What you need to open a TD Bank checking account

TD Bank will ask for a government-issued photo ID, your Social Security number, and proof of your current address. You can bring a driver's license, passport, or state ID card as your photo ID. For proof of address, a recent utility bill, lease agreement, or bank statement from another bank works — it needs to show your name and current address and be dated within the last 60 days.

You'll also need to decide which checking account type fits your situation. TD Bank offers several versions, including accounts with no monthly fee if you keep a minimum balance, accounts designed for students, and accounts for people who are new to banking. The account you choose affects what fees you might pay and what features come with it.

If you're opening an account online, you'll need an email address and a phone number where TD Bank can reach you. If you're opening in person at a branch, bring the documents listed above.

Key Takeaways

  • You need a government-issued photo ID, your Social Security number, and a recent utility bill or lease showing your current address.
  • TD Bank offers different checking account types with different fee structures, so choose the one that matches how you plan to use it.
  • You can open an account online in about 10 minutes or visit a TD Bank branch in person with your documents.
  • Once your account is open, TD Bank will issue you a debit card and checks, usually within 5 to 10 business days.

Opening an account online

Go to TD Bank's website and look for the "Open an Account" button, usually on the homepage. You'll be asked to choose which checking account type you want, then enter your personal information: name, date of birth, Social Security number, address, phone number, and email. The process takes about 10 minutes.

After you submit your information, TD Bank will verify your identity using the details you provided. This usually happens when ready, but sometimes takes a few hours. You'll receive an email confirming your account is open, along with your account number and routing number. You can start using your account right away for transfers and bill pay, even before your debit card arrives.

Your debit card will be mailed to the address you provided. Standard delivery takes 5 to 10 business days. Checks take longer — usually 7 to 14 business days. If you need either sooner, ask about expedited options when your account is open.

Opening an account in person at a TD Bank branch

Find your nearest TD Bank branch using the branch locator on TD Bank's website or by calling 1-800-937-8372. Bring your photo ID, proof of address, and your Social Security number. You don't need an appointment, but going early in the day or on a weekday afternoon usually means shorter wait times.

A TD Bank employee will ask you the same questions as the online form: your name, address, phone number, and which account type you want. They'll verify your identity using your documents and set up your account while you wait. The whole process takes 15 to 30 minutes.

You'll leave with your account number and routing number. Your debit card and checks will be mailed to you. Some branches can order a temporary debit card that you can use when ready, though this varies by location — ask when you open your account.

Understanding TD Bank checking account types

TD Bank's most common checking account is the TD Bank Checking, which has no monthly fee if you keep a $100 minimum balance or set up direct deposit. If your balance drops below $100, you pay a monthly maintenance fee. This account comes with online banking, bill pay, and a debit card at no extra cost.

If you're a student, TD Bank offers a Student Checking account with no monthly fee and no minimum balance requirement. You'll need to show a valid student ID. This account is designed for people still in school and may have different features than the standard checking account.

TD Bank also offers accounts for people new to banking, sometimes called Second Chance Checking or similar names, depending on your situation. These accounts may have different fee structures or requirements. Ask a TD Bank employee which account makes sense for you based on how you plan to use it.

What happens after your account opens

Once your account is open, you can log into TD Bank's online banking or mobile app using your account number and a password you create. You can check your balance, transfer money between accounts, set up bill pay, and deposit checks using mobile check deposit — you photograph the front and back of a check and submit it through the app.

Your debit card will arrive in the mail. When it does, you'll need to set up it before you can use it. TD Bank will send instructions with the card, or you can set up it through the app or by calling the number on the back of the card.

If you set up direct deposit — having your employer send your paycheck straight to your TD Bank account — that usually takes one or two pay cycles to start. Ask your employer's payroll department for the routing number and account number to provide them. You can find both in your account information online or in the welcome materials TD Bank sent you.

Fees to know about

The monthly maintenance fee for standard TD Bank Checking is waived if you keep a $100 minimum balance or set up direct deposit. If neither applies, the fee is charged monthly. Other fees include overdraft fees if you spend more than you have in your account, ATM fees if you use an out-of-network ATM, and fees for stopping a check or requesting a copy of a cancelled check.

TD Bank has a large ATM network, so you can usually withdraw cash without a fee at TD Bank ATMs or at partner ATMs. Ask about the ATM network when you open your account so you know where you can withdraw cash for free.

Some features, like expedited debit card delivery or rush checks, may have additional costs. These are optional — you only pay if you request them.

If you don't have all the documents

If you don't have a recent utility bill or lease, other documents work as proof of address: a bank statement from another bank, a mortgage statement, a property tax bill, or a government document like a voter registration card. The document needs to show your name and current address and be dated within the last 60 days.

If you don't have a Social Security number, you may still be able to open an account. TD Bank can issue an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) in some cases, or you can ask about alternative verification. Call TD Bank at 1-800-937-8372 to ask what options are available for your situation.

If you've had banking problems in the past — overdrafts, unpaid fees, or accounts closed by another bank — TD Bank may still open an account for you, but you might be directed to a different account type with different terms. Be honest about your banking history when you explore.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I open a TD Bank checking account if I don't have a Social Security number?

You may be able to use an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) instead. Call TD Bank at 1-800-937-8372 to ask what documents you'll need and whether this option is available in your state.

How long does it take to get my debit card after I open an account?

Standard delivery takes 5 to 10 business days. Some branches offer expedited cards that you can use when ready, though availability varies. Ask when you open your account if this option is available at your branch.

What's the difference between opening online and opening in person?

Online is faster — about 10 minutes — and you can do it anytime. In person takes 15 to 30 minutes but you can ask questions face-to-face and sometimes get a temporary debit card on the spot. Both methods result in the same account.

Do I need direct deposit to avoid the monthly fee?

No. You can avoid the monthly fee either by keeping a $100 minimum balance or by setting up direct deposit. You only need one of these two things.

Can I use my TD Bank debit card at other banks' ATMs?

Yes, but you may be charged a fee if the ATM is not part of TD Bank's network or a partner network. TD Bank has a large ATM network, so you can usually find a free ATM nearby. Ask which ATMs are free when you open your account.