Yes, but banks have requirements you need to meet first
You can open a checking account, but not when ready and not without meeting a few basic requirements. Banks need to verify who you are, confirm you are not on a list of people they cannot do business with, and check your banking history. The process usually takes a few minutes to a few days, depending on which bank you choose and what documents you have on hand.
The main barrier for most people is not the bank's rules — it is having the right documents. You will need proof of identity and proof of your current address. If you have never had a bank account before, or if you have had problems with banks in the past, there are still paths forward, but they may require extra steps or a different type of account.
Key Takeaways
- Every bank requires a government-issued photo ID and proof of your current address before opening an account.
- If you do not have a Social Security number, you can use an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) instead, though fewer banks accept it.
- A history of overdrafts, fraud, or unpaid fees can prevent you from opening an account at traditional banks, but second-chance checking accounts exist for this situation.
- Some banks check ChexSystems, a database of banking problems, while others do not — calling ahead can save you a rejected process.
- You can open an account in person at a branch, online, or by mail, depending on the bank and what documents you have.
What documents you actually need to bring
Banks are required by federal law to verify your identity before opening any account. This means you need a government-issued photo ID — a driver's license, state ID card, or passport. If you do not have one of these, some banks will accept a tribal ID or a military ID. A few banks will work with you if you have only a non-photo ID like a birth certificate, but this is rare and usually requires you to come in person.
You also need proof that you live where you say you live. A recent utility bill, lease agreement, or government mail with your name and address works. "Recent" usually means from the last 60 days, though banks vary. If you do not have a lease or utility bill in your name, a bank statement from another account, a mortgage statement, or even a letter from a shelter or social services agency can work — call the bank first to ask what they will accept.
If you are opening an account online, you will upload photos of these documents or answer security questions to verify your identity. If you are opening in person, bring the originals. If you are opening by mail, the bank will tell you what to send and how.
If you do not have a Social Security number
You can open a checking account with an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) instead of a Social Security number. An ITIN is a nine-digit number the IRS issues to people who are not may be able to access for a Social Security number but need to file taxes or open financial accounts. If you are an immigrant, a visa holder, or a refugee, you may have an ITIN already or be able to get one.
The catch is that fewer banks accept ITINs than accept Social Security numbers. Large national banks like Bank of America, Wells Fargo, and Chase have policies that vary by branch — some accept ITINs and some do not. Community banks and credit unions are more likely to accept them. Before you go in or explore online, call the bank and ask directly: "Do you open checking accounts for people with an ITIN?" This saves you a rejected process.
If a bank turns you down because of your ITIN, try a credit union or a community bank in your area. You can search for credit unions at CUfindER.org, which is run by the Credit Union National Association.
When banks say no: ChexSystems and second-chance accounts
Some banks check ChexSystems, a database that tracks banking problems like overdrafts you did not pay back, accounts closed for fraud, or unpaid fees. If you are in ChexSystems, a traditional bank may refuse to open an account for you. This does not mean you cannot bank — it means you need a different type of account.
Second-chance checking accounts are designed for people with banking problems in their past. They usually come with higher fees, lower limits on how much you can withdraw or deposit, and stricter rules about overdrafts. But they let you rebuild your banking history. Banks that offer them include Chime, LendingClub, and some regional banks. Credit unions often have second-chance programs too and may charge lower fees than banks.
You can check whether you are in ChexSystems yourself before you explore. Go to chexsystems.com and look for the "Consumer Disclosure" link. You can request your report for free once a year. If there is a mistake in your report, you can dispute it.
Opening an account in person, online, or by mail
The fastest way is usually in person at a branch. You bring your ID and proof of address, answer a few questions, sign some forms, and walk out with a debit card and account number the same day. You can start using the account when ready, though the bank may hold deposits for a few days while they clear.
Opening online takes longer but is more convenient. You upload photos of your documents, answer security questions to verify your identity, and the bank reviews everything. This usually takes a few hours to a few days. Some banks will let you use your account right away while they verify your documents; others will wait until verification is complete.
Opening by mail is the slowest option and is rare now, but some banks still offer it. You fill out a form, send in copies of your documents, and wait for the bank to process everything and mail you a debit card. This can take two to three weeks.
What happens after you open the account
Once your account is open, the bank will give you a debit card, a checking account number, and a routing number. You can use the debit card to withdraw cash and pay for things. You can give your account number and routing number to your employer to set up direct deposit, or to other people or organizations that need to send you money.
The bank will also set up online banking so you can check your balance, transfer money, and pay bills from your computer or phone. Some banks charge a monthly fee for checking accounts; others do not. Read the fee schedule before you open the account so you know what to expect.
If you are new to banking, the bank may start you with a lower daily withdrawal limit or a lower balance limit. These limits usually go up after a few months of good account activity. Do not be alarmed if you cannot withdraw $500 on your first day — this is normal and temporary.
If you have been turned down before
If a bank has turned you down in the past, ask why. The reason matters. If it was because of ChexSystems, you now know to look for a second-chance account. If it was because you did not have the right documents, gather them and try again — you may have them now. If it was because of an ITIN, try a credit union or a community bank instead.
You can also ask the bank whether you can reapply after a certain amount of time. Some banks have waiting periods — for example, they may not open an account for someone who had a fraud case, but they will reconsider after two years. Knowing the waiting period means you can plan ahead.
If you have been turned down by multiple banks, a credit union is often your best next step. Credit unions are member-owned and tend to be more flexible about second chances. Call ahead and explain your situation — many credit unions will work with you even if banks have not.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a minimum deposit to open a checking account?
Most banks do not require a minimum deposit to open a checking account, though some do. Call the bank or check their website before you explore. If a bank requires a minimum deposit and you do not have it, try another bank — plenty of banks will open an account with no money down.
Can I open a checking account if I am homeless?
Yes. You need proof of identity and proof of address. If you do not have a lease or utility bill, a letter from a shelter, a social services agency, or even a trusted friend or family member can serve as proof of address. Call the bank first and tell them your situation — they can tell you what documents they will accept.
What if the bank asks for a credit check?
Banks do not usually run a credit check for checking accounts — they check ChexSystems instead. If a bank does ask for a credit check, you can say no and try a different bank. A credit check is not required to open a checking account.
How long does it take to get a debit card after I open an account?
If you open in person, you usually get a debit card the same day or within a few days. If you open online, the bank may mail you a card, which takes five to ten business days. Some online banks let you use a temporary card number right away while you wait for the physical card to arrive.
Can someone else open a checking account on my behalf?
No. You have to be present, either in person or online, to open an account. The bank needs to verify your identity directly. If you cannot go to a branch, open the account online instead.