The basic documents and information banks ask for

To open a checking account, you will need a government-issued photo ID, proof of your current address, and your Social Security number. Most banks also ask for your date of birth and a phone number. That is the core list — every bank requires these, though the exact documents they accept can vary.

The photo ID can be a driver's license, passport, state ID card, or tribal ID. The address proof is usually a recent utility bill, lease, or mortgage statement with your name and current address on it — typically dated within the last 60 days, though banks differ on this. If you do not have a utility bill, some banks accept a bank statement, insurance document, or government mail.

Some banks will also run a check on your banking history through ChexSystems or Early Warning Services, which are companies that track how people have handled bank accounts in the past. This is not a credit check — it does not affect your credit score. It straightforward shows whether you have had accounts closed due to overdrafts or fraud. If you have had problems with a bank account before, you may still be able to open an account elsewhere, but some banks will decline you.

Key Takeaways

  • You will need a government photo ID, proof of your current address, and your Social Security number to open a checking account at any bank.
  • Address proof should be a recent document like a utility bill or lease, usually dated within the last 60 days.
  • Banks check your banking history through ChexSystems or Early Warning Services, which is different from a credit check and does not affect your credit score.
  • If you have had a bank account closed in the past, you may still open an account at a different bank, though some banks have stricter policies than others.
  • Some banks have minimum balance requirements or monthly fees, so compare what different banks offer before you choose one.

What happens if you do not have a Social Security number

If you are not a U.S. citizen or do not have a Social Security number yet, you can still open a checking account at many banks. You will need an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) instead, which the IRS issues to people who file taxes but do not have a Social Security number. You explore for an ITIN through the IRS using Form W-7.

Some banks are more willing to work with ITINs than others. Credit unions and community banks are often more flexible than large national banks. If a bank turns you down, call ahead to other banks in your area and ask whether they accept ITIN before you go in with your documents. This saves you a trip.

Proof of address when you are unhoused or newly arrived

If you do not have a lease or utility bill in your name, you have other options. Some banks accept mail from government agencies, nonprofits, or shelters that shows your name and a current address. A letter from a shelter, transitional housing program, or social services agency dated within the last 60 days often works. You can also ask the bank whether they accept a statement from a mail forwarding service or a letter from someone who lets you use their address (though you will need to explain your living situation).

If you are newly arrived in the country or a new resident of your state, bring whatever address documents you do have — even if they are from another country or state — along with an explanation of your situation. Banks understand that people move, and many will work with you. Call the bank's customer service line before you visit to ask what they can accept in your specific situation.

Minimum balance and account fees

Beyond the documents you bring, you should know what the bank will charge you to keep the account open. Some checking accounts have no monthly fee at all. Others charge a monthly maintenance fee that ranges from a few dollars to $15 or more, though many banks waive the fee if you keep a minimum balance or set up direct deposit.

A minimum balance is the smallest amount of money the bank requires you to keep in the account at all times. If your balance drops below that amount, the bank charges a fee. Some banks set this at $100, others at $500 or more. A few banks have no minimum at all. Before you open an account, ask the bank what the minimum balance is and what happens if you fall below it.

Direct deposit means your paycheck or benefits payment goes straight into your account from your employer or the government. Many banks waive their monthly fee if you set up direct deposit, even if the amount is small. This is worth asking about when you open your account.

Age requirements and accounts for young people

You must be at least 18 years old to open a checking account in your own name. If you are under 18, you can open a youth or teen account, which is a checking account designed for younger people. These accounts usually have a parent or guardian as a co-owner who can monitor the account.

Youth accounts often have lower or no monthly fees, and some banks limit how much you can withdraw or transfer each day. The rules vary by bank. If you are under 18 and want to open an account, ask the bank what documents your parent or guardian will need to bring along with you.

What to bring to the bank

Bring your photo ID, your address proof document, and write down your Social Security number or ITIN before you go. You do not need to memorize it, but having it written down saves time. Bring your phone number and date of birth as well — you can write these on a piece of paper if you want.

If you are opening an account with someone else — a spouse, partner, or family member — that person will need to bring their own photo ID, address proof, and Social Security number or ITIN. The bank will ask whether you want a joint account (both people can withdraw money) or whether one person is the primary account holder and the other is an authorized user (which gives different levels of access).

Some banks let you open an account online or by phone, in which case you will upload photos of your documents instead of bringing them in person. If you do this, the bank may ask you to verify your identity through a video call with a bank employee. Ask the bank which method they offer when you contact them.

What happens after you open the account

Once the bank approves your account, you will receive a debit card in the mail within one to two weeks. You will also get a checkbook if you ordered one, though many people do not use checks anymore. The bank will give you online banking access right away so you can see your balance and transfer money before your card arrives.

Your account number and routing number will be provided to you when ready — you need these if you want to set up direct deposit or have someone send you money through a bank transfer. The bank will explain how to use their mobile app and online banking platform. If anything is unclear, ask — banks expect new account holders to have questions.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I open a checking account if I have been turned down by another bank?

Yes. If one bank declined you because of your banking history, another bank may still open an account for you. Credit unions and community banks often have more flexible policies than large national banks. You can also look for banks that specifically market accounts to people with banking history issues.

Do I need to bring original documents or can I bring copies?

Most banks want to see the original documents so they can verify them in person. However, some banks that let you open an account online will accept clear photos or scans of your documents. Ask the bank what they need before you visit or submit anything.

What if my address proof document is older than 60 days?

Call the bank and explain your situation. Some banks are flexible about the date if you can show you still live at that address. You can also bring a second document — even if it is not a utility bill — that shows your current address, like a recent piece of government mail or a letter from your employer.

Can someone open a checking account for me if I cannot go to the bank?

No, you will need to be present in person or on a video call to open the account yourself. The bank needs to verify your identity directly. However, many banks now offer online account opening with video verification, so you do not have to visit a physical branch.

Will opening a checking account hurt my credit score?

No. Opening a checking account does not affect your credit score. The bank checks your banking history and may run a soft credit inquiry, but neither of these impacts your credit. Only credit applications — like explore for a loan or credit card — affect your score.