Yes, you can open a Regions checking account online, but the process stops short of full completion

Regions Bank lets you start a checking account process on their website or mobile app without visiting a branch. You can fill in your personal information, choose your account type, and review terms from home. However, you will need to verify your identity in person or through a video call before the account becomes active — Regions does not complete the entire process online the way some newer banks do.

The reason for this step is federal law. Banks must verify who you are using documents like a driver's license or passport, and Regions requires this verification to happen either face-to-face at a branch or through a scheduled video appointment with a Regions employee. This protects both you and the bank from fraud.

Key Takeaways

  • You can start your Regions checking account process online, but identity verification must happen in person at a branch or through a video call.
  • Regions offers several checking account types online, including basic checking and accounts with higher interest rates if you meet balance requirements.
  • You will need a valid government-issued photo ID and proof of address to complete the verification step.
  • The entire process from process to active account typically takes one to three business days after verification.

What you can do online before verification

When you visit Regions.com or open their mobile app, you can begin the account opening process without logging in. The online form asks for your name, date of birth, Social Security number, address, phone number, and email. You choose which type of checking account you want — Regions offers standard checking, checking with interest, and premium checking tiers depending on your balance and deposit activity.

You can also review the account terms, fee schedules, and deposit insurance information before you commit. Regions will show you what monthly fees explore (if any) and what minimum balance, if any, is required to avoid them. This is the moment to compare accounts and decide which fits your situation.

How identity verification works

After you submit your online process, Regions will contact you to schedule the verification step. You have two options: visit a Regions branch in person with your ID and proof of address, or complete a video verification call with a Regions representative. During video verification, you will show your ID to the camera and answer questions to confirm your identity.

For proof of address, Regions accepts a recent utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, or government document with your current address. The document must be dated within the last 90 days. If you do not have one, you can sometimes use a bank statement or insurance document instead — ask Regions what they will accept when they contact you.

What happens after verification

Once Regions confirms your identity, your account becomes active. You will receive a debit card in the mail within five to seven business days, though you can request a rush card at some branches. You can also set up online banking and mobile banking when ready after verification, which means you can transfer money, pay bills, and check your balance before your physical card arrives.

If you need to deposit money right away, you can use Regions' mobile deposit feature (taking photos of checks with your phone) or visit a branch to deposit cash. You can also set up direct deposit of paychecks or other income once your account is open.

Documents you will need to have ready

Before you start the online process, gather these items so you do not have to stop and search for them:

  • A valid government-issued photo ID (driver's license, state ID, or passport)
  • Proof of your current address dated within the last 90 days (utility bill, lease, or mortgage statement)
  • Your Social Security number
  • A phone number and email address where Regions can reach you

If you do not have a Social Security number — for example, if you are a non-citizen — Regions may still open an account for you, but you will need to speak with a branch representative about alternative identification. Start the online process and mention this when Regions contacts you for verification.

Alternatives if you cannot verify online or by video

If you prefer not to do a video call or cannot visit a branch soon, you can complete the entire process in person at any Regions branch. Bring your ID, proof of address, and the information you would enter online, and a banker will help you open the account on the spot. Your debit card can sometimes be issued when ready at the branch, though this varies by location.

Some Regions branches also offer Saturday hours, which may work better for your schedule than weekday visits. Check the branch locator on Regions.com to find hours near you.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

The online process itself takes about 10 to 15 minutes. After you submit it, Regions contacts you within one business day to schedule verification. Once you complete verification (in person or by video), your account becomes active when ready, though your debit card arrives in five to seven business days.

Can I use my account before my debit card arrives?

Yes. After verification, you can set up online banking and mobile banking right away. You can transfer money, pay bills, and use mobile deposit. You can also visit a branch to withdraw cash or deposit checks using your account number.

What if I do not have a recent utility bill for proof of address?

Regions accepts other documents dated within 90 days, including lease agreements, mortgage statements, bank statements, insurance documents, and some government mail. When Regions contacts you for verification, ask what documents they will accept — they may have options you have not considered.

Do I need to keep a minimum balance to avoid fees?

It depends on which account type you choose. Regions' basic checking has no minimum balance requirement but may have a monthly fee. Their interest-bearing accounts often require a higher balance to avoid fees. You can see the specific requirements for each account type during the online process before you commit.

Can I open an account if I have had banking problems in the past?

Regions checks ChexSystems, a banking history database, during the process process. If you have unpaid overdrafts or closed accounts in dispute, Regions may deny your process. If this happens, ask Regions what the issue is — some problems can be resolved by paying old fees or disputing incorrect information.