What you need to open a Wells Fargo checking account

Wells Fargo will ask for a government-issued photo ID, your Social Security number, and proof of your current address. The photo ID can be a driver's license, passport, or state ID card. For your address, they accept a recent utility bill, lease, mortgage statement, or bank statement — anything dated within the last 60 days with your name and address on it.

You will also need to decide on an opening deposit. Wells Fargo does not require a minimum deposit to open most checking accounts, though some account types do. If you are opening in person at a branch, bring a debit card or cash. If you are opening online, you can transfer money from another bank account or wait to deposit later.

If you do not have a Social Security number yet, you can still open an account, but the process takes longer and requires additional steps. Ask at your local Wells Fargo branch about their options for people without a Social Security number.

Key Takeaways

  • You need a photo ID, your Social Security number, and proof of your address dated within the last 60 days.
  • Wells Fargo does not require a minimum opening deposit for most checking accounts, though you can deposit money right away if you want to.
  • You can open an account online in about 10 minutes, or in person at a branch with the same documents.
  • Once your account is open, you will receive a debit card in the mail within 7 to 10 business days.
  • Your account comes with online banking and a mobile app so you can check your balance and move money anytime.

Opening online versus opening at a branch

Opening online is faster if you have all your documents ready. You go to Wells Fargo's website, click "Open an Account," choose your account type, and answer questions about yourself. The process takes about 10 minutes. You upload a photo of your ID and proof of address, and Wells Fargo verifies them electronically. You can start using your account the same day with a temporary debit card number for online purchases, though your physical card arrives in 7 to 10 business days.

Opening at a branch takes longer but gives you a chance to ask questions in person. A banker will help you fill out the paperwork, verify your documents on the spot, and answer questions about account features. You walk out with a temporary debit card you can use when ready at ATMs and in stores. This route is useful if you are new to banking and want to understand your options before choosing an account type.

Both routes are free. Wells Fargo does not charge you to open an account.

Which Wells Fargo checking account to choose

Wells Fargo offers several checking accounts aimed at different situations. The most common choice for someone new to banking is the Wells Fargo Everyday Checking account. It has no monthly fee if you keep a minimum balance of $500, or if you set up direct deposit of at least $250 per month. If you do not meet either condition, the fee is $10 per month.

If you want to avoid a monthly fee entirely, the Wells Fargo Clear Access Banking account has no monthly fee, no minimum balance, and no direct deposit requirement. It is designed for people who are building credit or returning to banking after a gap. The trade-off is that it comes with fewer features — for example, you cannot overdraft, which means if you try to spend more than you have, the transaction is declined rather than going through and charging you a fee.

Ask the banker or check Wells Fargo's website to see the full list of account types and their current terms. Banks change their account offerings and fee structures, so what is available when you open may differ from what is listed here.

What happens after you open your account

Once your account is open, Wells Fargo sends you a debit card in the mail. While you wait for it to arrive, you can use your temporary card number to shop online or set up bill payments. You can also visit any Wells Fargo ATM and withdraw cash using your Social Security number and a PIN you create during account setup.

Your account comes with online banking automatically. You can log in to Wells Fargo's website or read their mobile app to check your balance, see your transaction history, transfer money between accounts, and set up automatic bill payments. You can also set up direct deposit so your paycheck goes straight into your account without you having to visit a branch.

If you have questions after you open, you can call Wells Fargo's customer service at 1-800-869-3557, visit your local branch, or use the chat feature in the mobile app. Most questions get answered the same day.

Fees to know about

The main fee to watch for is the monthly maintenance fee, which depends on your account type and whether you meet the balance or direct deposit requirement. As mentioned above, Everyday Checking charges $10 per month if you do not keep $500 or set up direct deposit, while Clear Access Banking has no monthly fee at all.

Other fees you might encounter include overdraft fees (if your account allows overdrafts and you spend more than you have), ATM fees if you use an out-of-network ATM, and wire transfer fees if you send money to another bank. These fees vary, so ask about them when you open your account or check Wells Fargo's fee schedule online.

Wells Fargo does not charge you to open an account, close an account, or use their online banking and mobile app.

If you do not have a Social Security number yet

Wells Fargo can open an account for you without a Social Security number, but the process is different. You will need an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) instead, which you can get from the IRS if you are not may be able to access for a Social Security number. Bring your ITIN documentation, your photo ID, and proof of address to a branch. The account opens the same way, but verification takes longer — usually a few extra business days.

If you are in the process of getting an ITIN or Social Security number, ask the banker about timing. Some people find it easier to wait until their number arrives so they can open online without extra steps.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I open a Wells Fargo checking account if I have been denied before?

Wells Fargo checks ChexSystems, a database that tracks banking history. If you were denied in the past, ask why — it might have been due to unpaid fees, fraud, or a closed account with a negative balance. Some of these issues can be resolved. Call Wells Fargo or visit a branch to ask about your specific situation.

How long does it take to open an account online?

The process itself takes about 10 minutes. Wells Fargo usually verifies your documents within a few hours, and your account is ready to use the same day. Your physical debit card arrives in 7 to 10 business days.

What if I do not have proof of address?

Wells Fargo needs something dated within the last 60 days with your name and address on it. If you do not have a utility bill or lease, ask at the branch — they may accept other documents like a government letter, insurance statement, or tax return. Bring whatever you have and ask what else they can work with.

Can I open a joint account with someone else?

Yes. Both people need to be present (in person or online together) with their own ID, Social Security number, and proof of address. Both names go on the account, and both people can access it and make withdrawals.

What is the difference between a checking account and a savings account?

A checking account is for money you use regularly — you get a debit card and can write checks. A savings account is for money you want to keep separate and earn interest on. Many people have both. You can open them at the same time.