Amazon does not offer checking accounts
Amazon is not a bank and does not offer checking accounts. You cannot set up a traditional checking account through Amazon's website or app. If you see an offer that says you can open a checking account with Amazon, it is either outdated information or a scam.
What Amazon does offer is Amazon Pay, which is a payment service that lets you use your Amazon login to pay at other websites. This is different from a checking account — it does not give you a debit card tied to a bank account, and you cannot deposit paychecks into it or write checks.
If you are looking for a checking account, you will need to open one with an actual bank or credit union. The good news is that many banks now let you open accounts online without visiting a branch, and some have no monthly fees.
Key Takeaways
- Amazon is not a bank and does not offer checking accounts of any kind.
- Amazon Pay is a payment tool that works with your Amazon account, but it is not a checking account and does not come with a debit card or bank routing number.
- To open a checking account, you need to go directly to a bank, credit union, or online-only bank.
- Many banks now let you open accounts entirely online without visiting a branch or having a minimum deposit.
What Amazon Pay actually does
Amazon Pay lets you use your Amazon login and payment methods to buy things on other websites. When you check out at a store that accepts Amazon Pay, you do not have to enter your credit card or address again — Amazon fills it in for you. This is convenient, but it is not a bank account.
Amazon Pay pulls money from whatever payment method you already have on file with Amazon — usually a credit card or debit card. The money does not sit in an Amazon account waiting to be spent. Once the transaction is complete, Amazon Pay's job is done.
Where to open a checking account instead
You have three main routes: a traditional bank with physical branches, a credit union, or an online-only bank.
Traditional banks like Chase, Bank of America, and Wells Fargo have branches in most cities. You can walk in to open an account, and you have a person to call if something goes wrong. Many now let you start the process online and finish it in the branch, or open the account entirely online. Monthly fees range from zero to around $15, depending on the bank and account type.
Credit unions are member-owned financial institutions that often charge lower fees than banks. You have to be a member to open an account, but membership is usually open to anyone in a certain area or profession. Credit unions tend to have fewer branches than big banks, but they often waive fees for members and offer better interest rates on savings accounts.
Online-only banks like Ally, Charles Schwab, and Chime have no physical branches but let you open an account in minutes from your phone or computer. They typically have no monthly fees, no minimum balance requirements, and reimburse ATM fees at any machine. The tradeoff is that you cannot walk into a branch if you need help in person.
What you need to open a checking account
Most banks ask for the same basic information, whether you open in person or online. You will need a government-issued photo ID (a driver's license or passport), your Social Security number, and proof of your current address (usually a recent utility bill, lease, or bank statement).
Some banks also run a background check using ChexSystems, a database that tracks banking history. If you have closed accounts due to unpaid overdrafts or fraud, this may show up. A few banks specialize in accounts for people with ChexSystems records, though they may charge higher fees.
You do not need a minimum deposit to open most checking accounts anymore, though some banks still require $25 or $100 to get your free guide. Online banks almost never require a minimum.
How opening online usually works
If you choose an online bank or start the process online with a traditional bank, the steps are straightforward. You visit the bank's website or app, click the button to open a new account, and answer questions about yourself. The bank will ask for your name, address, date of birth, Social Security number, and employment information.
You will upload a photo of your ID using your phone camera or computer. Some banks use software that reads the ID automatically; others have a person review it. This usually takes a few minutes to a few hours.
Once the bank approves you, your account opens when ready. You can transfer money in from another bank account, or you can wait for your debit card to arrive in the mail (usually 7 to 10 business days). Some online banks let you use a temporary digital debit card right away while you wait for the physical card.
Why you might want a checking account instead of just using Amazon Pay
A checking account gives you things Amazon Pay cannot. You get a debit card that works everywhere, not just at stores that accept Amazon Pay. You get a routing number and account number, which you need to set up direct deposit for paychecks or to pay bills online. You can write checks if you need to. You also get fraud protection — if someone steals your debit card number, federal law limits your liability.
A checking account also gives you a place to keep money safe. Amazon Pay does not hold money; it just processes payments. If you want to save money or have a find place to receive paychecks, you need a bank account.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Amazon Pay safe to use?
Yes, Amazon Pay is safe. It uses the same security as your Amazon account, and Amazon protects your payment information. However, it is not the same as a bank account, so it does not offer the same protections for money sitting in an account.
Can I use Amazon Pay to receive money from my employer?
No. Your employer needs a real bank account with a routing number and account number to set up direct deposit. Amazon Pay does not provide these.
Do I need a credit card to open a checking account?
No. You can open a checking account with just a government ID and Social Security number. You do not need an existing credit card or bank account.
How long does it take to open a checking account online?
The process usually takes 10 to 15 minutes. Approval can happen when ready or take a few hours, depending on the bank. Your debit card arrives by mail in 7 to 10 business days, though many banks now offer a temporary digital card you can use right away.