What you need to open a new account
To open a bank account, you will need a government-issued photo ID, proof of your current address, and your Social Security number. The ID can be a driver's license, passport, or state ID card. For proof of address, bring a recent utility bill, lease, or bank statement with your name and address on it — usually dated within the last 60 days. Some banks accept a government benefits letter instead.
You do not need to have perfect credit or a banking history to open an account. Banks are required by law to open accounts for people who meet these basic requirements, even if you have had problems with banks before. If you have been reported to ChexSystems (a banking history report system), you can still open an account — some banks specialize in working with people in that situation.
Bring original documents, not copies. Some banks will photocopy them for you during the appointment, but they need to see the real thing first to verify it is genuine.
Key Takeaways
- You will need a photo ID, proof of your address, and your Social Security number — most banks require all three before opening an account.
- You can open an account in person at a branch, by phone, or online depending on the bank, and each method takes a different amount of time.
- Bring your original documents to a branch appointment; banks need to see them in person to confirm they are real.
- You can choose between a checking account (for everyday spending), a savings account (for money you want to keep), or both at the same time.
- Some banks charge monthly fees, but many offer free accounts if you keep a minimum balance or set up direct deposit.
Opening an account in person at a branch
Walking into a bank branch with your documents is the most straightforward way to open an account. Bring your ID, proof of address, and Social Security number. Tell the person at the desk you want to open a new account, and they will take you to a banker or new accounts representative.
The banker will ask you questions about what type of account you want (checking, savings, or both), how you plan to use it, and whether you want online banking. They will also explain the fees, minimum balance requirements, and what comes with the account. This conversation usually takes 15 to 30 minutes. At the end, you will sign paperwork, and your account opens that day. You may receive a debit card on the spot or by mail within a week.
If you are nervous about going alone, you can bring someone with you. They do not need to be a customer at the bank — they are just there for support.
Opening an account online or by phone
Many banks let you start an account online without visiting a branch. You will upload photos of your ID and proof of address using your phone or computer, enter your Social Security number, and answer questions about the account type you want. The bank then reviews your documents — this usually takes one to three business days.
Once the bank approves your documents, your account opens and you can use it right away. A debit card arrives by mail within 7 to 10 business days. Some banks send a temporary card number by email so you can make purchases online while you wait for the physical card.
Opening by phone works similarly. You call the bank's new accounts line, answer the same questions, and the banker walks you through uploading documents. Phone opening takes about 20 to 30 minutes, and the rest of the process is the same as online.
Choosing between checking and savings accounts
A checking account is for money you use regularly — paying bills, getting paid, buying groceries. It comes with a debit card and checks. You can withdraw money as many times as you want without penalty. A savings account is for money you want to keep and grow. It earns a small amount of interest (money the bank pays you for letting them hold your money), and you can withdraw money, but some banks limit how many times per month you can do that without a fee.
Most people open both at the same time. You use checking for everyday spending and savings as a separate place to keep emergency money or money toward a goal. When you open your account, the banker will ask which type you want, and you can say "both."
If you are just starting out and unsure, a basic checking account with a linked savings account is the most common choice. It gives you a place to spend and a place to save without overcomplicating things.
Understanding fees and minimum balances
Some banks charge a monthly fee to keep a checking account open — this might be $5 to $15 per month. Others charge no monthly fee at all. The difference usually depends on whether you keep a minimum balance (often $500 to $1,500) or set up direct deposit (having your paycheck sent straight to the bank).
When the banker explains the account, ask specifically: "What is the monthly fee, and how do I avoid it?" Write down the answer. Some banks waive the fee if you keep a certain balance, others if you have direct deposit, and some have no fee regardless. There is no single right answer — it depends on your situation.
Other fees to ask about: overdraft fees (charged if you spend more than you have), ATM fees (charged if you use another bank's ATM), and wire transfer fees. Many banks offer free ATM use at their own machines and at partner banks in a network, so ask which ATMs are free for you to use.
What happens after your account opens
Once your account is open, you can deposit money when ready. If you opened in person, you can deposit cash or a check right there. If you opened online or by phone, you can deposit by mail, at an ATM, or through mobile deposit (taking a photo of a check with your phone). Your bank will explain which methods are available.
Your debit card arrives by mail within 7 to 10 business days. When it arrives, you will need to set up it — the bank sends instructions by mail or text, or you can call the number on the back of the card. After set up, you can use it to buy things, withdraw cash from ATMs, and pay bills online.
Set up online banking as soon as your account opens. This lets you check your balance, transfer money between your accounts, and see your transaction history anytime. The bank will give you a username and temporary password, and you will create your own password the first time you log in.
If you have had banking problems before
If you have been reported to ChexSystems (a system banks use to check your history), you can still open an account. Some banks will not work with people on ChexSystems, but others specialize in second-chance banking. These banks may charge higher fees or require a larger deposit, but they will open an account for you.
To learn about you are on ChexSystems, you can request your report for free at chexsystems.com. If you are on the list, you can dispute incorrect information. Even if the information is correct, you have options — call banks directly and ask if they offer accounts for people with ChexSystems records.
If you have unpaid overdraft fees or other debts at a previous bank, some banks will not open an account for you until that debt is resolved. If this is your situation, ask the previous bank what it would take to settle the debt, or look for a bank that does not check for outstanding debts.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a job to open a bank account?
No. Banks do not require you to be employed. You can open an account with any income source — a job, benefits, a pension, or money from family. The bank may ask what your income is, but they cannot refuse to open an account based on employment status alone.
What if I do not have a current address?
This is harder but not impossible. Some banks accept a shelter address, a PO box, or a care-of address (c/o someone else's address). Call banks in your area and ask what they accept for proof of address. Credit unions sometimes have more flexibility than large banks.
Can I open an account for someone else?
No. The person whose name is on the account must be present or must sign documents. If you are opening an account for a child, a parent or guardian must be present. If someone is unable to come to the bank, some banks allow a power of attorney to open an account on their behalf, but this requires legal paperwork.
How long does it take to use my account after I open it?
If you open in person, your account is ready to use when ready — you can deposit money and use it the same day. If you open online or by phone, your account opens after the bank approves your documents (usually one to three business days), and you can use it right away. Your debit card arrives by mail within 7 to 10 business days.
What if I want to close this account later?
You can close an account anytime by calling the bank or visiting a branch. Withdraw any remaining money first, or tell the bank where to send it. Make sure you have paid any outstanding fees or overdrafts. Closing an account does not hurt your credit.