What you need to bring and where to start

To open a Wells Fargo account, you will need a government-issued photo ID, your Social Security number, and an initial deposit (the amount varies by account type, but some accounts require as little as $25). You can open an account either in person at a Wells Fargo branch or online through their website.

The in-person route takes about 15 to 30 minutes. The online route takes about 10 minutes but may require you to verify your identity by uploading a photo of your ID. Both paths lead to the same result: an account number, a debit card, and online banking access.

If you do not have a government ID yet, you will need to open an account in person. A Wells Fargo employee can walk you through what documents your state accepts as proof of identity.

Key Takeaways

  • You will need a photo ID, Social Security number, and an opening deposit to start an account at Wells Fargo.
  • Opening online takes about 10 minutes, but opening in person at a branch gives you when ready access to a debit card and lets you ask questions face-to-face.
  • Wells Fargo offers different account types with different fees and minimum balances, so comparing them before you open saves money later.
  • Your debit card arrives by mail in 7 to 10 business days if you open online, but you can use your account number to withdraw cash when ready at any Wells Fargo ATM.

Opening an account online

Go to wellsfargo.com and look for "Open an Account" or "New Customer" near the top of the page. You will choose which type of account you want (see the section below for the differences). Then you will enter your name, address, date of birth, and Social Security number.

Wells Fargo will ask you to create a username and password for online banking. Write these down somewhere safe — you will use them to check your balance and move money later. They will also ask for a phone number and email address where they can reach you.

At the end, you will upload a photo of your ID using your phone or computer camera. Wells Fargo checks this photo automatically, and you usually find out within a few minutes whether you passed. If the photo is blurry or the ID is expired, they will ask you to try again.

Once your identity is verified, your account opens when ready. You can log in to online banking right away, but your physical debit card arrives by mail in 7 to 10 business days. Until then, you can withdraw cash at any Wells Fargo ATM using your account number.

Opening an account in person at a branch

Find your nearest Wells Fargo branch using the branch locator on their website. Bring your photo ID, Social Security number, and your opening deposit (cash or a check). You do not need an appointment, but calling ahead during busy times can save you a wait.

A Wells Fargo employee will sit with you and ask the same questions the online form asks: your name, address, date of birth, and Social Security number. They will show you the different account types and help you choose one. They will also explain the fees and the online banking features.

Once you sign the paperwork, your account opens on the spot. The employee will give you a temporary debit card or a card number you can use when ready. Your permanent debit card arrives by mail in 7 to 10 business days. You will also receive a checkbook if you ordered one.

Choosing between Wells Fargo account types

Wells Fargo offers several checking and savings accounts. The most common for people new to banking are the Wells Fargo Everyday Checking and the Wells Fargo Way2Save Savings Account.

Everyday Checking is a checking account, which means it is designed for regular deposits and withdrawals. You get a debit card and checks. There is a monthly maintenance fee (currently $10), but the fee is waived if you keep a minimum balance, set up direct deposit, or meet other conditions. Ask the employee or check the website for the current waiver options, as these change.

Way2Save Savings is a savings account, which means it is designed for money you want to keep rather than spend regularly. You earn a small amount of interest on the money you leave in the account. There is also a monthly maintenance fee, waived if you keep a minimum balance or set up automatic transfers. Savings accounts have limits on how many times per month you can withdraw money (usually six), so they work best if you are saving toward a goal rather than using the account for everyday spending.

Many people open both a checking account (for daily use) and a savings account (for money set aside). You can open both at the same time, either online or in person.

What happens after you open your account

Once your account is open, you can log into online banking using the username and password you created. From there, you can check your balance, see your recent transactions, set up bill pay, and transfer money between your accounts.

Your debit card works at any store that accepts Visa. You can also use it to withdraw cash at any Wells Fargo ATM or at ATMs in the Allpoint network (which includes many grocery stores and convenience stores). If you use an ATM that is not Wells Fargo or Allpoint, you may be charged a fee by that ATM's owner.

If you set up direct deposit (having your paycheck sent directly to your account), the money arrives automatically on payday. This is faster and safer than carrying a paper check to the bank.

Wells Fargo will send you a statement each month showing all your deposits, withdrawals, and fees. You can view this statement online or ask for a paper copy by mail.

If you do not have a Social Security number

Wells Fargo can open an account for you using an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) instead of a Social Security number. An ITIN is a nine-digit number the IRS issues to people who file taxes but do not have a Social Security number. You will need to bring the ITIN document and a photo ID.

Some Wells Fargo branches are more experienced with ITIN accounts than others. If your local branch seems uncertain, ask to speak with a manager or call Wells Fargo's customer service line to find a branch that handles ITIN accounts regularly.

Common reasons an account opening is delayed or denied

Wells Fargo checks your banking history through a system called ChexSystems. If you have unpaid overdraft fees, closed accounts with a negative balance, or fraud on your record, Wells Fargo may deny your account or delay opening it while they investigate.

If your account is denied, Wells Fargo will send you a letter explaining why. You have the right to request a copy of your ChexSystems report and dispute any errors on it. If the issue is unpaid fees from a previous bank, paying those fees may allow you to open a Wells Fargo account.

If you have been denied by Wells Fargo, you may still be able to open an account at a different bank. Some banks specialize in second-chance accounts for people with banking history issues.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I open a Wells Fargo account without a Social Security number?

Yes, if you have an ITIN (Individual Taxpayer Identification Number). Bring your ITIN document and a photo ID to a Wells Fargo branch. Not all branches handle ITIN accounts regularly, so calling ahead to confirm is a good idea.

How much money do I need to open an account?

The opening deposit varies by account type. Some Wells Fargo accounts require as little as $25, while others may require more. Ask the employee or check the website for the specific account you want to open.

Can I use my account before my debit card arrives?

Yes. If you open online, you can use your account number to withdraw cash at any Wells Fargo ATM when ready. If you open in person, the employee gives you a temporary card or card number on the spot. Your permanent debit card arrives in 7 to 10 business days.

What if I made a mistake on my process?

Contact Wells Fargo customer service or visit your local branch as soon as you notice the error. They can correct information like your address or phone number. If the error involves your name or Social Security number, you may need to close the account and open a new one.

Is there a fee to open a Wells Fargo account?

No, opening an account is free. However, most Wells Fargo accounts charge a monthly maintenance fee once the account is open. This fee is waived if you meet certain conditions, such as keeping a minimum balance or setting up direct deposit.