Yes, you can open a US bank account online, but the process and what you get depends on which bank you choose

Most major US banks now let you start an account from your computer or phone without visiting a branch. You'll need a valid ID, a Social Security number or ITIN, proof of your current address, and an initial deposit (which varies by bank — some have no minimum, others require $25 or more). The whole process usually takes 10 to 15 minutes, though some banks ask you to verify your identity through a video call with a real person, which can add another 5 to 10 minutes.

The catch is that not every bank offers the same products online. Some let you open a checking account but require you to visit a branch for a savings account. Others won't let you open a business account online at all. A few banks have no physical branches — they exist only online — which means you can do everything remotely but you can't walk into a location if something goes wrong. Knowing what each bank actually offers before you start matters, because you don't want to get halfway through and find out you need to go somewhere in person.

Key Takeaways

  • Most major banks let you open a checking account online with an ID, Social Security number, proof of address, and an opening deposit.
  • Some banks require a video call with a representative to verify your identity, which adds time but confirms you are who you say you are.
  • Not all account types are available online at every bank — savings accounts, business accounts, and credit products may require a branch visit.
  • Online-only banks have no branches but often charge lower fees and have no minimum deposits, while traditional banks with branches may charge more but offer in-person help.
  • You will need to choose between a checking account, savings account, or both, and understand what fees explore before you open.

What documents and information you need to have ready

Before you start, gather these items so you don't have to stop halfway through. You'll need a valid government-issued photo ID — a driver's license, passport, or state ID card. The bank will ask for your Social Security number (or ITIN if you don't have a Social Security number). You'll also need proof that you live where you say you do, usually a recent utility bill, lease, or mortgage statement with your name and address on it. Some banks accept a government document like a voter registration card instead.

Have your opening deposit amount ready. This can be a debit card from another bank, a transfer from an existing account, or sometimes a check you can photograph and deposit through the app. If you're opening an account as a non-citizen or without a Social Security number, bring your ITIN letter from the IRS or your passport. Some banks also ask for a phone number and email address they can use to contact you, so have those available too.

How the online account opening process actually works

The process is similar across most banks, though the exact steps vary. You go to the bank's website or read their app, find the "Open an Account" button, and choose which type of account you want — checking, savings, or both. The bank then asks you to enter your personal information: name, date of birth, address, Social Security number, and contact details. This usually takes 3 to 5 minutes.

Next comes identity verification. Some banks use an automated system that checks your information against databases they have access to — this is when ready and you'll know right away if you're approved. Other banks require you to upload a photo of your ID and sometimes a selfie, which a person reviews later. A growing number of banks use a video call where you show your ID to a representative on screen and answer a few questions. This takes longer but is harder to fake, so banks use it when they want to be extra sure.

Once the bank verifies who you are, you make your opening deposit. You can usually transfer money from another bank account (which takes 1 to 3 business days), use a debit card (when ready), or mail a check (which takes longer). Some banks let you deposit a check by taking a photo of it through the app. After your deposit clears, your account is active and you can use it right away — though some features like writing checks or using a debit card might take a few more days to turn on.

The difference between banks with branches and online-only banks

Banks with physical locations — like Chase, Bank of America, and Wells Fargo — let you open accounts online but also give you the option to visit a branch if you need help. The trade-off is that they usually charge monthly fees ($12 to $15 is common) unless you keep a minimum balance or set up direct deposit. They also tend to have lower interest rates on savings accounts. The advantage is that if something goes wrong, you can walk into a location and talk to someone in person.

Online-only banks — like Ally, Charles Schwab Bank, and Discover Bank — have no branches at all, so everything happens through their website or app. They usually charge no monthly fees and offer higher interest rates on savings accounts because they don't have the cost of running physical locations. The downside is that if you have a problem, you can only reach them by phone, email, or chat. Some people find this fine; others feel more comfortable having a branch nearby. There's no right answer — it depends on what matters to you.

What happens if the bank asks for a video call

If your bank uses video verification, you'll get a link to a video call during the account opening process. You'll be connected to a real person who will ask you to show your ID to the camera, confirm some of your personal information, and sometimes answer questions about your financial history. This usually takes 5 to 10 minutes. You need a device with a camera (a phone or computer) and decent lighting so the person can see your ID clearly.

The bank is doing this to prevent fraud and to meet federal rules about knowing who their customers are. It's not a test you can fail — the person is just confirming that you are the person on your ID and that you're opening the account for yourself, not for someone else. If you have an accent, speak a different language at home, or look different from your ID photo, that's fine — the bank just needs to verify it's really you. If something seems off to the representative, they might ask follow-up questions, but most video calls go smoothly.

Fees, minimum balances, and what to watch for

Before you open an account, check what fees the bank charges. Monthly maintenance fees are common at traditional banks ($12 to $15) but can often be waived if you keep a minimum balance (usually $500 to $1,500) or set up direct deposit. Overdraft fees — charged when you spend more than you have — range from $25 to $35 per transaction at most banks. Some banks charge fees for using ATMs outside their network, while others reimburse those fees. Online-only banks usually have no monthly fees and no minimum balance.

Interest rates on savings accounts vary widely. Traditional banks often pay very little (0.01% or less), while online banks typically pay more (0.4% to 5%, depending on the account and the current interest rate environment). If you're opening a savings account to build emergency funds, the interest rate matters more than if you're just using it to park money temporarily. Read the bank's fee schedule before you open — it's usually a PDF on their website — so you know what you're signing up for.

What to do if you don't have a Social Security number

If you're a non-citizen or don't yet have a Social Security number, you can still open a bank account using an ITIN (Individual Taxpayer Identification Number). An ITIN is a nine-digit number the IRS issues to people who need to file taxes but don't have a Social Security number. Some banks accept ITINs without question; others are pickier. Call the bank before you start the online process and ask whether they accept ITIN accounts, because some don't.

You'll need your ITIN letter from the IRS (the document that came with your ITIN) and a valid passport or other government ID. The process is the same as for someone with a Social Security number, but the bank may ask more questions or require a video call to verify your identity. A few banks specialize in accounts for non-citizens and immigrants — these can be easier to open with an ITIN, though they may charge higher fees.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take to open an account online?

The process itself takes 10 to 15 minutes. If the bank uses automated verification, you'll know if you're approved when ready. If they require a video call, add another 5 to 10 minutes. After approval, your account is usually active within a few hours, though some features like debit cards or check writing may take 1 to 3 business days to turn on.

Can I open a business account online?

Most banks require you to visit a branch or speak with a business banker to open a business account, even if they let you open a personal account online. Some online-only banks and fintech companies do offer business accounts online, but they're less common. Call the bank first to ask — don't assume you can do it online.

What if I'm denied when I explore online?

Banks deny applications for reasons like unpaid overdrafts at another bank, fraud concerns, or a mismatch between the information you provided and what's in their databases. If you're denied, ask the bank why — they're required to tell you. You can then correct the problem and try again, or try a different bank that may have different rules.

Do I need to make a deposit right away?

Most banks require an opening deposit before your account is active, though the amount varies — some have no minimum, others require $25 or more. You can usually make this deposit by transfer, debit card, or check. Check the bank's website to see what they require before you start.

Can I open multiple accounts at the same bank online?

Yes. Once your first account is open, you can usually open additional accounts (like a savings account if you started with checking) through the app or website without going through the full verification process again. Some banks limit how many accounts you can have, so check their rules first.