Yes, you can open a checking account without an SSN, but the bank will ask for a different ID number
Banks are required by federal law to collect identifying information from everyone who opens an account. If you don't have a Social Security number, you can use an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN), a passport, a state ID, or a combination of documents depending on the bank's policy. Some banks will also accept a foreign national ID number paired with your passport.
The specific documents you'll need vary by bank. Most large national banks have a process for non-citizens, but smaller regional banks and credit unions may have stricter rules or may not accept certain forms of ID. Your best approach is to call the bank directly before you visit, because policies differ even between branches of the same bank.
Key Takeaways
- An ITIN (Individual Taxpayer Identification Number) is the most widely accepted substitute for an SSN when opening a checking account.
- You will need to bring a valid passport or state-issued ID plus proof of your current address, such as a utility bill or lease.
- Large national banks like Chase, Bank of America, and Wells Fargo have documented processes for opening accounts without an SSN, though requirements vary by location.
- Some banks will not open accounts for non-residents or will require an ITIN before they proceed, so calling ahead saves a wasted trip.
What ID documents banks will accept instead of an SSN
An ITIN is a nine-digit number issued by the IRS to people who file taxes but don't have an SSN. If you've filed a U.S. tax return, you likely have one already. You can find your ITIN on your most recent tax return or by calling the IRS at 1-800-829-1040. If you don't have an ITIN yet, you can request one by filing Form W-7 with the IRS, though this takes several weeks.
If you don't have an ITIN, bring your passport and a second form of ID from your home country. Some banks will accept a foreign driver's license or national ID card paired with your passport. A few banks will also accept a letter from your employer or school on official letterhead confirming your identity and employment or enrollment status.
You will also need to prove your current address in the United States. A utility bill, lease agreement, or bank statement in your name works. If you've just arrived and don't have these yet, some banks will accept a letter from your employer or landlord stating your address, or a copy of your lease even if it's not yet in your name.
Which banks have the clearest process for non-SSN accounts
Chase, Bank of America, Wells Fargo, and Citibank all have formal procedures for opening accounts without an SSN. Chase and Bank of America explicitly state on their websites that they accept ITINs and will open accounts for non-citizens with valid ID. Wells Fargo requires an ITIN or a passport plus a secondary ID. Citibank has a specific program for international customers and will open accounts with a passport and proof of address.
Credit unions often have more flexible policies than large banks, especially if you have a connection to the community they serve—through an employer, school, or family member who is already a member. Call your local credit union and ask whether they have a process for non-citizens. Some will open an account on the spot if you bring a passport and proof of address; others will require an ITIN.
Online banks like Chime, Wise, and Revolut have different rules. Wise and Revolut are designed for international customers and have streamlined processes for non-citizens, though they may require you to verify your identity through video call or upload documents. Chime requires an SSN or ITIN, so it's not an option if you have neither.
How to get an ITIN if you don't have one yet
You request an ITIN by filing Form W-7 with the IRS. You can file it on paper by mail or, if you're working with a tax professional or using tax software, they can file it for you electronically. The paper process takes four to six weeks; electronic filing through an IRS-approved agent can be faster, sometimes two to three weeks.
To file Form W-7, you need to provide proof of identity and proof of foreign status. A valid passport works for both. You'll also need to include a completed Form W-7 and either a U.S. tax return (if you're filing one) or a statement explaining why you need the ITIN. Mail everything to the IRS address listed on the form.
If you need a checking account before your ITIN arrives, open the account with your passport and a secondary ID instead. Once your ITIN is issued, you can contact the bank and update your account information. Most banks will do this over the phone or through their online portal.
What to bring when you visit the bank
| Document Type | What to Bring |
|---|---|
| Primary ID | Valid passport, or ITIN letter from IRS |
| Secondary ID (if no ITIN) | Foreign national ID, driver's license, or state ID |
| Proof of Address | Utility bill, lease, bank statement, or employer letter with your address |
| Optional | Employer letter on letterhead, school enrollment letter, or reference from existing bank account |
Bring originals or certified copies, not photocopies. If a document is in a language other than English, bring the original plus an English translation. Some banks will accept a translation you provide yourself; others require a certified translation. Call the bank before you go to ask whether they need a certified translator.
Bring two forms of contact information: a phone number and an email address. The bank will use these to send you account information and to contact you if there are questions during the account opening process.
What happens after you open the account
Once your account is open, the bank will issue you a debit card, usually within 7 to 10 business days. You'll receive it by mail at the address you provided. Your account number and routing number will be available immediately through the bank's app or website, so you can set up direct deposit or transfers right away if you need to.
Some banks place a temporary hold on new accounts opened by non-citizens—typically 24 to 48 hours before you can withdraw cash or make large transfers. This is a standard fraud check and is not specific to you. After that hold lifts, your account works like any other checking account.
If the bank asks you to provide an SSN later, you can decline and ask them to keep your ITIN or passport ID on file instead. Banks are not required to close your account if you don't have an SSN, as long as you have another valid form of identification.
What to do if a bank refuses to open an account for you
If a bank says they cannot open an account without an SSN, ask to speak with a manager or call their customer service line. Many bank employees at the branch level are not aware of the bank's policy for non-citizens, and a manager can often override an initial refusal. If the bank's policy truly does not allow non-SSN accounts, move to the next bank on your list.
Credit unions and smaller regional banks are often more flexible than national chains. If you're having trouble with large banks, try a credit union in your area or a bank that specifically markets to immigrants or international customers. Your employer or school may also have a partnership with a bank that has a streamlined process for employees or students.
If you're in a state with a large immigrant population—California, Texas, New York, Florida—banks in your area are more likely to have experience with non-SSN accounts and will move faster through the process.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need an ITIN to open a checking account?
No. You can open an account with a valid passport and proof of address. An ITIN makes the process smoother at some banks, but it's not required. If a bank asks for an ITIN and you don't have one, ask whether they'll accept a passport instead.
Can I open an account online without an SSN?
Some online banks allow it, but most require an SSN or ITIN to complete the application. Wise and Revolut are designed for international customers and have online processes that don't require an SSN. Call or check the bank's website before you start the application to confirm they accept non-SSN accounts.
What if I'm here on a visa and don't have an ITIN yet?
Bring your passport, visa, and proof of your U.S. address. Most banks will open an account with these documents. You don't need an ITIN unless you're filing taxes or the bank specifically requires one.
How long does it take to open an account without an SSN?
If you bring all required documents, the account opens the same day. You'll have access to your account number and routing number immediately. Your debit card arrives by mail in 7 to 10 business days.
Will the bank close my account if I never get an SSN?
No. As long as you have a valid form of ID on file—an ITIN, passport, or foreign national ID—the bank can keep your account open. You're not required to obtain an SSN to maintain a checking account.