What you need before you start

Wells Fargo requires a government-issued photo ID, your Social Security number, and an initial deposit to open a checking or savings account. You'll also need a current mailing address. If you're opening an account online or by phone, have this information ready before you begin—the process moves faster when you don't have to stop and hunt for documents.

The initial deposit amount depends on the account type. Some Wells Fargo accounts require a minimum opening deposit of $25, while others have no minimum. Check the specific account details on Wells Fargo's website or ask a banker which accounts have deposit requirements before you commit.

If you don't have a government-issued ID yet, you'll need to visit a branch in person. Wells Fargo accepts driver's licenses, state ID cards, and passports. A Social Security card alone is not enough—you need a photo ID.

Key Takeaways

  • You can open an account online, by phone, or in person at a Wells Fargo branch, and each method takes a different amount of time.
  • Have your government-issued photo ID, Social Security number, and current address ready before you start the process.
  • Online and phone applications usually complete in minutes, but in-person appointments may require a visit to a branch.
  • Your account becomes active once the initial deposit clears, which typically takes one to two business days.
  • Wells Fargo will run a ChexSystems check to verify your banking history, which may delay approval if you have unpaid overdrafts or fraud flags from other banks.

Opening an account online

Go to Wells Fargo's website and select the account type you want—checking, savings, or money market. The online form asks for your name, address, date of birth, Social Security number, and employment information. You'll upload a photo of your ID or enter the details manually. The entire process takes 10 to 15 minutes.

After you submit the form, Wells Fargo reviews your information and runs a ChexSystems check, which is a banking history report that shows whether you've had problems with overdrafts or fraud at other banks. If you pass this check, you'll receive a confirmation email within minutes. You can then set up your username and password to access your account online.

Your account is active when ready, but you won't be able to use your debit card until it arrives in the mail, which takes 7 to 10 business days. If you need cash right away, you can visit a Wells Fargo branch and withdraw from your new account using your ID.

Opening an account by phone

Call Wells Fargo at 1-800-869-3557 to open an account over the phone. A representative will walk you through the same questions as the online form and will need your ID information, Social Security number, and address. The call typically lasts 15 to 20 minutes.

The representative will confirm your information and tell you whether your account is approved before the call ends. If approved, you'll receive a confirmation email and can log in to your account online when ready. Your debit card will arrive by mail in 7 to 10 business days.

Phone applications work well if you prefer speaking to a person or if you have questions about which account type fits your needs. The representative can explain the differences between accounts and help you choose.

Opening an account in person at a branch

Visit your nearest Wells Fargo branch with your government-issued photo ID, Social Security number, and initial deposit. You can bring cash, a check, or a debit card to fund the account. A banker will complete the process with you, which takes 20 to 30 minutes.

The banker will run the ChexSystems check while you're there and tell you when ready whether you're approved. If approved, your account opens that day. You can request a temporary debit card at the branch, which you can use right away, or wait for your permanent card to arrive by mail.

In-person applications are useful if you want to deposit cash when ready, if you have questions about account features, or if you prefer to handle banking face-to-face. Some branches offer appointments, so you may be able to schedule a time rather than waiting in line.

What happens after you open your account

Once your account is open, your initial deposit takes one to two business days to clear. During this time, your account is active and you can log in online, but the funds won't be available for withdrawal until the deposit clears. If you deposited a check, it may take longer depending on the bank that issued it.

Your debit card arrives by mail within 7 to 10 business days. When it arrives, you'll need to set up it by calling the number on the back of the card or using the Wells Fargo mobile app. Until you set up it, you won't be able to use it at ATMs or stores.

Wells Fargo will send you a welcome packet with your account number, routing number, and information about online banking and mobile app access. You can set up direct deposit, bill pay, and transfers between accounts through the Wells Fargo website or app.

If Wells Fargo denies your process

Wells Fargo may deny your process if the ChexSystems check shows unpaid overdrafts, fraud, or repeated NSF (non-sufficient funds) fees at other banks. You have the right to request a copy of your ChexSystems report and dispute any errors on it. Contact ChexSystems directly at 1-800-428-9623 to request your report.

If you're denied, ask Wells Fargo for the specific reason. Some banks offer second-chance checking accounts with lower fees and smaller initial deposits for people with banking history problems. Wells Fargo does not currently offer a second-chance account, but other banks do—ask your local banker for referrals.

You can also try opening an account at a different bank while you work on clearing up your ChexSystems report. Once you've resolved the issues—paid off overdrafts, for example—you can reapply to Wells Fargo after 30 to 90 days.

Account types and what they cost

Wells Fargo offers several checking and savings accounts with different features and fees. Checking accounts range from accounts with no monthly fee to premium accounts with higher fees but more benefits. Savings accounts typically charge a monthly maintenance fee unless you maintain a minimum balance or set up direct deposit.

Before you open an account, compare the monthly fees, minimum balance requirements, interest rates on savings, and ATM access. Some accounts waive fees if you maintain a certain balance or have direct deposit set up. Wells Fargo has over 7,000 ATMs nationwide, so ATM access is usually not a problem.

You can change account types later if you find a different account works better for you. Contact Wells Fargo customer service or visit a branch to switch accounts without closing your existing one.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

No. Wells Fargo requires a Social Security number to open any account. If you don't have one, you'll need to obtain one from the Social Security Administration before you can open an account. Immigrants and non-citizens may be able to open accounts with an ITIN (Individual Taxpayer Identification Number) at some banks, but Wells Fargo's policy requires a Social Security number.

How long does it take to get my debit card after I open an account?

Your debit card arrives by mail in 7 to 10 business days. If you need to use a debit card when ready, ask for a temporary card at the branch when you open your account in person, or use your account number to make online purchases. You can also withdraw cash at a Wells Fargo ATM using your ID and account number.

What if I'm denied because of my ChexSystems report?

Request a copy of your ChexSystems report and look for errors. You can dispute inaccurate information directly with ChexSystems at 1-800-428-9623. If the information is correct, wait 30 to 90 days and reapply, especially if you've paid off overdrafts or resolved the issue that caused the denial.

Can I open a joint account with someone else?

Yes. Both account holders need to be present in person or provide authorization over the phone. Each person needs a government-issued photo ID and Social Security number. Both names appear on the account, and both people can access the account and make withdrawals.

Do I need to make a deposit when I open my account?

Most Wells Fargo accounts require a minimum opening deposit, though some accounts have no minimum. Check the account details before you start the process to know how much you need to deposit. You can deposit cash, a check, or transfer money from another bank account.