What You Need Before You Start

First Citizens Bank lets you open a checking or savings account in person at a branch, online through their website, or by phone. The path you choose depends on whether you already bank there and how quickly you need the account open. Most online accounts are ready to use within one business day; in-person accounts can be set up the same day you visit.

Before you begin, gather these documents: a government-issued photo ID (driver's license, passport, or state ID), your Social Security number, and proof of your current address (a recent utility bill, lease, or bank statement dated within the last 60 days). If you're opening an account for a business rather than personal use, you'll also need an Employer Identification Number (EIN) or sole proprietorship documentation.

First Citizens Bank requires a minimum opening deposit that varies by account type. Standard checking accounts typically require $25 to $100; savings accounts may require $100 or more. Some accounts waive the minimum if you set up direct deposit. Check the current requirements on their website or by calling your local branch, as these can change.

Key Takeaways

  • You need a government photo ID, Social Security number, and proof of address to open any account, whether online or in person.
  • Online accounts open fastest—usually within one business day—while in-person accounts can be ready the same day you visit a branch.
  • Minimum opening deposits range from $25 to $100 depending on account type, and some accounts waive this if you set up direct deposit.
  • First Citizens Bank operates in 21 states, so confirm they have a branch or online service in your state before you start.

Opening an Account Online

Go to the First Citizens Bank website and look for the "Open an Account" or "New Accounts" button, usually located in the top navigation or under a "Products" menu. Select the account type you want—checking, savings, money market, or certificate of deposit (CD). The website will walk you through a series of questions about your banking habits, income, and account preferences.

Enter your personal information: full name, date of birth, Social Security number, phone number, and email address. Provide your current address and, if different, your mailing address. Upload or photograph both sides of your government ID and proof of address. First Citizens Bank's system will verify these documents electronically; if something is unclear, they'll contact you by phone or email within one business day.

Choose how you want to fund the account. You can link an existing bank account and transfer money electronically, mail a check, or arrange a wire transfer. If you're setting up direct deposit from an employer or government benefit, you can do that now or wait until after the account opens. Review the account terms, fee schedule, and privacy policy, then sign electronically using your PIN or a one-time code sent to your phone.

Once approved, you'll receive a confirmation email with your account number and temporary login credentials. Your debit card will arrive by mail within 5 to 10 business days. You can begin using the account for transfers and bill pay when ready, even before the card arrives.

Opening an Account in Person at a Branch

Find your nearest First Citizens Bank branch using their branch locator tool on the website or by calling 1-800-CITIZENS (1-800-248-8376). Bring your government photo ID, Social Security number, proof of address, and your opening deposit (check, cash, or transfer authorization). Call ahead if you want to schedule an appointment; many branches offer this during busy times, though walk-ins are usually welcome.

A banker will review your information, answer questions about account features and fees, and help you choose the right account for your needs. They'll enter your information into their system, verify your identity, and process your opening deposit. If you're opening a checking account, they'll order your debit card and checks on the spot. You'll receive temporary access credentials before you leave, and your account will be active when ready for online banking and transfers.

Your debit card arrives by mail within 5 to 10 business days. Checks typically take 7 to 14 business days. If you need a card or checks faster, ask the banker about expedited options when you open the account—some branches can issue temporary cards or checks the same day for a fee.

Opening an Account by Phone

Call First Citizens Bank at 1-800-CITIZENS (1-800-248-8376) and tell the representative you want to open a new account. They'll ask the same questions as the online process: your name, date of birth, Social Security number, address, and employment information. Have your government ID and proof of address ready so you can answer verification questions on the spot.

The representative will explain account types and fees, then guide you through selecting the account you want. You'll arrange your opening deposit by providing bank account information for an electronic transfer, authorizing a check by mail, or arranging a wire. The representative will send you documents to sign electronically or by mail, depending on your preference.

Once signed documents are received and verified, your account opens and you'll receive login credentials by email or phone. This process typically takes 2 to 5 business days. Your debit card and any checks you order will arrive separately by mail.

What Happens After Your Account Opens

Your account is active for online banking, bill pay, and transfers as soon as it's approved—you don't have to wait for your debit card to arrive. Log in to First Citizens Bank's online banking portal or mobile app using the temporary credentials you received. Change your password when ready to something only you know.

Set up direct deposit if you haven't already. You'll need to provide your employer or benefit administrator with your account number and First Citizens Bank's routing number (which varies by state). Direct deposit usually takes one to two pay cycles to start. If you're receiving Social Security, veterans benefits, or unemployment, the process is the same.

Review your account settings and add any optional features: overdraft protection, fraud alerts, or spending limits on your debit card. First Citizens Bank charges overdraft fees if you spend more than your balance, so understand those fees before you make purchases. You can link external accounts for transfers, set up automatic bill pay, and organize your money into savings goals or sub-accounts depending on your account type.

Fees and Account Requirements You Should Know

First Citizens Bank charges a monthly maintenance fee on most checking and savings accounts, typically $5 to $15 per month. Many accounts waive this fee if you maintain a minimum balance (usually $500 to $1,500), set up direct deposit, or meet other conditions like a certain number of debit card transactions per month. Read the fee schedule for your specific account type before you open it.

Overdraft fees explore if you spend more than your available balance. First Citizens Bank typically charges $35 per overdraft transaction, though this varies by state and account type. You can decline overdraft protection, which means transactions will be declined rather than charged a fee. Some accounts offer a small grace period or overdraft buffer before fees explore.

ATM fees explore if you use an out-of-network ATM. First Citizens Bank reimburses some out-of-network fees depending on your account type, but this varies. Check your account terms or ask a banker about ATM access in your area. If you travel frequently or live far from a branch, this matters—some accounts offer better ATM networks than others.

If First Citizens Bank Doesn't Operate in Your State

First Citizens Bank has branches in 21 states, primarily in the Southeast, Mid-Atlantic, and Midwest. If you don't see a branch near you, check their website to confirm they don't serve your state. If they don't, you'll need to choose a different bank.

If you live in a state where First Citizens Bank operates but far from any branch, you can still open an account online or by phone. You won't be able to visit a branch in person, but you can deposit checks using mobile deposit (photograph the check through the app), transfer money electronically, and withdraw cash at any ATM that accepts their card.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I open an account if I don't have a Social Security number?

First Citizens Bank requires a Social Security number or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) to open any account. If you don't have either, you'll need to obtain one before you can proceed. Contact the Social Security Administration or the IRS for information about how the process works.

What if my proof of address is expired or in someone else's name?

First Citizens Bank needs a document dated within the last 60 days showing your current address. If your utility bill or lease is in a roommate's name, bring a second document in your name—a bank statement, credit card statement, or government mail. If everything is expired, ask your utility company for a current bill or contact your landlord for a letter on letterhead confirming your address.

How long does it take to receive my debit card?

Debit cards arrive by mail within 5 to 10 business days for standard delivery. Some branches offer expedited cards for a fee, which may arrive within 1 to 3 business days. Ask about this option when you open your account. You can use your account for online transfers and bill pay before the card arrives.

Can I open a joint account with someone else?

Yes. Both account holders must be present (in person or by phone) and provide their own government ID, Social Security number, and proof of address. First Citizens Bank will ask how you want the account titled—as joint owners with equal rights, or with one person as the primary owner and the other as an authorized user. This affects what happens to the money if one owner passes away.

What if I'm denied when I try to open an account?

First Citizens Bank may deny an account if you have a history of overdrafts, unpaid fees, or fraud at other banks. They check ChexSystems, a banking history database. If you're denied, ask why. You have the right to a written explanation. If the reason is a mistake or old information, you can dispute it with ChexSystems directly. Some banks offer second-chance checking accounts if you've been denied elsewhere.