The documents you'll need depend on the bank and the account type, but most require an ID, proof of address, and your Social Security number
Every bank has its own list, but the core documents are almost always the same: a government-issued photo ID, something showing your current address, and your Social Security number or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN). Some banks ask for more—a second ID, a utility bill, or proof of income—but these three cover the majority of accounts. The bank will tell you what it needs before you sit down, either on its website or by phone.
The reason banks ask for these is federal law. The Know Your Customer (KYC) rule requires banks to verify who you are and confirm you're not on a government watchlist. It's not the bank being difficult; it's a legal requirement that applies to every financial institution in the country.
Key Takeaways
- You will need a government-issued photo ID (driver's license, passport, or state ID card), proof of your current address, and your Social Security number or ITIN for nearly every bank account.
- Proof of address can be a utility bill, lease, mortgage statement, or government mail dated within the last 60 days—the bank will specify what it accepts.
- Some banks ask for a second form of ID or proof of income, especially for business accounts or if you're opening an account online.
- If you don't have a Social Security number, an ITIN from the IRS works for most banks, though some have restrictions on ITIN accounts.
- Bring originals or certified copies; banks will not accept photos or screenshots of documents.
Government-issued photo ID: what counts
A driver's license is the most common form of ID banks accept. If you don't have one, a state-issued ID card, U.S. passport, passport card, or military ID all work. Some banks also accept tribal IDs or permanent resident cards (green cards). The ID must be current or expired no more than a few years—banks vary on how old they'll accept, so ask first if your ID is old.
The bank will scan or photocopy your ID. They're looking for your name, date of birth, and the ID number. If your name on the ID doesn't match the name you want on the account, tell the bank before you apply. Some banks will open the account under a different name if you have legal documentation (like a marriage certificate or court order), but others won't.
If you don't have a photo ID at all, some banks will open an account with two non-photo forms of ID plus proof of address, but this is rare. Call ahead and ask; most will direct you to get a state ID first.
Proof of address: documents the bank will accept
Banks need to know where you live. They accept a utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, property tax bill, or government mail (like a tax return or voter registration card) dated within the last 60 days. Some banks are stricter and want only utility bills or lease agreements; others are flexible. Check the bank's website or call to confirm what it takes.
The document must show your full name and current address. If you just moved and haven't received mail at the new address yet, some banks will accept a lease or utility bill in your name plus a recent ID showing the old address, then update your address in the system. Others require the proof of address to match the ID exactly. Ask the bank what it will do.
If you're homeless or living with someone else, some banks have workarounds—a shelter letter, a letter from your employer, or a statement from the person whose address you're using. Not all banks offer this, so call first.
Social Security number or ITIN
Banks use your Social Security number (SSN) to run a background check and report your account activity to the IRS. If you don't have an SSN, you can use an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN), which the IRS issues to people who don't may have access to for an SSN but need to file taxes or open a bank account.
If you have an ITIN, bring the IRS letter that came with it. Some banks restrict what you can do with an ITIN account—they may not offer overdraft protection, for example, or may limit transfers. A few banks don't open ITIN accounts at all. Call ahead if you're using an ITIN.
You'll need to provide your number in person or online, depending on how you open the account. Banks verify it against IRS records, so make sure you have the right number written down.
When banks ask for a second ID or proof of income
Some banks ask for a second form of ID—a credit card, passport, or employee badge—especially if you're opening an account online or by mail. This is extra verification and is becoming more common as banks try to prevent fraud.
Proof of income is usually required for business accounts, high-balance accounts, or accounts that come with credit features like overdraft. A recent pay stub, tax return, or letter from your employer showing your income will do. If you're self-employed, some banks want to see a business license or tax return.
If you're opening a joint account, the bank will ask for documents from both account holders. Each person needs to bring their own ID and proof of address.
Opening an account online versus in person
If you open an account online, you'll upload photos or scans of your documents. Banks use software to read and verify them, so the image has to be clear and show the entire document. Take photos in good lighting, straight on, and make sure all text is readable. Don't crop or edit the images.
Some online banks ask you to verify your identity through a video call instead of uploading documents. You'll show your ID to a camera, and a person or automated system checks it. This usually takes a few minutes.
If you open an account in person at a branch, bring the originals. The bank will photocopy or scan them. Either way, the bank will not accept screenshots, photos taken on your phone of a printed document, or digital copies you've edited. Bring the real thing or a certified copy from the issuing agency.
What happens if you don't have all the documents
If you're missing a document, call the bank and explain what you have. Some banks will work with you—they might open the account with what you have and ask you to bring the missing document within a few days. Others will turn you away and ask you to come back when you have everything.
If you don't have a photo ID, many states offer a non-driver ID card through the DMV for a small fee. If you don't have proof of address, ask a family member, employer, or social service agency if they can provide a letter on letterhead confirming your address. If you don't have an SSN or ITIN, you'll need to contact the IRS or Social Security Administration first—banks cannot open accounts without one or the other.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a passport card instead of a driver's license?
Yes. A passport card is a valid government-issued photo ID and most banks accept it. Bring it along with proof of address and your Social Security number or ITIN, just as you would with a driver's license.
What if my address on my ID doesn't match where I live now?
Bring both your ID and a recent document showing your current address, like a utility bill or lease. The bank will update your address in the system. Some banks will open the account with the old address and let you change it later online or by phone.
Do I need to bring original documents or can I send copies by mail?
If you're opening an account in person, bring originals. If you're opening online, upload clear photos or scans. Banks will not accept photocopies you make yourself or screenshots. If you need to send certified copies by mail, contact the bank first to ask if it accepts them.
Can someone else bring my documents for me?
No. Banks require you to be present and verify your identity yourself, either in person or on a video call. This is a federal requirement. You cannot authorize someone else to open an account on your behalf.
What if I'm opening a joint account—do both people need to bring documents?
Yes. Both account holders must bring their own government-issued photo ID, proof of address, and Social Security number or ITIN. Most banks require both people to be present, either in person or on a joint video call.