The documents you need depend on the bank and the account type
Most banks require 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 one or two additional documents—like a utility bill or a second form of ID—but the three items above cover the majority of cases. A few banks have streamlined online accounts that need only your ID and SSN, while others, especially those opening accounts for people without prior banking history, may ask for more.
The exact list varies by bank, account type, and whether you're opening the account in person or online. A checking account at a large national bank typically requires less documentation than a savings account at a credit union or a specialized account designed for people rebuilding credit. Before you go to the branch or start an online application, call the bank or check their website for their specific list—it takes five minutes and saves a wasted trip.
Key Takeaways
- Government-issued photo ID, proof of address, and your Social Security number or ITIN are the core documents nearly all banks require.
- Proof of address can be a utility bill, lease, mortgage statement, or government mail dated within the last 60 to 90 days—the bank will tell you which they accept.
- Online accounts often require fewer documents than in-person accounts, sometimes just ID and SSN, but verification can take longer.
- If you don't have an SSN, an ITIN from the IRS works for most banks, though some have restrictions on ITIN-only accounts.
- Bring originals or certified copies; banks will not accept photos or digital scans of most documents in person, though online banks handle this differently.
Government-issued photo ID: what counts
A driver's license or state ID card is the standard. A passport works too. Some banks also accept a military ID, tribal ID, or passport card. The ID must be current or expired no more than five years ago—banks vary on how far back they'll go, so if your ID is very old, call ahead.
If you don't have a driver's license or state ID, you can get one from your state's Department of Motor Vehicles. The process takes a few weeks in most states. If you need a bank account before then, some banks will accept a passport, and a handful will take a combination of documents—like a birth certificate plus a utility bill—in place of photo ID. Ask the bank directly; this is not standard, but it happens.
Proof of address: documents the bank will accept
The bank needs to confirm where you live. A utility bill (electric, gas, water, internet, or phone) in your name, dated within the last 60 to 90 days, is the most common proof. A lease or mortgage statement works too. Some banks accept government mail—like a tax return, Social Security statement, or voter registration card—if it's recent enough.
The document must show your current address and your name. A bill addressed to "Resident" or a previous address will not work. If you've recently moved and your utility bill still shows your old address, bring a lease or a piece of government mail sent to your new address instead. If you live with family or in a situation where utilities are not in your name, ask the bank what they'll accept—some will take a notarized letter from the person whose name is on the bill, or a lease signed by you and the landlord.
Social Security number or ITIN
Banks use your Social Security number (SSN) to verify your identity and report account activity to the IRS. If you don't have an SSN, an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) from the IRS works at most banks. You apply for an ITIN through the IRS by mail using Form W-7; the process takes four to six weeks.
Some banks restrict what you can do with an ITIN-only account—for example, they may not allow you to open a credit card or take out a loan tied to that account. A few large banks do not open accounts for ITIN holders at all. If you have an ITIN and want to open an account, call the bank first to confirm they accept ITIN applications. Credit unions are often more flexible on this than national banks.
Additional documents some banks request
Depending on the bank and account type, you may be asked for a second form of ID (like a passport if your first ID is a driver's license), a birth certificate, or proof of employment. Some banks ask for a reference letter from a previous bank or credit union if you're opening your first account or returning after a long gap. A few banks that specialize in accounts for people with banking problems or no credit history ask for more—sometimes a letter from an employer or a utility company confirming your identity.
Online banks often skip these extras because they verify you through other means—pulling your credit report, cross-checking your SSN against IRS records, or asking security questions only you would know the answer to. In-person banks tend to ask for more physical documents because they're verifying you face-to-face.
What to bring in person versus online
If you're opening an account at a branch, bring originals or certified copies of your documents. Banks will not accept photos, screenshots, or digital scans for in-person applications. Bring your ID, your proof of address, and your SSN or ITIN (you don't need to bring a physical copy of your SSN—you just tell the banker the number).
Online applications work differently. You'll upload images of your documents—front and back of your ID, a photo of your proof of address—and the bank's system will verify them automatically or send them to a person for review. This can take anywhere from a few minutes to several business days. Some online banks ask you to verify your identity through a video call instead of uploading documents; they'll walk you through this when you start the application.
If you're missing a document
If you don't have a current government ID, start by getting a state ID card from your Department of Motor Vehicles. This is the fastest path. If you need a bank account before the ID arrives, call banks in your area and ask which ones will open an account without photo ID—some will, though they may ask for extra documents or restrict what you can do with the account initially.
If you don't have proof of address because you're homeless or living temporarily with someone, tell the bank. Some banks will accept a letter from a shelter, a social services agency, or a trusted person confirming your current location. Others will open an account without proof of address if you have ID and SSN, though they may flag the account for review. Credit unions are often more willing to work with people in unstable housing situations than large national banks.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a passport instead of a driver's license?
Yes. A U.S. passport or passport card counts as government-issued photo ID at all banks. If it's expired, check with the bank first—some accept passports expired up to five years ago, others have different rules.
What if my proof of address is older than 90 days?
Most banks won't accept it. If your utility bill or lease is old, bring a recent piece of government mail instead—a tax return, Social Security statement, or voter card. If nothing you have is recent, contact the utility company or your landlord and ask them to send you a current statement.
Do I need to bring my Social Security card?
No. You just tell the banker your SSN. The bank will verify it against IRS records. You do not need to show a physical card.
Can I open an account with just an ITIN?
Most banks will, but some won't. Call ahead. Credit unions are generally more flexible than national banks about ITIN-only accounts. Be aware that some banks restrict what you can do with an ITIN account—like taking out a loan or opening a credit card.
What if I'm opening an account for someone else, like a child?
If you're a parent or guardian opening a minor's account, bring your own ID and proof of address, plus the child's birth certificate or Social Security card. Some banks also ask for a copy of custody papers if the child's last name differs from yours. Rules vary, so call the bank first.