What you need to bring to the bank
To open a bank account, you will need to bring a government-issued photo ID — a driver's license, passport, or state ID card. The bank uses this to confirm you are who you say you are. If you do not have a photo ID yet, some banks will work with you on alternatives, but it is worth calling ahead to ask.
You will also need to bring proof of your current address. This can be a utility bill, lease agreement, or recent mail from a government agency — something dated within the last 60 days that shows your name and where you live. A few banks accept a phone bill or cell phone statement instead.
Bring a small amount of money to deposit when you open the account — often $25 to $100, depending on the bank. Some banks have no minimum, so ask when you call. You can deposit cash, a check, or both.
Key Takeaways
- You will need a government photo ID, proof of your address, and a small opening deposit to start an account at most banks.
- The whole process usually takes 15 to 30 minutes in person, and the bank will give you a debit card and account number the same day.
- If you have had banking problems in the past, the bank will check a system called ChexSystems, and some banks work with people who have a record there.
- You can also open an account online with some banks, though you may need to verify your identity by video call or by mailing in documents.
- Bring your Social Security number or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) — the bank is required by law to collect this information.
What happens when you walk into the bank
When you arrive, tell a staff member you want to open a new account. They will take you to a desk or a private area and ask you questions about yourself — your name, address, phone number, and how you plan to use the account. They will also ask for your Social Security number or ITIN. This is a legal requirement, not optional.
The staff member will show you the different account types the bank offers — usually a checking account, a savings account, or both. A checking account is for money you spend regularly; a savings account is for money you want to keep. Many people open both at the same time. The staff member will explain any monthly fees, minimum balance requirements, and what you get with each account type.
Once you choose, the staff member will run a background check using a system called ChexSystems. This checks whether you have had problems with bank accounts in the past — things like bounced checks or accounts closed for fraud. If you have a record, the bank will tell you whether they can still open an account for you. Some banks say no; others work with people who have a history. This is why it matters which bank you choose.
Getting your debit card and account number
If everything checks out, the bank will print your debit card on the spot or order one to arrive in the mail within 7 to 10 days. You will get your account number right away, even if your card has not arrived yet. Write down your account number and keep it safe — you will need it to set up direct deposit or to receive wire transfers.
The bank will also give you a temporary way to access your money while you wait for the card. Some banks give you a temporary card number you can use online or by phone. Others let you withdraw cash at the teller window using just your ID and account number. Ask what your options are before you leave.
Before you go, ask the bank staff to show you how to set up online banking on your phone or computer. Many banks do this right there at the desk. Online banking lets you check your balance, move money between accounts, and pay bills without going to the bank.
Opening an account online instead of in person
Some banks let you open an account entirely online, without visiting a branch. You upload photos of your ID and proof of address, answer questions about yourself, and fund the account by transferring money from another bank account or by mailing in a check. The whole process takes 10 to 20 minutes.
The catch is that most online banks need to verify your identity before they finish. Some do this by video call — a staff member watches you hold up your ID to confirm it is real. Others mail you a code that you enter to confirm your address. A few banks use a third-party service that checks public records about you. The verification step usually takes 1 to 3 business days.
Online banks often have lower fees and higher interest rates on savings accounts because they do not have physical branches to run. However, you cannot deposit cash at an online bank — you have to transfer money from another account or deposit checks by mail or mobile app. If you need to deposit cash regularly, an in-person bank is usually better.
What to do if the bank says no
If a bank turns you down because of ChexSystems, you have options. First, you can ask the bank which specific issue is blocking you — a bounced check, a closed account, or fraud. Then you can contact ChexSystems directly to see what they have on file about you. You have the right to dispute information that is wrong.
Second, look for a second-chance bank account or a basic bank account. These are accounts designed for people who have had banking problems. They usually have higher fees and lower limits on how much you can deposit or withdraw, but they let you build a clean banking record. Credit unions sometimes offer these accounts too, and they may have lower fees than banks.
Third, consider a prepaid card or a money market account at a check-cashing store as a temporary step. These are not the same as a bank account, but they let you store money safely while you work on getting a traditional account. Once you have gone 6 to 12 months without problems, many banks will reconsider you.
Fees and things that cost money
Most banks charge a monthly maintenance fee for a checking account — usually $5 to $15 per month. Some waive the fee if you keep a minimum balance, set up direct deposit, or use online banking instead of visiting the branch. Ask about all the ways to avoid the fee before you open the account.
You will also pay fees if you overdraw your account — that is, if you spend more money than you have. An overdraft fee is usually $25 to $35 per transaction. Some banks let you link a savings account to your checking account so that money moves over automatically if you run short. This costs nothing and saves you from overdraft fees.
ATM fees happen when you withdraw cash from an ATM that does not belong to your bank. This usually costs $2 to $3 per withdrawal. When you open your account, ask where your bank's ATMs are located. If there are none near your home or work, choose a bank with a bigger network or one that refunds ATM fees.
After you open the account
Once your account is open, set up direct deposit if your employer or a government program pays you. Direct deposit puts money straight into your account without you having to do anything. To set it up, give your employer or the program your account number and routing number. The bank will give you both when you open the account, or you can find them on a check or online.
Set up online banking and a mobile app so you can check your balance anytime. Most banks let you set up alerts that text or email you when your balance drops below a certain amount. This helps you avoid overdrafts.
Keep your debit card and account number safe. Do not share your PIN (the four-digit code you use at the ATM) with anyone. If your card is lost or stolen, call the bank right away — they will cancel it and send you a new one.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a Social Security number to open a bank account?
No. If you do not have a Social Security number, you can use an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) instead. The bank is required by law to collect one or the other. If you do not have either, you can work with an immigration attorney or a community organization to get an ITIN.
Can I open an account if I have been banned from banking before?
It depends on why you were banned and which bank you ask. Some banks will not work with you for several years. Others, especially credit unions and banks that specialize in second-chance accounts, will open an account for you right away. Call ahead and ask whether they work with people in your situation.
How long does it take to open an account?
In person, usually 15 to 30 minutes. Online, usually 10 to 20 minutes, plus 1 to 3 business days for identity verification. Your debit card arrives in 7 to 10 days if ordered by mail, or the same day if printed at the branch.
What if I do not have proof of address?
Call the bank and ask what they accept. Some will take a lease agreement, a utility bill, or a letter from a shelter or social service agency. A few banks will accept a phone bill or a statement from a government program. If you truly have nothing, ask whether the bank will accept a second form of ID instead.
Can I open a joint account with someone else?
Yes. Both people will need to bring ID and proof of address, and both will need to sign the paperwork. Both names go on the account, and both people can withdraw money or close the account. Make sure you trust the other person completely, because they have full access to all the money.