The documents and information banks actually ask for

Most banks need two things before they open an account: proof of who you are and proof of where you live. A driver's license or passport covers identity. For address, bring a recent utility bill, lease, or mortgage statement—something dated within the last 60 days with your name and street address on it. Some banks will accept a bank statement from another institution instead.

You will also need to provide 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, which track banking history and fraud. If you have never had a bank account, this check will simply show no history—that is normal and will not stop you from opening an account.

Bring a small amount of money to make your first deposit. Most banks require a minimum opening deposit, though the amount varies widely—some ask for $25, others for $300 or more. A few banks have no minimum at all. Call ahead or check the bank's website to know what to expect before you go in.

Key Takeaways

  • You need 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 dated within the last 60 days.
  • Banks will ask for your Social Security number or ITIN to run a background check; having no banking history will not prevent you from opening an account.
  • Bring your opening deposit in cash or by check—the required amount ranges from zero to several hundred dollars depending on the bank.
  • If you do not have a photo ID, some banks and credit unions will work with you using alternative documents like a passport card, tribal ID, or consulate ID.

What counts as proof of identity

A driver's license is the easiest form of ID because it has your photo, signature, and address all in one place. A state ID card (non-driver) works just as well. A U.S. passport or passport card also works, though the passport does not show an address—you will still need separate proof of where you live.

If you do not have a driver's license or state ID, other documents may work depending on the bank. A tribal ID, consulate ID, or military ID can sometimes substitute. Some banks will accept a combination of documents—for example, a Social Security card plus a birth certificate plus a utility bill—if you have no photo ID at all. Call the bank directly before you go in; policies vary by branch and by institution.

If your ID has expired, most banks will still accept it as long as it is not more than a few years old and your face is still recognizable. An ID that expired last year is usually fine. An ID that expired ten years ago may not be.

What counts as proof of address

A utility bill in your name is the standard proof of address. Electric, gas, water, phone, or internet bills all work. The bill must show your name and street address and be dated within the last 60 days—the bank will check the date.

A lease or rental agreement works if it is signed and shows your current address. A mortgage statement or property tax bill also works. If you rent and do not have a lease in writing, some banks will accept a letter from your landlord on their letterhead stating that you live at that address, though this is less common and you should call ahead.

Bank statements from another bank, credit union, or brokerage count as proof of address at most institutions. A credit card statement does not usually work because credit card companies often use a mailing address that may not be where you actually live. Government mail—tax returns, benefit statements, court documents—can work at some banks but not others; ask first.

When you do not have standard documents

If you are unhoused or living in a shelter, some banks and credit unions will open an account without a traditional address. You may be able to use the shelter's address, a mail forwarding service address, or a trusted contact's address with written permission. Credit unions are often more flexible than large banks on this point. Call ahead and explain your situation; many have worked with people in your position before.

If you are new to the country and do not yet have a Social Security number, you can use an ITIN instead. You can get an ITIN from the IRS even if you are not a citizen. Some banks will also open an account with a passport number alone while you wait for your ITIN to arrive. Again, call the specific bank first—policies differ.

If you have a criminal record or a history of fraud, the bank's background check may flag your name. This does not automatically disqualify you, but the bank may ask follow-up questions or deny the account. If you are denied, ask the bank which service ran the check (ChexSystems or Early Warning Services) and request a copy of your report. You have the right to see what they found and to dispute errors.

What to bring in person versus online

If you open an account in a branch, bring originals of your ID and proof of address. The bank will look at them, verify they are real, and return them to you. You do not need to leave copies.

If you open an account online, the process is different. You will photograph or scan your ID and address proof and upload them through the bank's website or app. The bank's system will verify the documents automatically or send them to a person who checks them manually. This can take anywhere from a few minutes to a few days. Some banks will let you start using your account before the documents are fully verified; others will freeze the account until verification is complete.

Online account opening is faster for some people but slower for others, depending on how clear your photos are and how busy the bank is. If your photo is blurry or your document is partially cut off, the bank may ask you to upload again. Bring good lighting and a steady hand if you are photographing documents with your phone.

Information you will provide verbally or on a form

Beyond documents, the bank will ask you to state your full legal name, date of birth, and phone number. They will ask whether you are a U.S. citizen or permanent resident. They will ask your employment status and, sometimes, your employer's name. They will ask whether you have other bank accounts and, if so, where.

You will be asked to choose a username and password for online banking, or the bank will create one for you. You will choose a PIN for the debit card. You will decide which type of account you want—checking, savings, or both—and whether you want overdraft protection (which lets you spend more than your balance and pay a fee, or which can be linked to another account to cover the shortfall).

Some of these questions are required by federal law; others are the bank's own policy. You cannot open an account without answering the required questions, but you can decline to answer optional ones. If you are unsure whether a question is required, ask.

What happens after you provide everything

If you open an account in person, you usually walk out with a debit card on the spot or within a few days. Your account is active immediately, and you can start using it. If you opened online, your debit card will arrive by mail in 7 to 10 business days, though you may be able to use a temporary digital card in your phone's wallet right away.

The bank will send you a welcome packet by mail with your account number, routing number, and information about online banking. Keep this packet. You will need the routing number and account number to set up direct deposit or to receive wire transfers.

If the bank's background check turns up a problem—a closed account with an unpaid balance, a fraud report, or a name match to someone on a government watchlist—the bank will contact you before opening the account. They may ask you to explain or provide additional information. If they deny the account, they will tell you why and which service flagged you, so you can follow up if you believe there is an error.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

Yes, using an ITIN instead. You can get an ITIN from the IRS without being a citizen. Some banks will also open an account with just a passport number while you wait for your ITIN. Call the bank first to confirm they accept ITINs, because not all do.

What if my address on my ID does not match where I live now?

Bring both your ID and a separate proof of your current address, such as a utility bill. The bank will use the current address for your account. You do not need to update your ID first.

Do I need to bring original documents or can I bring copies?

If you open in person, bring originals. The bank will look at them and return them. If you open online, you will photograph or scan them and upload the images. You do not mail originals to the bank.

What if I was denied a bank account before?

Ask which bank denied you and why. If it was due to a ChexSystems or Early Warning report, get a copy of your report and look for errors. You can dispute inaccurate information. Different banks have different policies, so being denied by one bank does not mean all banks will deny you. Credit unions are sometimes more flexible than large banks.

How long does it take to open an account?

In person, usually 15 to 30 minutes. Online, anywhere from a few minutes to a few days, depending on how quickly the bank verifies your documents. Your account is usually active the same day or the next business day, though your debit card arrives by mail later.