Yes, you can open most bank accounts entirely online

Many banks and credit unions now let you open a checking or savings account from your computer or phone without visiting a branch. You provide your information online, upload documents, and receive your account number within hours or a few days. Some banks are fully online with no physical branches at all — others are traditional banks that added online account opening as an option.

The process is faster than going in person, but you do need to meet the bank's requirements before you start. The most common requirement is proof of identity and a Social Security number or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN). Some banks also check your banking history through a system called ChexSystems, which tracks closed accounts and overdrafts at other banks.

Key Takeaways

  • Most banks and credit unions allow you to open an account online using a computer or phone, with approval often coming within one business day.
  • You will need a valid government-issued ID, your Social Security number or ITIN, and proof of your current address to complete the process.
  • Some banks check ChexSystems, a banking history report, and may deny you if you have unpaid overdrafts or closed accounts at other banks.
  • Online-only banks typically have lower fees and higher savings rates than traditional banks, but offer no in-person support if you need help.
  • If you cannot open an account online due to your banking history or lack of ID, second-chance banking programs and credit unions may have fewer restrictions.

What documents and information you need before you start

Have these items ready before you begin the online process. You will need a government-issued photo ID — a driver's license, state ID card, or passport. The bank will ask you to photograph or scan both sides, or in some cases use your phone's camera to record a video of you holding the ID.

You will also need your Social Security number (SSN) or ITIN. If you do not have either, some credit unions and community banks will open accounts using an Individual Number (ITIN) issued by the IRS, or in rare cases will work with you without one — call ahead to ask. Finally, have proof of your current address: a recent utility bill, lease, or bank statement with your name and address on it, dated within the last 60 days.

Some banks ask for additional information depending on where you live or how much money you plan to deposit. They may ask about your employment, your source of income, or whether you are opening the account for yourself or on behalf of someone else. Answer honestly — banks are required by federal law to ask these questions.

How the online process process works, step by step

Start by visiting the bank's website or downloading their mobile app. Look for a button that says "Open an Account," "get your free guide," or "New Customer." You will be asked to choose the type of account — usually checking, savings, or both. Read the account details: some accounts have monthly fees, minimum balance requirements, or limits on how many withdrawals you can make per month.

Next, enter your personal information: full name, date of birth, address, phone number, and email. The bank will ask for your Social Security number or ITIN. Then you will upload or photograph your ID and proof of address. Most banks let you take photos with your phone; the image just needs to be clear enough to read.

After you submit your documents, the bank reviews them — this usually takes a few minutes to a few hours, though some banks take up to one business day. You may receive a call or email asking you to verify information or provide additional documents. Once approved, you will receive your account number, routing number, and online login information by email or text. You can usually start using the account when ready, though some banks hold off on debit card set up for a day or two.

Why some banks might decline your online process

The most common reason for denial is a negative banking history. Banks use ChexSystems, a third-party company that tracks overdrafts, bounced checks, and closed accounts. If you closed an account with an unpaid overdraft or owe money to another bank, ChexSystems will have a record. Some banks automatically deny applicants with ChexSystems records; others review the details and may approve you anyway.

You can also be declined if your ID does not match your address, if the bank cannot verify your identity, or if you do not meet the bank's minimum age requirement (usually 18). A few banks decline applicants who do not have a U.S. address, even if they have a valid SSN or ITIN.

If you are declined, ask the bank why. They are required to tell you if the reason was a ChexSystems report. You can then request your ChexSystems report for free at www.chexsystems.com and dispute any errors. Some banks also offer second-chance accounts specifically for people with banking history issues — these accounts may have higher fees or lower limits, but they are designed to accept applicants who were declined elsewhere.

The difference between online-only banks and traditional banks with online options

Online-only banks (also called digital banks or neobanks) have no physical branches. Examples include Ally Bank, Charles Schwab Bank, and Chime. They typically charge no monthly fees, offer higher interest rates on savings accounts, and have lower minimum balances. The trade-off is that you cannot deposit cash or speak to someone in person — everything happens through the app or website.

Traditional banks like Chase, Bank of America, and Wells Fargo have both branches and online account opening. You can open online but also visit a branch if you need to deposit cash, get a cashier's check, or speak with someone face-to-face. These banks often charge monthly fees unless you meet balance or direct deposit requirements, and their savings rates are usually lower than online-only banks.

Credit unions are member-owned organizations that often have fewer fees and more flexible lending rules than banks. Many credit unions now offer online account opening, though some still require an in-person visit or a membership requirement (like living in a certain area or working for a specific employer). If you were declined by a bank, a credit union in your area may be more willing to work with you.

What happens after your account opens

Once your account is open, you can log in online or through the app to check your balance, transfer money, and set up bill pay. If you opened a checking account, you can usually order a debit card through the app — it typically arrives in 7 to 10 business days. Some banks issue a temporary digital card number you can use when ready for online purchases while you wait for the physical card.

If you want to deposit cash, you have a few options depending on the bank. Traditional banks let you deposit at any of their branches. Online-only banks may not accept cash deposits, but some partner with retailers like Walmart or CVS to let you deposit cash for a small fee. You can also deposit checks by photographing them through the app — this is called mobile check deposit and is available at most banks.

Set up direct deposit if your employer or benefits provider offers it — this is the fastest way to get money into your account. You can also transfer money from another bank account using the routing and account numbers the bank gave you. Avoid wire transfers for your first deposit if possible; they are expensive and harder to reverse if something goes wrong.

If you cannot open an account online

If you do not have a government-issued ID, some banks will accept a passport card, tribal ID, or military ID. If you have none of these, visit a local credit union or community bank in person — some will open accounts using alternative ID like a utility bill and a witness who can vouch for you.

If you have a negative ChexSystems record, look for banks that advertise "second-chance" or "fresh start" accounts. These are designed for people with banking history issues. You can also try credit unions, which often have more lenient policies. Call ahead and ask whether they check ChexSystems before you explore.

If you do not have a Social Security number or ITIN, some credit unions and community banks will work with you — again, call first. A few banks will open accounts using only a passport and proof of address, though this is less common. Your local community development financial institution (CDFI) may also help; you can find one near you through the CDFI Fund at www.cdfifund.gov.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take to open an account online?

Most banks approve online applications within a few hours to one business day. You receive your account number and login information when ready or by email. A debit card typically arrives in 7 to 10 business days, though some banks issue a temporary digital card number you can use right away.

Do I need a minimum deposit to open an account online?

It depends on the bank. Many online-only banks have no minimum deposit requirement — you can open with zero dollars. Traditional banks often require a minimum opening deposit, usually between $25 and $100. Check the account details before you explore.

Can I open an account if I do not have a U.S. address?

Most banks require a U.S. address. If you are living abroad or do not have a permanent address, call the bank's customer service before explore — some make exceptions, but many do not. Credit unions and community banks are sometimes more flexible.

What if the bank asks me to verify my identity by phone or video?

Some banks call or send a video link to confirm your identity before approving your account. Answer honestly and have your ID ready. This is a security step and is normal — it usually takes just a few minutes.

Can I open a joint account online with someone else?

Yes, most banks allow joint account opening online. Both account holders will need to provide their own ID, Social Security number, and address. You can usually complete this in one session, though some banks require both people to verify their identity separately.