What you need before you walk in or go online

Most banks and credit unions ask for the same core documents: a government-issued photo ID (driver's license, passport, or state ID card), proof of your current address, and your Social Security number. Some also ask for a second form of ID or a utility bill dated within the last 60 days to confirm where you live. A few institutions skip the address proof if you're opening the account in person at a branch.

You'll also need to decide how much money to deposit to open the account. Many banks have no minimum, but some require $25 to $100 to start. Credit unions often have similar minimums, though a few waive them entirely. If you don't have that amount on hand, call ahead or check the institution's website—no point showing up unprepared.

Have a list of any other banks where you've had accounts, even if they're closed. Some institutions ask this as part of their fraud-prevention process. You don't need to have been a perfect customer; they're checking whether you've had accounts flagged for suspicious activity, not whether you've bounced checks.

Key Takeaways

  • Bring a photo ID, proof of address, and your Social Security number; most banks accept a utility bill or lease as address proof.
  • Opening an account takes 15 to 30 minutes in person or 10 to 20 minutes online, and you can start using it the same day or within one business day.
  • Banks and credit unions have different fee structures—some charge monthly maintenance fees while others are free if you meet a minimum balance or set up direct deposit.
  • If you don't have a Social Security number, some banks and credit unions will open accounts using an ITIN (Individual Taxpayer Identification Number) instead.
  • You can open an account online, by phone, or in person; online is fastest, but in-person lets you ask questions and understand the fees before committing.

Opening in person at a branch

Walk into any branch during business hours with your documents and ask to open a checking account. A banker or account representative will sit with you, ask basic questions (name, address, employment status, income range), and explain the account options available. This usually takes 15 to 30 minutes. They'll show you the fee structure, overdraft policies, and what perks come with the account—things like free ATM access, check writing, or mobile banking.

Before you sign anything, ask about fees. Monthly maintenance fees range from $0 to $15 depending on the bank and account type. Some banks waive the fee if you maintain a minimum balance (often $500 to $1,500) or set up direct deposit. Others charge per check, per ATM withdrawal outside their network, or for overdrafts. Write down the fees that explore to you so you can compare with other banks if you're still deciding.

Once you've signed the paperwork, you'll get a temporary debit card or a card number you can use when ready. Your physical card arrives by mail in 7 to 10 business days. You can start using your account the same day—online transfers, bill pay, and ATM withdrawals are usually live within hours.

Opening online or by phone

Most banks and credit unions let you open an account entirely online. Go to their website, click "Open an Account," and follow the steps. You'll enter your personal information, upload photos of your ID and address proof, and choose your account type. The whole process takes 10 to 20 minutes. Some institutions ask you to verify your identity by answering security questions based on your credit history, which happens when ready.

A few banks require a phone call to complete the process. They'll confirm your identity, explain fees, and answer questions before finalizing the account. This adds 10 to 15 minutes but gives you a chance to ask about anything unclear.

Once approved, you'll receive a confirmation email with your account number and routing number. Your debit card ships within 5 to 10 business days. In the meantime, you can transfer money in using your routing number and account number, or set up direct deposit from an employer or benefit program. Most banks let you use your account for transfers and bill pay before the physical card arrives.

What happens after you open the account

Your account is active as soon as the bank confirms your identity and processes your initial deposit. You can log into online banking and the mobile app when ready. Set up a strong password—at least 12 characters with numbers and symbols—and enable two-factor authentication if the bank offers it. This means you'll need to confirm your identity with a code sent to your phone when you log in from a new device.

Link your new account to any other bank accounts you have so you can transfer money between them. Most banks let you add external accounts online; you'll provide the routing number and account number, and the bank will verify it by sending two small deposits (usually under $1 each) to that account. You then confirm the amounts to prove you own the account.

Set up direct deposit if you receive a paycheck, Social Security, or other regular payments. Ask your employer or benefits administrator for the form, or provide them with your routing number and account number directly. Direct deposit usually starts within one to two pay cycles.

If you don't have a Social Security number

Some banks and credit unions will open accounts using an ITIN (Individual Taxpayer Identification Number) instead of a Social Security number. An ITIN is issued by the IRS to people who file taxes but don't have a Social Security number—including some immigrants, visa holders, and others. You'll need your ITIN letter from the IRS and a photo ID.

Not all banks accept ITINs, so call ahead or check their website before visiting. Credit unions are often more flexible than large national banks on this point. If your local bank won't open an account with an ITIN, try a credit union or a bank that explicitly states it accepts ITINs on its website.

Comparing banks and credit unions before you choose

Banks and credit unions operate differently, and the choice affects what you pay and what you get. Banks are for-profit institutions owned by shareholders; credit unions are member-owned nonprofits. Credit unions often have lower fees and higher interest rates on savings accounts, but fewer branches and ATMs. Banks have more locations and ATMs, but may charge more in fees.

Before opening an account, check three things: monthly maintenance fees, overdraft fees, and ATM access. A bank with no monthly fee but a $35 overdraft charge costs more if you overdraw once a year than a bank with a $5 monthly fee and a $25 overdraft charge. If you use ATMs frequently, confirm that the bank has machines near your home and work, or that it reimburses out-of-network ATM fees.

Read the fee schedule on the bank's website or ask for a printed copy at the branch. Don't rely on memory or what a banker tells you verbally—the written schedule is the official version, and it's what you're agreeing to when you sign the account agreement.

What to do if the bank denies your account

Banks sometimes deny checking accounts based on your banking history. The most common reason is a record in ChexSystems, a database that tracks banking problems like unpaid overdrafts, fraud, or accounts closed due to suspicious activity. If a bank denies you, ask why. They're required to tell you, and they'll usually mention ChexSystems by name.

You can request a copy of your ChexSystems report for free at www.chexsystems.com. If there's an error—a closed account listed as fraud when it wasn't, or an old overdraft you've already paid—you can dispute it. ChexSystems has 30 days to investigate and correct or remove the item.

While you're resolving ChexSystems issues, look for banks that don't use ChexSystems or that are more lenient with banking history. Some credit unions and smaller regional banks have their own underwriting and don't rely on ChexSystems. You may also find "second chance" checking accounts designed for people rebuilding their banking history; these often have higher fees but will accept you.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take to open a checking account?

In person: 15 to 30 minutes, and your account is active the same day. Online: 10 to 20 minutes, and your account is usually active within a few hours. By phone: 20 to 30 minutes, with set up the same day or next business day.

Can I open an account if I don't have a permanent address?

Some banks will accept a temporary address, a shelter address, or a PO box if you explain your situation. Call ahead and ask; don't assume you'll be turned away. Credit unions are often more flexible than large banks on this point.

What's the difference between a checking account and a savings account?

A checking account is for frequent deposits and withdrawals—you get a debit card and checks. A savings account earns interest but limits how many withdrawals you can make per month. Most people open both: checking for everyday spending, savings for money they want to keep.

Do I need a minimum balance to keep the account open?

It depends on the bank and account type. Some accounts have no minimum. Others require $500 to $1,500 to avoid a monthly fee. Check the fee schedule before opening, and ask whether the minimum is a daily balance or an average balance over the month.

Can I open a joint checking account with someone else?

Yes. Both people will need to provide ID and Social Security numbers, and both will be able to withdraw money and make decisions about the account. Ask the bank about what happens if one person wants to close the account or remove the other person.