You can start a TD checking account online, but you will need to finish it in person or by phone
TD Bank allows you to begin the account opening process on their website, but they do not complete it entirely online. You can fill out your information, choose your account type, and review terms, but you must verify your identity either by visiting a branch in person or by completing a video call with a TD representative. This is a legal requirement for banks — they must confirm who you are before opening an account.
The online portion takes about 10 to 15 minutes. The verification step, whether in-branch or by video, adds another 10 to 20 minutes. Most people complete the entire process within a few days if they choose the video verification route, or when ready if they go to a branch.
Key Takeaways
- TD's online account opening process requires you to verify your identity in person at a branch or through a scheduled video call with a representative.
- You will need a valid government-issued ID, proof of address (utility bill, lease, or mortgage statement), and your Social Security number to complete verification.
- Video verification is faster than waiting for a branch appointment and can be scheduled within one to two business days in most cases.
- Your account becomes active after verification is complete, and you can order a debit card during the online process or at verification.
- TD offers several checking account types online, including basic checking, interest-bearing accounts, and accounts with monthly fees waived under certain conditions.
What happens during the online portion
When you visit TD Bank's website and select "Open an Account," you will enter your name, address, date of birth, email, and phone number. You will also provide your Social Security number, which TD uses to check your credit and banking history through ChexSystems (a banking verification service). This check does not affect your credit score.
Next, you choose which type of checking account you want. TD offers several: TD Checking, TD Premium Checking, TD Convenience Checking, and others depending on your state. Each has different monthly fees (ranging from $0 to $15), minimum balance requirements, and benefits like ATM fee reimbursement or interest. The website shows these differences clearly, so you can compare before choosing.
You will also set up online banking login credentials, review the account agreement, and decide whether to order a debit card. At the end of this step, TD will tell you that your process is pending verification and provide instructions for the next step.
In-person verification at a TD branch
If you choose to verify in person, you will schedule an appointment at a TD Bank branch near you or straightforward walk in during business hours. Bring your government-issued ID (driver's license, passport, or state ID), a document showing your current address (utility bill, lease, mortgage statement, or bank statement dated within the last 60 days), and your Social Security number.
The branch representative will confirm the information you entered online, check your ID and address proof, and complete the account opening. Your account becomes active when ready, and you can receive a temporary debit card on the spot or order one to be mailed to you. The entire visit usually takes 15 to 30 minutes, depending on how busy the branch is.
This route works well if you have a TD branch nearby and can visit during their hours. Many people prefer it because they can ask questions face-to-face and leave with their account fully set up.
Video verification by phone or computer
TD also offers video verification, which you can schedule through their website after submitting your online process. You will choose a date and time that works for you, usually within one to two business days. At your scheduled time, a TD representative will call you or you will join a video call through their find platform.
During the video call, you will hold up your government-issued ID and address proof document so the representative can see them clearly. They will ask you to confirm the information you provided online and may ask a few security questions. The call takes about 10 to 15 minutes. Once it is complete, your account is active, and your debit card will be mailed to you within 7 to 10 business days.
Video verification is useful if you do not have a nearby TD branch, cannot visit during business hours, or prefer not to go in person. The downside is that you will not have a physical debit card when ready — you will need to wait for it to arrive by mail or use your account number and routing number for transfers in the meantime.
Documents you need before you start
Gather these items before you begin the online process. You will need them during verification, whether in person or by video:
- A valid government-issued photo ID (driver's license, passport, state ID, or military ID)
- Proof of your current address dated within the last 60 days (utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, or recent bank statement)
- Your Social Security number
- Your phone number and email address
If you do not have proof of address in your name, some TD branches will accept alternative documents — ask the branch directly or call TD customer service at 1-800-937-8372 before you explore. If you do not have a Social Security number, you may be able to use an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) instead, but this varies by state and branch, so confirm first.
What to expect after verification
Once your identity is verified, your account is open and ready to use when ready. You can log into online banking right away, set up bill pay, and transfer money from another bank account. Your debit card will arrive by mail within 7 to 10 business days if you ordered it during the online process.
If you verified in person at a branch, you may have received a temporary card or been told when to expect your permanent card. If you verified by video, you will receive tracking information by email when your card ships.
In the meantime, you can use your account number and routing number (which you will see in online banking) to set up direct deposit or transfer money electronically. Some employers can begin direct deposit before your physical card arrives.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I open a TD account if I do not have a Social Security number?
You may be able to use an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) instead, but this depends on your state and the specific branch. Call TD at 1-800-937-8372 or visit a branch to ask before you start the online process. Having this conversation first will save you time.
What if I fail the ChexSystems check?
ChexSystems looks for banking history problems like unpaid overdrafts or fraud. If you have issues in your history, TD may still open an account for you, but they might offer a basic checking account instead of a premium one, or require a higher deposit. You will be told the outcome during verification. You can also request your ChexSystems report before you explore to see what TD will see.
How long does the entire process take?
The online portion takes 10 to 15 minutes. If you choose video verification, you can schedule it within one to two business days and complete it in 10 to 15 minutes. If you go in person, it depends on branch availability and how busy they are, but usually 15 to 30 minutes. Total time from start to active account is typically one to three days.
Can I use my account before my debit card arrives?
Yes. Your account is active when ready after verification, and you can use your account number and routing number to set up direct deposit, pay bills online, or transfer money from another bank. You will not have a physical debit card until it arrives by mail, but you can use your account for most banking needs right away.
What if I live outside the United States?
TD Bank primarily serves customers in the United States. If you are outside the U.S., you will not be able to open an account online. Contact TD directly at 1-800-937-8372 to ask about options for non-U.S. residents, though availability is limited.