What 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). Some banks also ask for an initial deposit on the spot—usually $25 to $100, though this varies by institution and account type. A few banks waive the deposit if you set up direct deposit or maintain a minimum balance.

The exact list depends on which bank you choose and what kind of account you want. A basic checking account has simpler requirements than a savings account linked to investment services. Online banks often ask for less paperwork than brick-and-mortar branches, but they may require a debit card or existing bank account to fund your first deposit.

Bring originals or certified copies—not photos of documents on your phone. Banks scan or photocopy what you bring, and they need to verify the document is real. If you're opening an account for a minor, you'll need to bring the child and your own ID as the parent or guardian.

Key Takeaways

  • You must bring a government-issued photo ID (driver's license, passport, or state ID card) and proof of your current address, such as a utility bill or lease.
  • Banks require your Social Security number or ITIN to open an account; if you don't have either, some banks offer accounts for non-citizens with an ITIN or consulate ID.
  • An initial deposit of $25 to $100 is common, though some banks waive it if you set up direct deposit or keep a minimum balance.
  • Bring original documents or certified copies—photocopies from home or phone photos are not accepted.
  • If you have a history of overdrafts or fraud reported to ChexSystems, some banks will decline you; ask the bank about its policy before you apply.

Government-Issued Photo ID

Banks accept a driver's license, state ID card, or passport as proof of identity. These are the documents they trust because they're issued by a government body and include your photo, signature, and date of birth. A military ID also works at most banks.

If you don't have a driver's license or state ID, you can get one from your state's Department of Motor Vehicles. A passport takes longer to obtain but is accepted everywhere. If you're not a U.S. citizen, a passport from your home country or a consulate ID card may work—call the bank first to confirm.

The ID must not be expired. Banks check the expiration date on the document itself. If your ID expired last month, renew it before you go to the bank, or the bank will turn you away.

Proof of Your Current Address

Banks need to verify where you live. A utility bill (electric, gas, water, internet), lease agreement, or mortgage statement all work. The document must show your name and current address, and it must be dated within the last 60 to 90 days—banks vary on how recent they require it to be.

If you just moved and don't have a recent bill in your name yet, a lease or rental agreement signed by both you and your landlord counts. If you're staying with family and have no document in your name, some banks accept a notarized letter from the person whose name is on the utility bill, stating that you live there. Call ahead to ask what the bank will take.

A credit card statement, bank statement, or insurance bill also works if it shows your current address. A phone bill does not—banks consider it too easy to fake. A post office change-of-address form is not proof of residence either.

Social Security Number or ITIN

Banks are required by federal law to collect your Social Security number (SSN) or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) when you open an account. They use it to report interest you earn and to check your banking history through ChexSystems, a database that tracks overdrafts and fraud.

If you're a U.S. citizen or permanent resident, you have an SSN. If you're not a citizen but work or file taxes in the U.S., you can get an ITIN from the IRS. The process takes several weeks. If you don't have either, some banks—particularly those serving immigrant communities—will open an account using your passport number or consulate ID instead, though this is less common.

Bring your Social Security card or a document showing your number. If you don't have the card, a tax return, W-2 form, or letter from the Social Security Administration works. Do not give your number over the phone or email before you visit the bank in person.

Initial Deposit and Funding Your Account

Most banks require you to deposit money on the day you open the account. The amount ranges from $25 to $100 for a basic checking account, though some accounts require $500 or more. A few banks waive the deposit if you set up direct deposit—meaning your paycheck goes straight into the account—or if you keep a minimum balance of $500 to $1,000.

You can fund the account with cash, a check, or a debit card. If you're opening an account online, the bank may require you to link an existing bank account or debit card to make the first deposit. Some online banks mail you a debit card first, then ask you to activate it and make a deposit through their app.

Ask the bank what deposit methods it accepts before you go. If you're opening an account at a branch and bringing cash, bring it in an envelope or ask the teller to count it with you so there's no confusion later.

ChexSystems History and Banking Records

Banks check ChexSystems, a database that records overdrafts, bounced checks, and fraud reports from other banks. If you have a history of overdrafts or were reported for fraud, some banks will decline to open an account with you. Others have second-chance banking programs that accept people with ChexSystems records but may charge higher fees.

Before you go to the bank, you can check your own ChexSystems report for free at chexsystems.com. If there's an error—for example, a bank reported an overdraft that you already paid back—you can dispute it. Disputes take 30 to 45 days to resolve, so start early if you know there's a problem on your record.

If a bank declines you because of ChexSystems, ask which bank reported the issue and what the specific reason was. You may be able to resolve it with that bank, which can then ask ChexSystems to remove the record. Some credit unions and online banks are more lenient with ChexSystems records than traditional banks.

Special Situations: Minors, Non-Citizens, and Joint Accounts

If you're opening an account for a child under 18, bring the child and your ID as the parent or legal guardian. The child does not need their own ID. You'll both sign the paperwork. The account is usually in the child's name, but you have access to it until they reach the age of majority (18 or 21, depending on the state).

If you're not a U.S. citizen, bring your passport and ask the bank whether it accepts ITINs or consulate IDs. Some banks require a second form of ID or a letter from your employer. A few banks in areas with large immigrant populations have streamlined processes and may not require an SSN or ITIN at all, though this is rare.

If you're opening a joint account with another person—for example, a spouse or business partner—both of you must be present with your own IDs and proof of address. Both names go on the account, and both of you can withdraw money or close the account without the other person's permission, unless you specify otherwise in writing.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

Most banks require an SSN or ITIN by federal law. However, some banks and credit unions in areas with large immigrant populations will open accounts using a passport number or consulate ID instead. Call ahead and ask; do not assume a bank will turn you away.

What if my ID is expired?

Banks will not accept an expired ID. Renew it at your state's Department of Motor Vehicles or apply for a passport before you go to the bank. The process takes one to two weeks for a state ID and several weeks for a passport.

Do I have to bring cash for the initial deposit?

No. You can deposit a check, use a debit card, or link an existing bank account. Ask the bank what methods it accepts before you visit. Online banks may require you to link an existing account or debit card.

What if I have a bad ChexSystems record?

Check your report at chexsystems.com first. If there's an error, dispute it. If the record is accurate, look for second-chance banking programs or credit unions, which are often more lenient than traditional banks.

Can someone open a bank account for me if I can't go in person?

No. Banks require you to be present and sign the paperwork yourself. Online banks let you open an account from home using your computer, but you still must verify your identity and sign electronically.