What you need to open a TD Bank checking account
TD Bank lets you open a checking account online, by phone, or in a branch. You will need a government-issued photo ID, a Social Security number, and an initial deposit. The deposit amount depends on which account type you choose — some accounts have no minimum, while others require $100 or more to start.
The process takes about 10 to 15 minutes online or over the phone. If you open in a branch, bring your ID and the deposit method (debit card, cash, or a check from another bank). TD Bank will run a check through ChexSystems, which is a banking history report that flags accounts closed due to fraud or unpaid fees at other banks. Most people pass this check without issue.
You do not need an existing TD Bank account to open a checking account. You can be a new customer entirely. If you already bank with TD, you can add a checking account to your existing profile in minutes.
Key Takeaways
- You can open a TD Bank checking account online, by phone, or in person with just a photo ID, Social Security number, and an opening deposit.
- TD Bank offers several checking account types with different features and minimum deposit requirements, so choose based on how you plan to use the account.
- The bank checks your ChexSystems history, which may delay approval if you have unpaid fees or fraud flags from another bank.
- Once approved, you can use your account when ready online and receive a debit card and checks in the mail within 7 to 10 business days.
TD Bank checking account types and what they cost
TD Bank offers three main checking accounts: TD Bank Checking, TD Bank Premium Checking, and TD Bank Advantage Checking. TD Bank Checking has no monthly fee and no minimum balance. Premium Checking costs $15 per month but waives fees on overdrafts and gives you higher ATM limits. Advantage Checking is designed for customers who maintain higher balances and offers additional perks like higher interest rates on linked savings accounts.
Each account comes with a debit card, online banking, and access to TD Bank's ATM network. All three accounts let you set up direct deposit and automatic bill pay at no extra cost. The main difference is what you pay monthly and what protections or rewards you get in return.
TD Bank does not charge you to open any of these accounts. You will not pay an opening fee, and you can close the account later without a penalty. The only cost is the monthly maintenance fee if you choose an account that has one.
Opening your account online
Go to TD Bank's website and select "Open an Account." You will be asked to choose your account type, then enter your personal information: full name, date of birth, address, phone number, and Social Security number. The process asks for your driver's license or state ID number as well. Have these details ready before you start.
Next, you will choose your opening deposit method. You can link a debit card from another bank, transfer money from an existing account, or mail a check. If you use a debit card, the funds appear in your TD account within one business day. If you transfer from another bank account, it takes two to three business days. Mailed checks take longer, usually five to seven business days.
After you submit your information, TD Bank reviews your ChexSystems report. This usually takes a few minutes to a few hours. You will receive an email confirming whether your account is open. If there is a problem with your ChexSystems report, TD Bank will contact you by phone or email to discuss it.
Opening your account by phone or in a branch
Call TD Bank's customer service at 1-800-937-8372 to open an account over the phone. A representative will walk you through the same questions as the online process and can answer questions about which account type suits you best. Phone applications take about 15 minutes. You will still need to provide your opening deposit information, and the same timing applies: debit cards process in one business day, bank transfers in two to three days.
If you prefer to open an account in person, visit any TD Bank branch with your photo ID and opening deposit. Bring cash, a check from another bank, or a debit card. A banker will complete the process while you wait, usually in 10 to 20 minutes. Your account opens when ready, and you can start using it online right away. You will receive your debit card and checks in the mail within 7 to 10 business days.
Opening in a branch is useful if you want to ask questions face-to-face or if you have a complicated banking history that might need explanation. The banker can also help you set up online banking and mobile banking on the spot.
What happens after your account opens
Once TD Bank confirms your account is open, you can log into online banking when ready using your Social Security number and a temporary password. You can transfer money, set up bill pay, and check your balance right away. Your debit card arrives in the mail in 7 to 10 business days, and checks arrive separately in 10 to 14 business days.
If you need a debit card sooner, you can request an expedited card at some branches for a fee, or you can use your account number and routing number to set up direct deposit or online transfers before your physical card arrives. Your routing number is 011000015 for all TD Bank accounts.
TD Bank will send you a welcome packet by mail with your account details, including your account number, routing number, and information about online and mobile banking. Keep this packet for your records. You can also read the TD Bank mobile app and log in with the same credentials you use for online banking.
If your process is denied or delayed
TD Bank may deny your process if your ChexSystems report shows unpaid fees, fraud, or multiple closed accounts at other banks. If this happens, TD Bank will send you a letter explaining the reason. You have the right to request a copy of your ChexSystems report from the agency that prepared it — usually ChexSystems itself or Early Warning Services.
You can dispute errors on your ChexSystems report directly with the agency. If the report contains false information, you can have it corrected, which may help you open an account at TD Bank or another bank later. This process takes 30 to 60 days.
If you are denied, you can reapply after correcting the issue, or you can ask TD Bank whether a second-chance checking account is available. Some banks offer these accounts to people with banking history problems, though they may have higher fees or lower limits.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I open a TD Bank checking account if I do not have a Social Security number?
No. TD Bank requires a Social Security number or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) to open any account. This is a federal requirement for all U.S. banks. If you have an ITIN, you can use that instead of a Social Security number.
How much money do I have to deposit to open an account?
TD Bank Checking requires no minimum opening deposit. Premium Checking and Advantage Checking require $100 to open. You can deposit as little as $1 if you choose the no-minimum account, though most people deposit more to have funds available when ready.
Can I open an account if I am under 18?
No. TD Bank requires you to be at least 18 years old to open an account in your own name. If you are under 18, a parent or guardian can open a custodial account for you, which gives them access to manage the account until you reach the age of majority.
What if I do not have a photo ID?
You will need a government-issued photo ID to open an account. Acceptable forms include a driver's license, state ID card, or passport. If you do not have one of these, you cannot open an account at TD Bank. You would need to get a state ID first, which you can do through your state's DMV.
How long does it take to get my debit card after I open my account?
Standard delivery takes 7 to 10 business days. Some TD Bank branches offer expedited card delivery for a fee, which can reduce this to 2 to 3 business days. You can use your account online and set up direct deposit before your physical card arrives.