What to bring when you open a TD Bank account

TD Bank will ask for a government-issued photo ID and your Social Security number. That covers the basics for most people. If you're opening an account in person at a branch, bring your ID and be ready to provide your SSN verbally or on the process form. If you're opening online, you'll enter your SSN during the signup process and may need to upload a photo of your ID.

Beyond those two things, what you bring depends on which type of account you're opening and whether you already have a relationship with TD Bank. A checking account needs less paperwork than a savings account with certain features. If you're a first-time customer, the process is straightforward. If you've banked with TD before or are adding a second account, it moves faster because they already have your information on file.

Some people worry about not having a permanent address or a recent utility bill. TD Bank does not require a utility bill to open a standard checking or savings account. You do need a current mailing address where they can send statements and cards, but it doesn't have to be a house you own or a lease you signed.

Key Takeaways

  • You need a government-issued photo ID and your Social Security number to open any TD Bank account.
  • TD Bank does not require a utility bill, proof of income, or a credit check to open a basic checking or savings account.
  • You can open an account in person at a TD Bank branch, by phone, or online depending on the account type.
  • If you don't have a Social Security number, you may be able to use an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) instead, though options are more limited.
  • Bring your ID and know your SSN; most accounts open the same day or within one business day.

Types of accounts and what each one requires

TD Bank offers several account types, and the documents you need shift slightly depending on which one you choose. A basic checking account (sometimes called a "Checking Plus" or similar) needs only your ID and SSN. These accounts come with a debit card, online banking, and the ability to write checks. No minimum balance is required to open most of them, though some accounts have a small monthly fee if you don't maintain a certain balance or set up direct deposit.

A savings account works the same way at the process stage—ID and SSN—but you should know that savings accounts earn interest, which means the bank pays you a small amount of money based on how much you keep in the account. The interest rate changes, so it's worth asking what the current rate is when you open the account.

If you're opening a joint account with someone else (like a spouse or family member), both people need to be present or provide their own ID and SSN. Some branches allow one person to start the account and the other to be added later, but policies vary by location. Call your local TD Bank branch to ask about their specific process.

Money Market accounts and Certificates of Deposit (CDs) may have higher minimum opening balances—sometimes $2,500 or more—but the process documents are the same: ID and SSN. Ask about minimums before you visit or call, because if you don't have that amount ready, you won't be able to open that particular account type.

How to open an account in person at a branch

Walking into a TD Bank branch is the most straightforward route if you're new to banking or prefer to talk to someone face-to-face. Bring your government-issued photo ID (a driver's license, passport, or state ID card all work) and know your Social Security number. You don't need to memorize it—you can look it up on a Social Security card, tax return, or W-2 form before you go.

Tell the person at the desk that you want to open an account. They'll ask which type (checking, savings, or another product) and walk you through a short form. The form asks for your name, address, phone number, email, SSN, and employment information. You don't need to have a job to open an account—unemployed people, students, and retirees all open accounts regularly. If you're not employed, you can write "none" or "self-employed" depending on your situation.

The whole process usually takes 10 to 20 minutes. You'll sign the paperwork, and they'll issue you a debit card on the spot or mail it to you within a few days. Your account is active when ready, even if the physical card hasn't arrived yet. You can start using online banking and mobile banking right away.

Opening an account online or by phone

TD Bank lets you open a checking or savings account through their website without visiting a branch. Go to their homepage, look for "Open an Account" or "New Customers," and follow the prompts. You'll enter your personal information, SSN, and address. You'll be asked to upload a photo of your ID—take a clear picture of the front and back of your driver's license or passport and upload the files. The system checks that the ID is valid and matches the name you provided.

The online process takes about 10 minutes. Once you submit, TD Bank reviews your information, which usually takes a few hours to one business day. You'll receive an email or text confirming that your account is open. Your debit card ships to your address within 5 to 7 business days, but you can use your account for transfers and bill payments when ready through online banking.

If you prefer to talk to someone, you can also call TD Bank's customer service line and ask to open an account over the phone. A representative will walk you through the same questions as the online form and may ask you to verify your ID by answering security questions based on your credit history. This method takes longer—usually 20 to 30 minutes—but some people find it easier than navigating the website.

If you don't have a Social Security number

A Social Security number is the standard identifier TD Bank uses, but it's not the only option. If you have an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN)—a number issued by the IRS to people who file taxes but don't have a Social Security number—you may be able to use that instead. ITINs are common for non-citizens, undocumented immigrants, and others in specific situations.

TD Bank's policy on ITINs varies by state and branch, so call ahead or visit in person to ask. Some branches accept ITINs without issue; others require additional documentation or may not offer the full range of account types. If your local branch can't help you, ask if they can refer you to another branch that handles ITIN accounts, or ask about alternative banks in your area that specialize in serving people without SSNs.

You'll still need a government-issued photo ID, even if you're using an ITIN instead of an SSN. A passport, state ID, or other government document works.

Documents you do not need

TD Bank does not require a utility bill, lease, mortgage statement, or proof of address to open a basic account. You don't need a credit report, and they don't run a credit check. You don't need proof of income, a job letter, or employment verification. You don't need a minimum opening deposit—you can open an account with $0 and add money later.

This is important if you're returning to banking after a gap, if you've had trouble with banks in the past, or if your financial situation is complicated. The barrier to entry is genuinely low. The only hard requirements are a valid ID and a Social Security number (or ITIN in some cases).

What happens after your account opens

Once your account is open, you'll receive a debit card in the mail within a week or so. You can use it to withdraw cash from TD Bank ATMs and other ATMs in their network. You'll also get online banking access when ready, which lets you check your balance, transfer money between accounts, and set up bill payments from a computer or phone.

TD Bank will send you a welcome packet with your account number, routing number, and information about fees. Read this carefully—some account types have monthly fees if you don't meet certain conditions, like maintaining a minimum balance or setting up direct deposit. If you have questions about fees, call customer service or ask at the branch where you opened the account.

You can also set up direct deposit if your employer or a government agency (like Social Security) pays you. Direct deposit means your paycheck or benefit payment goes straight into your account without you having to visit a bank. This is free and usually takes one or two pay periods to set up after you provide your employer with your account and routing number.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I open a TD Bank account if I've had problems with other banks?

TD Bank does not run a credit check or review your banking history when you open a basic checking or savings account. Even if you've had overdrafts, closed accounts, or other issues at other banks, you can still open a TD account. However, some banks use a system called ChexSystems that tracks banking problems—ask TD whether they use it and what their policy is.

Do I need to bring anything else if I'm opening a joint account?

Both account owners need to provide their own government-issued photo ID and Social Security number. If you're opening the account in person, both people should be present. Some branches allow one person to open the account and add the other person later, but this varies—call your local branch to ask.

How long does it take to get my debit card?

Your account is active the same day you open it, even if your physical debit card hasn't arrived. Cards usually ship within 5 to 7 business days. You can use your account for online transfers and bill payments when ready through online banking while you wait for the card.

What if I don't have a permanent address?

You need a mailing address where TD Bank can send your statements and debit card. This can be a shelter, a friend's address, a PO box, or any location where mail reaches you. It doesn't have to be a place you own or rent. Tell the bank representative your situation—they handle this regularly.

Can I open an account if I'm under 18?

TD Bank offers accounts for minors, but a parent or guardian must open the account with you and be listed as a co-owner. The adult needs their own ID and SSN. Some accounts for teens have restrictions on withdrawals or spending, so ask what options are available for your age.