Yes, you can open most Wells Fargo accounts online from start to finish

Wells Fargo lets you open a checking or savings account entirely through their website or mobile app without visiting a branch. You'll need a valid government ID, a Social Security number, and a way to fund the account — either a debit card, another bank account, or a wire transfer. The whole process usually takes 10 to 15 minutes, and your account can be ready to use the same day or within one business day.

Not every account type is available online. Some specialty accounts, like those for businesses or trusts, require you to visit a branch or call. But for the standard personal checking and savings accounts that most people use, online opening is the standard path.

Key Takeaways

  • You can open a Wells Fargo checking or savings account online using their website or mobile app with just an ID, Social Security number, and a funding method.
  • The online process takes 10 to 15 minutes and your account is usually ready to use the same day.
  • You'll need to choose between account types — Wells Fargo offers different checking accounts with different fees and features.
  • Some account types, including business and trust accounts, cannot be opened online and require a branch visit or phone call.

What you need before you start

Gather these items before you begin the online process. You'll need a valid government-issued ID — a driver's license, passport, or state ID card. You'll also need your Social Security number, which Wells Fargo uses to check your identity and run a background check through ChexSystems, a banking history database.

Finally, you need a way to fund your new account. You can transfer money from another bank account, use a debit card to make an initial deposit, or arrange a wire transfer. Wells Fargo doesn't require a minimum opening deposit for most accounts, but you may want to deposit at least a small amount to set up the account right away.

The step-by-step online opening process

Start at wellsfargo.com and look for the "Open an Account" button, usually near the top of the page. Click it and select the account type you want — most people choose either a checking account or a savings account. Wells Fargo offers several checking options with different fee structures, so read the descriptions to pick the one that fits your banking habits.

Next, you'll enter your personal information: name, date of birth, address, phone number, and email. Then you'll provide your Social Security number. Wells Fargo will verify your identity using this information and may ask you security questions based on your credit history.

After identity verification, you'll set up your login credentials — a username and password — and choose your security preferences. Then you'll fund the account by linking a debit card, entering another bank's routing and account numbers, or arranging a wire transfer. Review the account terms and disclosures, sign electronically, and submit.

Your account number and routing number will appear on screen when ready. You can start using your account right away for some transactions, though transfers from another bank may take one to three business days to clear.

Account types available online

Wells Fargo's most common online options are checking accounts. The main choices are the Wells Fargo Core Checking (which has a monthly fee but waives it if you meet certain conditions), Wells Fargo Preferred Checking (a higher-tier account with more features), and Wells Fargo Clear Access Banking (designed for people building or rebuilding credit). Each has different monthly fees, minimum balance requirements, and benefits.

Savings accounts are also available online. Wells Fargo offers a standard savings account and a money market savings account, which typically pays a higher interest rate but requires a larger minimum balance. You can open either one alongside a checking account or on its own.

You cannot open business accounts, joint accounts with someone who is not present, or trust accounts online. If you need any of these, you'll need to visit a Wells Fargo branch or call their business banking line.

What happens if identity verification fails

If Wells Fargo cannot verify your identity online, you'll be asked to visit a branch in person with your ID. This usually happens if your information doesn't match what's in their system or if you have a limited credit history. Bring your government ID and Social Security card (or a document with your Social Security number) to any Wells Fargo branch, and a banker can complete the account opening for you on the spot.

If you're having trouble with the online process, you can also call Wells Fargo's customer service line at 1-800-869-3557 and ask to open an account by phone. A representative can walk you through the process and may be able to complete it faster if you're having technical issues.

Funding your account and first transactions

Once your account is open, you can deposit money in several ways. If you linked a debit card during opening, you can use it to make an when ready deposit. If you provided another bank's account information, Wells Fargo will initiate an electronic transfer, which usually takes one to three business days. You can also deposit checks using the Wells Fargo mobile app's mobile deposit feature once your account is fully active.

Your debit card will arrive by mail within 7 to 10 business days. Until it arrives, you can transfer money between your Wells Fargo accounts, pay bills online, or set up direct deposit using your new account number and routing number. You cannot withdraw cash at an ATM or make purchases in stores until your card arrives, unless you request a temporary digital card through the app.

Fees and ongoing costs

Most Wells Fargo checking accounts have a monthly maintenance fee, but many of them waive the fee if you meet certain conditions — such as maintaining a minimum balance, setting up direct deposit, or using online banking. Read the fee schedule for your specific account type before opening it, so you understand what you'll pay and how to avoid the fee.

Savings accounts typically don't have monthly maintenance fees, but they may have limits on how many withdrawals you can make per month. Wells Fargo also charges fees for things like overdrafts, wire transfers, and stopping a check payment. These fees vary, so check the fee schedule on their website or ask during the opening process.

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 number appears when ready after you submit, but transfers from other banks take one to three business days to clear. Your debit card arrives by mail in 7 to 10 business days.

Do I need a minimum deposit to open an account?

No. Wells Fargo does not require a minimum opening deposit for most personal checking and savings accounts. However, some accounts have minimum balance requirements to avoid monthly fees, so check the terms for your specific account type.

What if I don't have a Social Security number?

You'll need a Social Security number or an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) to open a Wells Fargo account. If you don't have either, you'll need to visit a branch in person and speak with a banker about your options.

Can I open a joint account online with someone else?

No. Joint accounts require both account holders to be present, either in person at a branch or verified through a phone call. You'll need to visit a branch or contact Wells Fargo to set up a joint account.

What if I'm denied during the identity verification step?

If Wells Fargo cannot verify your identity online, visit any Wells Fargo branch with your government ID. A banker can complete the account opening in person. You can also call 1-800-869-3557 to open an account by phone if you prefer.