You can open a Wells Fargo savings account on the app, but only if you already have a Wells Fargo checking account
The Wells Fargo mobile app lets you open a savings account without visiting a branch, but there is a requirement: you must already be a Wells Fargo customer with an active checking account. The app will not let you open a savings account as a brand-new customer. If you do not have a Wells Fargo checking account yet, you will need to open one first — either in a branch, on the website, or by phone — before you can add a savings account through the app.
The process itself takes about five minutes once you are logged in. You select the savings product you want, review the terms, and confirm. The account opens when ready and is ready to use the same day. No separate approval period or waiting list applies.
Key Takeaways
- You must have an existing Wells Fargo checking account to open a savings account through the app; new customers cannot start with savings alone.
- The app shows you the current interest rate, monthly fees (if any), and minimum balance requirements before you commit.
- Once you confirm, the savings account is active the same day and linked to your existing checking account automatically.
- If you do not have a Wells Fargo checking account, you can open one online, by phone, or in a branch first, then add savings through the app.
What you need before you start
Have your Wells Fargo username and password ready, or be prepared to log in using your Social Security number and other identifying information. Make sure you are using the official Wells Fargo app — search for "Wells Fargo" in your device's app store and look for the app published by Wells Fargo Bank, N.A.
You will also need to decide which savings product you want. Wells Fargo typically offers a standard savings account and sometimes a high-yield savings option, though the exact products and rates change. The app will show you what is available and what each one pays.
The steps to open a savings account in the app
Log into the Wells Fargo app with your username and password. Tap the menu icon (usually three horizontal lines) and look for an option like "Open an Account," "Products," or "Accounts." The exact wording varies by app version, but the goal is to find the section where you can add a new account.
Select "Savings Account" from the list of products. The app will show you the details: the interest rate, any monthly maintenance fees, and the minimum opening deposit (usually $0 to $25, depending on the account type). Read through these terms — they are the actual contract you are agreeing to.
Choose whether you want the account linked to a specific checking account (most people do this so they can transfer money between them easily). Confirm your choices and submit. The app will process the request and show you a confirmation number. Your new savings account number appears in the app when ready.
When the app will not let you open an account
If you see an error message or the savings account option is grayed out, the most common reason is that you do not have an active checking account with Wells Fargo. Log out, call Wells Fargo at the number on the back of your debit card (or 1-800-869-3557), and confirm your account status. If your checking account is closed or inactive, you will need to reopen it or open a new one before the app will let you add savings.
Occasionally the app itself has a technical issue. If you have confirmed your checking account is active and the savings option still will not appear, try logging out completely, closing the app, and logging back in. If that does not work, you can open a savings account on the Wells Fargo website or by calling the same number.
What happens after you open the account
Your savings account is ready to use when ready. You can transfer money from your checking account to savings right away using the app's transfer feature. The transfer usually completes the same day if you do it before the daily cutoff time (typically 5 p.m. Eastern Time on business days).
You will receive a confirmation email with your new account number and the savings account details. Keep this for your records. You can also view your savings account balance, transaction history, and interest earned directly in the app alongside your checking account.
Alternatives if you cannot use the app
If the app is not working or you prefer not to use it, you can open a Wells Fargo savings account on the website at wellsfargo.com. The process is nearly identical and takes the same amount of time. You can also visit a Wells Fargo branch in person or call 1-800-869-3557 to open a savings account over the phone.
All three routes — app, website, and phone — require an existing checking account. If you do not have one yet, you will need to open a checking account first through any of these same channels before you can add savings.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a minimum deposit to open a savings account through the app?
Most Wells Fargo savings accounts require $0 to $25 to open, but the exact amount depends on which savings product you choose. The app shows the minimum before you confirm, so you will know the requirement before you commit.
Can I open multiple savings accounts through the app?
Yes. Once you have one savings account, you can open additional ones through the app if you want to keep money separate for different goals. Each account gets its own number and can be linked to your checking account.
How long does it take for the savings account to appear in my app?
The account is active when ready after you confirm. It should appear in your app within seconds, though occasionally it takes a few minutes to refresh. If it does not show up after 10 minutes, log out and back in.
What if I already have a Wells Fargo savings account and want to open another one?
You can open a second savings account through the app the same way you opened the first. Just log in, go to the account opening section, and select savings. The app will let you choose which checking account to link it to.
Can I transfer money between my checking and savings account in the app?
Yes. Once both accounts are open and linked, you can transfer money between them in the app. Transfers between your own Wells Fargo accounts usually complete the same day.