You can open most Wells Fargo accounts online without visiting a branch, using just your computer or phone

Wells Fargo lets you open a checking or savings account from home by visiting wellsfargo.com and clicking "Open an Account." The whole process takes about 15 minutes. You'll need a valid government ID, a Social Security number, and a way to verify your identity — usually a phone number or email address Wells Fargo can reach you at. Once you finish, your account opens when ready, though you won't see a debit card for 7 to 10 business days.

The online path works for most people. If you don't have a Social Security number, or if you're opening an account for someone under 18, you'll need to visit a branch in person instead. Wells Fargo has branches in most states, and you can find your nearest one on their website.

Key Takeaways

  • You can open a Wells Fargo checking or savings account online at wellsfargo.com without leaving home, and the account is ready to use when ready.
  • You will need a valid government ID, a Social Security number, and a phone number or email address for identity verification.
  • Your debit card arrives in 7 to 10 business days, but you can transfer money or set up direct deposit before it arrives.
  • If you don't have a Social Security number or are under 18, you must visit a Wells Fargo branch in person with a parent or guardian.
  • Wells Fargo has no monthly fee on most checking accounts if you keep a minimum balance or set up direct deposit.

What you need before you start

Gather these items before you go to wellsfargo.com. You'll need them during the sign-up process, and having them ready keeps you from getting stuck halfway through.

A valid government ID is required — a driver's license, state ID card, or passport. Wells Fargo will ask you to enter the ID number, expiration date, and issue date. A military ID or tribal ID also works. If your ID is expired, Wells Fargo will usually still accept it as long as it expired within the last five years.

Your Social Security number is non-negotiable. Wells Fargo uses it to check your banking history and verify you're not opening duplicate accounts. If you don't have a Social Security number, you cannot open an account online — you'll need to visit a branch with an ITIN (Individual Taxpayer Identification Number) and speak to a banker in person.

A phone number or email address that Wells Fargo can reach you at is your third piece. They use this to verify your identity during the sign-up process. You'll receive a code by text or email that you'll need to enter to confirm it's really you.

The step-by-step process

Go to wellsfargo.com and look for the "Open an Account" button, usually near the top of the page. Click it, and Wells Fargo will ask you which type of account you want — checking, savings, or both. Most people start with a checking account because that's what you use for everyday spending and bill payments.

Next, enter your personal information: full name, date of birth, address, phone number, and email. Wells Fargo will ask if you're a current customer. If you've never had a Wells Fargo account, select "No." If you've had one in the past, select "Yes" — this helps them pull up your history.

You'll then enter your government ID information: the type of ID, the ID number, the state or country that issued it, and the expiration date. Double-check these details because a typo will cause the verification to fail.

Wells Fargo will send a verification code to your phone or email — whichever you provided. Enter that code on the next screen. This step confirms you actually own that phone number or email address.

After verification, you'll choose how much money to deposit into your new account. You can start with as little as $25, or you can transfer more. Wells Fargo will give you routing and account numbers so you can set up a transfer from another bank, or you can add money later.

Finally, you'll review the account terms, agree to them, and submit. Your account opens when ready. You'll receive a confirmation email with your account number and routing number. Write these down or save the email — you'll need them to set up direct deposit or transfers.

What happens after you submit

Your account is live the moment you finish the online process. You can log in to Wells Fargo's website or mobile app right away, set up bill pay, and transfer money from another bank account. However, your physical debit card takes 7 to 10 business days to arrive by mail.

While you wait for the card, you can still spend money using your account number. If you set up direct deposit, your paycheck will land in your account on the normal schedule. You can also use Wells Fargo's mobile app to make mobile payments or use your phone to pay at stores that accept contactless payment.

When your debit card arrives, it will be inactive. You'll need to set up it by calling the number on the back of the card or using the Wells Fargo app. After set up, you can use it at ATMs and stores when ready.

Monthly fees and minimum balance requirements

Wells Fargo's most common checking account is the Everyday Checking account. It has no monthly fee if you meet one of two conditions: keep a minimum balance of $500 in the account, or set up direct deposit of at least $250 per month.

If you don't meet either condition, Wells Fargo charges $10 per month. Many people avoid this fee by setting up direct deposit from their employer — even if it's a small amount, it counts.

Savings accounts have different rules depending on which one you open. The Way2Save Savings Account has no monthly fee. Interest rates vary and change over time, so check the current rate on Wells Fargo's website when you open your account.

If you can't open an account online

Some people need to visit a branch instead. This includes anyone under 18, anyone without a Social Security number, and anyone whose identity verification fails online for any reason.

To open an account in person, find your nearest Wells Fargo branch using the branch locator on wellsfargo.com. Bring your government ID and Social Security number or ITIN. If you're under 18, bring a parent or legal guardian with their ID as well. The process takes about 20 minutes, and your account opens the same day.

If you live in an area with no Wells Fargo branches nearby, call Wells Fargo at 1-800-869-3557 to ask about alternatives. Some accounts can be opened by phone with a banker's help, though this is less common than the online or in-person routes.

Setting up direct deposit and transfers

Direct deposit is the fastest way to get money into your new account. Your employer needs your account number and Wells Fargo's routing number, which is 121000248 for all Wells Fargo accounts. You can find both in your account details on the Wells Fargo website or app.

If you want to move money from another bank, log into your Wells Fargo account and select "Transfer Money." You'll enter the other bank's routing number and your account number there. The transfer usually takes one to three business days. Some banks offer faster transfers — ask your other bank if they participate in real-time payment networks.

You can also deposit checks using the Wells Fargo mobile app. Take a photo of the front and back of the check, and the app will deposit it for you. The funds usually show up within one business day.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I open a Wells Fargo account if I don't have a Social Security number?

No, not online. You'll need to visit a Wells Fargo branch in person with a valid government ID and an ITIN (Individual Taxpayer Identification Number). A banker can open the account for you at that time. Call 1-800-869-3557 to find a branch near you.

How long does it take to get my debit card?

Your debit card arrives by mail in 7 to 10 business days. You can use your account and spend money before the card arrives by setting up transfers, direct deposit, or mobile payments through the Wells Fargo app.

What if my identity verification fails?

If Wells Fargo cannot verify your identity online, you'll see a message telling you to visit a branch or call 1-800-869-3557. A banker can help you open the account over the phone or in person. Bring your government ID and Social Security number.

Do I have to keep a minimum balance to avoid fees?

For Everyday Checking, you need either a $500 minimum balance or direct deposit of $250 per month to avoid the $10 monthly fee. Direct deposit is easier for most people because it happens automatically once your employer sets it up.

Can I open an account for my child?

No, not online. You'll need to visit a Wells Fargo branch with your child and both of your government IDs. A banker will open a youth account, which you control as the parent or guardian until your child reaches the age set by Wells Fargo (usually 18).