Yes, you can open a Fifth Third checking account entirely online
Fifth Third Bank lets you open a checking account from your computer or phone without visiting a branch. The process takes about 10 to 15 minutes and you can start using your account the same day in most cases. You will need a valid government ID, a Social Security number, and a way to fund your account — either a debit card, another bank account, or a wire transfer.
The account opens in your name when ready after you complete the online form and verify your identity. Fifth Third uses a process called electronic verification, which means they check your information against databases in real time rather than mailing you something to sign. This is why you can use the account right away instead of waiting for a card to arrive in the mail.
Key Takeaways
- You can complete the entire process online at fifththird.com without calling or visiting a branch.
- You will need a valid government ID, Social Security number, and an initial deposit method before you start.
- Your account becomes active the same day, though your debit card arrives by mail within 7 to 10 business days.
- Fifth Third offers different checking account types with different monthly fees and minimum balance requirements, so compare them before you choose.
- If you cannot verify your identity online, Fifth Third can help you complete the process in a branch instead.
What you need before you start
Gather these items before you go to fifththird.com to open an account. You will need a valid government-issued ID — a driver's license, passport, or state ID card. Fifth Third scans or photographs this during the online process. You will also need your Social Security number, which Fifth Third uses to check your identity and pull your credit history.
You must have a way to fund your account. This can be a debit card from another bank, a checking or savings account at another bank (you will need the routing number and account number), or a wire transfer from your employer or another source. Fifth Third does not require a minimum opening deposit, but you do need to put money in to set up the account. Many people transfer $25 or $100 from another account just to get your free guide.
If you do not have a government ID yet, you will need to visit a Fifth Third branch in person instead of opening online. The same applies if you cannot verify your address — Fifth Third checks this against utility bills, lease agreements, or other documents in their database, and if nothing matches, they will ask you to come to a branch.
The step-by-step process
Go to fifththird.com and look for the "Open an Account" button, usually near the top of the page. Fifth Third will ask you to choose which type of checking account you want — they offer several, with different monthly fees and features. Read the details of each one before you choose, because you cannot change your mind after you open the account without closing it and starting over.
Next, Fifth Third will ask for your personal information: your name, date of birth, address, phone number, and Social Security number. They will also ask whether you are a U.S. citizen and whether you have had a Fifth Third account before. Answer honestly — Fifth Third checks this information against government records and their own database.
Fifth Third will then ask you to verify your identity. This usually means photographing or uploading an image of your government ID. Some people can do this with their phone camera; others need to use a computer scanner. Fifth Third will tell you if the image is not clear enough and ask you to try again.
After that, you choose how to fund your account. If you are transferring from another bank, you will enter that bank's routing number and your account number there. If you are using a debit card, you will enter the card number, expiration date, and CVV. Fifth Third will then ask you to confirm your address and review the account terms before you submit.
Once you submit, Fifth Third processes your information in real time. If everything checks out, your account opens when ready and you see your account number and routing number on the screen. Write these down or take a screenshot — you will need them to set up direct deposit or transfer money in.
When your debit card arrives and how to use your account before it does
Your Fifth Third debit card arrives by mail within 7 to 10 business days. Until it arrives, you can still use your checking account — you just cannot swipe or insert a card at a store. Instead, you can transfer money out using your account number and routing number, set up direct deposit from your employer, or use Fifth Third's mobile app to send money to other people through a service called Zelle.
You can also withdraw cash at any Fifth Third ATM using your account number, or visit a Fifth Third branch and ask the teller to withdraw cash for you. Some branches can also issue you a temporary debit card on the spot if you need one right away, though this varies by location.
When your card arrives, it comes deactivated. You will need to set up it through the Fifth Third app, online, or by calling the number on the back of the card. After set up, you can use it when ready.
The different Fifth Third checking account types
Fifth Third offers several checking accounts, and the one you choose affects your monthly cost and what features you get. The most common option is their standard checking account, which has a monthly maintenance fee that Fifth Third waives if you meet certain conditions — usually maintaining a minimum balance or setting up direct deposit. Some accounts have no monthly fee at all but offer fewer features.
Fifth Third also offers premium checking accounts with higher monthly fees but more benefits, like higher interest rates, fee waivers for overdrafts, or cash back on debit card purchases. These are worth it only if you keep a large balance or use the features regularly.
Before you open an account, visit fifththird.com and compare the account types side by side. Look at the monthly fee, the minimum balance required to waive it, whether direct deposit waives it, and what other benefits come with each account. This takes five minutes and saves you money over time.
What happens if Fifth Third cannot verify you online
If Fifth Third cannot verify your identity or address online, they will tell you during the process and offer you the option to finish opening your account in a branch instead. This happens most often if you recently moved, do not have a government ID, or if your name does not match records in their system exactly.
If this happens to you, Fifth Third will give you a reference number. Take this number to any Fifth Third branch along with your ID and proof of address — a utility bill, lease, or bank statement with your name and current address on it. A teller can finish opening your account in about 10 minutes, and you will walk out with your account number and a temporary debit card.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I open a Fifth Third account if I do not have a Social Security number?
No. Fifth Third requires a Social Security number to open any account. If you are not a U.S. citizen and do not have a Social Security number, you may be able to use an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) instead, but you will need to call Fifth Third at 1-800-555-5735 to ask whether your situation qualifies.
Do I need a minimum deposit to open the account?
Fifth Third does not require a minimum opening deposit, but you do need to fund the account with at least some money to set up it. Most people transfer $25 or $100 from another bank account or debit card. Once the account is open, you can withdraw that money if you want.
Can I open an account if I have been denied a bank account before?
Maybe. Fifth Third checks your banking history through a system called ChexSystems. If you were denied before because of unpaid fees or fraud, Fifth Third may deny you again. If you were denied for a different reason, call Fifth Third to discuss your situation before you try to open online.
What if I make a mistake during the online process?
If you realize you made a mistake after you submit, call Fifth Third at 1-800-555-5735 right away. If the account has not fully processed yet, they may be able to stop it and let you start over. If the account is already open, you will need to close it and open a new one with the correct information.
Can I open a joint account online with someone else?
No. Fifth Third requires both account holders to be present in a branch to open a joint checking account. You can open an account in your name online, and then visit a branch later to add another person to it, though this requires the other person to provide their ID and Social Security number as well.