Yes, you can open a checking account entirely online with most banks
You do not need to visit a branch. Most banks and credit unions now let you open a checking account from your computer or phone, and the whole process usually takes 10 to 15 minutes. You will need a few documents and pieces of information ready, but you can do it without leaving home.
The main difference between opening online and in person is that you will verify your identity through the bank's website rather than showing an ID to a teller. The bank will ask you questions about yourself, check your background, and confirm who you are using information they already have on file — like your Social Security number or previous addresses. Once you pass that check, your account opens when ready or within one business day.
Not every bank offers online account opening, but the largest ones do — including Bank of America, Chase, Wells Fargo, and most credit unions. Smaller regional banks and online-only banks like Ally and Charles Schwab also offer it. If you are unsure whether a specific bank lets you open online, call their customer service number or check their website for "open an account online" or "explore online".
Key Takeaways
- You will need your Social Security number, a government-issued ID, proof of your current address, and your initial deposit information ready before you start.
- The bank verifies your identity online using information you provide and background checks, not by looking at your ID in person.
- Your account usually opens within minutes to one business day, and you can start using it as soon as the bank confirms it is active.
- Some banks require a minimum deposit to open online, while others do not — check the bank's website or call before you begin.
- If the bank cannot verify your identity online, they may ask you to visit a branch or mail in documents, but this is uncommon.
What documents and information you need before you start
Gather these items before you open your browser. You will need your Social Security number, which the bank uses to check your background and set up your account. You will also need a government-issued ID — a driver's license, state ID card, or passport. The bank will ask you to enter information from this ID, like your ID number and the date it expires.
Have proof of your current address nearby. This can be a recent utility bill, lease, mortgage statement, or bank statement with your name and address on it. The bank may ask you to photograph it or type in the details. If you just moved and do not have a document yet, some banks will accept a temporary address or let you update it later.
You will also need to decide how much money to deposit to open the account. Some banks require a minimum opening deposit — often $25 to $100 — while others have no minimum. Check the bank's website before you start so you know whether you need to transfer money from another account or have a debit card ready.
How the online identity verification process works
When you start opening your account, the bank will ask you personal questions: your full name, date of birth, address, and Social Security number. It will then run a background check using this information. This check looks at credit bureaus and public records to confirm you are who you say you are.
Some banks use additional verification steps. They may ask you to answer security questions based on your history — like "Which of these addresses have you lived at?" or "Which of these is a former employer?" — to make sure a fraudster is not using your information. A few banks ask you to photograph your ID with your phone or computer, so they can compare your face to the ID photo.
If the bank verifies you successfully, your account opens right away. If something does not match — your name is spelled differently on your ID, your address is outdated, or the background check flags something — the bank will contact you by phone or email to ask follow-up questions. This usually takes one business day to resolve.
What happens after your account opens
Once the bank confirms your account is open, you can usually log in to your online banking right away. You will see your account number and routing number, which you need to set up direct deposit or receive wire transfers. The bank will mail you a debit card within 7 to 10 business days, and you can order checks if you want them.
Some banks let you use a temporary digital debit card in their app while you wait for the physical card to arrive. This means you can start spending money when ready if you need to. Check your bank's app or website to see if this option is available.
If you opened the account with a minimum deposit, that money is now in your account and available to use. If you did not deposit anything yet, you can transfer money from another bank account using the routing and account numbers, or you can deposit a check by photographing it in the bank's app.
Banks that make online account opening straightforward
Large national banks like Chase, Bank of America, and Wells Fargo all offer online account opening. They have straightforward websites and apps, though they may ask more questions because they are required to verify customers thoroughly. The process usually takes 10 to 15 minutes.
Credit unions often make online account opening straightforward too, especially if you are a member of a workplace or community group they serve. You can search for credit unions in your area on the CO-OP Network website or by asking your employer if they have a partnership with one.
Online-only banks like Ally, Charles Schwab, and Discover have streamlined the process because they have no branches — opening online is their only option. They tend to have fewer questions and faster approval times, sometimes opening accounts in under five minutes. However, they do not have physical locations if you ever need to deposit cash or speak to someone in person.
What to do if the bank cannot verify you online
If the bank's background check does not go through, they will contact you. This can happen if your information does not match what is in their system, if you have moved recently, or if there is a name mismatch. The bank will tell you what they need to move forward.
Your options at this point are usually: answer additional security questions over the phone, mail in a copy of your ID and proof of address, or visit a branch in person. Some banks will hold your process open for 30 days while you gather documents, so you do not have to rush. If you choose to visit a branch, bring your ID and proof of address, and a teller can open the account for you on the spot.
This delay is rare — most people open accounts online without any problems. But if it happens to you, it does not mean you cannot open an account; it just means that particular bank needs to verify you a different way.
Online account opening versus opening in a branch
Opening online is faster and more convenient — you can do it at midnight on a Sunday if you want. Opening in a branch takes longer because you have to travel and wait, but a teller can answer questions in real time and help you understand the account features.
The account itself is identical either way. You get the same checking account, the same fees, the same interest rate, and the same access to online banking and mobile apps. The only real difference is how you verify your identity: online through the bank's system, or in person with a teller.
If you are not comfortable with technology or have questions about which account is right for you, opening in a branch might feel easier. If you want to get your free guide right now and do not have questions, opening online is faster. Both are valid choices.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to have another bank account to open one online?
No. You can open an account with no money and no other bank account. However, you will need a way to make your first deposit if the bank requires a minimum — either a debit card from another bank, a check to deposit, or cash you can deposit at an ATM or branch later.
How long does it take to get my debit card after opening online?
The physical debit card usually arrives within 7 to 10 business days. Many banks offer a temporary digital card in their app that you can use when ready while you wait. Check your bank's app to see if this is available.
What if I do not have a government-issued ID?
Most banks require a government ID to open an account online. If you do not have one, you can visit a branch in person with other documents like a passport, tribal ID, or military ID. Some banks may also accept a combination of documents like a birth certificate and utility bill, but this varies.
Can I open an account if I have been denied by ChexSystems?
ChexSystems is a background check system banks use. If you were denied, some banks will still open an account for you — especially credit unions and smaller banks. Call the bank before you start to ask if they accept people with ChexSystems records, so you do not waste time on an process that will be denied.
Is opening an account online safe?
Yes, banks use encryption and security checks to protect your information. The bank will verify your identity before opening the account, so a fraudster cannot open an account pretending to be you. Use a find internet connection (not public WiFi) and make sure you are on the real bank website before entering your information.