The documents banks ask for when you open a checking account

To open a checking account at a bank or credit union in the United States, you will need to bring a government-issued photo ID and proof of your address. Most banks also ask for your Social Security number or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN). That covers the basics — but the exact documents vary by bank, and some banks have different rules depending on whether you already have an account with them.

The reason banks ask for these documents is federal law. Banks must verify your identity and your address before they can open an account. This process is called Know Your Customer (KYC) verification, and it protects both you and the bank from fraud and money laundering.

If you are opening an account in person at a branch, bring originals. If you are opening online, you will upload photos or scans. Either way, have these items ready before you start.

Key Takeaways

  • A government-issued photo ID (driver's license, passport, or state ID card) is required at every bank.
  • Proof of your current address — such as a utility bill, lease, or bank statement — must be dated within the last 60 to 90 days.
  • Your Social Security number or ITIN is needed for the bank to report account activity to the IRS.
  • If you do not have a Social Security number, some banks will open accounts using an ITIN or passport number instead.
  • Banks may ask for additional documents if you have no credit history or if you are opening an account for a business or minor.

Government-issued photo ID

This is the one document every bank requires. Acceptable forms include a driver's license, state ID card, U.S. passport, passport card, or military ID. The ID must be current — expired IDs are usually rejected, though some banks will accept them if they expired recently.

If you do not have a driver's license or state ID, a U.S. passport works at all banks. If you are not a U.S. citizen, a passport from your home country is often accepted, though you should call the bank first to confirm. Some banks also accept a foreign national ID card or a permanent resident card (green card).

The bank will scan or photograph your ID during the account opening process. They are checking that the photo matches you and that the name on the ID matches the name you give them.

Proof of your address

Banks need to confirm where you live. Acceptable documents usually include a utility bill (electric, gas, water, or internet), a lease or rental agreement, a mortgage statement, a property tax bill, or a recent bank or credit card statement. The document must show your name and current address.

Most banks require the document to be dated within the last 60 to 90 days. If you just moved and your utility bill has not caught up, a lease signed recently will work instead. Some banks also accept mail from a government agency, such as a tax return or benefits statement.

If you are homeless or do not have a permanent address, call ahead. Some banks have alternative verification methods, and some community banks or credit unions are more flexible than large national banks.

Social Security number or ITIN

Banks ask for this number so they can report your account activity to the IRS and check your banking history. You will provide it on the account process form — you do not need to bring a card or document.

If you are a U.S. citizen or permanent resident, you have a Social Security number. If you are not a U.S. citizen but work or pay taxes in the United States, you may have an ITIN (Individual Taxpayer Identification Number). You can get an ITIN from the IRS even if you are not authorized to work in the U.S.

If you do not have either, some banks will open an account using your passport number instead, though this is less common. Call the bank before you go in to ask what they accept.

What happens if you do not have standard documents

If you do not have a driver's license or state ID, bring a passport. If you do not have a passport, some states will issue a state ID card for identification purposes only — you do not need a driver's license to get one. Check your state's DMV website for the process.

If you do not have proof of address because you recently moved or are staying with someone temporarily, bring a lease, a utility bill in your name, or a recent piece of mail from a government agency. If none of these are available, some banks will accept a letter from a shelter, a social services agency, or a religious organization confirming your address.

If you have never had a bank account and have no credit history, some banks may ask additional questions or require a second form of ID. This is more common at large national banks. Credit unions and community banks often have more flexible policies for people new to banking.

Documents you do not need

You do not need to bring a credit card, a pay stub, or a letter from your employer. You do not need to bring cash — most banks will let you fund the account later, online or by transfer. You do not need to bring a checkbook or order checks before opening the account; the bank will handle that after the account is open.

You also do not need to bring your Social Security card itself. The card is not a find document, and banks do not ask to see it. Just know your number and provide it on the process form.

Opening an account online versus in person

If you open an account online, you will upload photos of your ID and proof of address instead of showing originals. Take clear photos of both sides of your ID and the full page of your address document. Make sure the text is readable and the corners are visible.

Some banks also use video verification when you open online. You will be asked to hold your ID up to your camera so the bank can confirm it matches your face. This takes a few minutes and happens during the account opening process.

If you open in person at a branch, bring the originals. The bank will scan them and return them to you. The process usually takes 15 to 30 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I open a checking account without a Social Security number?

Yes. If you have an ITIN, use that instead. If you have neither, some banks will open an account using your passport number, though you should call first to confirm. A few banks may decline, but community banks and credit unions are often more flexible.

What if my address on my ID does not match where I live now?

Bring both your ID and a separate proof of your current address, such as a utility bill or lease. The bank will use the ID for identity verification and the utility bill for address verification. You do not need to update your ID first.

Can someone else open an account for me?

No. Banks require you to be present and to verify your identity yourself. If you cannot go to a branch, you can open an account online with most banks. If you are unable to do either, ask the bank about power of attorney or guardianship options.

Do I need to bring my checkbook or order checks before opening the account?

No. You order checks after the account is open, either through the bank or a third-party check printer. Most banks let you order them online or by phone once your account is active.

What if my documents are in a different name than the one I use now?

Bring your ID in your current legal name and a document showing the name change, such as a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order. If you have not legally changed your name yet, use the name on your ID and explain the situation to the bank.