

You need either a Social Security number or an ITIN. If you do not have either, you can apply for an ITIN from the IRS using Form W-7, which takes several weeks. Some banks accept ITINs; others do not. Call ahead to ask whether the bank you want will open an account with an ITIN.

What if my address on my ID does not match where I live now?

That is normal and expected. Bring your current ID (even if the address is old) and separate proof of your current address, such as a utility bill or lease dated within the last 60 days. The bank will use both documents.

Do I have to open an account in person?

Many banks let you open online using your ID and Social Security number, then mail or upload proof of address within 10 to 30 days. Some banks require in-person opening for certain account types. Ask the bank which method they accept for the account you want.

What if I have had problems at another bank?

The new bank will see your history through ChexSystems or Early Warning Services. Tell the bank upfront what happened. Some banks have second-chance accounts for people with past banking problems. Being honest is better than hoping they do not notice.

How much do I need to deposit to open an account?

Opening deposit amounts vary by bank and account type. Many checking accounts require no opening deposit. Savings and money market accounts sometimes require $25 to $500. Ask the bank what the opening deposit is for the specific account you want before you visit.