The core documents you will need

Most banks require a government-issued photo ID, proof of your current address, and your Social Security number or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN). The ID can be a driver's license, passport, state ID card, or tribal ID. The address proof is usually a recent utility bill, lease, mortgage statement, or government mail dated within the last 60 days—the exact timeframe varies by bank.

Some banks will accept a secondary form of ID instead of a photo ID if you don't have one. This might be a birth certificate, Social Security card, or military ID. Call the bank ahead of time if you're unsure whether your documents will work; they can tell you what they accept before you come in.

If you don't have a Social Security number, you can use an ITIN, which the IRS issues to people who file taxes but don't have a Social Security number. You'll need to bring the letter from the IRS that assigned your ITIN.

Key Takeaways

  • You need a government-issued photo ID, proof of your current address dated within the last 60 days, and your Social Security number or ITIN.
  • Address proof can be a utility bill, lease, mortgage statement, or government mail—not a bank statement or credit card bill.
  • If you don't have a photo ID, many banks accept a birth certificate or military ID as a secondary form of identification.
  • Some banks run a ChexSystems check, which looks at your banking history; if you've had problems with a previous account, tell the bank upfront.
  • You can open an account online, by phone, or in person, depending on the bank—online often requires fewer documents but may take longer to verify.

What happens if you don't have a photo ID

Banks are required by federal law to verify your identity, but they have flexibility in how they do it. If you don't have a photo ID, bring a combination of other documents: a birth certificate, Social Security card, passport card (without a photo), military ID, or state-issued document. Some banks will also accept a letter from a government agency, a utility bill in your name, or a lease.

The bank may ask follow-up questions to confirm your identity—where you've lived, previous addresses, or details about accounts you've had. This process takes longer than showing a photo ID, but it's a standard alternative. If one bank turns you down, try another; different banks have different policies.

Address verification and what counts as proof

Your address proof must show your current address and be dated within the last 60 days at most banks, though some accept up to 90 days. A utility bill (electric, gas, water, internet) is the most common choice. A lease or mortgage statement works. So does a government letter—property tax notice, voter registration card, or mail from a government agency.

Bank statements, credit card statements, and insurance bills usually do not count, even if they show your address. If you're homeless or living with someone else and don't have mail in your name, ask the bank what they accept. Some will take a letter from a shelter, a government agency, or a social services organization on letterhead confirming your address.

ChexSystems checks and banking history

ChexSystems is a database that tracks banking problems—overdrafts you didn't pay, accounts closed for fraud, or repeated NSF (non-sufficient funds) fees. Many banks check ChexSystems when you open an account. If you have a record there, the bank may deny your account or require you to pay outstanding fees before opening.

If you know you've had problems with a previous account, tell the bank when you apply. Some banks specialize in second-chance accounts and don't use ChexSystems at all. You can also request your own ChexSystems report for free at chexsystems.com to see what's on file before you apply.

If there's an error on your ChexSystems report, you can dispute it directly with ChexSystems. The process takes about 30 days. Getting errors removed before you apply to a new bank improves your chances of approval.

Opening an account online versus in person

Online accounts usually require fewer documents upfront—often just your ID number, address, and a photo of your ID uploaded through the bank's app or website. The bank verifies your identity electronically, which can take a few minutes to a few days. You won't need to visit a branch.

In-person accounts require you to bring physical documents to a branch, but verification happens immediately. You can ask questions face-to-face and walk out with a debit card the same day at some banks. If you're uncomfortable with online verification or don't have a way to upload documents, in-person is more straightforward.

Some banks offer both options. If you start online and the bank can't verify you electronically, they'll ask you to come in with documents or call you for additional information. This can add days to the process.

Information you'll provide, not documents

Beyond documents, the bank will ask for your name, date of birth, phone number, and email address. They'll ask about your employment status and income, though you usually don't need to prove it with a pay stub or tax return unless you're opening a business account. They'll also ask whether you want overdraft protection and what type of account you want—checking, savings, or both.

The bank will ask if you've been convicted of certain crimes. This is a federal requirement, not a judgment call by the bank. Answer honestly; lying on the form can result in account closure later.

What to bring if you're opening an account for someone else

If you're opening an account on behalf of someone else—a minor, an elderly person, or someone unable to come in—you'll need documents for both people. Bring the account holder's ID and address proof, plus your own ID. You may also need a power of attorney document or guardianship papers if you're acting as a legal representative.

Some banks require the account holder to be present in person, even if you're a parent or guardian. Call ahead to ask what the bank's policy is. If the person can't come in, ask whether the bank will do a video verification or phone call instead.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

Yes, if you have an ITIN. You'll need the IRS letter that assigned your ITIN and a photo ID. Some banks also accept a passport from another country. If you don't have either, ask the bank whether they have alternative verification methods.

What if my address proof is older than 60 days?

Call the bank and ask whether they'll accept it. Some banks are flexible, especially if you've just moved and don't have newer mail yet. If they won't accept it, a recent utility bill or lease is usually your fastest option.

Will opening an account hurt my credit score?

No. Banks check ChexSystems, not your credit report, when you open a checking or savings account. Opening an account does not appear on your credit report and does not affect your credit score.

What if I've been denied a bank account before?

Check your ChexSystems report to see why. If there are errors, dispute them. If the record is accurate, look for banks that offer second-chance accounts or don't use ChexSystems. Credit unions often have more flexible policies than large banks.

Do I need a minimum deposit to open an account?

It depends on the bank and the account type. Many banks have no minimum deposit requirement. Others require $25 to $100 to open. Ask the bank about their specific requirements before you apply.