The documents and information you'll need before you walk in

To open a checking account, you need a government-issued photo ID, proof of your current address, and your Social Security number or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN). Most banks also ask for an initial deposit, though the amount varies—some require $25, others $300 or more, and some have no minimum at all. A few banks waive the deposit requirement if you set up direct deposit.

The exact list depends on which bank you choose. Credit unions, online banks, and traditional brick-and-mortar banks have different requirements. Some ask for more documents than others. Before you go in or explore online, call the bank or check their website for their specific checklist—it takes five minutes and saves you a wasted trip.

Key Takeaways

  • You will need a government-issued photo ID, proof of your address, and your Social Security number or ITIN to open an account at any bank.
  • Most banks require an opening deposit that ranges from zero to several hundred dollars, depending on the account type and the bank.
  • Proof of address can be a utility bill, lease, mortgage statement, or government mail—it usually needs to be dated within the last 60 days.
  • If you don't have a traditional ID, some banks accept a state ID card, passport, or tribal ID; call ahead to confirm what they take.
  • Online banks often have lower deposit minimums and fewer in-person requirements than branch banks, but the process takes longer.

What counts as proof of address

Banks need to confirm where you live. A utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, or government mail (tax forms, benefit letters, court documents) all work. The document usually has to be dated within the last 60 days, though some banks accept older documents if they're the only proof you have. Call the bank first if your document is older than three months.

If you're homeless or living with someone else and don't have mail in your name, ask the bank what they accept. Some will take a shelter letter, a letter from a social services agency, or a statement from the person whose address you're using. Others have stricter rules. This is worth confirming before you show up.

Opening deposit amounts and what happens if you can't pay it

Opening deposits range from $0 to $500 depending on the account and the bank. A basic checking account at a large national bank might require $100 to $300. A student account or account at a credit union might require $25 or nothing. Online banks often have no minimum deposit at all.

If you don't have the deposit amount on hand, you have a few options. Some banks will waive the deposit if you set up direct deposit of your paycheck or benefits. Others let you make the deposit later—you open the account with a smaller amount and add to it. A few will let you open with zero dollars if you commit to a monthly direct deposit. Ask what the bank offers before you assume you can't open an account.

If you don't have a standard government ID

A driver's license or state ID card is the easiest proof of identity, but it's not the only option. A U.S. passport, passport card, tribal ID, military ID, or permanent resident card (green card) all work at most banks. Some banks also accept a foreign passport if you have an ITIN instead of a Social Security number.

If you don't have any of these, call the bank directly and ask what they can accept. Some will take a combination of documents—for example, a birth certificate plus a utility bill plus a letter from an employer. Others have stricter policies. Credit unions are sometimes more flexible than large banks on this point. Don't assume you're turned away until you've asked.

What you need if you don't have a Social Security number

If you're not a U.S. citizen or don't have a Social Security number, you can use an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) instead. You get an ITIN from the IRS by filing a tax return, even if you don't owe taxes. The process takes several weeks to several months depending on how you file.

Some banks will open an account with an ITIN. Others require a Social Security number and won't work with an ITIN. A few large banks have specific accounts for non-citizens. Call ahead and ask whether the bank takes ITINs, because this varies widely and you don't want to waste time on a bank that won't work with you.

What happens after you hand over your documents

At a branch, the process usually takes 15 to 30 minutes. The banker will verify your information, run a background check through ChexSystems (a banking history database), and set up your account. You'll choose a PIN, get a debit card, and leave with temporary checks or a temporary card number you can use right away. Your permanent debit card arrives by mail in 7 to 10 days.

Online, the process is faster—sometimes 10 minutes—but you won't have a card when ready. You'll verify your identity through the bank's app or website, usually by uploading photos of your ID and proof of address. The bank sends your debit card by mail. Some online banks let you use a temporary card number in the app while you wait for the physical card.

Why banks run a background check and what disqualifies you

Banks check ChexSystems, a database that tracks banking history and fraud. If you've had accounts closed due to unpaid overdrafts, fraud, or repeated NSF (non-sufficient funds) fees, that information stays in ChexSystems for five years. A bank may deny you based on what's in that report.

Being denied doesn't mean you can never open an account. You can request a copy of your ChexSystems report for free and dispute errors. Some banks specialize in second-chance accounts for people with banking history issues. These accounts often have higher fees and lower limits, but they exist. If you're denied, ask the bank why and whether they have a second-chance product.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

Most online banks require proof of address, so a physical address is standard. If you're homeless, some banks will accept a shelter address or a letter from a social services agency. Call the bank's customer service line and explain your situation—they may have options that aren't listed on their website.

What if I'm under 18—do I need a parent or guardian?

Most banks require a parent or guardian to co-sign if you're under 18. Some banks offer teen accounts where a parent has limited access. A few credit unions have different rules. Check with the specific bank or credit union you want to use, because the age requirement varies.

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

Banks usually want to see the original documents so they can verify they're real. At a branch, bring the originals. Online, you'll upload photos or scans of both sides of your ID and your proof of address. The bank will verify them digitally.

How long does a ChexSystems denial take to resolve?

If you're denied because of ChexSystems, you can dispute the information on your report. Disputes take 30 to 45 days to investigate. While that's happening, you can open an account at a bank that doesn't use ChexSystems or that offers second-chance accounts—some credit unions fall into this category.

What if the bank asks for documents I don't have?

Ask the bank what alternatives they accept. If they need proof of address and you don't have a utility bill, ask whether a lease, mortgage statement, or government mail works instead. If they need a specific ID type and you don't have it, ask what other forms of ID they take. Banks have some flexibility, but you have to ask.