Yes, you can open a US Bank account online, but not all account types are available that way

US Bank allows you to open a checking or savings account through their website or mobile app without visiting a branch. The process takes about 10 minutes and you can fund the account when ready. However, some products—like certain business accounts, trust accounts, or accounts requiring a signature card—still require a branch visit or phone call to complete.

The accounts you can open online are the most common ones: personal checking, personal savings, and money market accounts. US Bank will verify your identity using information from your credit file, so you'll need a Social Security number, a valid government ID, and a current address on file with the credit bureaus.

Key Takeaways

  • Personal checking and savings accounts can be opened entirely online through the US Bank website or app in about 10 minutes.
  • You need a Social Security number, valid government ID, and a verifiable address to complete the online process.
  • Some account types—including most business accounts and accounts for minors—require a branch visit or phone call to finish.
  • Your account can be funded when ready after opening, either by linking an external bank account or using a debit card.
  • If the online identity verification fails, US Bank will ask you to visit a branch or call to complete the account opening.

What you need before you start

Gather these items before you begin: a valid government-issued photo ID (driver's license, passport, or state ID), your Social Security number, and your current address. US Bank uses this information to verify your identity against credit bureau records, so the address must match what's on file with Equifax, Experian, or TransUnion.

You'll also need a way to fund the account. You can link an external bank account (which takes one to two business days to verify) or use a debit card to make an when ready deposit. If you're opening an account for the first time with US Bank, you don't need an existing account with them.

The online account opening process, step by step

Go to usbank.com and select "Open an Account" or use the US Bank mobile app. Choose the account type you want—checking, savings, or money market. Enter your personal information: full name, date of birth, Social Security number, address, phone number, and email address.

US Bank will then verify your identity by asking questions based on your credit file. These are usually questions about accounts you've held, addresses you've lived at, or credit inquiries in your name. Answer as accurately as you can; if you can't answer enough questions correctly, the system will ask you to visit a branch or call 1-800-872-2657 to complete the process by phone.

Once verified, you'll choose your account features: overdraft protection, debit card delivery speed, and any optional services. Then you'll fund the account. If you link an external bank account, US Bank will send two small deposits to verify ownership—you'll confirm the amounts in your external bank's system, which usually takes one to two business days. If you use a debit card, the deposit posts when ready.

Your account number and routing number will appear on screen once the account is open. You can start using the account right away through online banking or the mobile app, though your debit card will arrive by mail in five to seven business days.

When you'll need to visit a branch or call instead

If the online identity verification fails—meaning you can't answer enough of the credit-based questions correctly—you'll need to complete the account opening by phone or in person. Call 1-800-872-2657 and a representative can open the account using alternative verification methods, such as asking for additional documents or verifying information directly.

Business accounts, accounts for minors under 18, trust accounts, and accounts opened under a power of attorney cannot be opened online. For these, you'll need to visit a US Bank branch with the account holder and any required documentation, or call the business banking line at 1-800-209-5214.

If you don't have a Social Security number—for example, if you're a non-citizen without an ITIN—you cannot open an account online. You'll need to visit a branch with a valid passport and other identification.

How long it takes from start to finish

The online process itself takes 10 to 15 minutes. If identity verification succeeds, your account is active when ready and you can use it for transfers and bill pay right away. If you fund the account with a debit card, that money is available when ready. If you link an external bank account, the verification deposits take one to two business days, and you can't transfer money from that account until you've confirmed the amounts.

Your physical debit card arrives in five to seven business days. If you need a card faster, some US Bank branches can issue a temporary card in-branch, but you'll have to visit in person for that.

What happens if identity verification fails

If US Bank cannot verify your identity online, you'll see a message asking you to complete the process another way. You have two options: call 1-800-872-2657 and open the account over the phone with a representative, or visit a US Bank branch in person.

For a phone opening, have your ID ready and be prepared to answer additional questions or provide documents like a utility bill or recent tax return to prove your address. For a branch visit, bring your government ID, Social Security card (or a document with your Social Security number), and proof of address such as a utility bill or lease.

The phone process usually takes 15 to 20 minutes. A branch visit typically takes 20 to 30 minutes, depending on how busy the location is.

Funding your account after it opens

You have two ways to fund your new account when ready. The first is to use a debit card—Visa, Mastercard, or Discover. The money appears in your account within minutes. There's no stated minimum deposit, but US Bank may require a small opening deposit depending on the account type.

The second way is to link an external bank account. You'll provide the account number and routing number from another bank. US Bank sends two small deposits (usually under $1 each) to that account, and you confirm the amounts in your external bank's system. Once confirmed, you can transfer money between the accounts. This verification takes one to two business days.

You can also deposit checks using mobile check deposit once your account is open and your debit card arrives, or visit a US Bank ATM to deposit cash.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need an existing US Bank account to open a new one online?

No. You can open your first US Bank account entirely online as long as you pass the identity verification step. You don't need to be a current customer or have any prior relationship with the bank.

What if I don't have a credit history or I'm new to the US?

If you have no credit history, the online identity verification may fail because US Bank won't have credit bureau information about you. Visit a branch or call 1-800-872-2657 with your passport, visa, and proof of address. If you don't have a Social Security number, you must open the account in person.

Can I open a joint account online?

No. Joint accounts require both account holders to be present or to complete the process by phone with a representative. Call 1-800-872-2657 and both owners will need to verify their identities during the call.

What if I move after opening my account online?

Update your address in online banking or the mobile app when ready. US Bank may ask you to verify your new address before allowing certain transactions, but you don't need to close and reopen the account.

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

No. Accounts for minors require a parent or guardian to open the account in person at a branch. Some US Bank branches offer student checking accounts designed for teenagers, but these must be opened with a parent present.