Yes, you can open a Synovus checking account online from start to finish
Synovus, a regional bank operating mostly in the Southeast and Mid-Atlantic, lets you open a checking account entirely through their website without visiting a branch. The process takes about 10 to 15 minutes and you can fund the account the same day if you have another bank account to transfer from.
You will need a few pieces of information ready before you start: a valid government-issued ID (driver's license or passport), your Social Security number, and proof of your current address. If you want to fund the account when ready, you will also need routing and account numbers from another bank account you own.
Key Takeaways
- Synovus checking accounts can be opened entirely online through their website without any branch visit.
- You will need a valid ID, Social Security number, and proof of address to complete the online process.
- The bank verifies your identity during signup, which may include answering security questions about your credit history.
- You can fund your new account when ready by transferring money from another bank account you own.
- Some Synovus checking accounts have monthly fees, but fee-free options are available if you meet certain conditions.
What you need before you start
Gather these documents and information before opening your browser. You will need a valid government-issued ID — a driver's license, state ID card, or passport. Synovus will ask you to confirm details from this ID during the signup process.
You will also need your Social Security number and proof of your current address. A utility bill, lease agreement, or bank statement dated within the last 60 days works for the address. If you do not have a recent document with your address, you can sometimes use a government notice or mortgage statement instead — Synovus will tell you what they accept when you reach that step.
If you want to fund the account right away, have your routing number and account number from another bank account ready. This is the fastest way to get money into your new Synovus account. If you do not have another account or prefer to wait, you can fund it later by mail or in person at a branch.
The online signup process, step by step
Start at Synovus.com and look for the "Open an Account" button, usually near the top of the page. Select "Checking" from the account type options. The bank will ask you to choose which checking product you want — Synovus offers several, and the one you pick affects monthly fees and minimum balance requirements. Read the descriptions carefully, as some accounts are free if you keep a certain balance or set up direct deposit.
Next, you will enter your personal information: name, date of birth, Social Security number, and address. Synovus will then verify your identity by asking security questions — these are usually based on your credit history, like "Which of these addresses have you lived at?" or "Which lender issued your auto loan?" Answer honestly; if you do not recognize any of the options, say so rather than guessing.
After identity verification, you will review the account terms and sign the account agreement electronically. This is a legal document, so read it or at least skim the sections about fees, overdraft policies, and what happens if your account sits inactive. Then you will set up online banking access — choose a username and password that you have not used elsewhere.
Funding your account on the same day
At the end of signup, Synovus will offer you the chance to transfer money from another bank account. If you choose this option, enter the routing number and account number from your existing bank. The bank will make a small test deposit (usually less than $1) to that account within one to two business days, and you will need to confirm the amount in your Synovus online banking to verify you own the account.
Once verified, your transfer will process. The timing depends on your other bank — some transfers arrive the same day, others take one to three business days. Synovus will show you the expected arrival date before you confirm.
If you do not want to link another account right now, you can fund your Synovus account later by mailing a check, making a deposit at a Synovus ATM, or visiting a branch in person. There is no rush — your account will be open and ready to use even if the balance is zero.
What happens after you finish signing up
Your account number and routing number will appear in your online banking when ready. You can use these to set up direct deposit with your employer or to receive payments from other sources. Your debit card will arrive by mail within 5 to 10 business days; Synovus will send it to the address you provided during signup.
While you wait for your physical card, you can use your account right away. You can transfer money out to another bank, pay bills through online banking, or set up automatic payments. If you need cash before your debit card arrives, you can withdraw from any Synovus ATM using your account number and a temporary PIN that appears in your online banking.
Monthly fees and how to avoid them
Synovus checking accounts have different fee structures depending on which product you chose during signup. Some accounts charge a monthly maintenance fee (the amount varies), while others are free if you meet certain conditions. Common ways to waive fees include setting up direct deposit, keeping a minimum balance, or maintaining a linked savings account.
Check your account agreement or log into online banking to see which fees explore to your specific account and what you need to do to avoid them. If you chose an account with a fee and later realize you do not want to pay it, you can usually switch to a different Synovus checking product online or by calling customer service.
If something goes wrong during signup
If your identity verification fails, Synovus will tell you why — usually because the information you entered does not match their records or because they could not verify your address. You can try again, but if it fails a second time, you will need to visit a branch in person with your ID and proof of address. A banker there can open the account manually and verify your identity face-to-face.
If you get stuck during the process or have questions about which account type to choose, Synovus customer service is available by phone during business hours. You can also visit a local branch and ask a banker to walk you through it, though this defeats the purpose of opening online.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to open a Synovus checking account online?
The signup process itself takes 10 to 15 minutes. Identity verification happens when ready, and your account number appears in online banking as soon as you finish. Your physical debit card arrives by mail in 5 to 10 business days.
Do I need to be a Synovus customer already to open an account online?
No. You can open your first Synovus account entirely online. You do not need an existing relationship with the bank or a referral from anyone.
What if I do not have a second bank account to transfer money from?
You can fund your account later by mailing a check, depositing cash at a Synovus ATM, or visiting a branch. There is no requirement to fund it when ready, and your account will be active and ready to use even with a zero balance.
Can I choose my account number or debit card number?
No. Synovus assigns your account number during signup, and your debit card number is assigned when the card is produced. You cannot customize either one.
What if I live outside the Southeast or Mid-Atlantic?
Synovus primarily serves those regions, but you can still open an account online from anywhere in the United States. However, you will not have access to local branches or ATMs if you live far from their service area. Check their website to see if they operate in your state before signing up.