What you need to open a bank account

To open a bank account, you will need a government-issued photo ID, proof of your current address, and your Social Security number. Most banks also ask for an initial deposit, though some accounts have no minimum. The whole process usually takes 15 to 30 minutes in person, or 10 to 20 minutes online if you choose a bank that lets you open remotely.

The specific documents vary slightly by bank and by state. A driver's license or passport works for ID. For your address, a recent utility bill, lease, or government mail with your name and current address will do. If you do not have a photo ID yet, some banks will accept other documents — call ahead to ask what they take.

You do not need perfect credit or a banking history to open an account. Banks are required by law to open accounts for people who meet their basic identity and address requirements, regardless of past financial trouble.

Key Takeaways

  • You will need a photo ID, proof of your address, and your Social Security number to open an account at most banks.
  • Opening an account in person at a branch takes 15 to 30 minutes; opening online takes 10 to 20 minutes if the bank offers it.
  • Many banks have no minimum deposit requirement, though some ask for $25 to $100 to start.
  • Your credit history and past banking problems do not prevent you from opening a basic checking or savings account.
  • If you do not have a photo ID, call the bank first — some will accept alternatives like a state ID card or passport.

Opening an account in person at a branch

Walk into any branch of the bank you choose and ask to open a checking or savings account. A banker will sit with you, ask for your ID and proof of address, and take down your Social Security number. They will explain the account type, any fees, and how to use online banking and the debit card.

Bring all your documents with you. Have your ID ready, your address proof in hand, and know your Social Security number or bring a document that shows it (like a tax return or Social Security card). The banker will make copies or note the information while you watch.

You will be asked to sign paperwork and choose a PIN for your debit card. Some banks give you the card on the spot; others mail it in a few days. Ask when you can start using the account — most let you begin the same day, even if your card has not arrived yet.

Opening an account online

Not all banks let you open an account entirely online, but many do. Go to the bank's website, look for "Open an Account" or "New Customer", and follow the steps. You will enter your personal information, upload photos of your ID and address proof, and confirm your Social Security number.

Online accounts usually take 10 to 20 minutes to complete. The bank will review your documents and send you a confirmation email within a few hours or a few days. Some banks let you start using the account right away through their app; others wait until your debit card arrives.

Online banking works best if you already have a bank account somewhere else, because some banks ask you to verify your identity by making small deposits to an existing account. If you do not have another account, call the bank and ask whether they can verify you a different way — many will.

What happens after you open the account

Once your account is open, you can deposit money by going to a branch, using an ATM, or setting up direct deposit from your employer. Your debit card will arrive in the mail within 5 to 10 business days. Until it arrives, you can withdraw money at the bank's ATMs or at the branch itself.

The bank will give you online banking access so you can check your balance, move money between accounts, and set up bill pay. Write down or save your username and password somewhere safe. Many banks also offer a mobile app where you can do the same things from your phone.

Your first statement will arrive 30 days after you open the account. It will show every deposit and withdrawal, any fees you were charged, and your current balance. Read it carefully to make sure everything is correct.

Types of accounts to choose from

A checking account is for money you use regularly — paying bills, buying groceries, getting cash. You get a debit card and checks, and there is no limit on how many times you can withdraw. Most checking accounts have no interest, meaning the bank does not pay you to keep money there.

A savings account is for money you want to keep and grow. The bank pays you interest — a small percentage of your balance each month. You can withdraw money, but some banks limit how many times per month you can take it out. Savings accounts are useful if you are building an emergency fund or saving toward a goal.

Many people open both at the same bank. You use checking for daily spending and savings for money you want to protect. Some banks offer accounts designed for people new to banking, with lower fees or no minimum balance.

Banks that are easier to open with if you are new to banking

Some banks and credit unions specifically welcome people who are new to the banking system or who have had trouble with banks before. These institutions often have no minimum deposit, lower fees, and staff trained to explain how accounts work.

Community banks and credit unions in your area are good places to start. A credit union is a member-owned bank that often has lower fees and more flexible rules than large national banks. To find one near you, search "credit union near me" or visit the CO-OP Network website to see which credit unions you can use.

If you prefer a large national bank, look for accounts labeled "basic", "starter", or "second chance" — these are designed with fewer fees and lower minimums. Call the bank's customer service line and ask which account is best for someone opening their first account.

Common fees and how to avoid them

Most checking accounts charge a monthly fee if your balance drops below a certain amount, or if you do not set up direct deposit. Savings accounts sometimes charge a fee if you make too many withdrawals in a month. Overdraft fees happen when you spend more than you have — the bank covers it and charges you $25 to $35.

To avoid these fees, ask the banker which ones explore to your account and what you need to do to waive them. Many banks waive the monthly fee if you keep a small balance (often $500 or less) or if you set up direct deposit from your paycheck. Some banks have no monthly fee at all.

Overdraft fees are the most expensive. The easiest way to avoid them is to turn off overdraft protection in your online banking settings. This means your card will be declined if you do not have enough money, rather than the bank lending you the money and charging you a fee.

If you do not have a Social Security number

If you are not a U.S. citizen or do not yet have a Social Security number, you can still open a bank account using an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN). This is a nine-digit number the IRS issues to people who need to file taxes but do not have a Social Security number.

Not every bank accepts an ITIN, so call ahead and ask. Community banks and credit unions are more likely to accept one than large national chains. Bring your ITIN letter from the IRS along with your ID and proof of address.

If you do not have an ITIN yet, you can explore for one through the IRS. The process takes several weeks. In the meantime, some banks will let you open an account with just your ID and address proof and add your ITIN later when you have it.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I open a bank account without a job?

Yes. Banks do not require you to have employment to open an account. You will still need your ID, proof of address, and Social Security number. If you have no income, you can still deposit money that comes from other sources — gifts, savings, government benefits.

What if I do not have a permanent address?

Some banks will accept a shelter address, a PO box, or a care-of address (like a friend's address where mail reaches you). Call the bank first and explain your situation. Community banks and credit unions are often more flexible about this than large chains.

How long does it take to get my debit card?

Most banks mail your debit card within 5 to 10 business days of opening the account. You can withdraw money at ATMs and branches before it arrives. Some banks offer a temporary digital card you can use online or on your phone right away.

What is the difference between a bank and a credit union?

A credit union is owned by its members rather than by shareholders. Credit unions often have lower fees, better interest rates on savings, and more flexible rules for people new to banking. You usually have to join to use one, but membership is free and open to people in your community or workplace.

Can I open more than one account at the same bank?

Yes. Many people open a checking account and a savings account at the same bank so they can move money between them easily. You can also open accounts at different banks if you want. There is no limit to how many accounts you can have.