What you need before you walk in
US Bank requires two forms of identification and proof of your current address before they will open an account. One ID must be a government-issued photo ID — a driver's license, passport, or state ID card. The second can be another photo ID, or a document like a utility bill, lease, or bank statement showing your name and address from the last 60 to 90 days.
You will also need to bring your Social Security number. US Bank will run a background check through ChexSystems, which is a banking history database. If you have been flagged in ChexSystems for unpaid overdrafts or fraud at another bank, US Bank may decline to open your account, though some branches have discretion to override this.
Bring a small opening deposit if possible — US Bank's minimum varies by account type, but checking accounts often require $25 to $100. Some accounts waive the minimum if you set up direct deposit. If you cannot bring cash or a check, ask whether your branch can process a debit card transfer or ACH transfer from another account you already have.
Key Takeaways
- You need a government photo ID, proof of address from the last 60 to 90 days, and your Social Security number to open an account in person.
- US Bank runs a ChexSystems check, which can block your account if you have unpaid overdrafts or fraud history at another bank.
- Most checking accounts require a $25 to $100 opening deposit, though direct deposit can waive this requirement.
- The account opens the same day you visit the branch, and your debit card arrives by mail within 7 to 10 business days.
Opening an account in person at a branch
Walk into any US Bank branch during business hours with your documents and opening deposit. Tell the teller or a new accounts representative that you want to open a checking or savings account. They will ask you to fill out a signature card and account process, which takes about 10 minutes. The form asks for your name, address, Social Security number, employment status, and how you plan to use the account.
The representative will verify your identity by checking your photo ID against your face, and they will confirm your address by looking at your utility bill or lease. They will then run the ChexSystems check. If you pass, the account opens when ready — you will receive a temporary debit card at the branch or be told when to pick one up, and your permanent card will arrive by mail in 7 to 10 business days.
If ChexSystems flags you, the representative will tell you so and explain why. You can ask to see your ChexSystems report and dispute any errors, but this takes time. Some US Bank branches will still open an account for you despite a flag if the issue is old or minor — ask the manager if you are declined.
Opening an account online
US Bank allows you to start an account process on their website or mobile app without visiting a branch. You will enter your personal information, Social Security number, and address, and upload photos of your ID and proof of address. The system will run a ChexSystems check while you wait.
If you pass the online check, you can fund the account by transferring money from another bank account using your routing and account number. However, you will still need to visit a branch within 30 days to verify your identity in person and sign the signature card. US Bank cannot legally open a deposit account without seeing your photo ID face-to-face.
The online route saves time if your branch is far away, but it does not eliminate the in-person step. Your debit card will not arrive until after you have visited the branch and completed the verification.
Account types and what they cost
US Bank offers several checking and savings accounts, each with different monthly fees and requirements. A basic checking account typically costs $6 to $12 per month, but the fee is waived if you maintain a minimum balance (usually $500 to $1,500) or set up direct deposit. A savings account usually costs nothing but earns very little interest — often less than 0.01 percent annually.
Money Market accounts and higher-tier checking accounts charge more but offer better interest rates or waived fees at higher balance thresholds. Ask the representative which account fits your situation. If you plan to keep less than $500 in the account, a basic checking account with direct deposit is usually the cheapest option.
US Bank also offers accounts designed for students, seniors, and people with no banking history. These accounts often have lower minimums or no monthly fees. Tell the representative your situation — they may steer you toward an account that costs less.
What happens after your account opens
Your temporary debit card works when ready at ATMs and in stores. Your permanent card arrives by mail in 7 to 10 business days and has a different number, so you will need to update any automatic payments or subscriptions once it arrives. Your online banking login is usually set up the same day, and you can transfer money, pay bills, and check your balance from the US Bank website or app right away.
Your first statement arrives 30 days after opening. It will show any fees charged, interest earned, and all transactions. If you notice an error or an unauthorized charge, contact US Bank within 60 days — after that, they are not required to investigate.
If you set up direct deposit, your employer will need your account number and US Bank's routing number (26009593 for most US Bank accounts). Direct deposit usually takes one to two pay cycles to set up, so do not expect money to arrive on your first payday.
If you cannot open an account at US Bank
If US Bank declines you because of ChexSystems, you have options. You can request your ChexSystems report for free at www.chexsystems.com and dispute any errors. You can also look for a second-chance checking account at another bank — these accounts are designed for people with banking history issues and often have higher fees but no ChexSystems check.
Some credit unions also offer accounts to people declined by traditional banks. Credit unions are member-owned and often have more flexible policies than large banks. You can search for credit unions in your area at www.co-opsharedbranch.org.
If you have no Social Security number, you may still open an account using an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN), though not all US Bank branches accept this. Call ahead to confirm, or ask whether they can refer you to a branch that does.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I open a US Bank account without a Social Security number?
Some US Bank branches will open an account using an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) instead, but policies vary by location. Call your local branch before visiting to confirm they accept ITINs. If they do not, ask for a referral to a branch that does.
What if I do not have a utility bill or lease to prove my address?
A bank statement, credit card statement, or government letter showing your name and current address within the last 60 to 90 days will work. If you have none of these, ask the branch whether they accept a cell phone bill or insurance statement. Some branches have discretion to accept alternative documents.
How long does it take to open an account?
The in-person process takes 15 to 30 minutes from start to finish. Your account is active the same day, though your permanent debit card arrives by mail in 7 to 10 business days. If you start online, add 30 days for the required in-person verification visit.
Will US Bank charge me a fee if I do not keep a minimum balance?
Yes, most US Bank checking accounts charge a monthly fee if your balance falls below the minimum or if you do not have direct deposit set up. The fee is usually $6 to $12 per month. Ask the representative which account has the lowest fee for your situation.
Can someone else open an account for me?
No. US Bank requires the account holder to be present in person with their own photo ID. A parent or guardian cannot open an account on behalf of an adult. For minors, a parent or guardian must be present with the child's Social Security number and their own ID.