Documents and information you'll need before you walk in

Most banks require a government-issued photo ID, proof of your current address, and your Social Security number or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN). Bring the ID itself—a driver's license, passport, or state ID card—not a copy. For proof of address, a recent utility bill, lease, or bank statement with your name and street address works. If you don't have a recent bill in your name, some banks will accept a letter from a government agency, employer, or landlord dated within the last 90 days.

You'll also need to decide how much money you're depositing to open the account. Most banks have no minimum, but some require $25 to $100 to start. A few still require $500 or more, though these are less common. Bring cash, a check, or be ready to transfer money from another account. Have your phone number and email address ready—the bank will use these to contact you and set up online access.

If you're opening an account for a child under 18, you'll need to bring the child and your ID as the parent or legal guardian. Some banks require both parents' signatures if both are listed on the account. Ask the bank about their specific rules before you go.

Key Takeaways

  • Bring a government-issued photo ID, proof of your current address, and your Social Security number or ITIN—these are required at nearly every bank.
  • Proof of address can be a utility bill, lease, or recent bank statement with your name and street address, or a letter from a government agency dated within 90 days.
  • Most banks have no minimum deposit to open an account, but some require $25 to $500—ask before you go so you know how much cash or a check to bring.
  • Have your phone number and email address ready, and bring a child's ID if you're opening a minor's account with parental consent.

What happens if you don't have a photo ID

If you have no government-issued photo ID, tell the bank before you arrive. Some banks will open an account using other documents—a combination of a utility bill, lease, birth certificate, and Social Security card, for example. Others will not. Call ahead to ask what alternatives they accept, because policies vary by bank and by branch.

If you're working toward getting an ID, some states offer non-driver identification cards through the DMV that cost less than a driver's license and take the same documents. A passport also works and is accepted everywhere, though it takes longer and costs more. In the meantime, a few online banks and credit unions have looser ID rules—ask whether they can open an account with an ITIN and a utility bill alone.

Proof of address when you're homeless or newly moved

If you have no utility bill or lease in your name, a letter from a shelter, social services agency, or transitional housing program counts as proof of address at most banks. The letter must show your name, the shelter's address, and a date within the last 90 days. If you're staying with family or friends, ask them to write a letter on their own stationery stating that you live at their address, sign and date it, and bring it with your ID.

Some banks will also accept a recent bank statement from another bank, a paycheck stub with your address, or a government benefit letter. If none of these are possible, call the bank and ask what they can work with. A few banks and credit unions will open an account using only an ID and ITIN if you explain your situation—it's worth asking.

Social Security number or ITIN

Banks are required by federal law to collect either a Social Security number or an ITIN. If you have a Social Security number, bring your Social Security card or a document that shows it—a tax return, W-2, or benefit letter. You don't have to memorize it; the bank can look it up if you show your ID.

If you don't have a Social Security number but are authorized to work in the United States, you can get an ITIN from the IRS. The process takes several weeks and requires Form W-7 and proof of identity and residency. Once you have an ITIN, bring the letter the IRS sent you or use it when the bank asks. If you have neither a Social Security number nor an ITIN and are not authorized to work, some banks will not open an account for you. Others may—call and ask whether they can proceed without one.

Opening an account online versus in person

Online banks often require fewer documents than brick-and-mortar banks. Many will open an account with just your ID, Social Security number or ITIN, and proof of address—no need to visit a branch or deposit cash. You upload photos of your documents through their website or app, and the process takes a few minutes to a few hours. The tradeoff is that you cannot deposit cash at an ATM or branch; you have to transfer money from another account or use mobile check deposit.

In-person banks let you hand over documents and deposit cash immediately. The appointment usually takes 15 to 30 minutes. If you need to deposit cash right away or prefer to talk to someone face-to-face, go in person. If you want to avoid a trip or don't have all your documents ready, online is faster.

What to bring if you're opening a joint account

If two people are opening an account together, both must be present with their own government-issued photo ID, proof of address, and Social Security number or ITIN. Some banks require both people to sign the paperwork in front of a bank employee. If one person cannot come to the branch, ask the bank whether they can sign online or by mail—policies vary.

Decide in advance who will be the primary account holder and who will be secondary, or whether you want equal access. This affects who receives statements and who can close the account. Ask the bank to explain the difference before you sign.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

Some banks will open an account with an ITIN instead of a Social Security number. Others require one or the other. Call the bank first to ask. If you have neither, a few banks may still work with you, but it's not may provide—ask directly rather than showing up without one.

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

Bring both your ID and a separate proof of your current address, such as a utility bill or lease. The bank will use the ID to verify your identity and the other document to confirm where you live now. You don't need to update your ID first.

Do I need to bring a checkbook or debit card to open an account?

No. The bank will issue you a debit card and checks after you open the account. You don't need to bring anything related to those. They arrive by mail within one to two weeks, or you can pick up a temporary card at the branch right away.

Can someone else open a bank account on my behalf?

No. You must be present with your own ID and documents. The only exception is if you're a minor—then a parent or legal guardian can open the account with you. Some banks allow a power of attorney to act for you, but this is rare and requires legal paperwork filed in advance.

What if I lost my Social Security card?

You don't need the physical card. Tell the bank your Social Security number, and they can verify it. If you don't remember the number, you can request a replacement card from the Social Security Administration, or bring a tax return, W-2, or benefit letter that shows it.