What you need before you start

Wells Fargo requires you to bring a government-issued photo ID and a Social Security number or ITIN (Individual Taxpayer Identification Number) to open an account. You will also need an initial deposit — the amount varies by account type, but many accounts require $25 or more to open. Some accounts have no minimum deposit requirement.

If you are opening an account online or by phone, you will need to verify your identity through their system, which typically involves answering security questions based on your credit history. You do not need to visit a branch in person unless you prefer to, though doing so can speed up the process because a banker can answer questions about which account fits your situation.

Have your Social Security number, a recent address, phone number, and employment information ready. If you are under 18, a parent or guardian must be present and will need to co-sign the account.

Key Takeaways

  • You need a photo ID, Social Security number, and an initial deposit to open a Wells Fargo account, though some accounts have no minimum deposit.
  • You can open an account in person at a branch, online through Wells Fargo's website, or by phone — each route takes different amounts of time.
  • Wells Fargo offers checking accounts, savings accounts, and money market accounts, each with different fees and features depending on how you use the account.
  • Once your account is open, you can set up direct deposit, transfers, and bill pay when ready, though some features may take a business day to set up.

Opening an account in person at a branch

Walk into any Wells Fargo branch with your ID, Social Security number, and initial deposit. A banker will ask you which type of account you want — checking, savings, or money market — and will explain the fees and features of each. This conversation usually takes 15 to 30 minutes because the banker can answer questions about overdraft protection, monthly maintenance fees, and how to avoid them.

The banker will enter your information into their system while you are there. Your account opens when ready, and you will receive a debit card and checks (if you opened a checking account) before you leave the branch. You can use your debit card the same day. Checks typically arrive by mail within 7 to 10 business days.

If you do not have a branch near you or prefer not to visit in person, you can open an account online or by phone instead.

Opening an account online

Go to wellsfargo.com and click the link to open a new account. You will choose your account type, enter your personal information, and upload a photo of your ID. Wells Fargo will ask you security questions to verify your identity — these are based on your credit history and previous financial accounts. Answer them accurately; if you cannot answer them, the online process will stop and you will need to visit a branch or call instead.

Once your identity is verified, you will set up your initial deposit. You can transfer money from another bank account you own, or you can provide a debit card to fund the account. The deposit usually posts within one to two business days. Your Wells Fargo account opens as soon as the deposit clears, and you can log in to online banking when ready.

Your debit card will arrive by mail within 7 to 10 business days. Until it arrives, you can use your account number and routing number to set up direct deposit or transfers from another account.

Opening an account by phone

Call Wells Fargo at 1-800-869-3557 and tell them you want to open a new account. A representative will walk you through the same questions as the online process — your name, address, Social Security number, and which account type you want. They will verify your identity by asking security questions.

You will need to provide a debit card or bank account number to fund your initial deposit. The representative will explain the fees and features of your chosen account type. The call usually takes 20 to 30 minutes. Your account opens once the deposit clears, which typically takes one to two business days.

Like the online route, your debit card arrives by mail within 7 to 10 business days. You can use your account number and routing number to set up direct deposit or transfers before the card arrives.

Account types and what they cost

Wells Fargo offers three main account types for individual customers. A checking account is for frequent deposits and withdrawals — you get a debit card and checks, and you can set up bill pay and direct deposit. A savings account is for money you want to keep separate and earn interest on, though the interest rate is typically very low. A money market account combines features of both — it earns interest like a savings account but also allows you to write checks and use a debit card, though usually with limits on how many withdrawals you can make per month.

Monthly maintenance fees vary by account type and how you use the account. Many checking accounts charge $12 per month, but Wells Fargo waives the fee if you maintain a minimum balance (often $500 to $1,500), set up direct deposit, or meet other conditions. Savings accounts typically charge $5 per month but waive the fee if you keep a minimum balance. Read the fee schedule for the specific account you are considering before you open it.

Some accounts have no monthly fee at all. Wells Fargo's basic checking account, for example, has no monthly maintenance fee and no minimum balance requirement, though it does not earn interest.

What happens after your account opens

Once your account is open, you can log into online banking and mobile banking when ready. You can transfer money between your Wells Fargo accounts, set up bill pay, and view your balance and transaction history. You can also set up direct deposit using your account number and routing number — your employer or benefit provider can begin depositing money into your account right away.

Transfers to or from accounts at other banks usually take one to three business days. If you set up a transfer on a Friday evening, for example, it may not post until the following Tuesday. Transfers within Wells Fargo (between your own accounts) usually post the same day.

Your debit card arrives by mail within 7 to 10 business days. Once it arrives, you will need to set up it by calling the number on the back of the card or using the Wells Fargo mobile app. You can then use it at ATMs and stores when ready.

If you cannot verify your identity online

If the online or phone process stops because you cannot answer the security questions, you will need to visit a Wells Fargo branch in person. Bring your photo ID, Social Security number, and initial deposit. A banker can open your account without the security questions and can answer any questions about your account at the same time.

This situation is common if you have limited credit history, have recently moved, or have a name that does not match your credit file exactly. It is not a problem — it just means you need to complete the process in person instead of online.

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) instead. Bring your ITIN documentation along with your photo ID and initial deposit. The process is the same as opening with a Social Security number.

What is the minimum deposit to open a Wells Fargo account?

It depends on the account type. Many accounts require $25 to open, but some have no minimum deposit requirement. Ask which accounts have no minimum when you call or visit a branch, or check the fee schedule on wellsfargo.com before you open.

How long does it take to open a Wells Fargo account?

In person at a branch: 15 to 30 minutes, and your account is open when ready. Online: 10 to 20 minutes, but your account opens once your deposit clears, which takes one to two business days. By phone: 20 to 30 minutes, with the same timeline as online.

Can I use my account before my debit card arrives?

Yes. You can use your account number and routing number to set up direct deposit, transfers, and bill pay as soon as your account opens. You can also withdraw cash at a Wells Fargo ATM using your account number. You just cannot use a debit card at stores or ATMs until the card arrives and you set up it.

What if I want to close my account later?

Call Wells Fargo at 1-800-869-3557 or visit a branch and tell them you want to close your account. They will ask you to transfer any remaining balance out or withdraw it. Your account closes within a few business days. Make sure you have no pending transactions or automatic payments set to that account before you close it.