What you need before you walk in or click apply

To open a bank account, you need a government-issued photo ID, proof of your current address, and your Social Security number or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN). Most banks also ask for an initial deposit, though the amount varies—some require $25, others $300 or more. A few online banks have no minimum. You do not need perfect credit, a job, or a history with that bank.

The exact documents shift slightly between banks and account types. A checking account at a large national bank has different requirements than a savings account at a credit union or an online-only bank. Some banks will let you start the process online and finish in a branch; others require you to come in person. Knowing what each bank actually needs before you go saves you a trip.

Key Takeaways

  • You must bring a government photo ID (driver's license, passport, or state ID card) and proof of your current address, such as a utility bill or lease.
  • Banks will ask for your Social Security number or ITIN to verify your identity and check banking history through ChexSystems or Early Warning Services.
  • An initial deposit is usually required but the minimum ranges from zero to several hundred dollars depending on the bank and account type.
  • Online banks often have lower or no minimum deposits and fewer document requirements than brick-and-mortar branches.
  • If you do not have a photo ID, some credit unions and community banks will accept alternative documents like a passport card or tribal ID.

Government-issued photo ID and address proof

A government-issued photo ID is non-negotiable. The bank needs to confirm you are who you say you are. A driver's license or state ID card works at any bank. A U.S. passport, passport card, or military ID also work. A tribal ID is accepted at many banks, though policies vary by institution.

For proof of address, bring a recent utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, or government mail with your name and current address. The document usually needs to be dated within the last 60 days, though some banks accept older documents if you explain a gap. A bank statement from another institution also counts. A cell phone bill typically does not.

If you do not have a photo ID, ask the bank whether they accept a passport card, consular ID, or other government document. Some credit unions and smaller community banks are more flexible here than national chains. You may need to bring additional documents—a second form of ID or a reference from someone who already banks there.

Social Security number or ITIN

Banks ask for your Social Security number (SSN) or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) to verify your identity and check your banking history. They run your number through ChexSystems or Early Warning Services, two databases that track closed accounts, overdrafts, and fraud. This check takes seconds and does not affect your credit score.

If you do not have an SSN, an ITIN works instead. An ITIN is a nine-digit number issued by the IRS to people who file taxes but are not U.S. citizens or permanent residents. You can apply for an ITIN through the IRS website or by mail using Form W-7.

If you have never had a bank account before, ChexSystems will show no history—that is fine and does not disqualify you. If you have closed accounts or unpaid overdrafts on record, some banks will still open an account for you, though a few specialize in serving people with banking history issues. Ask the bank directly whether they use ChexSystems and what their policy is for accounts with negative history.

Initial deposit amount and how to make it

Most banks require an initial deposit to open an account. The minimum ranges from $0 to $500 depending on the bank and account type. A basic checking account at a large bank often requires $25 to $100. Premium accounts with higher interest or more features may require $500 or more. Online banks frequently have no minimum or a very low one ($1 to $25).

You can make the initial deposit in several ways: cash at a branch, debit card, check, or bank transfer. If you are opening online, you will usually transfer money from another bank account or provide a debit card. Some banks let you mail a check. Ask the bank which methods they accept before you arrive.

The deposit does not have to come from your own account. A family member or friend can deposit money on your behalf, though you will need to show the bank where the money came from if the amount is large enough to trigger reporting rules (usually $10,000 or more in a single deposit).

Differences between banks and account types

National banks like Chase, Bank of America, and Wells Fargo require you to come to a branch in person for most account types. They ask for photo ID, address proof, and SSN. Minimum deposits range from $25 to $300. Online banks like Ally, Charles Schwab, and Discover require no branch visit and often have no minimum deposit. You upload photos of your ID and proof of address through their website or app.

Credit unions typically require you to be a member of the group they serve—teachers, employees of a specific company, residents of a county, or members of a union. Membership is often free or costs a small one-time fee. Credit unions are sometimes more flexible with alternative ID documents and lower minimums than national banks.

A checking account usually requires a lower minimum deposit than a savings account. A money market account or high-yield savings account often requires $500 to $2,500. Ask the bank what they offer and which account type fits your needs before you gather documents.

What happens after you provide your documents

Once you hand over your ID, address proof, and SSN, the bank runs a background check through ChexSystems or Early Warning Services. This takes a few minutes in person or a few hours online. The bank also verifies your identity by checking your ID against government databases. If everything matches, your account opens on the spot or within one business day.

You will receive a debit card in the mail within 5 to 10 business days. Some banks issue a temporary card number you can use online or at ATMs while you wait. Your account number and routing number are available immediately so you can set up direct deposit or transfers right away.

If the bank cannot verify your identity or finds a problem with ChexSystems, they will tell you why and may ask for additional documents. If you are denied, ask for the reason in writing. You have the right to dispute information in ChexSystems or Early Warning Services if it is wrong.

If you do not have standard documents

If you do not have a driver's license or state ID, a U.S. passport or passport card works at any bank. A military ID, tribal ID, or consular ID (issued by a foreign government to its citizens) also work at many banks, though you may need to call ahead to confirm.

If you do not have proof of address in your name, some banks accept a lease agreement, utility bill in a roommate's name with a note from them, or a letter from a shelter or social service agency confirming your address. A few banks will accept a bank statement from another institution or a government check. Call the bank and explain your situation—many have workarounds.

If you do not have an SSN or ITIN yet, you can apply for an ITIN through the IRS. The process takes 4 to 6 weeks by mail or up to 2 weeks if you apply in person at an IRS office. Some banks will hold an account open while you wait for your number; others will not. Ask before you start the process.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a job or income to open a bank account?

No. Banks do not ask about employment or income when you open an account. They check your identity and banking history, not your job status or credit score. You can open an account whether you are employed, retired, unemployed, or a student.

What if I have been denied a bank account before?

Ask the bank why you were denied. If it was because of ChexSystems, you can dispute the information for free through ChexSystems' website. If it was because you did not have required documents, try a different bank or a credit union—policies vary. Some banks specialize in second-chance accounts for people with banking history issues.

Can I open an account online without going to a branch?

Yes, most online banks let you open an account entirely through their website or app. You upload photos of your ID and address proof, provide your SSN, and make an initial deposit by transfer or debit card. The process usually takes 5 to 10 minutes and your account opens within one business day.

What if my address proof is older than 60 days?

Call the bank and ask. Many banks accept documents older than 60 days if you explain why—for example, if you just moved and have not received a new utility bill yet. Bring a second document if you have one, such as a lease or government mail. Some banks will accept a bank statement from another institution as backup.

Do I need to bring cash for the initial deposit?

No. You can transfer money from another bank account, use a debit card, mail a check, or deposit cash at a branch. Ask the bank which methods they accept before you go. Online banks typically require a transfer or debit card since they have no physical branches.