What you need to open a Synovus savings account
Synovus offers several savings account types through its retail banking division. To open one, you'll need a government-issued photo ID, your Social Security number, and an initial deposit. The minimum opening deposit varies by account type — some accounts require $100, while others may have no minimum. You can open an account online, by phone, or in person at a Synovus branch.
Synovus operates primarily in the Southeast and Mid-Atlantic regions, with branches in Alabama, Florida, Georgia, South Carolina, and other states. If you don't live near a branch, you can still open an account online, though you'll need to verify your identity through their digital process. The entire process typically takes 10 to 15 minutes online or about 30 minutes in a branch.
Key Takeaways
- You need a photo ID, Social Security number, and an opening deposit to start a Synovus savings account, with deposit amounts varying by account type.
- Synovus has physical branches in the Southeast and Mid-Atlantic, but you can open an account online if you're outside those regions.
- Online account opening takes about 10 to 15 minutes and requires digital identity verification through their website or mobile app.
- Synovus savings accounts earn interest, with rates that change based on market conditions and your account balance tier.
Opening an account online through Synovus.com
Start by visiting Synovus.com and clicking the link to open a new account. You'll select the type of savings account you want — Synovus offers a standard savings account and may offer promotional or tiered savings options depending on current offerings. The website will ask you to enter your personal information: full name, date of birth, address, phone number, and Social Security number.
Next, you'll verify your identity. Synovus uses a digital verification process that may ask you to answer security questions based on your credit history, or they may request a photo of your ID. Once verified, you'll choose your opening deposit amount and funding method — you can transfer money from another bank account or use a debit card. After you submit your information, Synovus will send you a confirmation email with your account number and login credentials.
Your account becomes active immediately for online and mobile banking, though you may not be able to use a debit card right away. If you need a physical debit card, Synovus will mail it to your address within 7 to 10 business days. You can begin making transfers and deposits online as soon as your account is open.
Opening an account at a Synovus branch in person
Visit any Synovus branch with your photo ID, Social Security number, and your opening deposit. Bring a checkbook or bank statement from another account if you want to fund the account by check transfer. A Synovus representative will walk you through the account setup, answer questions about interest rates and fees, and help you choose the right account type for your needs.
The representative will collect your information, verify your identity on the spot, and process your opening deposit. You'll receive a temporary debit card at the branch or have one mailed to you. Your account is active the same day, and you can use online banking immediately. A permanent debit card arrives by mail within 7 to 10 business days.
Interest rates and account features
Synovus savings accounts earn interest, though the rate varies based on the account type and current market conditions. Rates change periodically, so check Synovus.com or call your local branch for the current rate on the account you're opening. Some accounts offer tiered rates — meaning you earn a higher rate if you maintain a larger balance.
Most Synovus savings accounts have no monthly maintenance fee, though some promotional accounts may have specific terms. You can make unlimited deposits, but federal rules limit you to six withdrawals per month from a savings account. If you exceed that limit, Synovus may charge a fee or convert your account to a checking account. You can avoid this by using a Synovus checking account for frequent withdrawals and keeping your savings account for money you're setting aside.
Funding your account after opening
Once your account is open, you can add money through several methods. You can transfer funds from another bank account using the account and routing numbers Synovus provides. You can deposit checks through mobile check deposit — photograph the front and back of the check using the Synovus mobile app, and the funds typically appear in your account within one business day.
If you have direct deposit set up through your employer, you can have paychecks deposited directly into your Synovus savings account. You can also make cash deposits at any Synovus ATM or at a branch during business hours. Transfers from another bank may take one to three business days to appear in your account, depending on the other bank's processing time.
What to do if you run into problems during setup
If your online account opening is rejected during identity verification, Synovus will usually tell you why — common reasons include a mismatch between the information you entered and what's in their system, or an issue with your credit report. You can call Synovus at 1-888-SYNOVUS (1-888-796-6887) to speak with a representative who can help troubleshoot the problem or open your account over the phone instead.
If you're trying to open an account but don't have a Social Security number, you may be able to use an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) instead. Call the number above to ask whether your situation qualifies. If you're having trouble with your debit card after opening, contact Synovus customer service — they can reorder it, activate it, or troubleshoot access issues.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I open a Synovus savings account if I don't live near a branch?
Yes. You can open an account entirely online through Synovus.com. You'll need to complete digital identity verification, which typically involves answering security questions or providing a photo of your ID. Your account will be fully functional for online and mobile banking immediately after opening.
What's the minimum deposit to open a Synovus savings account?
The minimum opening deposit varies by account type. Some Synovus savings accounts require $100, while others may have no minimum. Check the specific account details on Synovus.com or call 1-888-796-6887 to confirm the current minimum for the account you want to open.
How long does it take to receive a debit card after opening?
Synovus mails debit cards within 7 to 10 business days of account opening. You can use your account for online transfers and mobile deposits immediately, even before the card arrives. If you need a card faster, ask a branch representative whether expedited shipping is available.
Can I open a joint savings account at Synovus?
Yes. Both account holders will need to provide photo ID and Social Security numbers. You can open a joint account online or in person. Both owners have full access to the account and can make deposits and withdrawals.
What happens if I don't meet the minimum balance requirement?
Most Synovus savings accounts don't have a minimum balance requirement to keep the account open, though some promotional accounts may. If your account does have a minimum and you fall below it, Synovus may charge a monthly fee. Check your account terms or contact Synovus to confirm whether a minimum applies to your specific account.