You can open most checking accounts entirely online, but the speed and requirements depend on the bank type
Online banks, traditional banks with online options, and credit unions all let you open checking accounts through their websites or apps. The process usually takes 10 to 20 minutes. You will need a Social Security number, a government ID, proof of address, and a way to fund the account — either a debit card, bank transfer, or wire transfer. Some banks verify your identity when ready through digital checks; others send a verification code to your email or phone. The main difference is not whether you can open online, but how quickly you can start using the account and what fees you will face.
Key Takeaways
- Online-only banks typically open accounts in minutes and charge no monthly fees, but have no physical branches if you need to deposit cash or speak to someone in person.
- Traditional banks let you open online but may require an initial deposit of $25 to $500, and some charge monthly maintenance fees unless you meet balance or direct deposit requirements.
- Credit unions often have lower fees and better rates but may limit membership to people who live or work in a specific area, and some require a small savings account before opening checking.
- You will need a government-issued ID, Social Security number, and proof of address to open any account online, and the bank will check ChexSystems or Early Warning Services to verify your banking history.
- Some banks let you use your account when ready after opening; others hold your funds for one to three business days before you can withdraw or transfer money.
Online-only banks: fastest opening, no physical location
Online-only banks like Ally, Charles Schwab, Discover, and Chime have no branches. They open accounts in minutes and charge no monthly fees. You can fund the account with a transfer from another bank, a wire transfer, or a debit card. Most let you use the account when ready — you get a routing number and account number before you finish signing up, so you can set up direct deposit or transfers right away.
The trade-off is that you cannot deposit cash in person. If you receive cash regularly, you will need to use an ATM network (some online banks offer surcharge-free ATM access through partner networks) or deposit checks through mobile deposit. If you need to speak to someone, you reach them by phone, email, or chat — not in a branch.
Traditional banks with online accounts: familiar names, more requirements
Banks like Chase, Bank of America, Wells Fargo, and regional banks let you open checking online, but the process is slower and the requirements are stricter. Many require an initial deposit of $25 to $500 before the account opens. Some require you to verify your identity in person at a branch within 30 days, or they close the account. Others let you verify entirely online through video call or by uploading photos of your ID.
Traditional banks often charge monthly maintenance fees — typically $10 to $15 — unless you meet conditions like maintaining a minimum balance (usually $500 to $1,500), setting up direct deposit, or keeping a linked savings account. These fees add up quickly if you cannot meet the requirements. The advantage is that you can walk into a branch to deposit cash, speak to a banker, or resolve problems in person.
Credit unions: lower fees, but membership rules matter
Credit unions like Navy Federal, Alliant, and local credit unions let you open checking online, but membership is not automatic. You must live or work in a specific area, work for a particular employer, belong to an organization, or have a family member who is already a member. Some credit unions have opened membership to anyone, but this is less common.
Credit unions typically charge no monthly fees and offer better interest rates on savings accounts. Many require you to open a savings account first (with a deposit of $5 to $25) before you can open checking. The account opening process is similar to traditional banks — you provide ID, Social Security number, and proof of address — but the membership check adds an extra step. If you are not sure whether you are may be able to access, call the credit union or check their website before you start.
What you need to open an account online
Every bank will ask for the same core information: your full legal name, date of birth, Social Security number, current address, phone number, and email. You will need to upload or photograph a government-issued ID — a driver's license, passport, or state ID card. Some banks also ask for proof of address, which can be a recent utility bill, lease, mortgage statement, or bank statement dated within the last 60 days.
The bank will check your history through ChexSystems or Early Warning Services, which are banking verification systems that track closed accounts, overdrafts, and fraud. If you have had problems with a bank in the past — unpaid overdrafts, fraud, or a closed account due to misuse — you may be denied. Some banks specialize in second-chance checking for people with ChexSystems records, but they usually charge higher fees.
How long until you can use the account
Online-only banks usually let you use your account when ready. You receive a routing number and account number during signup, and you can set up direct deposit or transfers before you finish the process. Some require you to fund the account with a transfer or card payment before the account fully activates.
Traditional banks and credit unions often place a hold on deposits. If you fund the account with a transfer from another bank, the funds may take one to three business days to arrive. If you deposit a check through mobile deposit, the bank may hold it for up to five business days. During this hold period, you cannot withdraw the money, but you can usually use the account for other purposes — setting up direct deposit, paying bills, or making purchases if you have a debit card.
Comparing the main types side by side
| Bank Type | Opening Time | Monthly Fee | Initial Deposit | Cash Deposits | In-Person Support |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Online-only | 5–15 minutes | None | None or $0 | No | Phone/chat only |
| Traditional bank | 15–30 minutes | $10–$15 (waivable) | $25–$500 | Yes | Yes, at branches |
| Credit union | 15–30 minutes | None or $5 | $5–$25 | Yes | Yes, at branches |
What happens if you are denied
If a bank denies your process, it is usually because of a ChexSystems record — an unpaid overdraft, fraud, or a closed account. The bank will send you a letter explaining the reason. You have the right to request a copy of your ChexSystems report and dispute any errors. You can contact ChexSystems directly at 1-800-428-9623 or through their website to see what is on your record.
If you have a ChexSystems issue, look for banks that offer second-chance checking. These accounts are designed for people with banking problems. They usually charge higher fees ($15 to $35 per month) and may require a larger initial deposit, but they let you rebuild your banking history. After 12 to 24 months of good standing, you may be able to move to a standard account with lower fees.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I open a checking account online if I do not have a government ID?
No. Every bank is required by federal law to verify your identity, and a government-issued ID is the standard way to do this. If you do not have a driver's license or passport, you can get a state ID card from your local DMV. Some banks may accept a passport card or tribal ID, but you will need to call and ask first.
How long does it take to get a debit card after I open an account online?
Most banks mail a debit card within 5 to 10 business days. Some online banks offer a temporary digital card you can use when ready for online purchases or contactless payments through your phone. Traditional banks sometimes let you pick up a card at a branch the same day you open the account if you go in person.
What if I do not have proof of address?
If you just moved or do not have a utility bill in your name, you can use a lease, mortgage statement, bank statement, or government mail. Some banks accept a cell phone bill or insurance statement. If you have none of these, call the bank and ask what documents they will accept — some may let you verify through video call instead.
Can I open multiple checking accounts at the same bank?
Yes. Most banks let you open as many accounts as you want, though some limit the number of free accounts or charge a fee for each additional one. There is no legal limit on how many checking accounts you can have across different banks.
Do I need to deposit money when ready after opening an account online?
No. Most banks let you open an account with zero initial deposit. However, some traditional banks require a minimum deposit before the account activates. Check the bank's website or call before you explore if you are not sure. Even if no deposit is required, you will need to fund the account eventually to use it.