Yes, you can open a checking account at Wells Fargo without opening a savings account

Wells Fargo lets you open a checking account on its own. You do not have to pair it with a savings account, and you will not be forced into one during the sign-up process. A checking account is meant for regular spending — paying bills, getting paychecks deposited, withdrawing cash — while a savings account is separate and meant to hold money you are not spending right now. Wells Fargo treats them as two different products, so you choose which one you want.

The main reason people ask this question is that some banks bundle accounts together or make savings accounts part of their basic package. Wells Fargo does not do that. You can walk in, online, or call and say you want a checking account, and that is what you will get.

Key Takeaways

  • Wells Fargo allows you to open a checking account without a savings account, and neither product requires the other.
  • You will need a government-issued ID, a Social Security number, and an initial deposit to open a checking account.
  • Different Wells Fargo checking accounts have different monthly fees, minimum balance requirements, and features — compare them before you choose.
  • You can open a checking account in person at a branch, online through Wells Fargo's website, or by phone.

What you need to bring or provide to open a checking account

Wells Fargo will ask for a government-issued photo ID (a driver's license, passport, or state ID card), your Social Security number, and an initial deposit. The initial deposit amount depends on which checking account you choose — some accounts require $25, others require $100 or more. You can deposit a check, transfer money from another bank, or bring cash.

You will also need to provide your address and phone number. If you are opening the account online, you may be able to verify your identity using your ID and a video call instead of going to a branch in person.

The different checking accounts Wells Fargo offers

Wells Fargo has several checking account options, and they differ in monthly fees, minimum balance requirements, and what you get for your money. The most common ones are the Everyday Checking account, the Premier Checking account, and the Preferred Checking account. Each one has a different monthly maintenance fee — some charge nothing if you meet certain conditions, others charge a flat fee.

For example, one account might waive its monthly fee if you keep a certain balance or set up direct deposit, while another might charge $10 or $12 per month no matter what. Before you open an account, look at which one fits your situation: how much money you can keep in the account, whether you get direct deposit, and whether you mind paying a monthly fee. You can find the current details on Wells Fargo's website or ask at a branch.

How to open a checking account without a savings account

You have three main ways to open a checking account: in person at a Wells Fargo branch, online through the Wells Fargo website, or by phone. In person is usually the fastest if you have a branch nearby, because a banker can answer questions and complete the process while you are there. Online takes longer because you may need to verify your identity by video or mail, but you can do it from home.

When you go through the sign-up process, you will be asked which account type you want. At that point, straightforward choose the checking account and do not select a savings account. Wells Fargo will not push you toward one, and you will not see it as a required step. Once your checking account is open, you are done — you do not have to open anything else.

Monthly fees and how to avoid them

Most Wells Fargo checking accounts charge a monthly maintenance fee, but many of them waive it if you meet one or more conditions. Common ways to waive the fee include setting up direct deposit, keeping a minimum balance (often $500 or $1,500, depending on the account), or maintaining a certain number of debit card transactions per month.

If you do not meet any of those conditions, you will pay the monthly fee — usually between $10 and $15. Some accounts have no monthly fee at all, but they may have other limits, like fewer free ATM withdrawals or lower interest on balances. Read the fee schedule for the account you are interested in so you know exactly what you will pay.

Using your checking account without a savings account

A checking account works the same whether or not you have a savings account with Wells Fargo. You can deposit paychecks, pay bills online, use your debit card, write checks, and withdraw cash from ATMs. Your money is available to spend right away, which is the whole point of a checking account.

If you want to save money later, you can always open a savings account at Wells Fargo or somewhere else. But you do not need one to use your checking account, and opening one does not happen automatically. Your checking account stands on its own.

Switching banks or adding accounts later

If you open a checking account at Wells Fargo and later decide you want to move to a different bank, you can close it and move your money. If you decide you want a savings account after all, you can open one at Wells Fargo or at another bank — they do not have to be at the same place. Your checking account does not lock you in or require you to use other Wells Fargo products.

Many people start with just a checking account and add other accounts or services later as their needs change. There is no penalty for keeping just one account, and no pressure to add more.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I have to have a savings account to open a checking account at Wells Fargo?

No. Wells Fargo treats checking and savings accounts as separate products. You can open a checking account without a savings account, and the bank will not require you to open one.

What is the minimum deposit to open a checking account?

The minimum deposit varies by account type, but it is usually between $25 and $100. Check the specific account you are interested in on Wells Fargo's website or ask at a branch for the current amount.

Can I avoid the monthly fee on a checking account?

Many Wells Fargo checking accounts waive the monthly fee if you set up direct deposit, keep a minimum balance, or make a certain number of debit card transactions per month. Some accounts have no monthly fee at all. Read the fee schedule for the account you choose to see what applies to you.

Can I open a checking account online?

Yes. You can open a Wells Fargo checking account online through their website. You will need to verify your identity, which may involve a video call or mailing in documents. You can also open an account in person at a branch or by phone.

What if I change my mind and want to close my checking account later?

You can close your checking account at any time by visiting a branch, calling Wells Fargo, or using their online banking. Move any remaining money to another account first, and make sure no automatic payments are still linked to it.