What you need to open a Wells Fargo account
Wells Fargo requires a government-issued photo ID, your Social Security number, and an initial deposit to open a checking or savings account. The deposit amount varies by account type — some accounts have no minimum, while others require $25 or more. You will also need a current mailing address and a phone number.
If you do not have a Social Security number, Wells Fargo will not open an account for you. If you are under 18, you will need a parent or guardian to co-sign and appear in person or online with you during the account opening process.
Key Takeaways
- You need a government photo ID, Social Security number, current address, and phone number to open any Wells Fargo account.
- Most Wells Fargo checking accounts require an initial deposit of $25 or more, though some savings products have no minimum.
- You can open an account online, by phone, or in a branch, and the process usually takes 10 to 15 minutes.
- Wells Fargo will check ChexSystems, a banking history database, and may deny your account if you have unpaid overdrafts or fraud flags from another bank.
Opening an account online
The online route is the fastest. Go to wellsfargo.com, select the account type you want (checking, savings, or money market), and follow the prompts. You will enter your personal information, Social Security number, and address. Wells Fargo will ask you to verify your identity by uploading a photo of your ID or answering security questions based on your credit history.
Once your identity is verified, you will choose a username and password, set up online banking, and arrange your initial deposit. You can fund the account by linking an external bank account for a transfer, or Wells Fargo will give you routing and account numbers so you can have your employer or another source deposit money directly. The account is usually active within one business day.
Opening an account in a Wells Fargo branch
Walk into any Wells Fargo branch with your ID, Social Security number, and initial deposit (cash or check). A banker will take your information, run your background check through ChexSystems, and open the account on the spot. This takes 15 to 30 minutes. You will leave with a debit card that works when ready for online and phone transactions, though the physical card arrives by mail in 7 to 10 business days.
Bring your address and phone number with you. If you are opening a joint account, both account holders must be present with their own IDs and Social Security numbers.
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 process: personal information, Social Security number, address, and the account type you want. You will need to verify your identity, usually by answering security questions or providing information from your credit report.
For the initial deposit, the representative will give you Wells Fargo's routing number and a temporary account number so you can transfer money from another bank account. The account opens once the deposit clears, which typically takes one to three business days. You will receive your debit card and welcome materials by mail.
What happens if Wells Fargo denies your account
Wells Fargo checks ChexSystems, a database that tracks banking history. If you have unpaid overdrafts, a history of fraud, or too many closed accounts in a short time, Wells Fargo may deny you. You will receive a letter explaining the reason and information about how to contact ChexSystems to dispute any errors on your record.
If you are denied, you have the right to request a copy of your ChexSystems report for free. You can dispute inaccurate information directly with ChexSystems at chexsystems.com or by calling 1-800-428-9623. Correcting errors can take 30 to 60 days. Once errors are fixed, you can reapply with Wells Fargo.
Account types and their differences
Wells Fargo offers several checking and savings products. Checking accounts are designed for frequent deposits and withdrawals; savings accounts earn interest but limit how often you can withdraw. Money market accounts combine features of both and typically require a higher minimum balance.
| Account Type | Minimum Deposit | Monthly Fee | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Wells Fargo Checking | $25 | $10 (waived with direct deposit or $500+ balance) | Everyday banking and bill pay |
| Wells Fargo Savings | $0 | $0 | Building emergency savings |
| Wells Fargo Money Market | $25,000 | $25 (waived with $25,000+ balance) | Large savings with higher interest rates |
Checking accounts waive the monthly fee if you set up direct deposit or keep a minimum balance. Savings accounts have no monthly fee and no minimum balance requirement. Money market accounts require a much larger deposit but pay higher interest rates.
What to do after your account opens
Once your account is active, set up online banking and mobile banking if you have not already. read the Wells Fargo mobile app to check your balance, transfer money, deposit checks by photo, and pay bills. Enable fraud alerts and two-factor authentication in your security settings.
If you set up direct deposit, provide your employer with your routing number (121000248 for most Wells Fargo accounts) and your new account number. Direct deposit usually begins within one to two pay periods. Order checks if you need them — Wells Fargo charges for checks, but you can also use bill pay or transfers for most payments.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I open a Wells Fargo account without a Social Security number?
No. Wells Fargo requires a Social Security number or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) to open any account. If you do not have either, you cannot open an account with Wells Fargo.
How long does it take to open an account online?
The process itself takes 10 to 15 minutes. Identity verification can happen when ready or take up to one business day. Once verified, your account is usually active within one business day, though transfers from external accounts may take an additional one to three business days to clear.
What if I do not have a government photo ID?
You must have a government-issued photo ID — a driver's license, passport, state ID card, or military ID. Wells Fargo will not open an account without one. If you do not have a photo ID, you will need to obtain one before you can open an account.
Can I open a joint account online?
Yes, but both account holders must complete the online process together or separately. Each person must verify their own identity and provide their own Social Security number. If you open it together, you can do it in one session; if separately, the second person's information will be linked to the first person's account once both are verified.
What is the initial deposit used for?
The initial deposit becomes the opening balance in your new account. It is your money — Wells Fargo does not keep it. You can withdraw it anytime after the account opens, though some account types may have withdrawal limits.