The documents you'll need depend on the bank and the account type, but most require proof of identity and proof of address

Every bank has its own list, but the core documents 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 ask for more—a second form of ID, proof of income, or documentation of your employment status. Online banks often ask for fewer documents than brick-and-mortar branches because they verify identity through digital means. The fastest way to know exactly what your chosen bank needs is to call their customer service line or check their website before you go in or apply online.

The documents themselves don't have to be originals in most cases. Banks will accept photocopies, and many now let you upload images through their app or website. What matters is that the documents are current, legible, and match the name you're using to open the account. If your name has changed—through marriage, divorce, or legal name change—bring documentation of that change as well.

Key Takeaways

  • A valid government-issued photo ID (driver's license, passport, or state ID card) is required by every bank to open an account.
  • Proof of address typically means a recent utility bill, lease, mortgage statement, or government mail dated within the last 60 days.
  • Your Social Security number or ITIN is standard, and the bank will verify it against IRS records.
  • Online banks usually require fewer documents than branches because they verify identity digitally, sometimes with just an ID and SSN.
  • If your name has changed, bring a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order showing the legal change.

Government-issued photo ID

This is non-negotiable. Banks use it to confirm you are who you say you are and to check you against fraud databases. A driver's license is the most common choice. A state ID card works just as well if you don't drive. A U.S. passport or passport card is also accepted everywhere. If you have a military ID, most banks will take it. Tribal IDs are accepted at some banks but not all—call ahead if that's your only option.

The ID must be current and not expired. The name on the ID must match the name you're using to open the account. If your ID is damaged or the photo is no longer recognizable, bring a second form of ID as backup. Banks sometimes ask for a second ID anyway, especially if you're opening an account online or by mail.

Proof of your current address

Banks need to know where you live. They use this to comply with federal anti-money-laundering rules and to send you statements and notices. A utility bill (electric, gas, water, or internet) dated within the last 60 days is the standard proof. A lease agreement or mortgage statement works too. So does a property tax bill, insurance bill, or government mail (like a tax return, voter registration card, or benefits letter) that shows your current address.

The document must show your full name and current street address. A PO box is not acceptable as proof of residence—banks need a physical address. If you're homeless or living in temporary housing, some banks have workarounds: they may accept a letter from a shelter, a social services agency, or a trusted person who can vouch for your address. Call the bank first to ask what they'll take.

If you've recently moved and your ID still shows your old address, bring both the old ID and a proof-of-address document showing your new location. The bank will understand the mismatch.

Social Security number or ITIN

Banks are required by federal law to collect this number and verify it. If you have a Social Security number, that's what they'll ask for. If you don't have one but are authorized to work in the U.S., you may have an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN), which works for account opening at most banks. Some banks will accept an ITIN; others won't. If you have an ITIN and the bank refuses, try a different bank—credit unions and community banks are often more flexible than large national chains.

You don't need to bring a physical card. You can simply tell the bank your number, and they'll verify it electronically against IRS records. If there's a mismatch—your name doesn't match what the IRS has on file, or the number is invalid—the bank will ask you to resolve it before opening the account. This can take a few days.

Documents for specific account types or situations

If you're opening a business account, you'll need additional paperwork: your Employer Identification Number (EIN), articles of incorporation or organization, and sometimes a business license. If you're opening an account as a minor, a parent or guardian must be present and provide their own ID and proof of address. If you're opening a joint account, both account holders must provide ID and proof of address.

Some banks ask for proof of income—a recent pay stub, tax return, or letter from your employer—especially if you're opening an account with overdraft protection or a credit line attached. Others ask whether you're employed and may request documentation if you claim a high income. If you're retired, on disability, or receiving benefits, the bank may ask for proof, but this is less common.

What happens if you don't have all the documents

If you're missing a document, call the bank before you go in. Many banks have alternative pathways. If you don't have a current government ID, some will accept a combination of documents: a birth certificate plus a utility bill, or a school ID plus a passport. If you don't have proof of address, some will let you use a bank statement from another institution, a lease signed by a landlord, or even a letter from a social services agency.

If you don't have an SSN or ITIN, you have fewer options. Some banks will open a basic savings account without one, but most won't. Credit unions are sometimes more flexible. If you're undocumented or don't have an ITIN, research banks in your area that serve immigrant communities—many have specific programs and know how to work with limited documentation.

Online account opening versus in-person

Online banks typically ask for fewer documents because they verify your identity through digital means. You'll upload a photo of your ID, sometimes a selfie, and provide your SSN. The bank runs an automated check and usually approves you within minutes to hours. You won't need to provide proof of address if the bank can verify your address through a third-party database.

Opening an account in person at a branch usually requires you to bring physical documents. The teller will look at your ID, make a copy of your proof of address, and write down your SSN. This takes longer but gives you a chance to ask questions and get help if something doesn't match. If you're uncomfortable with digital verification or don't have access to a scanner or camera, in-person is the better choice.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a passport from another country?

Most U.S. banks will not accept a foreign passport as your primary ID. You'll need a U.S. government-issued ID: a driver's license, state ID card, or U.S. passport. If you're a permanent resident or visa holder without a U.S. ID yet, bring your passport plus your green card or visa, and ask the bank if they'll make an exception. Some will; many won't.

What if my address on my ID doesn't match where I live now?

Bring both your current ID and a recent proof-of-address document showing your new location. The bank will see that you've moved recently and will use the new address for the account. You don't need to update your ID first—that's a separate process with your state's DMV.

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

Copies are fine for most documents. The bank will photocopy your ID anyway. If you're opening an account online, you'll upload images of your documents. The only time you might need an original is if the bank suspects fraud or if you're opening a business account—call ahead to ask.

What if I don't have a Social Security number?

If you have an ITIN, try that first. If the bank won't accept an ITIN, look for a credit union or community bank in your area—they're often more flexible. Some banks in areas with large immigrant populations have specific programs for people without an SSN. You may need to bring additional documents to prove your identity and address.

Can someone else open an account on my behalf?

No. You must be present in person or complete the application yourself online. The bank needs to verify your identity directly. If you're a minor, a parent or guardian can help, but you'll still need to be there. If you're incapacitated, you'll need a power of attorney document, and the bank will likely require a lawyer's review.