Yes, you can open most bank accounts entirely online, but you'll need to verify who you are

Most banks and credit unions now let you start a checking or savings account from your computer or phone without visiting a branch. The process usually takes 10 to 20 minutes. You'll answer questions about yourself, provide a photo ID, and sometimes verify your identity through a video call or by answering questions about your financial history. Once approved, your account opens when ready or within one business day, and you can use it right away.

Not every bank offers online account opening, and the requirements vary. Some banks are stricter about who they'll accept online and may require you to visit a branch or mail in documents instead. Smaller banks and credit unions sometimes have simpler processes than large national banks, though they may take longer to verify your identity.

Key Takeaways

  • You will need a valid photo ID (driver's license, passport, or state ID card) and proof of your current address to open an account online.
  • Banks verify your identity by checking your ID against government databases, and some use video calls or security questions to confirm you are who you say you are.
  • Your new account usually becomes active within one business day, though some banks set up it when ready so you can start using it the same day.
  • If you do not have a photo ID or have had banking problems in the past, you may need to visit a branch in person or provide extra documents instead.

What documents and information you'll need

Before you start, gather a valid photo ID. This can be a driver's license, state ID card, or passport. The ID must not be expired. You'll also need proof of your current address — a recent utility bill, lease, or bank statement with your name and address on it usually works. Some banks accept a government mail piece instead.

Have your Social Security number ready. Banks are required by law to collect this for tax purposes and to check whether you have unpaid debts or fraud history. You'll also need to know your current income or employment status, though banks don't always verify this information — they mainly use it to understand your account type and flag unusual activity later.

If you're opening an account with another person (a joint account), you'll need their ID and Social Security number too. Some banks let you add a second person during setup; others require you to do it after the account is open.

How banks verify your identity online

Banks use several methods to confirm you are who you say you are. The most common is automated ID verification: you upload a photo of your ID, and the bank's software checks it against government databases to make sure it's real and matches your name and birthdate. This usually takes seconds to a few minutes.

If the automated check cannot confirm your identity, the bank may ask you to do a video call with a person who will look at your ID in real time and ask you questions about yourself. This typically happens if your ID is worn, the photo is unclear, or the bank's system flags something unusual. The video call usually takes 5 to 10 minutes.

Some banks also use knowledge-based verification: they ask you questions only you would know the answer to, like details from your credit report or past financial accounts. You might be asked "Which of these addresses have you lived at?" or "What was the loan amount on your car in 2019?" These questions come from your credit history, so you need a credit report on file for this method to work.

When you might need to go to a branch instead

A few situations make online account opening impossible or harder. If you don't have a photo ID, most banks will not open an account for you online — you'll need to visit a branch with whatever ID you do have and let a person decide whether to accept it. If you've been flagged in ChexSystems (a banking history database that tracks closed accounts and fraud), some banks will require you to come in person or provide extra documents.

If you're under 18, rules vary widely. Some banks let minors open accounts online with a parent or guardian; others require a branch visit. If you're not a U.S. citizen or permanent resident, online opening is usually not available — you'll need to visit a branch with a passport and proof of address.

Some smaller banks and credit unions do not have online account opening at all, even though they have websites. If the bank's website doesn't have an "Open an Account" button, call their main number to ask whether you can open online or whether you need to visit a branch.

What happens after you submit your information

Once you've uploaded your ID and answered the questions, the bank reviews your information. Most banks tell you when ready whether you're approved or whether they need more information from you. If approved, your account number and routing number are usually shown on the screen right away, and you can start using your account within hours or by the next business day.

If the bank needs more time, they'll send you an email with next steps. This might mean they want you to call them, upload additional documents, or wait while they do a more thorough check. This process usually takes 1 to 3 business days, though it can take longer if the bank is very busy or if something in your information doesn't match their records.

Once your account is open, you can set up direct deposit, transfer money from another bank, or deposit checks using your phone's camera (if the bank offers mobile check deposit). You can order a debit card, though it usually arrives in the mail within 7 to 10 business days.

Differences between banks and what to expect

Large national banks like Chase, Bank of America, and Wells Fargo all offer online account opening and usually approve you within minutes if your ID verifies automatically. Credit unions vary — some have very straightforward online processes, while others are more cautious and may take longer or require a branch visit.

Online-only banks (sometimes called neobanks or digital banks) like Chime, Ally, and Marcus often have the fastest online processes because they have no branches and are built around digital accounts from the start. However, they may have different rules about minimum deposits, fees, or what types of accounts they offer.

Community banks and smaller regional banks may have stricter identity verification or may not offer online opening at all. If you're new to banking or have had problems with banks in the past, calling ahead to ask about their process can save you time.

What to do if your process is denied or delayed

If the bank denies your process, they're required to tell you why — usually because of something in ChexSystems, a mismatch in your ID information, or because you don't meet their minimum requirements. You can request a copy of your ChexSystems report for free at www.chexsystems.com to see what information they have about you.

If your process is delayed, contact the bank's customer service number (usually on their website) and ask what they're waiting for. Sometimes a straightforward phone call clears up a mismatch in your address or name spelling. If one bank denies you, try a different bank — each bank has different standards, and being denied by one does not mean you cannot open an account elsewhere.

If you've had serious banking problems (like unpaid overdrafts or fraud), some banks will not work with you. In that case, look for banks that specifically work with people rebuilding their banking history, or consider a credit union, which sometimes has more flexible policies.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

Most banks do not require a minimum deposit to open an account online — you can open with zero dollars. However, some banks offer better interest rates or waive fees only if you keep a minimum balance. Check the bank's website or call them before you open to understand their rules.

Can I open an account if I don't have a permanent address?

Most banks require a current address on file. If you're homeless or living temporarily, some banks will accept a shelter address, a friend's address where you receive mail, or a PO box. Call the bank and explain your situation — they may have options you don't know about.

How long does it take to get a debit card after opening online?

Your debit card usually arrives in the mail within 7 to 10 business days. Some banks offer a temporary digital card you can use when ready on your phone while you wait for the physical card. Check your account settings or call customer service to see if this is available.

What if the bank's video verification system won't work on my phone?

If you're having trouble with the video call, try using a different device (a computer instead of a phone, or vice versa), or call the bank's customer service number and ask them to do the verification over the phone instead. Most banks have a backup process for technical problems.

Can I open a joint account online with someone else?

Some banks let both people open a joint account together online if you're both present and can verify your IDs. Others require one person to open the account first and then add the second person afterward. Check the bank's website or call to ask about their process for joint accounts.