The documents banks ask for, and why

When you walk into a bank or explore online to open a checking account, you will need to bring or provide proof of who you are, proof of where you live, and your Social Security number or tax ID. Banks are required by federal law to verify this information before they open any account. The exact list varies slightly by bank and by state, but the core documents are the same everywhere.

Most banks will ask for a government-issued photo ID (a driver's license, passport, or state ID card), a recent utility bill or lease showing your current address, and your Social Security number. Some banks also ask for a second form of ID or a second address document if you cannot provide both of the first two. If you do not have a Social Security number, you can use an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) instead, though not all banks accept this.

Key Takeaways

  • You will need a government-issued photo ID, proof of your current address, and your Social Security number or ITIN before any bank will open a checking account for you.
  • A utility bill, lease, or mortgage statement counts as proof of address; a bank statement or credit card statement usually does not.
  • If you do not have a photo ID, some banks will accept a combination of other documents, but you will need to ask the specific bank first.
  • The entire process takes minutes in person or a few hours online, once you have the documents ready.

Government-issued photo ID: what counts

A driver's license is the most common form of ID banks accept. If you do not have a driver's license, a state ID card (issued by your state's DMV or equivalent) works just as well. A U.S. passport or passport card also counts. Some banks will accept a tribal ID if you are a member of a federally recognized tribe.

The ID must be current or only recently expired—most banks accept IDs that expired within the last year or two, though policies vary. If your ID is more than a few years expired, call the bank before you go in and ask whether they will take it. Military ID and school ID do not count as sufficient on their own, though a bank might accept them as a second form of ID alongside something else.

Proof of address: documents that work

Banks need to know where you live. A utility bill (electric, gas, water, internet, or phone) in your name, dated within the last 60 days, is the standard proof. A lease or mortgage statement also works. Some banks accept a recent property tax bill or a statement from your landlord confirming your address.

Bank statements and credit card statements do not usually count as proof of address for opening a new account, even though they show your address. The bank wants a document that proves you actually live somewhere, not just that you receive mail there. If you live with someone else and the utility bill is in their name, ask the bank whether they will accept a letter from your landlord or a lease with your name on it.

Social Security number or tax ID

Banks ask for your Social Security number so they can run a background check and report your account activity to the IRS. If you do not have a Social Security number, you can use an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN), which the IRS issues to people who are not may be able to access for a Social Security number but need to file taxes or open financial accounts.

If you have neither a Social Security number nor an ITIN, you will need to get an ITIN first. You can explore for one through the IRS using Form W-7. The process takes several weeks. Some banks will not open accounts for people without a Social Security number or ITIN, so call ahead and ask whether the bank you want to use will work with an ITIN.

What to bring if you are opening an account in person

Bring your photo ID, your proof of address document, and be ready to provide your Social Security number or ITIN. You do not need to print anything or bring a copy—the bank will make copies if they need them. Bring a debit card or checkbook order form if you want one, though most banks can set these up after you open the account.

If you are opening a joint account with someone else, both people need to bring their own photo ID and proof of address. Some banks require both account holders to be present in person; others allow one person to open the account and add the second person later. Ask the bank about their policy before you go in.

What to provide if you are opening an account online

Online applications usually ask you to enter your information directly into a form, then upload photos of your ID and address document. Make sure the photos are clear and show all four corners of the document. Some banks also ask you to verify your identity by answering security questions based on your credit history, or by confirming a small deposit the bank makes to an existing account of yours.

The bank may ask you to sign documents electronically using an e-signature tool. Read these carefully—they usually include the account agreement and fee schedule. If the bank cannot verify your identity online, they may ask you to come into a branch in person or to send documents by mail. Online accounts usually take a few hours to a few days to open, depending on how quickly you upload documents and respond to verification requests.

If you do not have standard documents

If you do not have a driver's license or state ID, some banks will accept a passport, passport card, or tribal ID. If you do not have any of these, ask the bank whether they will accept a combination of documents—for example, a birth certificate plus a utility bill plus a credit card. Different banks have different policies, and some will work with you if you explain your situation.

If you do not have a current address or live in a shelter, some banks will accept a shelter address or a mailing address at a community organization. Call the bank first and explain your situation. Many banks have programs specifically for people experiencing homelessness or housing instability, and they may be more flexible about address requirements.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

Not at most banks. You will need either a Social Security number or an ITIN. If you do not have either, you can explore for an ITIN through the IRS using Form W-7, which takes several weeks. Some banks will not open accounts for people with an ITIN, so call ahead and ask.

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

Bring a separate proof of address document showing your current address, such as a utility bill or lease. The bank will use the ID for identification and the utility bill or lease to confirm where you live now. You do not need to update your ID first.

Can someone else open a checking account for me?

No. You must be present to open the account yourself, either in person at a branch or online. If you are opening a joint account, both account holders must provide their own documents and verify their identity. A parent or guardian can open an account for a minor, but the minor usually needs to be present or the account may have restrictions.

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

The bank will accept copies or photos of your documents. If you are opening an account online, you upload photos. If you are opening in person, bring the originals and the bank will make copies if they need them.

How long does it take to open a checking account once I have my documents?

In person, it usually takes 15 to 30 minutes. Online, it can take a few hours to a few days, depending on how quickly you upload documents and the bank verifies your identity. Some banks offer when ready approval; others need to review your information and may contact you with questions.