The documents you'll need depend on where you bank, but most banks ask for the same core set

To open a checking account, you will need to bring proof of who you are, proof of where you live, and your Social Security number or tax ID. Most banks also want to see a second form of ID. The exact list varies by bank — some ask for more, some for less — but these three categories cover what nearly every bank requires. Call your bank before you go in, because some branches have different rules, and some documents work at one bank but not another.

If you are opening an account online instead of in person, the process is usually simpler. You may only need to upload a photo of your ID and provide your Social Security number. Some online banks skip the address verification step entirely if you're setting up direct deposit.

Key Takeaways

  • You will need a government-issued photo ID (driver's license, passport, or state ID card), proof of your current address, and your Social Security number or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number.
  • A second form of ID — such as a utility bill, lease, or insurance card — is standard at most banks, even if it doesn't have a photo.
  • If you don't have a Social Security number, you can use an ITIN (Individual Taxpayer Identification Number) instead, though not all banks accept this.
  • Online banks often require fewer documents than brick-and-mortar branches, sometimes only a photo ID and Social Security number.
  • Calling ahead to confirm what your specific bank accepts saves you a trip back home for a missing document.

Government-issued photo ID: your primary proof of identity

Every bank will ask for a government-issued photo ID. This means a driver's license, state ID card, or passport. A tribal ID also works at most banks. The ID must not be expired — banks check the expiration date and will turn you away if it has passed.

If you don't have a driver's license or state ID, a passport is the easiest alternative. If you don't have any of these, you can get a state ID card from your state's Department of Motor Vehicles. This is not a driver's license — it's an ID card for people who don't drive. The process takes a few weeks, so plan ahead if this is your situation.

Proof of your current address

Banks need to confirm where you live right now. This is called address verification. A utility bill, lease agreement, or mortgage statement all work. The document must show your name and current address, and it should be recent — most banks accept documents dated within the last 60 days, though some go back 90 days.

If you live with family or friends and your name is not on the utility bill or lease, ask the person whose name is on it for a letter on their letterhead stating that you live there. Include your name, their name, the address, and the date they wrote it. Some banks accept this; others don't, so call first.

If you are homeless or living in temporary housing, tell the bank. Many have programs for people in this situation and may accept a shelter letter or a piece of mail from a government agency addressed to you at that location.

Your Social Security number or tax ID

Banks need your Social Security number (SSN) to report interest you earn and to check your banking history. If you don't have a Social Security number, you may be able to use an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) instead. An ITIN is a nine-digit number the IRS issues to people who file taxes but don't have a Social Security number.

Not all banks accept ITINs — this is one of the most important things to confirm by phone before you go in. If your bank does accept an ITIN, you will need to bring the letter from the IRS that was mailed to you when you received it. If you have lost that letter, you can request a replacement from the IRS, though this takes time.

If you don't have either an SSN or an ITIN, ask your bank whether they offer accounts for people in this situation. Some do, though the account may have limits on what you can do with it.

A second form of ID or supporting document

Most banks ask for a second piece of identification or a supporting document. This does not need to have a photo. Common options include:

  • A utility bill (electric, gas, water, or internet)
  • A lease or rental agreement
  • A mortgage statement
  • A bank statement from another bank
  • An insurance card (auto, health, or renter's)
  • A credit card statement
  • A government benefits letter (Social Security, unemployment, SNAP, housing information)
  • A school or work ID

Like your address proof, this document should be recent and show your name. If you don't have any of these, bring whatever you do have — a library card, a gym membership card, or a letter from an employer. The bank may accept it, and if they don't, they will tell you what else they need.

What to bring if you're opening an account for someone else

If you are opening a joint account or an account for a minor, you will need documents for both people. For a minor, bring their birth certificate or passport along with their parent or guardian's documents. For a joint account, both account holders need to be present with their own ID and address proof, unless the bank allows one person to sign on behalf of the other — call ahead to ask.

If you are opening an account as a power of attorney for someone else, bring the power of attorney document itself, your ID, and the other person's ID and address proof. Some banks require the other person to be present anyway, so confirm this before you go.

Documents you might need for specific situations

If you are opening a business checking account, you will need your business license or EIN (Employer Identification Number) letter from the IRS, in addition to your personal ID. If you are opening an account as a representative of a nonprofit, you will need the organization's tax-exempt letter from the IRS and documentation of your role.

If you are a non-citizen or don't have a permanent address, some banks have specialized accounts. Call ahead and explain your situation — the bank may ask for different documents, such as a visa, passport, or consulate ID.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I open a checking account if my ID is expired?

No. Banks will not accept an expired government-issued ID, even if it expired recently. You will need to renew it first. If your state ID or driver's license is expired, you can renew it at the Department of Motor Vehicles. A passport can be renewed by mail or in person at a passport acceptance facility.

What if I don't have a current utility bill or lease?

Bring whatever recent document you have with your name and address — a bank statement, insurance card, or government benefits letter. If nothing is dated within 60 days, call the bank and ask what they will accept. Some banks are flexible if you explain your situation, such as recently moving or living in temporary housing.

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. Some banks will accept copies if you also bring the original to show. Online banks usually ask you to upload a photo or scan of the document. Call your bank to ask what they prefer before you go in.

Can someone else open a checking account on my behalf?

Not usually. Banks require the person whose name will be on the account to be present with their own ID. The only exception is for minors, where a parent or guardian can open an account, or if you have given someone power of attorney — but even then, some banks require you to be present. Call your bank to ask about their specific rules.

What happens if I don't have a Social Security number?

Ask your bank whether they accept an ITIN or have accounts for people without a Social Security number. If your bank does not, try another bank — some are more flexible than others. You can also contact a credit union or community bank, as they sometimes have more options for people in this situation.