You can open most US bank accounts entirely online in 15 to 30 minutes, but the bank will verify your identity before the account becomes active

Opening an account online means you provide your personal information, Social Security number, and proof of identity through the bank's website or app. The bank then runs a background check and verifies your identity against government records. If everything matches, the account opens when ready or within one business day. You can start using it to receive direct deposits or transfers right away, though some banks hold the first deposit for a day or two while they confirm the account is real.

The process is faster than going to a branch, but it requires you to have a few things ready before you start: a valid government ID, your Social Security number, and a way to verify your identity (usually a phone number or email address the bank can confirm is yours). Some banks also ask for a recent utility bill or lease to confirm your address.

Key Takeaways

  • You will need a valid government ID, your Social Security number, and a current address to open an account online.
  • The bank verifies your identity by checking your information against government databases and may ask you to confirm a code sent to your phone or email.
  • Most accounts open within one business day, though some banks set up them when ready and others take up to three business days.
  • You can start using the account to receive money when ready, but the bank may hold your first deposit for one business day while confirming the account is legitimate.
  • If the bank cannot verify your identity online, you may need to visit a branch in person or provide additional documents by mail.

What documents and information you need to have ready

Before you start the online process, gather these items: a valid government-issued photo ID (driver's license, passport, or state ID card), your Social Security number, and your current address. The bank will ask for your name, date of birth, and contact information exactly as they appear on your ID.

Some banks also ask for a utility bill, lease agreement, or recent bank statement to confirm your address. If you do not have a US address yet, some banks will let you use a temporary address or a mailing address outside the US, though this varies by bank. A few banks ask for a second form of ID or a phone number you have had for at least 30 days.

Have your phone or email nearby. The bank will send you a code to verify that the phone number or email address you provide is actually yours. You will need to enter that code to complete the process.

How the identity verification step works

After you enter your personal information, the bank sends your details to a third-party verification service. This service checks your information against government records, credit bureaus, and other databases to confirm you are who you say you are. This usually takes a few seconds to a few minutes.

If the verification is when ready, the bank will ask you to confirm a code sent to your phone via text or to your email. You enter that code into the app or website, and the account opens. If the verification cannot be completed when ready, the bank may ask you to upload a photo of your ID or answer security questions based on your credit history (like "which of these addresses have you lived at" or "which car loan did you have in 2019").

If you cannot be verified online, the bank will tell you that you need to visit a branch in person or mail in documents. This usually happens if your information does not match government records, if you have no credit history, or if you are opening an account for the first time in the US.

Timeline from start to when you can use the account

The fastest banks open your account while you are still on the website. You finish the verification step, and the account is active when ready. You can see your account number and routing number right away and can start setting up direct deposit or transfers the same day.

Most banks take one business day. You complete the online process in the evening, and the account is ready to use the next morning. A smaller number of banks take two to three business days and will send you an email or text when the account is ready.

Even if the account opens when ready, the bank may hold your first deposit for one business day. This is a fraud prevention step. The bank wants to confirm that the account is real and that you can access it before releasing the money. After that first deposit clears, future deposits move normally.

What happens if the bank cannot verify you online

If the bank's automated verification fails, you will see a message telling you what to do next. The most common options are: visit a branch in person with your ID, mail in a copy of your ID and proof of address, or call the bank's phone number to complete verification with a representative.

Going to a branch is the fastest route if one is near you. You bring your ID and any documents the bank asked for, and a representative completes the account opening in person. The account is usually active the same day.

Mailing in documents takes longer. You send copies (not originals) of your ID and a utility bill or lease to the address the bank provides. The bank receives it, verifies it, and opens your account. This usually takes five to ten business days from the day the bank receives your envelope.

Differences between banks in how fast they open accounts

Large national banks like Chase, Bank of America, and Wells Fargo usually open accounts within one business day. Their verification systems are built to handle millions of accounts, so the process is automated and fast. Some of these banks open accounts when ready.

Online-only banks like Ally, Charles Schwab Bank, and Chime often open accounts when ready because they have no branches and their entire process is digital. You finish the verification step and the account number appears on your screen when ready.

Smaller regional banks and credit unions vary widely. Some open accounts the same day, others take two to three business days. A few still require you to visit a branch or mail in documents. Check the bank's website or call before you start the online process if speed matters to you.

What to do if you do not have a Social Security number

If you are not a US citizen or permanent resident, you may have an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) instead of a Social Security number. Most banks accept an ITIN in place of a Social Security number. Enter it where the bank asks for your Social Security number.

Some banks require a Social Security number and will not open an account with an ITIN. If the bank rejects your ITIN, you will need to visit a branch in person or call to see if they can make an exception. A few banks specialize in accounts for non-citizens and may be easier to work with if you do not have a Social Security number.

If you are in the US on a visa and do not yet have a Social Security number, you can still open an account at most banks. They will ask for your visa number or passport number instead. Have your visa or passport ready when you start the online process.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I open an account if I have been denied a bank account before?

Yes. Banks use ChexSystems, a database that tracks closed accounts and fraud, but being in ChexSystems does not automatically disqualify you. Some banks specialize in second-chance accounts for people with banking history issues. You can open an account online at most banks; if one rejects you, try another. The bank will tell you if ChexSystems is the reason.

Do I need to deposit money when ready after opening the account?

No. You can open the account and leave it empty. However, some banks charge a monthly fee if you do not maintain a minimum balance or set up direct deposit. Check the bank's fee schedule before you open the account. Many banks waive fees if you set up direct deposit, so that is worth doing even if you do not need the account right away.

What if I make a mistake entering my information?

If you notice the error before you submit, go back and correct it. If you submit and the bank rejects you because of the mistake, you can usually start the process again with the correct information. If the account opens with wrong information, contact the bank to correct it. They can update your name, address, or phone number in most cases.

Can I open an account for someone else online?

No. The person whose name is on the account must complete the verification process themselves. If you want to open an account for a minor, you will need to visit a branch in person. The parent or guardian and the minor both need to be present, and the bank will create a custodial account.

How long does the bank keep my information after I open the account?

Banks keep your personal information for the life of the account and for several years after you close it. This is required by federal law for fraud prevention and tax purposes. You can request to see what information the bank has about you by submitting a data request, though response times vary by bank.