You can open an Arvest savings account online, but only if you already have an Arvest checking account or are opening both at the same time
Arvest Bank does not let you open a savings account by itself through their website. If you are a new customer with no Arvest accounts, you must open a checking account first—either online or in a branch—and then add a savings account afterward. If you already have an Arvest checking account, you can open a linked savings account online in minutes through your existing login.
The online process requires a valid government ID, a Social Security number, and proof of your current address. Arvest will verify your identity in real time during signup. If you do not have an existing Arvest account, you will need to start with their online checking account application, which takes about 10 minutes.
Key Takeaways
- New Arvest customers must open a checking account first before they can open a savings account online.
- Existing Arvest checking account holders can add a savings account through online banking without visiting a branch.
- You will need a valid ID, Social Security number, and proof of address to complete the online process.
- Arvest verifies your identity immediately during signup, so you will know right away if you can proceed.
- Once approved, your savings account is typically ready to use the same day or within one business day.
Opening a savings account if you already have an Arvest checking account
Log into your Arvest online banking portal using your username and password. Look for an option labeled "Open a New Account" or "Add an Account"—the exact wording varies by browser and device. Select savings account from the account type menu.
You will be asked to choose a savings product. Arvest offers different savings accounts with varying interest rates and minimum balance requirements. Review the terms for each option, then select the one you want. The application itself takes about five minutes. Once you submit it, Arvest will verify your information against what they already have on file and send you a confirmation email with your new account number.
Your new savings account will be linked to your existing checking account, so transfers between them happen instantly online. You can begin depositing money and earning interest as soon as the account opens, which is usually the same business day.
Opening a checking account and savings account together as a new customer
Go to the Arvest Bank website and select "Open an Account" from the homepage. You will be directed to their online application. Start with the checking account application, which asks for your name, address, date of birth, Social Security number, and employment information.
You will need to upload or photograph a valid government ID—a driver's license, passport, or state ID card all work. Arvest will verify your identity electronically during the application. This usually takes a few minutes. Once your checking account is approved, you will see an option to add a savings account to the same application before you finish.
Select your preferred savings product, review the terms, and submit. Both accounts will be opened together, and you will receive confirmation emails for each one. Arvest typically funds new accounts within one business day, though you may see the accounts appear in your online banking portal immediately after approval.
What information you need before you start
Have your Social Security number ready—Arvest requires this for all new accounts. You will also need a valid government-issued photo ID. A U.S. driver's license, passport, or state ID card will work. If you do not have a photo ID, you cannot open an account online; you will need to visit a branch in person.
Proof of your current address is required. Arvest will accept a recent utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, or government document showing your name and address. The document should be dated within the last 60 days. If you have moved recently and do not have a current document yet, bring what you have to a branch and explain the situation—they may be able to work with you.
If you are opening a checking account as well, have your employer's name and your employment status ready. Arvest asks this during the application but does not require verification documents at signup.
How long approval takes and when you can use your account
Identity verification happens in real time during the online application. If Arvest approves you immediately, you will see a confirmation message before you finish the signup process. Most new customers receive approval within minutes.
In some cases, Arvest may need to review your application manually, which can take up to one business day. You will receive an email if this happens, and the bank will tell you when to expect a decision. Once approved, your account is usually ready to use the same day. You may see it in your online banking portal right away, though it can take up to one business day for the account to be fully activated for deposits and transfers.
If you are depositing a check, you can photograph it through the Arvest mobile app or mail it to the address provided in your welcome materials. Direct deposit and wire transfers can usually begin as soon as your account is active.
Minimum balance requirements and account fees
Arvest's savings account minimum balance varies by product. Some savings accounts have no minimum balance requirement, while others require you to maintain a certain amount to earn the stated interest rate or avoid a monthly fee. The specific requirements appear during the online application when you review each savings product option.
Monthly maintenance fees also vary. Some Arvest savings accounts charge a small monthly fee if your balance falls below a certain threshold, while others have no monthly fee at all. Read the fee schedule for the account you choose before you submit your application. You can change to a different savings product later if the one you selected does not work for your situation.
What to do if your online application is denied or stalled
If Arvest denies your application online, you will receive an email explaining the reason. Common reasons include a mismatch between the information you provided and what appears in their verification system, or a problem with your ID photo quality. If this happens, visit an Arvest branch in person with your ID and proof of address. A banker can often resolve the issue on the spot or explain what needs to change before you can reapply online.
If your application is stuck in review status for more than one business day, call Arvest customer service at the number on their website. Have your Social Security number and the email address you used for the application ready. A representative can check the status and tell you what is holding up the decision.
If you have a history of overdrafts or fraud at other banks, Arvest may decline you. In that case, you cannot open an account online, but you can still visit a branch and ask to speak with a manager about your options. Some branches have discretion to open accounts for customers who would otherwise be declined.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I open just a savings account without a checking account?
No. Arvest requires you to have a checking account first. If you are a new customer, open the checking account online or in a branch, then add the savings account afterward. Existing checking account holders can add a savings account online immediately.
Do I need to visit a branch in person?
No, not if you already have an Arvest checking account or if you are opening both accounts as a new customer. The entire process can be completed online. You only need to visit a branch if your online application is denied or if you do not have a valid government photo ID.
How much money do I need to open an account?
Arvest does not require an opening deposit for most savings accounts, though some products may have a minimum balance to earn the advertised interest rate. Check the specific account terms during signup. You can deposit money after your account opens.
Can I transfer money from another bank into my new Arvest savings account?
Yes. Once your account is active, you can set up an external transfer from another bank, mail a check, or use mobile check deposit through the Arvest app. External transfers typically take three to five business days to complete.
What if I already have an Arvest account but forgot my login?
Use the "Forgot Username" or "Forgot Password" link on the Arvest login page. You will be asked to verify your identity using your Social Security number and other personal information. Once verified, you can reset your credentials and log in to add a savings account.