What You Need Before You Start
Security Bank requires two forms of identification and proof of your current address before you can open a savings account. One ID must be government-issued with a photo — a driver's license, passport, or state ID card. The second can be a non-photo ID like a Social Security card, birth certificate, or military ID. For address proof, bring a recent utility bill, lease agreement, or bank statement dated within the last 60 days.
You will also need to decide on your opening deposit amount. Security Bank does not publish a minimum opening deposit requirement on their website, so call your local branch or visit in person to confirm the current amount. Bring a debit card or checkbook if you plan to fund the account by transfer from another bank, or bring cash if you prefer to deposit that way.
Have your Social Security number ready. Security Bank will use it to run a background check through ChexSystems, a banking history database. This check does not affect your credit score and takes a few minutes to complete.
Key Takeaways
- You need a government-issued photo ID, a second form of ID, and proof of your address dated within 60 days.
- Security Bank does not publicly state a minimum opening deposit, so contact your branch first to confirm the amount required.
- The bank will run a ChexSystems check using your Social Security number, which does not affect your credit.
- You can open an account in person at a branch, and the process typically takes 15 to 30 minutes.
- After opening, you will receive a debit card in the mail within 7 to 10 business days and can access your account online immediately.
Opening an Account in Person at a Branch
Visit any Security Bank branch during business hours with your documents and opening deposit. Tell the representative you want to open a savings account. They will ask you to fill out an account application form, which asks for your name, address, date of birth, Social Security number, employment information, and contact details. The form takes about five minutes to complete.
The representative will then verify your identity by checking your government-issued photo ID against the application, confirm your address with the proof document you brought, and run the ChexSystems check. If the check clears — which it does for most people — you will move forward. If ChexSystems flags something, the representative will explain what it is and whether it blocks the account or requires additional steps.
Once approved, you will choose a PIN for your debit card and sign the account agreement. The representative will give you a receipt with your new account number and routing number. You can start using your account immediately for transfers and online banking, but your physical debit card will arrive by mail in 7 to 10 business days.
What Happens If ChexSystems Blocks Your Account
ChexSystems may flag your application if you have unpaid overdraft fees, a history of fraud, or unresolved disputes with another bank. If this happens, the Security Bank representative will tell you what triggered the flag. You have the right to request a copy of your ChexSystems report and dispute any errors on it.
To dispute an error, contact ChexSystems directly at 1-800-428-9623 or visit chexsystems.com. You can file a dispute online or by mail. ChexSystems has 30 days to investigate and respond. If the dispute is resolved in your favor, you can return to Security Bank and reapply.
If the flag is accurate — for example, you do owe overdraft fees — you may need to pay the debt before Security Bank will open your account. Some banks will work with you on a payment plan; call Security Bank's customer service at the number on their website to ask whether they can do the same.
Opening an Account Online or by Phone
Security Bank does not currently offer full account opening online. You must visit a branch in person to complete the identity verification and sign the account agreement. However, you can start the process by visiting securitybank.com to see what information you will need and to locate your nearest branch.
If you cannot visit a branch, call Security Bank's customer service line to ask whether they offer any remote opening options or whether they can schedule an appointment to speed up your visit. Some branches may have shorter wait times at certain hours.
Accessing Your Account After Opening
You can log into your account online or through the Security Bank mobile app as soon as your account is open. The representative will give you instructions for setting up your online login during your visit. You will need to create a username and password, and Security Bank will send you a temporary access code by email or text.
Your debit card will arrive in the mail within 7 to 10 business days. When it arrives, call the number on the back of the card to activate it before you use it. You can also activate it through the mobile app or online banking portal.
Once your card is active, you can withdraw cash from Security Bank ATMs and ATMs in partner networks, depending on your account type. Check securitybank.com or ask your representative which ATM networks your account includes.
Understanding Your Account Type and Fees
Security Bank offers different savings account types, each with different interest rates, minimum balances, and monthly fees. Ask your representative which types are available and what the current interest rate is for each. Interest rates change over time, so the rate you open with may not be the rate you earn a year from now.
Some accounts charge a monthly maintenance fee if your balance falls below a certain amount, while others waive the fee if you set up direct deposit or maintain a linked checking account. Ask about fee waivers before you open the account so you understand what you need to do to avoid charges.
Request a fee schedule in writing so you have a record of what you agreed to. This document will help you if you have questions about charges later.
What to Do If Something Goes Wrong
If your account does not open after your visit, Security Bank will contact you by phone or email within one business day to explain why. Common reasons include a ChexSystems issue, incomplete information on your application, or an address that could not be verified. The bank will tell you what to fix and how to reapply.
If you opened your account but your debit card does not arrive within 10 business days, call Security Bank's customer service. They can reorder the card or, in some cases, issue a temporary card number you can use online while you wait for the physical card.
If you notice unauthorized activity on your account after opening, report it to Security Bank immediately by calling the number on the back of your debit card or logging into your online account. Federal law limits your liability for unauthorized transactions if you report them quickly.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I open a Security Bank savings account if I do not have a government-issued ID?
No. Federal banking law requires a government-issued photo ID. If you do not have a driver's license or passport, you can obtain a state ID card from your state's DMV. Call your local Security Bank branch to ask what other photo IDs they accept.
What if my address proof is older than 60 days?
Security Bank may still accept it if it is the most recent document you have. Call your branch before you visit to ask whether they can work with an older document, or bring a newer one if possible — a recent credit card statement or insurance bill works if a utility bill is not available.
How long does it take to open a Security Bank savings account?
The process takes 15 to 30 minutes in person at a branch. This includes filling out the application, identity verification, the ChexSystems check, and setting up your online access. Wait times vary by branch and time of day.
Can I deposit money into my account before my debit card arrives?
Yes. You can transfer money from another bank account, deposit cash at a Security Bank ATM or branch, or set up direct deposit from your employer. Your account number and routing number are active immediately after opening.
What interest rate will I earn on my savings?
Interest rates vary by account type and change over time. Ask your representative for the current rate when you open your account, and check securitybank.com or log into your account online to see your rate anytime. You can also call customer service to ask about current rates.