Yes, you can open a bank account without a Social Security Number, but the process and your options depend on your immigration status and the bank you choose.
Banks are required by federal law to verify your identity, but they do not require a Social Security Number to do so. Instead, they can use an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN), a passport, a state ID, or other government-issued documents. The catch is that not every bank offers this option, and the ones that do may have different rules about which documents they accept and what services come with the account.
Your path forward depends on three things: whether you have an ITIN, which banks operate in your area, and what you plan to use the account for. A checking account for basic deposits and withdrawals is usually easier to open than one linked to credit products or investment services.
Key Takeaways
- An ITIN is the most straightforward substitute for an SSN when opening a bank account, and you can request one from the IRS if you file taxes or have other reasons to identify yourself to the government.
- Some banks accept ITINs routinely; others do not, so calling ahead to confirm their policy saves you a trip and a rejected application.
- A few banks and credit unions have specific programs for non-SSN account holders, including some that accept only a passport and proof of address.
- Online banks have different rules than brick-and-mortar branches, and some will not open accounts for non-US residents at all, regardless of documentation.
- If a bank rejects you, a credit union or a community bank is often your next best option, as they tend to have more flexible identity verification policies.
What an ITIN is and how to get one
An Individual Taxpayer Identification Number is a nine-digit number issued by the IRS to people who do not have a Social Security Number but need to file taxes or report income in the United States. It looks like an SSN but starts with 9. Many banks treat an ITIN the same way they treat an SSN for account-opening purposes.
To request an ITIN, you file Form W-7 with the IRS. You can mail it in with a copy of your passport, visa, or other government-issued ID, or you can apply in person at an IRS office or an authorized acceptance agent. The process takes four to six weeks by mail. If you have already filed a tax return, you may already have an ITIN on file with the IRS, even if you did not realize it.
Once you have an ITIN, bring it to the bank along with your passport or state ID and proof of address (a utility bill, lease, or bank statement from another country all work). Many banks will accept this combination without asking for an SSN.
Banks and credit unions that accept non-SSN applicants
Not all banks have the same policy. Large national chains like Chase and Bank of America have inconsistent practices—some branches accept ITINs and some do not, even within the same bank. Calling your local branch before you visit is worth the five minutes.
Credit unions are often more flexible than banks. Many credit unions will open accounts for non-SSN holders if you are a member or can become one. Some credit unions have no SSN requirement at all; others ask for an ITIN or a passport. The CO-OP Network and Allpoint are two large credit union networks, and you can search for a participating credit union near you on their websites.
Community banks and smaller regional banks tend to have fewer restrictions than national chains. If you live in or near a city with a large immigrant population, local banks often have experience opening accounts for people without SSNs and may have staff who speak your language.
Online banks are the least reliable option. Most require an SSN or ITIN to open an account, but some do not serve non-US residents at all. If you are applying online, read the terms carefully or contact customer service before you start the application.
Documents you will need to bring
The standard set is an ITIN or SSN, a government-issued photo ID (passport, visa, national ID card), and proof of your current address. Proof of address can be a utility bill, lease agreement, bank statement, or government mail with your name and address on it. Some banks accept a letter from your employer or landlord instead.
If you do not have an ITIN yet, some banks will let you open an account with just a passport and proof of address, though this is less common. A few banks ask for a second form of ID or a reference from someone who already banks there. Call ahead to find out what your specific branch requires.
Bring originals or certified copies, not photocopies. If your documents are in another language, bring the originals and ask the bank whether they need a certified English translation. Many banks have translators on staff or can arrange one.
What happens after you open the account
Once your account is open, you can deposit money, write checks, and use a debit card the same way anyone else does. The bank will issue you a tax ID number for the account (usually your ITIN), and the IRS will receive reports about your account activity if you earn interest or receive certain types of income.
Some banks restrict what non-SSN account holders can do. You may not be able to open a credit card, take out a loan, or link the account to investment services. These restrictions vary by bank. Ask about them when you open the account so you know what is and is not available to you.
If you later get an SSN, you can update your account information with the bank. You do not have to close the account and open a new one.
If a bank turns you down
A rejection does not mean you cannot bank anywhere. It usually means that particular bank has a policy against non-SSN accounts or that branch does not have the authority to make exceptions. Try a different branch of the same bank, a credit union, or a community bank.
If you are rejected multiple times, it may be because your ITIN is not yet in the IRS system. If you just applied for an ITIN, wait until you receive your approval letter before trying again. If you applied months ago and have not heard anything, contact the IRS to check the status of your application.
Another reason for rejection is a mismatch between the name on your ID and the name you are using to apply. Banks are required to verify that you are who you say you are. If your legal name has changed or appears differently on different documents, bring all relevant documents and explain the situation to the bank.
Online banks and international residents
Online banks have stricter verification requirements than brick-and-mortar banks because they cannot see you in person. Most require an SSN or ITIN. Some also require a US address, which rules out people living abroad.
If you are living outside the United States, your options narrow. Some online banks will not serve non-residents at all. Others will, but only if you have an ITIN and a US mailing address (a friend's address, a mail forwarding service, or a previous address can work). Read the bank's terms of service or contact their customer service team before you apply.
If you need to bank while living abroad and do not have an ITIN, a credit union or community bank with a physical branch is your better bet. You can visit in person and explain your situation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need an ITIN to open a bank account?
No, but it makes the process much easier. Some banks will open an account with just a passport and proof of address. Others require an ITIN or SSN. Calling ahead to ask what your local bank requires takes the guesswork out.
How long does it take to get an ITIN?
Four to six weeks if you mail Form W-7 to the IRS. If you apply in person at an IRS office or authorized acceptance agent, you may get it faster, sometimes the same day. Check the IRS website for acceptance agents near you.
Can I open a bank account with just a passport?
Some banks and credit unions will, especially if you also bring proof of address. It depends on the bank's policy and your immigration status. Call ahead to confirm before you visit.
What if I live outside the United States?
Online banks are unlikely to serve you. A credit union or community bank with a physical branch is your best option. You may need a US mailing address on file, which can be a friend's address or a mail forwarding service.
Can I use a bank account opened without an SSN to build credit?
A basic checking or savings account does not build credit on its own. To build credit, you need a credit product like a credit card or loan. Most banks will not offer these to non-SSN account holders, though some credit unions do. Ask your bank or credit union what credit-building options are available to you.