Documents and information Wells Fargo requires before you can open an account

Wells Fargo will ask for a government-issued photo ID, your Social Security number, and your current address before they open any account. Most people bring a driver's license or passport. You'll also need to know your employment status and approximate income, though you don't need to prove it at the time you open the account.

If you're opening the account in person at a branch, bring the ID and be ready to answer questions about yourself. If you're opening online, you'll enter this information into their system and upload a photo of your ID. Either way, Wells Fargo runs a background check through ChexSystems, a banking history database that flags accounts closed for fraud or unpaid overdrafts at other banks.

You'll also choose what type of account you want — checking, savings, or both — and decide whether you want online banking and a debit card. These choices happen during the opening process, not after.

Key Takeaways

  • You need a government photo ID, Social Security number, and current address; a driver's license or passport works for the ID.
  • Wells Fargo checks your banking history through ChexSystems, so accounts closed for fraud or overdraft abuse at other banks may be denied.
  • You can open an account online, by phone, or in person at a branch, and the process usually takes less than 15 minutes.
  • If you don't have a Social Security number, Wells Fargo offers accounts for non-citizens with an ITIN (Individual Taxpayer Identification Number) instead.
  • You'll choose your account type and set up online banking during the opening process, not afterward.

Opening an account online versus in person

Opening online is faster if you have a working camera or scanner to photograph your ID. You go to Wells Fargo's website, enter your information, upload the photo, and the account opens within minutes. You can start using it the same day, though some features like debit card ordering may take a few hours to set up.

Opening in person at a branch takes about 15 minutes. A banker verifies your ID, asks the same questions the online form does, and hands you temporary checks and information about your debit card. You walk out with access to your account and can use the ATM when ready. The downside is you have to find a branch during business hours.

You can also open by phone by calling Wells Fargo's customer service line, though this is slower than either online or in-branch because the representative has to mail you documents to sign and return. Most people skip this option.

What happens if Wells Fargo denies your account

Wells Fargo will deny an account if ChexSystems shows you closed an account at another bank due to fraud, unpaid overdrafts, or repeated NSF (non-sufficient funds) fees. They may also deny you if you have an active fraud investigation at another bank or if you're on the OFAC list (a government list of people involved in money laundering or terrorism financing).

If you're denied, Wells Fargo will send you a letter explaining why, and it will include information about how to dispute the ChexSystems record if the information is wrong. You can contact ChexSystems directly to request a copy of your report and challenge inaccurate entries. This process takes 30 to 60 days.

While you wait, you can open an account at a bank that doesn't use ChexSystems — some credit unions and smaller regional banks don't run the check. Once the ChexSystems issue is resolved, you can reapply to Wells Fargo.

Initial deposit requirements and minimum balances

Wells Fargo does not require an initial deposit to open most checking or savings accounts. You can open with zero dollars and deposit money later. However, some accounts have monthly maintenance fees unless you maintain a minimum balance or set up direct deposit.

The Wells Fargo Everyday Checking account, for example, has no monthly fee if you maintain a $500 minimum balance or have a direct deposit of at least $250 per month. If you don't meet either requirement, the fee is $10 per month. Other account types have different thresholds, so ask which account type waives the fee based on your situation.

You can waive most fees by setting up online statements instead of paper statements, though this varies by account type. Check the fee schedule for the specific account you're opening.

Setting up online banking and security

Wells Fargo sets up online banking during the account opening process. You create a username and password, and they send you a temporary access code by text or email. You use that code to log in the first time and set up additional security, like a security question or a PIN.

Once you're logged in, you can transfer money between your accounts, pay bills, set up automatic payments, and view your transaction history. You can also order a debit card, set up alerts for low balances or large transactions, and freeze your account if your card is lost or stolen.

Wells Fargo offers two-factor authentication, which sends a code to your phone or email when you log in from a new device. This is optional but recommended, especially if you use online banking to pay bills or transfer large amounts.

Debit card and checks

If you open a checking account, Wells Fargo will order a debit card automatically. It arrives in the mail within 7 to 10 business days. You can use it when ready once it arrives — there's no set up step beyond signing the back of the card.

Temporary checks are available the same day you open the account if you open in person at a branch. If you open online, you can order checks through your online banking portal, and they arrive in 5 to 7 business days. Wells Fargo charges for checks — the cost depends on the design and quantity you order, but a standard box of 200 checks costs around $15 to $25.

You don't have to order checks if you don't need them. Most people use their debit card or online bill pay instead.

Special situations: non-citizens, minors, and joint accounts

If you don't have a Social Security number, Wells Fargo will accept an ITIN (Individual Taxpayer Identification Number) issued by the IRS. You'll need the same photo ID and proof of address. The process is the same as for anyone else.

If you're under 18, you can open a student checking account with a parent or guardian as a co-owner. The adult has to be present in person or verify their identity online. Some student accounts have no monthly fee and no minimum balance requirement.

If you want to open a joint account with another person, both of you need to provide ID and Social Security numbers. You can both access the account, make withdrawals, and see the full transaction history. Either person can close the account, so make sure you trust the other person completely.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I open a Wells Fargo account if I've been denied before?

Yes, if the reason was a ChexSystems issue and you've resolved it. Contact ChexSystems to dispute the old record, wait for the correction, then reapply. If Wells Fargo denied you for another reason — like being on the OFAC list — you'll need to resolve that issue first, which may require legal help.

Do I need to have direct deposit to avoid monthly fees?

Not necessarily. Most Wells Fargo checking accounts waive the monthly fee if you maintain a minimum balance, usually $500. Direct deposit is one way to meet the requirement, but keeping the balance above the threshold works too.

What if I don't have a physical address?

Wells Fargo requires a current address to open an account. If you're unhoused, you can use a shelter address, a trusted friend's address, or a mail forwarding service address. Bring documentation that shows you receive mail there.

How long does it take to receive my debit card?

Debit cards arrive in 7 to 10 business days after you open the account. You can use your account and withdraw cash at ATMs before the card arrives. If you need a card faster, some branches can issue a temporary card on the spot.

Can I open multiple accounts at Wells Fargo?

Yes. You can have multiple checking accounts, savings accounts, or both under the same Social Security number. Each account is separate, so you can organize money for different purposes. Monthly fees explore to each account unless you meet the waiver requirements for each one.