You can open a Wells Fargo savings account directly in the Wells Fargo mobile app in about 10 minutes
The Wells Fargo app lets you start a savings account without visiting a branch or calling. You'll need your Social Security number, a valid ID, and a way to fund the account — either a debit card or a bank account at another institution. The app walks you through each step and tells you right away whether your account is approved.
The account opens when ready once you finish, though you won't be able to use it until the funding method clears. If you fund it with a debit card, that usually takes one to two business days. If you link another bank account, it may take three to five business days for the connection to verify.
Key Takeaways
- read the Wells Fargo mobile app, sign in or create a login, and tap the option to open a new account from the home screen.
- You will need your Social Security number, a government-issued ID, and either a debit card or another bank account to fund the new savings account.
- The app will ask you to verify your identity by answering security questions based on your credit history.
- Once you complete the steps, the account opens when ready, but deposits take one to five business days to clear depending on your funding method.
- You can set up automatic transfers or deposit checks by photo once the account is active.
What you need before you start
Gather these items before opening the app. You'll need your Social Security number — the nine-digit number on your Social Security card. You'll also need a government-issued ID: a driver's license, state ID card, or passport. The app will ask you to enter the ID number and expiration date.
For funding, you have two choices. You can use a debit card from any bank — Visa, Mastercard, Discover, or American Express. Or you can link a checking or savings account at another bank. If you choose the bank account route, you'll need the routing number and account number, which you can find on a check or in your other bank's app.
Have your phone or tablet ready with the Wells Fargo app installed. If you don't have it, read it from the Apple App Store or Google Play Store for free. You'll also need internet access and about 10 minutes of uninterrupted time.
Step-by-step: opening the account in the app
Open the Wells Fargo app and sign in with your username and password. If you don't have a Wells Fargo login yet, you'll need to create one first — the app will guide you through that. Once you're signed in, look at the home screen for a button or menu option that says "Open an Account" or "New Account." Tap it.
The app will ask what type of account you want. Select Savings Account. Wells Fargo offers different savings products, but the basic savings account is the most common choice for someone starting out. Read the product details if you want to know the current interest rate or monthly fees — these change, so the app shows you what applies right now.
Next, enter your personal information: your full name, date of birth, and Social Security number. The app will ask for your address and phone number. Make sure everything matches your government ID exactly, because mismatches can slow down approval.
The app will then ask you to verify your identity by answering questions about your credit history — things like "Which of these addresses have you lived at?" or "Which of these is a creditor you've worked with?" These questions come from your credit report and help Wells Fargo confirm you are who you say you are. Answer as accurately as you can.
Funding your new account
Once identity verification is complete, the app asks how you want to fund the account. Choose either a debit card or a bank account. If you choose a debit card, enter the card number, expiration date, and CVV (the three-digit security code on the back). Enter the amount you want to deposit — you can start with as little as $1.
If you choose to link another bank account, enter the routing number and account number. You can find both on a check from that account, or log into that bank's app and look for account details. Enter the amount you want to transfer. Wells Fargo will make two small test deposits to that account over the next few days, and you'll need to confirm the amounts in the app to complete the link.
Review the account agreement and disclosures. These are the terms and conditions for the account. You don't need to memorize them, but scroll through so you understand what you're agreeing to. Then confirm that you accept them and submit your process.
What happens after you submit
The app will tell you when ready whether your account is approved. Most people see approval within minutes. If there's an issue — for example, if your identity couldn't be verified — the app will explain what happened and what to do next. In rare cases, Wells Fargo may ask you to call or visit a branch to complete the process.
Once approved, your savings account number appears in the app right away. You can see your account in the app's dashboard and start using it for transfers. However, your initial deposit won't be available to withdraw until it clears. If you funded with a debit card, that's usually one to two business days. If you linked another bank account, it can take three to five business days.
While you wait for the deposit to clear, you can set up automatic transfers from another account, turn on notifications, or explore other features in the app. Once the deposit clears, you can withdraw money, set up direct deposit, or deposit checks by taking a photo in the app.
Common reasons the app might reject your process
The app may decline your process if your identity can't be verified — usually because the information you entered doesn't match what's in Wells Fargo's records or your credit report. Double-check that your name, address, and date of birth are exactly as they appear on your ID and in any previous accounts you've had.
If you've had fraud or identity theft issues, or if you're on the ChexSystems list (a banking history report), Wells Fargo may decline the process. ChexSystems tracks things like unpaid overdrafts or closed accounts due to fraud. If this happens, the app will tell you to contact Wells Fargo directly, and a representative can discuss your options.
Sometimes the app straightforward can't reach the verification system due to a technical issue. If this happens, try again in a few minutes, or contact Wells Fargo customer service at 1-800-869-3557 to open the account by phone instead.
After your account is open: what's next
Once your deposit clears, your savings account is fully active. You can transfer money in and out through the app, set up automatic transfers on a schedule you choose, or deposit checks by taking photos. The app also lets you set savings goals and track your progress toward them.
Check the current interest rate on your savings account — it's shown in the app under account details. Interest rates change, so revisit this occasionally to see what you're earning. You can also set up alerts to notify you when your balance reaches a certain amount or when a transfer completes.
If you need to add a second funding source later — for example, to link a different debit card or bank account — you can do that in the app under account settings. You can also change your mailing address, phone number, or other contact information without visiting a branch.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need an existing Wells Fargo account to open a savings account in the app?
No. You can open a savings account even if you've never banked with Wells Fargo before. However, you will need to create a Wells Fargo login first, which the app guides you through. If you already have a Wells Fargo checking account, you can use your existing login.
What if I don't have a government ID?
You need a government-issued ID to open an account through the app. If you don't have a driver's license or state ID, a passport works. If you have none of these, visit a Wells Fargo branch in person with whatever ID documents you do have, and a representative can help you open the account.
Can I open a savings account if I'm under 18?
Wells Fargo offers accounts for minors, but you typically need a parent or guardian to open one. The app is designed for adults. Contact Wells Fargo at 1-800-869-3557 or visit a branch to discuss options for younger account holders.
How much money do I have to deposit to open the account?
Wells Fargo does not require a minimum opening deposit. You can open the account and fund it with $1 if you want. However, some savings products may have minimum balance requirements to earn interest, so check the product details in the app.
What if the app says my identity can't be verified?
This usually means the information you entered doesn't match Wells Fargo's records. Try again with your exact legal name, current address, and correct date of birth. If it still doesn't work, call Wells Fargo at 1-800-869-3557 and a representative can open the account over the phone or direct you to a branch.