Yes, you can open a checking account entirely online
Most banks and credit unions now let you open a checking account from your computer or phone without visiting a branch. The process usually takes 10 to 20 minutes. You'll need a valid ID, a Social Security number or tax ID, and a way to fund the account — either a debit card, another bank account, or sometimes a check.
Online-only banks (sometimes called digital banks) make this their main business model. Traditional banks with physical branches also offer online opening. The main difference is that traditional banks may require you to visit a branch later to verify your identity in person, while some online-only banks can complete everything remotely using video or document upload.
Not every bank offers full online opening. Some still require an in-person visit or a phone call with a representative. Before you start, check the bank's website to confirm they support online account opening — it's usually listed clearly on their homepage or in their "Open an Account" section.
Key Takeaways
- Most banks let you start a checking account online, but some require a follow-up visit to a branch or a phone call to verify your identity.
- You will need a valid government ID, your Social Security number, and a way to fund the account — usually a debit card or existing bank account.
- Online-only banks often complete the entire process remotely, while traditional banks may ask you to come in person within a set timeframe.
- The online form typically takes 10 to 20 minutes, and your account may be ready to use the same day or within one business day.
What documents and information you'll need
Have these items ready before you start:
- A valid government-issued ID (driver's license, passport, or state ID card)
- Your Social Security number or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN)
- Your current address
- A phone number and email address
- A way to fund the account: a debit card, another bank account number and routing number, or a check you can deposit later
Some banks ask for additional information depending on your situation. If you're opening an account as a non-U.S. citizen, you may need an ITIN instead of a Social Security number. If you've had banking problems in the past, the bank may ask about that during the process.
Have your ID physically available — most banks will ask you to enter information from it, and some will ask you to photograph it or hold it up to your camera during a video call. This is how they verify you are who you say you are.
How the online opening process works, step by step
The exact steps vary by bank, but the general flow is the same:
- Go to the bank's website and find the "Open an Account" or "get your free guide" button.
- Choose the type of account (checking, savings, or both).
- Enter your personal information: name, date of birth, address, phone number, email, and Social Security number.
- Verify your identity. This might mean uploading a photo of your ID, taking a selfie, or answering security questions based on your credit history.
- Review the account terms and disclosures. Read these carefully — they explain fees, minimum balances, and how the bank handles your money.
- Choose how to fund the account. You can link a debit card, connect another bank account, or arrange to deposit a check later.
- Submit your process and wait for confirmation.
After you submit, the bank will send you a confirmation email. Some accounts are active when ready; others take one to two business days. You'll receive your account number and routing number in the confirmation email or in your online banking portal, which you can use right away to set up direct deposit or transfers.
When banks require an in-person visit
Some traditional banks complete the online form but then require you to visit a branch within 30 days to verify your identity in person. This is less common than it used to be, but it still happens at some larger national banks and regional institutions.
The bank will tell you during the online process whether an in-person visit is required. If it is, they'll give you a important date — usually 30 to 60 days. You don't need to do anything special; just bring your ID to any branch and tell them you opened an account online.
If you can't visit a branch, some banks will let you verify your identity by phone or video call instead. Ask the bank directly if you're unsure — they may have options beyond what's listed on their website.
Online-only banks versus traditional banks with branches
Online-only banks (like Ally, Charles Schwab, or Chime) handle the entire process remotely. You upload your ID, take a selfie, and answer questions — all from home. Your account is usually ready within hours. These banks have no physical branches, so you can't walk in with questions, but they typically offer phone and chat support.
Traditional banks with branches (like Bank of America, Wells Fargo, or local credit unions) let you open online but may require a visit to a branch to finish. Some have no in-person requirement at all; it depends on the bank. The advantage is that you can visit a branch if you need help later.
Online-only banks often have lower fees and higher interest rates on savings accounts because they don't pay for physical locations. Traditional banks with branches may charge monthly fees but offer the option of face-to-face service. Neither is better — it depends on what matters to you.
What happens after your account opens
Once your account is active, you'll have access to your online banking portal and mobile app (if the bank has one). You can log in when ready to see your account number, routing number, and balance.
Your debit card will arrive by mail within 5 to 10 business days. Until it arrives, you can still use your account — you can set up direct deposit, transfer money from another account, or deposit checks using the bank's mobile app if they offer mobile check deposit.
Some banks send you a temporary card number you can use online or add to a digital wallet (like Apple Pay or Google Pay) right away, so you don't have to wait for the physical card to arrive.
Common reasons an online process might be denied or delayed
Banks run background checks and verify your identity during the online process. Your process might be delayed or denied if:
- Your identity can't be verified — the bank couldn't match your information to public records.
- You have a history with ChexSystems (a banking history report system) that flags you as high-risk.
- There's a mismatch between the information you entered and what appears on your ID or credit report.
- The bank suspects fraud or identity theft.
If your process is denied or delayed, the bank will contact you by phone or email. They may ask you to clarify information, provide additional documents, or visit a branch in person. This is normal and doesn't mean you can never open an account — it just means that particular bank needs more information.
If one bank denies you, you can try another. Different banks use different verification methods and have different risk standards. A credit union in your area might be more flexible than a large national bank.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to open an account online?
The form itself takes 10 to 20 minutes. Your account may be active the same day or within one business day. If the bank requires an in-person visit to verify your identity, that can add 30 to 60 days, but you can use your account online before you visit the branch.
Do I need a credit card to open a checking account online?
No. You need a way to fund the account, but that can be a debit card, another bank account, or a check you deposit later. You don't need a credit card at all.
What if I don't have a government ID?
Most banks require a government-issued ID to open an account online. If you don't have one, you may need to visit a branch in person or call the bank to discuss other options. Some banks accept alternative forms of ID; it's worth asking.
Can I open an account if I'm not a U.S. citizen?
Yes, but you'll need an ITIN (Individual Taxpayer Identification Number) instead of a Social Security number, and some banks have stricter requirements for non-citizens. Online-only banks are sometimes more flexible than traditional banks. Call ahead to confirm the bank will work with your situation.
What if my online process is denied?
The bank will tell you why and may give you a chance to provide more information or visit a branch. If one bank denies you, try another — different banks have different standards. A local credit union is often a good second option.