What you need to do to open a checking account

Opening a checking account takes about 15 to 30 minutes and requires three things: proof of who you are, proof of where you live, and an initial deposit (usually $25 to $100, though some banks have no minimum). You'll either do this in person at a branch, on the bank's website, or over the phone. The bank verifies your identity, runs a background check on your banking history, and then gives you access to your account — usually the same day for online applications, or within a few days if you go in person.

The process is the same whether you're opening your first account or returning after years away. Banks are required by federal law to verify who you are before they let you deposit money, so every bank follows roughly the same steps. The main difference is how long it takes and what documents each bank will accept.

Key Takeaways

  • You need a government-issued ID (driver's license, passport, or state ID), proof of your current address, and money to deposit — most banks ask for $25 to $100 to start.
  • Online applications are usually fastest and let you open an account in 15 minutes without visiting a branch, though some banks still require an in-person visit.
  • Banks check your banking history through ChexSystems or Early Warning Services, which flag accounts you've closed with unpaid fees or fraud — but a bad history doesn't always disqualify you.
  • You'll receive a debit card within 7 to 10 business days and can start using your account when ready through mobile banking or at ATMs.
  • Community banks and credit unions often have lower fees and more flexible requirements than large national banks, especially if you're new to banking.

Documents you'll need to bring or upload

The bank needs to confirm two things: who you are and where you live. For identity, bring a government-issued photo ID — a driver's license, state ID card, or passport. If you don't have one of these, some banks will accept a tribal ID or a passport card, but call ahead to check.

For proof of address, the bank needs a document dated within the last 60 days that shows your name and current street address. A utility bill, lease agreement, or recent bank statement works. If you're homeless or living with someone else, some banks will accept a letter from a shelter, a social services agency, or the person whose address you're using — but policies vary, so ask first.

You'll also need to bring or have ready the money for your opening deposit. Most banks ask for $25 to $100, though some have no minimum. If you're opening the account online, you can transfer the deposit from another bank account or add it with a debit card.

Opening an account in person at a branch

Walk into any branch of the bank you've chosen during business hours with your ID, proof of address, and opening deposit. Tell the teller you want to open a checking account. They'll hand you a form to fill out with your name, address, phone number, email, and Social Security number (or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number if you don't have a Social Security number).

The teller will scan your documents, verify your information, and run a background check through ChexSystems or Early Warning Services — this takes a few minutes. If everything clears, they'll give you temporary checks or a temporary debit card number you can use right away. Your physical debit card arrives by mail in 7 to 10 business days. You can start depositing and withdrawing money the same day through the teller, an ATM, or the bank's mobile app.

Opening an account online

Most large banks and many smaller ones let you open a checking account on their website without visiting a branch. Go to the bank's homepage, click "Open an Account" or "New Customers," and follow the steps. You'll enter your personal information, upload photos of your ID and proof of address, and choose how much to deposit.

The bank will verify your identity and run the same background check as an in-person process. If you're depositing money from another bank account, you'll provide that account's routing and account numbers. If you're using a debit card, you'll enter the card number. The whole process takes 15 to 30 minutes, and most banks let you use your account when ready through their mobile app — you can transfer money, pay bills, and set up direct deposit before your debit card arrives.

Some banks still require you to visit a branch in person to verify your identity before they set up your account, even if you started online. The bank will tell you this during the process, so check before you start.

What happens after you submit your process

The bank runs a check through ChexSystems or Early Warning Services, which are databases that track banking history. These services flag accounts you've closed with unpaid fees, overdraft charges you didn't pay, or fraud. If you have a flag on your record, the bank may deny your process, ask you to pay the old debt first, or offer you a second-chance checking account with higher fees and lower limits.

If your process is approved, you'll get when ready access to your account online and through the bank's mobile app. You can start using your account to receive direct deposits, pay bills online, and transfer money. Your physical debit card arrives within 7 to 10 business days. If you need cash before then, you can withdraw from any ATM that the bank owns or is part of the bank's network.

If your process is denied, the bank must tell you why and give you the contact information for ChexSystems or Early Warning Services so you can check your record for errors. If there's a mistake, you can dispute it directly with the service. If the denial is because of unpaid fees or fraud, you may be able to open an account at a different bank that offers second-chance checking.

Choosing between a bank and a credit union

Banks and credit unions both offer checking accounts, but they work differently. A bank is a for-profit business owned by shareholders. A credit union is a nonprofit owned by its members — you become a member when you open an account. Credit unions often charge lower fees, pay higher interest on savings, and are more flexible with people who are new to banking or have a complicated banking history.

The tradeoff is that credit unions have fewer branches and ATMs than large banks. If you travel a lot or need to visit a branch frequently, a bank may be more convenient. If you want lower fees and personal service, a credit union is often the better choice. Many people keep accounts at both.

To find a credit union near you, use the CO-OP Network locator or the Allpoint ATM network, both of which let you search by location. To find a bank, search online or ask friends and family which banks they use.

What to do if you can't open an account at a regular bank

If you have a ChexSystems flag or a recent banking problem, some banks will turn you down. Second-chance checking accounts are designed for this situation. They work like regular checking accounts but usually charge higher monthly fees ($10 to $15), limit how many checks you can write, or require a larger opening deposit.

Some banks offer second-chance accounts only in person, not online. Call ahead to ask whether the bank offers them and what documents you'll need. Credit unions are often more willing to work with people who have banking problems, so that's worth trying first.

If you can't open a checking account anywhere, a prepaid debit card or a basic savings account are alternatives that let you receive direct deposit and pay bills. These aren't checking accounts, but they serve many of the same purposes. A credit counselor or financial coach at a nonprofit can help you figure out your options — search for "financial counseling" plus your city name to find free services.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a Social Security number to open a checking account?

Most banks require a Social Security number, but some will accept an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) instead. If you don't have either, call the bank before you go in — a few banks will work with you if you can show other forms of ID, though this is rare. Credit unions are sometimes more flexible than banks.

What if I don't have a permanent address?

Some banks will accept a letter from a shelter, a social services agency, or a trusted person confirming your current location. Others will accept a PO box or the address of a day center. Call the bank first and ask what proof of address they'll take. Credit unions and community banks are often more willing to work with people experiencing homelessness.

Can I open an account if I've been denied before?

Yes. If you were denied because of a ChexSystems flag, you can dispute errors on your record or wait for old items to age off (usually after five years). You can also try a different bank or a credit union, which may have different standards. Second-chance checking accounts are specifically for people with banking problems.

How much money do I have to deposit to open an account?

It varies by bank. Most ask for $25 to $100, but some have no minimum. Online banks often have lower minimums than branches. Call or check the bank's website before you explore to find out what they require.

Can someone else open an account for me?

No. You have to be present in person or complete the online process yourself. The bank needs to verify your identity directly. If you need help understanding the process, ask a bank employee or a financial counselor — they can walk you through it, but you have to sign the paperwork.