Documents and information Wells Fargo will ask for

To open an account at Wells Fargo, you will need a government-issued photo ID, your Social Security number, and an initial deposit. The photo ID can be a driver's license, passport, state ID card, or tribal ID. Wells Fargo will also ask for your current address and a phone number where they can reach you.

If you are opening the account in person at a branch, bring the physical ID with you. If you are opening the account online, you will photograph or upload your ID as part of the process. Either way, Wells Fargo verifies your identity before the account opens.

You do not need to have had a bank account before. Wells Fargo does not require banking history. However, they will check ChexSystems, a database that tracks banking problems like unpaid overdrafts or fraud at other banks. If you have a history with ChexSystems, Wells Fargo may decline to open your account, though you can ask them to review your specific situation.

Key Takeaways

  • Bring a government photo ID, know your Social Security number, and have money ready for your first deposit when you open an account in person.
  • Wells Fargo checks ChexSystems, a banking history database, so past problems at other banks may affect whether they open your account.
  • You can open an account online through Wells Fargo's website or app, or in person at any Wells Fargo branch during business hours.
  • The minimum deposit varies by account type — some accounts require $25 to open, while others may require more.

Opening an account in person at a Wells Fargo branch

Walk into any Wells Fargo branch with your photo ID, Social Security number, and the money for your opening deposit. A banker will sit with you, ask for your address and phone number, and explain the account options. You choose between a checking account, savings account, or both. The banker will also ask how you plan to use the account — whether you need a debit card, online banking, or mobile app access — so they can set up the right features.

The whole process usually takes 15 to 30 minutes. Before you leave, you will have a debit card process in progress (it arrives by mail in 7 to 10 business days), online banking set up, and access to your account. You can start using the account when ready, even before the debit card arrives, by transferring money online or using your account number for direct deposit.

To find a branch near you, go to wellsfargo.com, click "Locations," enter your zip code, and see which branches are open and their hours. Some branches have limited hours on Saturdays and are closed on Sundays.

Opening an account online

You can start the process on Wells Fargo's website or mobile app without visiting a branch. Go to wellsfargo.com, click "Open an Account," and choose the account type you want. The online form will ask for your name, address, phone number, email, and Social Security number.

When Wells Fargo asks for ID verification, you will photograph the front and back of your government ID using your phone or computer camera. The system reads your ID and checks it against your information. This usually takes a few minutes, though sometimes Wells Fargo asks you to verify additional details by phone or email if the photo is unclear.

Once your identity is verified, you will choose your opening deposit method. You can link a bank account you already have and transfer money, use a debit card, or in some cases mail a check. The account opens once the deposit clears, which usually takes one to three business days. Your debit card ships separately and arrives within 7 to 10 business days.

Minimum deposit amounts by account type

Wells Fargo offers several account types, and the opening deposit requirement depends on which one you choose. A Wells Fargo Checking account typically requires a $25 minimum deposit to open. A Wells Fargo Savings account also typically requires $25. Some specialty accounts, like Wells Fargo Premier Checking, may require a higher opening deposit — often $500 or more — but these are designed for people who want extra features and higher interest rates.

The minimum deposit is the money you put in when you open the account. It is not a fee — it becomes your account balance. If you deposit $25 to open a checking account, you have $25 in that account to use. You can withdraw it later without penalty, though some accounts require you to maintain a minimum balance to avoid monthly fees.

Deposit requirements can change, so before you go to a branch or start the online process, check wellsfargo.com or call 1-800-869-3557 to confirm the current minimum for the account type you want.

What happens after you open your account

Once your account is open, you can use it when ready. If you opened online, you can log into your account through the Wells Fargo website or app and transfer money, set up bill pay, or arrange direct deposit. Your debit card will arrive by mail within 7 to 10 business days. When it arrives, you will set up it by calling the number on the card or using the Wells Fargo app.

If you need to deposit checks or cash before your debit card arrives, you can visit a Wells Fargo branch and ask a banker to help. You can also use Wells Fargo's mobile app to deposit checks by photographing the front and back — this is called mobile check deposit and usually clears within one to two business days.

Wells Fargo will send you a welcome packet by mail with your account number, routing number, and information about online banking and the mobile app. Keep this packet in a safe place. You will need the account number and routing number if you set up direct deposit with an employer or receive payments from other sources.

If Wells Fargo declines to open your account

Wells Fargo may decline to open an account if ChexSystems shows serious banking problems — such as unpaid overdrafts, fraud, or repeated NSF (non-sufficient funds) fees that you did not pay. If this happens, Wells Fargo will send you a letter explaining the reason and telling you how to contact ChexSystems to review your report.

You can dispute information in ChexSystems if it is wrong. Visit chexsystems.com to request your report and file a dispute if needed. This process takes time, so if you need a bank account right away, look into second-chance banking accounts or banks that do not use ChexSystems. Some community banks and credit unions have different approval standards.

If Wells Fargo declines you but does not mention ChexSystems, call 1-800-869-3557 and ask why. Sometimes the issue is a mismatch in your address or name spelling, which can be corrected and resolved quickly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need to be a U.S. citizen to open a Wells Fargo account?

No. Wells Fargo will open an account for non-citizens if you have a valid government-issued photo ID and a Social Security number or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN). Some branches may ask additional questions about your immigration status, but citizenship is not required.

Can I open an account if I do not have a Social Security number?

Wells Fargo requires either a Social Security number or an ITIN. If you do not have either, you will need to obtain one before opening an account. An ITIN is issued by the IRS and is available to non-citizens who need a tax ID. You can explore for an ITIN through the IRS website or with help from a tax professional.

What if I do not have a government photo ID?

You will need a government-issued photo ID to open a Wells Fargo account. If you do not have one, you can get a state ID card from your state's Department of Motor Vehicles, even if you do not drive. Bring proof of your address (a utility bill or lease) and your Social Security number. The process takes a few days to a few weeks depending on your state.

Can someone else open an account for me?

No. Wells Fargo requires you to be present and verify your identity yourself, either in person at a branch or online. A family member or friend cannot open an account on your behalf. However, once your account is open, you can give someone power of attorney to manage it, though this requires additional paperwork and a lawyer.

How long does it take to open an account?

In person at a branch, the process takes 15 to 30 minutes. Online, it usually takes 10 to 20 minutes to complete the form and verify your ID, though the account may not be fully active until your opening deposit clears, which takes one to three business days.