The documents and information banks ask for

To open a bank account, you will need to bring a photo ID, proof of your address, and your Social Security number or ITIN (Individual Taxpayer Identification Number). Most banks also ask for your current phone number and email address. That is the core set — every bank in the United States requires these before they will open an account for you.

The specific documents vary slightly by bank and by state, but the pattern is always the same: one document that proves who you are, one that proves where you live, and your tax ID number. A driver's license covers both ID and address. If you do not have a driver's license, a state ID card works the same way. For address proof alone, a utility bill, lease, or recent mail from a government agency will do.

Some banks ask for a second form of ID if your first one does not have your address on it — for example, a passport plus a utility bill. A few banks in certain states may ask for additional information, but these three categories cover what nearly every bank needs to start.

Key Takeaways

  • You need a photo ID (driver's license, state ID, or passport), proof of your current address (utility bill or lease), and your Social Security number or ITIN to open an account.
  • If you do not have a Social Security number, an ITIN from the IRS works instead and is available to people who are not may be able to access for a Social Security number.
  • Some banks ask for a second form of ID or address proof if your first document does not show both pieces of information.
  • You can open an account in person at a branch, by phone, or online — the documents you need are the same, but how you show them changes.

Photo ID: what counts and what does not

A photo ID is a document with your picture, name, and date of birth on it. A driver's license is the most common one. A state ID card (issued by your state's DMV even if you do not drive) works just as well. A U.S. passport, passport card, or military ID all count too.

A tribal ID, if you are a member of a federally recognized tribe, is accepted by most banks. Some banks also take a foreign passport if you are in the country legally, though this varies — call ahead if that is your only ID option.

What does not count: a school ID, a work badge, a library card, or an expired ID. The ID must be current and must have your photo on it. If your ID expired more than a few years ago, bring it anyway along with a second form of ID, because some banks will still accept it if you also show something recent.

Proof of address: documents banks accept

A proof of address is a recent document showing your name and where you live. A utility bill (electric, gas, water, or internet) dated within the last 60 to 90 days is the standard choice. A lease or rental agreement works too. So does a recent piece of mail from a government agency — a tax return, a benefits letter, or a court document with your address on it.

Some banks accept a mortgage statement or property tax bill. A few accept a bank statement from another bank, though this is less common. The document usually needs to be dated within the last two to three months, though some banks are flexible if you have just moved.

What does not count: a cell phone bill (banks treat this as a service bill, not proof of residence), a credit card statement, or mail addressed to "Current Resident." If you are homeless or living temporarily with someone else, tell the bank — many have a process for this, often using a letter from a shelter, a social services agency, or someone who can confirm your address in writing.

Your tax ID number: Social Security number or ITIN

Banks are required by federal law to collect your Social Security number (SSN) or ITIN before opening an account. This is not optional, and there is no way around it. The bank uses this number to report your account activity to the IRS and to check whether you have unpaid tax debts or fraud history.

If you have a Social Security number, bring your Social Security card or a document that shows it — a tax return, a W-2 form, or a benefits letter. If you do not have a Social Security number but you are authorized to work in the United States, you can get an ITIN from the IRS. If you are not authorized to work, some banks will not open an account for you, though a few community banks and credit unions have different policies — it is worth calling ahead.

If you have lost your Social Security card, you do not need to replace it before opening a bank account. Telling the bank your number is enough. If you are not sure what your number is, you can look it up on a past tax return, a W-2, or by contacting the Social Security Administration.

Opening an account in person, by phone, or online

How you open an account changes what you do with your documents, but not what you need.

In person: Bring your photo ID, address proof, and your Social Security card or number. The bank employee will look at your documents, write down the information, and you will sign the paperwork on the spot. This usually takes 15 to 30 minutes. You can open an account and get a debit card the same day, though the card may not work until the next business day.

By phone: Call the bank's customer service number. They will ask you to read the information from your documents out loud — your ID number, your address, your Social Security number. They will verify your identity by asking security questions (often based on your credit history) and then mail you the paperwork to sign. You will need to return the signed forms before the account is fully active. This takes a few days to a week.

Online: You will upload photos of your ID and address proof, and type in your Social Security number. The bank uses software to read the documents and verify the information. Some banks ask you to take a video selfie to confirm you are the person in the ID photo. Online opening is usually fastest — your account may be active within hours — but you will still need to sign documents, either electronically or by mail.

What happens if you do not have all the documents

If you do not have a photo ID, you have options. Some credit unions and community banks will open an account with just an ITIN and address proof, or with a letter from a social services agency instead of a photo ID. Call ahead and ask — do not assume you cannot open an account.

If you do not have proof of your current address because you just moved or are living temporarily, bring what you have and explain the situation. Many banks will accept a letter from your landlord, a shelter, or a social services agency confirming where you live. Some will let you use a mailing address that is not your physical address, though this is less common.

If you have never had a bank account and are worried about being turned down, community banks and credit unions are often more flexible than large national banks. They are more likely to work with you if your documents are incomplete or if you have a thin credit history. Starting with a local bank or credit union near you is often easier than starting with a national chain.

After you open the account: what comes next

Once your account is open, the bank will give you a debit card, a checkbook (if you asked for one), and online banking access. You will get a username and password to log in and check your balance, transfer money, and set up automatic payments.

The bank will also send you a welcome packet with your account number, routing number, and information about fees. Read this carefully — different accounts have different monthly fees, minimum balance requirements, and limits on how many times you can withdraw money each month. If you do not understand something, call the bank and ask.

You can start using your account as soon as it is open. If you are depositing a check, it usually takes one to two business days to clear. If you are transferring money from another bank, it takes one to three business days. Direct deposits (like paychecks) usually show up the same day or the next business day.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

You can get an ITIN from the IRS if you do not have a Social Security number but are authorized to work in the United States. Some banks will open an account with an ITIN instead. If you are not authorized to work, a few community banks and credit unions may still open an account — call and ask, because policies vary.

What if my ID is expired?

Bring your expired ID along with a second form of ID or address proof. Many banks will accept an expired ID if it is recent enough (usually within five to ten years) and you show something current as well. Call the bank first to ask their specific policy.

Do I need to have money to open an account?

No. You can open an account with zero dollars. Some banks ask for a small opening deposit (often $25 or less), but many do not. Ask the bank what their minimum opening deposit is before you go in.

How long does it take to open an account?

In person, it takes 15 to 30 minutes. Online, it can take a few hours to a day. By phone, it takes a few days because you have to mail back signed paperwork. Your account may be usable before all the paperwork is fully processed.

Can someone else open an account for me?

No. You must be present and show your own ID. A parent or guardian can help a minor open an account, but the minor still needs to be there. If you cannot go to the bank in person, opening online or by phone are your options.