What you need before you start
Wells Fargo requires a government-issued photo ID, your Social Security number, and an initial deposit before you can open an account. You'll also need a current mailing address. If you're opening an account online or by phone, have this information ready before you begin — the process moves faster when you don't have to stop and find documents.
The initial deposit amount depends on the account type. A basic checking account typically requires $25 to $100, though some accounts have no minimum. If you're opening in person at a branch, the banker can tell you the exact requirement for the specific account you want.
If you don't have a photo ID yet, you'll need to visit a branch in person. Wells Fargo won't open accounts remotely without one. A driver's license, passport, or state ID card all work.
Key Takeaways
- You can open a Wells Fargo account online, by phone, or in person at a branch, but online and phone openings require a government photo ID and Social Security number.
- An initial deposit of $25 to $100 is typically required, though the exact amount varies by account type.
- The online process takes about 10 minutes and you can start using your account the same day in most cases.
- If you open in person, bring your ID, Social Security number, and initial deposit amount in cash or on a debit card.
- Wells Fargo offers checking, savings, and money market accounts, each with different features and fee structures.
Opening an account online
Go to wellsfargo.com and select "Open an Account" from the homepage. You'll choose your account type — checking, savings, or money market — and then enter your personal information: name, date of birth, Social Security number, address, phone number, and email. Wells Fargo will ask for your driver's license or passport number at this step.
Next, you'll set up login credentials and security questions. Wells Fargo will then show you the account terms and fees for the account you selected. Read the fee schedule carefully — different account types have different monthly maintenance fees, overdraft fees, and minimum balance requirements. Some accounts waive fees if you maintain a certain balance or set up direct deposit.
After you agree to the terms, you'll make your initial deposit. You can use a debit card, transfer from another bank account, or wire funds. If you use a debit card, the deposit posts when ready. If you transfer from another bank, it typically takes one to three business days. Once the deposit clears, your account is active and you can use it right away.
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 information you'd enter online: personal details, Social Security number, ID information, and your choice of account type. The call typically takes 15 to 20 minutes.
The representative will explain the fees and features of your chosen account and answer questions before you commit. This is useful if you're unsure which account type fits your situation — a banker can explain the difference between a basic checking account and a premium one, or help you decide between checking and savings.
You'll make your initial deposit by debit card during the call. The representative will process the payment and your account opens the same day. You'll receive your debit card and checks by mail within 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 government photo ID, Social Security number, and your initial deposit in cash or on a debit card. You don't need an appointment, though calling ahead during busy times can save you a wait.
A banker will review account options with you and explain the fees. This is the best route if you have questions about which account type suits you, or if you want to understand the fee structure before committing. The banker can also show you how to use Wells Fargo's mobile app and online banking during your visit.
The in-person process takes 20 to 30 minutes. You'll leave with a temporary debit card that works when ready, and your permanent card arrives by mail in 7 to 10 business days. Checks arrive separately, usually within two weeks.
Account types and what they cost
Wells Fargo offers several checking and savings accounts. The Wells Fargo Checking account has a $10 monthly maintenance fee, waived if you maintain a $500 minimum balance or set up direct deposit of at least $250 per month. It includes online and mobile banking, bill pay, and access to Wells Fargo ATMs nationwide.
The Wells Fargo Savings account charges $5 monthly, waived with a $500 minimum balance. It earns interest on your balance, though the rate is low — currently well under 1 percent annually. The rate changes based on Federal Reserve decisions and market conditions.
Wells Fargo also offers Money Market accounts, which typically require a higher minimum balance ($2,500 to $10,000 depending on the tier) but pay slightly higher interest. These accounts limit the number of withdrawals you can make per month.
Overdraft fees, insufficient funds fees, and ATM fees vary by account type. Review the fee schedule for your specific account before opening — it's available on the account details page during signup, or you can ask a banker in person.
Setting up online and mobile banking
Once your account is open, you can log in to wellsfargo.com using the username and password you created during signup. Online banking lets you check your balance, transfer money between accounts, pay bills, and read statements.
read the Wells Fargo mobile app from the Apple App Store or Google Play Store. Log in with the same credentials and you can do everything you do on the website from your phone. The app also lets you deposit checks by taking a photo of the front and back.
Set up bill pay if you plan to pay bills through your Wells Fargo account. You'll enter the biller's name and account number, and Wells Fargo will send a payment on the date you choose. Payments to other people's bank accounts (called transfers) post within one business day. Payments to companies typically take one to three business days.
What happens after you open your account
Your debit card arrives by mail within 7 to 10 business days. When it arrives, you'll need to set up it before you can use it. You can set up it through the mobile app, online banking, or by calling the number on the back of the card. set up takes less than a minute.
If you ordered checks, they arrive separately, usually within two weeks. You can start using your account when ready even before your physical card and checks arrive — you can transfer money online, set up direct deposit, and use mobile check deposit.
Set up direct deposit with your employer if you receive a paycheck. You'll give your employer your Wells Fargo account number and routing number (which you'll find in online banking under account details). Direct deposit typically posts on payday or the day before.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I open a Wells Fargo account without a Social Security number?
No. Wells Fargo requires a Social Security number to open any account. If you don't have one, you'll need to obtain one from the Social Security Administration before you can open an account.
What's the difference between checking and savings accounts?
A checking account is designed for frequent transactions — paying bills, getting cash, making purchases. A savings account is meant to hold money and earn interest, with limits on how many times per month you can withdraw. Most people have both.
Can I open an account if I have a negative banking history?
Wells Fargo checks ChexSystems, a banking history database, when you open an account. If you have unpaid overdrafts or closed accounts in bad standing, Wells Fargo may deny your process. You can request your ChexSystems report to see what's on file before you explore.
How long does it take to open an account online?
The online process takes about 10 minutes from start to finish. Your account is active when ready after your initial deposit clears, which happens the same day if you use a debit card.
Do I need to visit a branch in person?
No. You can open an account entirely online or by phone. You only need to visit a branch if you don't have a government photo ID, or if you prefer to speak with someone in person before opening.