How to add a checking account
To add a checking account, you will need to contact your bank or financial institution directly — either by visiting a branch in person, calling their customer service number, or using their website or mobile app. The exact steps depend on whether you are opening a brand new account or linking an existing account you already have at another bank.
If you are opening a new checking account for the first time, a bank employee will walk you through the process and ask for identification and proof of address. If you already have a checking account elsewhere and want to link it to another financial institution (for example, to move money between accounts), you will provide your account number and routing number instead.
Key Takeaways
- You can open a new checking account by visiting a bank branch, calling customer service, or explore online, and you will need a government ID and proof of address.
- Your routing number (a nine-digit code unique to your bank) and account number (unique to your account) are what you need to link accounts at different banks.
- Banks verify new accounts by depositing small amounts into the account you are linking, then asking you to confirm those amounts.
- The entire process usually takes a few business days to a week, though some online banks can complete it faster.
What documents you will need
To open a new checking account, bring a government-issued photo ID (a driver's license, passport, or state ID card) and proof that you live at your current address. Proof of address can be a recent utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, or a government document with your name and address on it — most banks accept documents dated within the last 60 days.
If you are linking an existing checking account from another bank, you will not need these documents. Instead, you will provide your account number (usually 10 to 12 digits) and your routing number (always nine digits). You can find both on the bottom left of a check, or by logging into your online banking and looking at your account details.
Opening a new account in person
Walk into any branch of the bank where you want to open an account during business hours. Tell a teller or ask to speak with a new accounts representative. They will ask you questions about how you plan to use the account (for paychecks, bill payments, savings, or a combination) and explain the account options available to you.
The representative will show you the account features, any monthly fees, and what you need to deposit to open the account. Some banks require a minimum opening deposit (often $25 to $100), while others do not. Once you agree, they will take your ID and proof of address, have you sign paperwork, and give you a temporary debit card or card number on the spot. Your physical debit card usually arrives by mail within 7 to 10 business days.
Opening or linking an account online
Most banks and online-only financial institutions let you open a checking account through their website or mobile app. You will enter your personal information (name, date of birth, address, phone number, email), upload a photo of your ID, and sometimes upload proof of address as well. The bank then verifies this information, which usually takes a few hours to a day.
Once your identity is verified, the bank will ask how you want to fund the account. You can link an existing checking account from another bank by providing your routing number and account number. The bank will then deposit two small amounts (usually between $0.01 and $0.99) into that account. Within a few business days, you will see those deposits in your old account, and the bank will ask you to tell them the exact amounts. Once you confirm them, your accounts are linked and you can move money between them.
Linking accounts at different banks
If you want to connect your new checking account to an existing account at a different bank — so you can transfer money between them — you will provide your routing number and account number from the existing account. This is called external account linking.
The bank will verify the link by making two small test deposits into your existing account. You will receive a notification (usually by email or through your online banking) telling you to log in and confirm the amounts. Once you do, the link is active and you can move money between the accounts. This verification process protects you by proving you actually own both accounts.
Some banks also let you link accounts when ready using a service called Plaid, which connects to your existing bank's system and confirms ownership without the test deposits. If your bank offers this, the process takes just a few minutes.
What happens after you open the account
Once your account is open, the bank will issue you a debit card (which may arrive by mail) and give you online banking access. You can set up a username and password to log in through the bank's website or app, where you can check your balance, see transactions, set up bill payments, and transfer money to linked accounts.
Many banks also offer a temporary card number or virtual card number you can use when ready while you wait for your physical card to arrive. If you set up direct deposit (for paychecks or government benefits), you will need to give your employer or benefits administrator your new account number and routing number.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to go to a bank branch, or can I do everything online?
Most banks let you open an account entirely online. However, some banks require you to visit a branch in person, especially if you are opening an account for the first time with that bank. Check your bank's website to see which option they offer.
How long does it take to open a checking account?
If you open an account in person at a branch, you can usually walk out with access to your account the same day. Online accounts typically take 24 hours to a few business days for the bank to verify your identity and set up your account.
What is the difference between a routing number and an account number?
Your routing number identifies which bank you use — it is the same for all customers at that bank. Your account number identifies your specific account within that bank. Both are printed on the bottom left of your checks.
Can I open a checking account if I have had banking problems in the past?
Banks check a system called ChexSystems, which records closed accounts and overdrafts. If you have had problems, some banks may decline you, but others specialize in second-chance banking. Ask the bank directly whether your history will affect your ability to open an account.
What if I do not have proof of address?
If you cannot provide a recent utility bill or lease, ask the bank what other documents they accept. Some banks accept bank statements, insurance documents, or government mail. A few banks will open an account with just an ID if you explain your situation.