The documents you'll need to bring

Most banks require a government-issued photo ID and proof of your current address. The photo ID is non-negotiable — it's how the bank verifies you are who you say you are. Proof of address can be a utility bill, lease, mortgage statement, or government mail dated within the last 60 days. Some banks accept a state ID or driver's license as both documents if the address on it is current.

Beyond those two, you'll need your Social Security number or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN). The bank uses this to run a background check through ChexSystems or Early Warning Services — systems that track banking history and fraud. You don't need to bring a card; you can recite the number. If you don't have a Social Security number, you can still open an account with an ITIN, though some banks have restrictions on which account types are available to ITIN holders.

A few banks ask for a second form of ID if your photo ID doesn't have your current address. This can be another government ID, a recent tax return, or a bank statement from another institution. Call ahead to ask what the specific branch accepts — policies vary between banks and sometimes between branches of the same bank.

Key Takeaways

  • You must bring a government-issued photo ID and proof of your current address dated within the last 60 days.
  • Have your Social Security number or ITIN ready; the bank will use it to check your banking history through ChexSystems or Early Warning Services.
  • If your ID address doesn't match your current address, bring a second document like a utility bill or lease to prove where you live now.
  • Some banks accept online account opening with just a photo ID and SSN, though verification may take a few days.
  • If you've been denied an account before, ask the bank to explain why — you may need to resolve a ChexSystems report or wait out a closure period.

What happens if your address doesn't match your ID

If you've moved since your ID was issued, bring a current utility bill, lease agreement, or recent government mail with your new address. The bank needs proof that you actually live where you say you do — this is part of anti-money-laundering rules, not just the bank's policy. A recent bank statement from another bank counts too, as does a mortgage statement or property tax bill.

Some banks will accept a verbal confirmation of your address if you can't produce a document on the spot, but they may delay account opening until you provide written proof. It's faster to bring the document with you. If you're homeless or living in temporary housing, ask the bank what they accept — some will take a letter from a shelter or a piece of mail addressed to a care-of address.

Online account opening and remote verification

Many banks now let you open an account online using a photo ID and your Social Security number. The process usually involves uploading a photo of your ID and sometimes a selfie for facial recognition. The bank then verifies your identity through a third-party service and checks ChexSystems. This can take anywhere from a few minutes to a few business days.

If you open online, the bank may still mail you a confirmation letter or ask you to visit a branch to activate your debit card. Some banks skip the branch visit entirely and mail the card to your address on file. Read the confirmation email carefully — it will tell you what happens next and whether you need to do anything before the account is active.

Online opening is convenient, but it does require a valid address where mail can reach you. If you're moving or don't have a stable mailing address, opening in person at a branch is more reliable.

What to do if you've been denied before

If a bank has turned you down, it's usually because of a ChexSystems report — a record of overdrafts, fraud, or unpaid fees from a previous account. You have the right to see what's in your ChexSystems file. Visit chexsystems.com or call 1-800-428-9623 to request your report for free. If there's an error, you can dispute it directly with ChexSystems.

Even with a negative report, you're not permanently locked out of banking. Some banks specialize in second-chance accounts and will open one for you despite the report. Others require you to wait a certain period — often one to five years — before the negative item ages off your report. Ask the bank directly: "Will you open an account for me given my ChexSystems history?" Some will say yes if you agree to maintain a minimum balance or accept limited features.

If you were denied, the bank should have given you a reason in writing. If they didn't, ask for it. That letter tells you whether the issue is ChexSystems, your address, your ID, or something else — and that tells you what to fix before you try again.

ID requirements for minors and joint accounts

If you're opening an account for someone under 18, the minor needs a photo ID (usually a school ID or state ID) and the parent or guardian needs their own photo ID and proof of address. Some banks require both the minor and the adult to be present in person. Others let the adult open a custodial account online and add the minor later.

For a joint account, both account holders need to bring their own photo ID and proof of address. If one person is opening the account and adding the other later, the bank will verify both people's identities before the account is fully active. Some banks do this in person; others do it by mail or phone.

Special situations: ITIN holders, non-citizens, and no fixed address

If you have an ITIN but no Social Security number, you can open a bank account, but your options may be limited. Some banks restrict ITIN holders to savings accounts or require a higher minimum balance. Call ahead to ask whether the bank you want will open a checking account for you with an ITIN. Bring your ITIN documentation (usually a tax return or IRS letter) along with your photo ID and proof of address.

Non-citizens with a valid passport and visa can open an account. Bring your passport as your photo ID and a document showing your current U.S. address. If your visa is expiring soon, some banks may ask for proof that you're renewing it or that you have legal status to stay in the country.

If you don't have a fixed address, bring a letter from a shelter, social services agency, or trusted person confirming where mail can reach you. Some banks accept a P.O. box; others don't. Ask first. A few banks have programs specifically for people experiencing homelessness and will waive the address requirement or accept alternative documentation.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I open a bank account with just a passport?

Yes, if you're a non-citizen. A valid passport counts as a government-issued photo ID. You'll still need proof of your current U.S. address — a utility bill, lease, or government mail. If your address isn't on your passport, bring a separate document showing where you live now.

What if I lost my ID and don't have a replacement yet?

Most banks won't open an account without a government-issued photo ID. Your best option is to get a state ID or passport as quickly as possible. Some states offer expedited ID replacement. Once you have it, you can open an account. A few credit unions may make exceptions, so call around, but expect to be turned down by most banks.

Do I need to bring my Social Security card?

No. You only need to know your Social Security number or ITIN. You can recite it to the bank employee, and they'll enter it into their system. Bringing the card itself isn't necessary and isn't recommended for security reasons — you don't want to carry it around.

Can someone else open a bank account for me?

No. The bank needs to verify your identity in person or online using your own photo ID. A parent, guardian, or power of attorney can open a custodial or authorized account on your behalf, but you'll still need to provide your ID and Social Security number. The bank will contact you to confirm your identity before the account is fully active.

What if my proof of address is older than 60 days?

Most banks won't accept it. Get a newer document — call your utility company, landlord, or mortgage lender and ask them to mail you a recent statement. If you can't get one in time, ask the bank whether they'll accept a verbal confirmation of your address and let you provide written proof later. Some will; others won't.