What you need to open a Wells Fargo savings account

Wells Fargo will ask for a government-issued photo ID, your Social Security number, and a way to fund the account — either a debit card, bank transfer, or cash deposit at a branch. You can open an account online, by phone, or in person at a Wells Fargo branch. The whole process usually takes 10 to 15 minutes if you do it online, or about 20 minutes in a branch.

If you don't have a photo ID yet, you can still open an account in person at a branch with a combination of documents — a passport, birth certificate, or state ID card that doesn't have a photo. Bring whatever official documents you have, and the banker will tell you what works. If you don't have a Social Security number, you can use an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) instead.

You'll need to decide which type of savings account fits your situation. Wells Fargo offers a few versions — some have monthly fees, some don't, and some pay slightly higher interest if you keep a certain balance. The banker or website will show you the current options and what each one costs.

Key Takeaways

  • You need a government-issued photo ID, your Social Security number, and a way to fund the account — either a debit card, bank transfer, or cash.
  • Opening online takes about 10 to 15 minutes; opening in a branch takes about 20 minutes and works even if you don't have a photo ID yet.
  • Wells Fargo savings accounts vary in fees and interest rates, so compare the options before you choose one.
  • Once your account is open, you can deposit money, set up automatic transfers, and start earning interest on your balance.

Opening an account online

Go to wellsfargo.com and look for the "Open an Account" button, usually near the top of the page. Click on "Savings" and choose the account type you want. You'll enter your name, address, date of birth, and Social Security number. Wells Fargo will ask you to create a username and password for online banking.

Next, you'll fund the account. You can link a debit card from another bank and transfer money, or you can give Wells Fargo your bank account number and routing number to pull money directly. If you're starting with a small amount, you can deposit as little as $25 to $100 depending on the account type — Wells Fargo will tell you the minimum on the screen as you go.

Once you submit everything, Wells Fargo will review your information. If there are no problems, your account opens right away and you can start using it. You'll get a confirmation email with your account number. Your debit card will arrive by mail in 7 to 10 business days.

Opening an account in person at a branch

Find your nearest Wells Fargo branch using the branch locator on wellsfargo.com. Bring your photo ID, Social Security number (or ITIN), and a debit card or checkbook from another bank if you want to fund the account right away. You don't need an appointment, but calling ahead during busy times can save you a wait.

Tell the banker you want to open a savings account. They'll ask you the same questions as the online form — name, address, date of birth, Social Security number — and show you the account options. They'll explain the fees and interest rates for each one. Once you choose, they'll set up your account and give you a temporary debit card you can use right away, though your permanent card will arrive by mail.

If you want to deposit cash, the banker can do that for you on the spot. If you're funding from another bank account, you can give them the account number and routing number, or you can do the transfer yourself online later.

What happens after your account opens

Your account is ready to use as soon as it opens. You can log into online banking right away and set up automatic transfers from another account if you want to save a set amount each month. You can also deposit checks using your phone's camera through the Wells Fargo mobile app.

Your debit card will arrive in the mail within 7 to 10 business days. Once it arrives, you can set up it by calling the number on the back or using the mobile app. You don't need to set up it to use your account — you can still transfer money and earn interest while you wait.

Interest on your savings account is paid monthly. The amount depends on the account type and the current interest rate, which changes over time. You can check your interest rate and balance anytime by logging into online banking or calling 1-800-869-3557.

Monthly fees and how to avoid them

Some Wells Fargo savings accounts charge a monthly maintenance fee, usually $5 to $12. The fee is waived if you keep a certain balance — often $300 to $500 — or if you set up a direct deposit from your paycheck. Check which account type you chose to see if a fee applies to you.

If you're charged a fee and you don't want to pay it, you can ask the banker to waive it once or twice, especially if you're new to banking or if you've had the account for a while without problems. You can also switch to a different Wells Fargo account type that doesn't have a fee. Call 1-800-869-3557 or visit a branch to make the change.

If you don't have a Social Security number

You can open a Wells Fargo account with an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) instead of a Social Security number. An ITIN is issued by the IRS to people who file taxes but don't have a Social Security number — this includes some immigrants and visa holders.

Bring your ITIN documentation along with your photo ID and proof of address (a utility bill or lease works). You'll need to open the account in person at a branch rather than online. The process is the same as opening with a Social Security number, and your account works exactly the same way.

If you're under 18

You can open a Wells Fargo savings account if you're under 18, but a parent or legal guardian has to be on the account with you. They'll need to come to the branch or be part of the online process. Both of you will need to provide ID and Social Security numbers.

Once the account is open, you can make deposits and withdrawals, but the adult on the account has full access too. When you turn 18, you can convert it to an account in your name alone, or you can keep it as a joint account if you want.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I open a Wells Fargo savings account without a debit card from another bank?

Yes. You can open the account online or in a branch without funding it right away, or you can bring cash to a branch and deposit it on the spot. You can also ask the banker to set up a transfer from another bank account using your account number and routing number.

How much money do I have to put in when I open the account?

The minimum opening deposit varies by account type, usually $25 to $100. Some accounts have no minimum. Wells Fargo will tell you the minimum for the account you choose before you finish opening it.

What if I make a mistake on my process?

If you notice a mistake before you submit, go back and fix it. If you've already submitted and the account is open, call 1-800-869-3557 or visit a branch and ask them to correct it. They can usually fix name, address, or contact information right away.

Can I open a savings account if I've had problems with banks before?

Wells Fargo checks ChexSystems, a banking history database, when you open an account. If you've had overdrafts or closed accounts with unpaid fees, it may show up. You can still open an account, but Wells Fargo may decline if the issue is recent or serious. Call ahead to ask, or try opening in person so you can explain your situation to the banker.

Do I need online banking to use my savings account?

No. You can use your account without ever logging in online — you can deposit checks by mail, transfer money by phone, or visit a branch. But online banking makes it easier to check your balance, set up automatic transfers, and deposit checks with your phone.