Documents and information TD Bank will ask for
To open a checking or savings account at TD Bank, you will need a government-issued photo ID, your Social Security number, and proof of your current address. The photo ID can be a driver's license, passport, or state ID card. The address proof is usually a recent utility bill, lease, or bank statement — something dated within the last 60 days that shows your name and where you live.
You will also need to bring a small amount of money to deposit. Most TD Bank accounts require an opening deposit, though the amount varies by account type and location. Call your local branch or check TD Bank's website to confirm the minimum for the specific account you want.
If you do not have a Social Security number, you can open an account using an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) instead. Bring the same documents plus your ITIN letter from the IRS. Some branches may ask additional questions about your immigration status or work authorization — this is standard practice at all banks.
Key Takeaways
- Bring a government photo ID, your Social Security number or ITIN, and a recent bill or lease showing your current address.
- You will need to make an opening deposit when you start the account, and the minimum amount depends on which type of account you choose.
- You can open an account in person at a TD Bank branch, by phone, or online — each method requires the same documents but takes different amounts of time.
- If you have had banking problems in the past, TD Bank will check ChexSystems, a record that tracks closed accounts and unpaid fees at other banks.
Opening an account in person versus online
Opening an account at a TD Bank branch in person is the most straightforward route if you are new to banking. A banker will walk you through each step, answer questions as they come up, and you will leave with a debit card and account number the same day. Bring all your documents and your opening deposit in cash or a check.
Opening online is faster if you already know which account type you want and have a digital copy of your ID and address proof. You can start the process on TD Bank's website or mobile app, but you will still need to verify your identity — usually by uploading a photo of your ID or answering security questions about your credit history. If you open online, your debit card will arrive by mail within 7 to 10 business days.
You can also open an account by phone by calling TD Bank's customer service line. This works well if you have questions about which account fits your needs, but you will still need to provide the same documents and information. Phone representatives can sometimes speed up the process if you have a complicated situation, like a recent address change or an old banking problem.
What happens if you have had banking problems before
TD Bank uses ChexSystems, a system that tracks whether you have closed accounts with unpaid fees, bounced checks, or fraud disputes at other banks. When you explore, TD Bank will check this record. If you have negative history, you may be denied, or the bank may ask you to explain what happened.
If you were denied at another bank because of ChexSystems, you can still open a TD Bank account — the decision is up to each bank. Be honest if a banker asks about your past. Many people have closed accounts or unpaid fees, and banks understand that circumstances change. If you explain what happened and show that you are ready to manage an account responsibly now, you have a real chance of being approved.
You can also check your own ChexSystems record for free before you explore. Visit chexsystems.com and request your report. If there are errors, you can dispute them. Fixing mistakes before you explore to TD Bank makes approval more likely.
Types of accounts and what each one costs
TD Bank offers several account types, and the one you choose affects your opening deposit and monthly fees. A basic checking account (sometimes called a "core" or "essential" account) usually has the lowest opening deposit and may have no monthly fee if you keep a minimum balance or set up direct deposit. A savings account earns a small amount of interest on the money you keep in it, though the rate is usually very low.
Some accounts have monthly fees if you do not meet certain conditions — like keeping a minimum balance or having your paycheck deposited directly. Other accounts waive fees for students, seniors, or people who use online banking only. Ask the banker or check the account details online to understand the fee structure before you open.
TD Bank also offers accounts designed for people who have been denied by other banks, sometimes called "second chance" accounts. These accounts may have higher fees or lower limits on how much you can withdraw, but they are a real path to banking if you have had problems in the past.
What to bring and what to expect on the day
Gather your documents the night before so you do not forget anything. Bring your photo ID, Social Security card or ITIN letter, a recent bill or lease, and your opening deposit. If you are opening online, have a clear photo of your ID and address proof ready — the photo needs to show all four corners of the document and be readable.
The process usually takes 15 to 30 minutes in person. The banker will ask you questions about your income, employment, and how you plan to use the account. These questions are required by federal law to prevent money laundering. Answer honestly — there are no wrong answers, and the banker is not judging you.
You will also be asked to sign documents that explain the account rules, fees, and your rights as a customer. Read these carefully or ask the banker to explain anything you do not understand. You have the right to take time to read before you sign.
After your account opens
Once your account is open, you will receive a debit card, a checkbook (if you opened a checking account), and online banking access. Your debit card lets you withdraw cash at ATMs and pay for things in stores. Your checkbook lets you pay bills by writing checks. Online banking lets you check your balance, transfer money, and pay bills from your computer or phone.
TD Bank offers free online banking to all customers. You can set up your login the same day you open the account, either at the branch or online. If you are new to online banking, ask the banker to show you how it works or watch TD Bank's tutorial videos on their website.
Keep your account active by using it regularly. Banks close accounts that sit unused for a long time. Even a small deposit or withdrawal every few months is enough to keep your account open.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I open a TD Bank account without a Social Security number?
Yes, you can use an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) instead. Bring your ITIN letter from the IRS along with your photo ID and address proof. Some branches may ask additional questions about your work status, which is normal and required by federal law.
What if I do not have a recent utility bill for my address?
A lease, mortgage statement, or bank statement from another bank also works as proof of address. The document needs to show your name and current address and be dated within the last 60 days. If you just moved and do not have anything yet, ask the banker what other documents they will accept.
How much money do I need to open an account?
The opening deposit varies by account type and location. Call your local TD Bank branch or check their website to find out the exact amount for the account you want. Most accounts require between $25 and $100, but this can change.
What if TD Bank denies me because of ChexSystems?
You can request your ChexSystems report for free and dispute any errors. You can also try opening a second chance account at TD Bank or look for banks in your area that offer accounts for people with banking problems. Some credit unions also have more flexible policies than large banks.
Can someone else open an account for me?
No, you need to be present and sign the account documents yourself. You can bring someone to help you understand the process, but you must be there in person or complete the online process yourself.