The documents you need depend on the bank and account type, but most require a government ID and proof of address

Every bank has a slightly different checklist, but the core set is consistent: a photo ID issued by a government agency, proof that you live at the address you're giving them, and your Social Security number or tax ID. Some banks add a second form of ID or require proof of income. A few ask for employment verification or a reference. The fastest way to know exactly what your bank wants is to call their customer service line or visit a branch and ask before you gather anything.

Banks are required by federal law to verify your identity and address as part of anti-money-laundering rules. This is why they ask for the same types of documents across the industry, even though the specific forms they'll accept can vary. What counts as proof of address at one bank might not at another—some accept utility bills, others want a lease, and some take bank statements from another institution.

Key Takeaways

  • You will need a government-issued photo ID (driver's license, passport, or state ID card) and proof of your current address to open an account at any bank.
  • Proof of address can be a utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, or recent bank statement, and it usually must be dated within the last 60 to 90 days.
  • Your Social Security number or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number is required so the bank can report interest earned and comply with tax law.
  • Some banks ask for a second form of ID, employment verification, or a reference, so calling ahead saves you a trip if you don't have what they need.
  • You can open an account online, by mail, or in person, and the documents you need are the same regardless of method.

Government-issued photo ID: what counts

A driver's license or state ID card is the most common form of ID banks accept. A U.S. passport works at every bank. A passport card also works. Some banks accept a military ID, tribal ID, or permanent resident card (green card). A few accept a foreign passport if you also bring a second form of ID.

The ID must not be expired, though some banks will accept an ID that expired within the last year. The name on your ID must match the name you're using to open the account. If your name has changed since the ID was issued, bring a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order showing the name change, along with the ID itself.

If you don't have a photo ID, some banks will accept a combination of other documents—a Social Security card plus a birth certificate plus a utility bill, for example. Call the bank first. Getting a state ID card takes time and costs money, so if the bank has an alternative route, it's worth knowing before you start.

Proof of address: documents the bank will accept

A utility bill (electric, gas, water, internet, or phone) dated within the last 60 to 90 days is the most straightforward proof. A lease agreement or mortgage statement works. A recent bank or credit card statement from another financial institution works. Some banks accept a government document like a tax return, voter registration card, or benefits statement. A few accept a letter from your employer or landlord on letterhead confirming your address.

The document must show your full name and current address. If you live with someone else and the bill is in their name, most banks won't accept it—you'll need a document in your name. If you're homeless or living in a shelter, some banks have alternative procedures; call ahead to ask what they can do.

If you've recently moved and don't yet have a utility bill in your name, bring a lease or rental agreement. If you own your home and the mortgage statement is old, bring a recent property tax bill or homeowner's insurance statement. The bank's goal is to confirm you actually live where you say you do, so any recent document with your name and address on it is worth trying.

Social Security number or tax ID

Banks must collect your Social Security number (SSN) or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) to report interest you earn and to comply with federal tax law. If you don't have an SSN, an ITIN issued by the IRS serves the same purpose. If you have neither, some banks will open an account without one, but you won't earn interest and the bank will file a report with the IRS noting the account exists.

You don't need to bring a Social Security card to the bank. You can simply tell the bank your number, and they'll verify it against IRS records. If you've lost your card or don't know your number, you can request a replacement from the Social Security Administration before you open the account, or you can give the bank your number verbally and they'll confirm it works.

Secondary documents some banks require

A second form of ID is common at larger banks. This can be another government ID, a passport, a military ID, or sometimes a credit card or employee badge. It doesn't have to be a photo ID. Some banks accept a utility bill as a second form of ID if you've already brought a government photo ID as your primary one.

Employment verification or proof of income is less common but some banks ask for it, especially for accounts with overdraft protection or higher limits. A recent pay stub, offer letter, or tax return usually works. If you're self-employed or retired, a tax return from the last two years is standard. If you're unemployed, some banks will still open an account; call ahead to ask.

A reference—a letter from someone who knows you, or sometimes just a name and phone number of someone who can vouch for you—is rare but happens at smaller banks or credit unions. If the bank asks for one, they'll tell you what form it needs to take.

Opening an account online, by mail, or in person

If you open an account online, you'll upload photos of your ID and proof of address. Make sure the photos are clear, show the entire document, and aren't blurry or cut off. The bank's website will tell you the file size and format they accept. Some banks use a video call where you hold up your documents to the camera so a person can verify them in real time.

If you open by mail, you'll mail photocopies of your documents to the bank's address. Use clear, legible copies—not photos taken on your phone unless they're sharp enough to read. Some banks ask you to certify the copies by signing and dating them. The bank will keep the copies on file.

If you open in person at a branch, bring the originals. The bank will look at them, verify the information, and usually return them to you. Bring all the documents you think you might need, because if the bank asks for something you don't have, you'll have to come back or mail it in later.

What happens if you don't have all the documents

If you're missing a document, ask the bank what alternatives they accept. Many banks have flexibility—if you don't have a utility bill, a lease works. If you don't have a second form of ID, a bank statement from another institution might work. If you don't have proof of address yet because you just moved, some banks will let you bring it within 30 days of opening the account.

If you don't have a government photo ID at all, getting one takes time. A state ID card usually takes one to three weeks and costs between $10 and $30, depending on your state. A passport takes four to six weeks and costs $130 to $165. If you need an account urgently, call banks in your area and ask whether any will open an account without a photo ID—some credit unions and smaller banks have workarounds.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I open a bank account with just a passport and no state ID?

Yes. A U.S. passport is a valid government-issued photo ID at every bank. You'll still need proof of address, so bring a utility bill, lease, or mortgage statement along with your passport.

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

Bring both your ID and a separate proof of address document showing your current address. The bank will use the proof of address to open the account. You can update your ID with the state later, but it's not required to open the bank account.

Do I need to bring my Social Security card?

No. You can tell the bank your Social Security number verbally, and they'll verify it against IRS records. If you don't know your number, you can request a replacement from the Social Security Administration, or some banks will open the account and you can provide it later.

Can someone else open a bank account for me if I give them my documents?

No. You must be present, either in person or via video call, so the bank can verify your identity. This is a federal requirement. If you're unable to visit a branch, open the account online using the bank's video verification process.

What if I'm opening a joint account with someone else?

Both account holders must bring their own government photo ID and proof of address. The bank will verify both people's identities before opening the account. You can both be present in person, or both complete the process online.