Documents and information BMO will ask for

BMO requires a government-issued photo ID, proof of your current address, and your Social Security number or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) before you can open an account. The photo ID can be a driver's license, passport, state ID card, or permanent resident card. For address proof, BMO accepts a recent utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, or government mail dated within the last 90 days.

You will also need to bring or provide your initial deposit amount. BMO's minimum deposit varies by account type — some checking accounts require $25 to $100, while savings accounts may have different minimums. If you are opening an account online or by phone, you can upload images of your documents rather than presenting them in person.

If you do not have a traditional photo ID, BMO may accept alternative documents depending on your situation. Contact your local branch directly to ask what they will accept, as policies can differ slightly between locations.

Key Takeaways

  • You need a government photo ID, proof of your current address from the last 90 days, and your Social Security number or ITIN to open any BMO account.
  • Minimum deposit amounts range from $25 to $100 depending on the account type, and you can deposit this amount online, by phone, or in person.
  • You can open an account online, by phone, or at a branch — online and phone openings let you upload document images instead of visiting in person.
  • If you do not have a standard photo ID, call your local BMO branch to learn what alternative documents they will accept.

Opening an account in person at a branch

Bring your photo ID, address proof, and initial deposit to any BMO branch during business hours. A banker will review your documents, ask you to sign account paperwork, and set up your account on the spot. This process usually takes 15 to 30 minutes. You will receive a debit card when ready or within 7 to 10 business days, depending on the branch and account type.

If you are unsure which account type suits your needs, the banker can walk you through the differences between checking, savings, and money market accounts. They can also explain any monthly fees, minimum balance requirements, and interest rates for that account.

Opening an account online or by phone

BMO lets you start the account opening process on its website or by calling 1-800-BMO-1234. You will need to upload clear images of both sides of your photo ID and your address proof document. The process takes about 10 to 15 minutes, and you can complete it from home.

After you submit your documents, BMO reviews them — this usually takes one business day. Once approved, you will receive a confirmation email with your account number and temporary login credentials. Your debit card arrives by mail within 7 to 10 business days. You can make deposits by transferring money from another bank account or by using BMO's mobile app to deposit checks.

What happens if you do not have all the documents

If you do not have a current address proof document, ask BMO whether it will accept an alternative such as a recent bank statement, insurance policy, or lease agreement. Some branches may also accept a letter from your employer or a government agency that shows your name and address.

If you do not have a Social Security number, you can use an ITIN instead. If you have neither, contact BMO directly — some branches work with people in this situation, though the process may take longer and require additional verification steps.

If you do not have a government photo ID, call your local branch before visiting. Some locations will accept a passport card, tribal ID, or military ID. If none of those work, ask what documents the branch will review as an alternative.

Account types and what each one costs

BMO offers several account types, each with different features and costs. A basic checking account typically has a low or no monthly fee if you maintain a minimum balance or set up direct deposit. A savings account usually earns interest and may have a monthly fee waived if you keep a certain amount on deposit. A money market account combines features of both and often requires a higher minimum balance.

Monthly maintenance fees range from $0 to $15 depending on the account and whether you meet the bank's requirements to waive the fee. Ask the banker or check BMO's website for the current fee structure, as it changes periodically. Many accounts waive the monthly fee if you set up direct deposit of your paycheck or maintain a minimum balance.

After your account opens

Once your account is open, you can log into BMO's online banking or mobile app using your account number and a password you create. You can transfer money between your own accounts, pay bills, send money to other people, and deposit checks using your phone's camera.

Your debit card will arrive by mail. When it arrives, you will need to set up it by calling the number on the back of the card or using the mobile app. After set up, you can use it to withdraw cash from BMO ATMs and other banks' ATMs (though non-BMO ATMs may charge a fee), and to make purchases anywhere Mastercard is accepted.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I open a BMO account if I do not have a Social Security number?

Yes, you can use an ITIN (Individual Taxpayer Identification Number) instead. If you have neither, contact your local BMO branch to discuss what documents you can provide. The process may take longer and require additional steps to verify your identity.

How long does it take to open a BMO account online?

The process itself takes 10 to 15 minutes. BMO usually reviews your documents within one business day. Your debit card arrives by mail in 7 to 10 business days, though you can start using your account as soon as it is approved.

What if my address proof document is older than 90 days?

BMO prefers documents dated within the last 90 days, but you can ask your branch whether they will accept an older document. If you cannot get a newer one, bring multiple documents that together show your current address — for example, an older utility bill plus a recent letter from your employer or government agency.

Do I have to go to a branch to open an account?

No. You can open an account entirely online or by phone without visiting a branch. You will upload images of your documents instead of showing them in person, and your debit card arrives by mail.

What is the minimum deposit to open a BMO account?

The minimum deposit varies by account type, ranging from $25 to $100. Check BMO's website or call 1-800-BMO-1234 to confirm the current minimum for the specific account you want to open.