Yes, you can open a Wells Fargo savings account entirely online
Wells Fargo lets you open a savings account through their website or mobile app without visiting a branch. The process takes about 10 minutes and requires basic information: your name, date of birth, Social Security number, address, phone number, and email. You'll need a valid government ID to verify your identity, and you must be at least 18 years old.
The account opens when ready once you complete the verification steps. You can start using it right away—deposit money via transfer from another bank, direct deposit, or mobile check deposit. Wells Fargo does not charge a monthly fee on their basic savings account, though interest rates and specific terms vary based on your location and account type.
Key Takeaways
- You can open a Wells Fargo savings account online through their website or mobile app in about 10 minutes without visiting a branch.
- You will need your Social Security number, a valid government ID for identity verification, and proof of your current address.
- The account becomes active when ready after verification, and you can deposit money the same day through transfers or mobile check deposit.
- Wells Fargo's basic savings account has no monthly maintenance fee, though interest rates and minimum balance requirements vary by state and account tier.
What information you need to have ready
Before you start, gather these documents and details. You'll need your Social Security number, date of birth, and current mailing address. Have a valid government-issued ID available—a driver's license, passport, or state ID card works. Wells Fargo uses this to verify you are who you say you are.
You'll also need a way to prove your address. A recent utility bill, lease agreement, or bank statement dated within the last 60 days works. If you don't have one of these, a government document with your address—like a tax return or voter registration card—is acceptable. Keep these documents nearby before you begin the online process.
The step-by-step process on Wells Fargo's website
Go to wellsfargo.com and look for the "Open an Account" button, usually on the homepage. Select "Savings" from the account type options. You'll be asked to choose which type of savings account you want—Wells Fargo offers a standard savings account and higher-yield options depending on your state. Read the details for each to see which fits your needs.
Enter your personal information: full name, date of birth, Social Security number, email address, and phone number. Then provide your current address and confirm it matches your ID. Wells Fargo will ask you to create a username and password for online banking. Next, you'll verify your identity by uploading a photo of your government ID or answering security questions based on your credit history.
Once verification is complete, you'll set up your initial deposit. You can link an external bank account and transfer money in, or Wells Fargo can provide you with account details so you can deposit via ACH transfer or direct deposit. The account is live as soon as you finish these steps.
Opening an account through the Wells Fargo mobile app
The mobile app process is nearly identical to the website. read the Wells Fargo app, tap "Open an Account," and select savings. You'll enter the same information and upload your ID using your phone's camera. The app may be slightly faster because it can access your phone's photo library directly.
One advantage of the app: if you already have a Wells Fargo checking account, the app recognizes you and may skip some verification steps. You can still complete the entire process without ever logging into an existing account, though—the app works for new customers too.
How long it takes and when you can use the account
Identity verification usually finishes within minutes. Once approved, your account number and routing number appear on screen when ready. You can start using the account the same day for transfers and deposits. If you're setting up direct deposit from an employer, provide your new Wells Fargo account and routing number to your payroll department, and deposits will arrive on your regular pay schedule.
Transfers from another bank typically take one to three business days to arrive, depending on the other bank's processing speed. Mobile check deposits usually clear within one business day. If you need cash when ready, you can visit any Wells Fargo branch and withdraw from your new account using your debit card or by asking a teller.
Account minimums and fees
Wells Fargo's standard savings account has no monthly maintenance fee and no minimum opening deposit. However, some higher-yield savings options may have minimum balance requirements—these vary by state and change periodically. Check the account details before you finish opening to see if your chosen account type has a minimum.
Interest rates on savings accounts are low across all banks right now, and Wells Fargo's rates are typically lower than online-only banks. If you're primarily looking to earn interest, compare rates at other institutions. If you're opening a savings account mainly to have a separate place to keep money or to use Wells Fargo's mobile app features, the account works fine at no cost.
What to do if verification fails
If Wells Fargo cannot verify your identity online, you'll see a message explaining why. Common reasons include a mismatch between the name on your ID and the name you entered, or an address that doesn't match their records. Go back and double-check that your information matches your ID exactly—middle names, suffixes, and spelling all matter.
If you've corrected the information and verification still fails, you can complete the account opening in person at a Wells Fargo branch. Bring your ID and proof of address, and a banker can open the account for you on the spot. This usually takes 15 to 20 minutes. You can also call Wells Fargo customer service at 1-800-869-3557 to ask what's blocking your online verification.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need an existing Wells Fargo account to open a savings account online?
No. You can open a savings account as a brand-new customer without any existing Wells Fargo accounts. The online process works the same whether you're a new customer or already banking with Wells Fargo.
Can I open a joint savings account online?
Wells Fargo does not allow you to open a joint account entirely online. One account holder can open the account, and the other person can be added later in person at a branch or by calling customer service. Both people will need to provide identification and Social Security numbers.
What if I don't have a Social Security number?
Wells Fargo requires a Social Security number or ITIN (Individual Taxpayer Identification Number) to open an account. If you have an ITIN, you can use that instead. If you have neither, you'll need to open the account in person at a branch with additional documentation.
Can I open a savings account if I'm under 18?
No, Wells Fargo's online account opening requires you to be at least 18. Minors can open accounts in person at a branch with a parent or guardian, but the online process is for adults only.
Is my money safe in a Wells Fargo savings account?
Yes. Wells Fargo is a member of the FDIC (Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation), which means deposits up to $250,000 per account holder are protected if the bank fails. Your savings account is covered separately from any checking account you have.