Yes, you can open most Wells Fargo accounts online from your computer or phone

Wells Fargo lets you open a checking or savings account entirely online without visiting a branch. The process takes about 10 to 15 minutes, and you can start using your account the same day in most cases. You will need a valid government ID, a Social Security number or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN), and a way to verify your identity — usually a phone number or email address Wells Fargo can reach you at.

Not every Wells Fargo account type is available online. Investment accounts, business accounts, and some specialty products require you to visit a branch or speak with a banker by phone. But if you want a basic checking account, savings account, or money market account, the online route works.

Key Takeaways

  • You can open a Wells Fargo checking or savings account online using a computer or mobile app, and the account becomes active the same day in most cases.
  • You will need a valid government ID, a Social Security number or ITIN, and a way for Wells Fargo to contact you to verify your identity.
  • Wells Fargo will ask you questions about your banking history and run a check through ChexSystems, a system that tracks past banking problems.
  • If you do not have a Social Security number or ITIN, or if you have had serious banking issues in the past, you may need to open an account in person at a branch instead.

What documents and information you need before you start

Gather these items before you begin the online process. You will need a valid government-issued ID — a driver's license, passport, or state ID card. Wells Fargo will ask you to enter the ID number and expiration date. You will also need your Social Security number or ITIN (Individual Taxpayer Identification Number, used by people who do not have a Social Security number).

Have a phone number and email address ready — Wells Fargo uses these to send you a verification code or link to confirm you are who you say you are. If you are opening an account with money you already have, you will not need a bank account number yet, but if you want to transfer funds from another bank, you will need the routing number and account number from that bank.

If you are under 18, you will need a parent or guardian to open the account with you. Wells Fargo does not let minors open accounts on their own online.

The actual steps to open an account online

Go to the Wells Fargo website or open the Wells Fargo mobile app. Look for a button that says "Open an Account" or "get your free guide" — it is usually on the homepage. Wells Fargo will ask you to choose the type of account you want: checking, savings, or money market. Each has different fees and features, so read the descriptions before you choose.

Next, you will enter your personal information: name, date of birth, address, phone number, and email. Wells Fargo will ask for your Social Security number or ITIN. Then you will enter your government ID information — the type of ID, the number, and the expiration date. Wells Fargo scans this information against government records to verify it matches.

Wells Fargo will ask you questions about your banking history: whether you have had accounts closed by a bank, whether you have had overdraft issues, and whether you have had other banking problems. Answer honestly. Wells Fargo runs a check through ChexSystems, a system that banks use to track people who have had serious problems with past accounts. If ChexSystems shows a problem, Wells Fargo may deny your account or ask you to come to a branch in person.

Once you finish entering information, Wells Fargo will send you a verification code to your phone or email. Enter that code to confirm your identity. If everything checks out, your account opens when ready, and you can log in and see your account number right away.

When Wells Fargo might ask you to open an account in person instead

If you do not have a Social Security number or ITIN, you cannot open an account online. You will need to visit a Wells Fargo branch with your government ID and ask about accounts for people without a Social Security number. Some branches can open these accounts, but availability varies by location.

If ChexSystems shows that you have had a checking account closed due to fraud, unpaid overdrafts, or other serious issues, Wells Fargo may decline your online process. In this case, you can ask to open an account in person at a branch. A banker can review your situation and may be able to open an account even if the online system said no. Bring documentation of what happened — for example, if the previous account was closed by mistake, bring proof of that.

If you are under 18, you must open an account in person with a parent or guardian present. Wells Fargo cannot verify a minor's identity online.

What happens after your account opens

Your account number appears in the app or website when ready. You can transfer money into it right away using the routing number and account number Wells Fargo gives you. However, your debit card takes 7 to 10 business days to arrive by mail. Until it arrives, you can still use your account online or through the mobile app to transfer money, pay bills, or set up direct deposit.

If you need cash before your debit card arrives, you can visit a Wells Fargo branch and withdraw money using your account number and ID. You can also set up direct deposit from your employer right away — give your employer the routing number and account number, and your paycheck will go into your new account on the next pay cycle.

Wells Fargo will send you a welcome packet by mail with your account agreement and other documents. Read the fee schedule so you understand what charges explore to your account. Most Wells Fargo checking accounts have a monthly fee unless you meet certain requirements, such as keeping a minimum balance or setting up direct deposit.

Fees and requirements that vary by account type

Wells Fargo offers several checking accounts with different fee structures. The Wells Fargo Everyday Checking account has a monthly service fee, but the fee is waived if you keep a minimum balance or set up direct deposit. The Wells Fargo Prime Checking account is designed for people who want more features and has a higher monthly fee. The Wells Fargo Savings Account earns interest on your balance but also has a monthly fee that is waived if you keep a minimum balance.

Minimum balance requirements vary. Some accounts require you to keep $500 or more in the account to avoid fees, while others have no minimum. Check the fee schedule for the specific account you are opening so you know what to expect. If you cannot meet the minimum balance requirement, ask about accounts with no minimum or with fee waivers based on direct deposit instead.

What to do if your online process is denied

If Wells Fargo denies your process online, you will see a message explaining why. Common reasons include a ChexSystems issue, a mismatch between your ID and government records, or a problem with the information you entered. Do not assume the decision is final.

Call Wells Fargo customer service at the number on the website and ask to speak with someone about your denial. Explain your situation. If the problem is a ChexSystems issue, ask Wells Fargo to tell you what is on your report — you have the right to see it. If there is an error on your ChexSystems report, you can dispute it directly with ChexSystems. If the problem is something else, ask whether you can open an account in person at a branch instead. Many denials that happen online can be overridden by a banker in person.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take to open a Wells Fargo account online?

The process itself takes 10 to 15 minutes. Your account opens when ready after you verify your identity with the code Wells Fargo sends you. You can use your account number and routing number the same day to transfer money or set up direct deposit. Your debit card arrives by mail in 7 to 10 business days.

Do I need to have money in another bank account to open a Wells Fargo account online?

No. You can open an account with zero dollars. You do not need to transfer money when ready. However, if you want to transfer funds from another bank as part of the opening process, you will need that bank's routing number and your account number there.

What if I do not have a government ID?

You cannot open an account online without a valid government ID. You will need to visit a Wells Fargo branch in person with whatever ID you do have and ask a banker whether they can help you. Bring any documents that prove your identity and address, such as a utility bill or lease.

Can I open a Wells Fargo business account online?

No. Wells Fargo requires business accounts to be opened in person at a branch or over the phone with a business banker. You will need your business license, tax ID, and personal ID. Call Wells Fargo or visit a branch to start the process.

What is ChexSystems and why does Wells Fargo check it?

ChexSystems is a database that banks use to track people who have had serious problems with past checking accounts — such as unpaid overdrafts, fraud, or accounts closed by the bank. Wells Fargo checks it to assess risk. If you have an issue on your ChexSystems report, you can dispute it directly with ChexSystems or ask Wells Fargo to review your situation in person.