Yes, you can open most bank accounts entirely online

Many banks now let you open a checking or savings account from your phone or computer without stepping into a branch. You upload a photo of your ID, answer questions about yourself, and sign documents electronically. The whole process usually takes 10 to 20 minutes. Money can be in your account within one to three business days.

Not every bank offers this yet, and some have restrictions — a few require you to be a U.S. citizen or have a Social Security number, while others ask you to verify your identity in person if you're opening certain account types. But the majority of large banks and many smaller ones have remote account opening available right now.

Key Takeaways

  • Most major banks and credit unions let you open a checking or savings account online using your ID, a phone number, and an email address.
  • You will need a valid government-issued ID (driver's license, passport, or state ID card) and proof of your current address to complete the process.
  • Some banks verify your identity when ready using your Social Security number and credit history, while others may ask you to upload documents or visit a branch later.
  • Once approved, your account number and routing number arrive by email or in the app, and you can start using the account when ready for transfers and bill pay.
  • A few banks still require an in-person visit for certain account types or if you cannot provide a Social Security number.

What you need to open an account remotely

Start with a valid government-issued ID. A driver's license, state ID card, or passport all work. The bank will ask you to take a photo of the front and back with your phone or upload a scan. Make sure the image is clear and all four corners are visible.

You also need proof of your current address. A recent utility bill, lease agreement, or government mail with your name and address will do. Some banks accept a bank statement or insurance document instead. The document should be dated within the last 60 to 90 days — check the bank's website for their exact requirement.

Have your Social Security number ready if you have one. Banks use it to verify your identity and check your banking history. If you don't have a Social Security number, some banks will still open an account for you, but the process may take longer or require extra steps. A few banks will not open accounts remotely without one.

You'll also need a phone number and email address that you check regularly. The bank uses these to contact you and send account information.

How the identity verification process works

When you submit your process, the bank runs your information through verification systems. Most banks check your Social Security number, date of birth, and address against credit bureaus and other databases. This usually takes seconds to a few minutes. If everything matches, you're approved when ready and can start using your account.

Some banks use a different method: they ask you security questions based on your credit history or past financial records. You answer questions like "Which of these addresses have you lived at?" or "Which of these loan amounts did you borrow?" This also happens in real time and takes a few minutes.

If the bank cannot verify you when ready — because your information doesn't match their databases, or because you're new to the country, or because you don't have a credit history — they may ask you to upload additional documents. This might include a utility bill, lease, or bank statement. The review then takes one to three business days.

A small number of banks require you to visit a branch in person to finish opening the account, even if you started online. This is less common now, but it happens. The bank will tell you this before you finish your process, so you'll know whether remote opening is fully available to you.

Which banks offer remote account opening

Most large national banks let you open accounts online: Chase, Bank of America, Wells Fargo, Citibank, and U.S. Bank all offer it. Many regional banks do too — check your state's banks to see which ones have online opening available.

Credit unions increasingly offer remote opening as well. If you belong to a credit union or are thinking about joining one, call or visit their website to ask whether they let you open an account online. Some credit unions require membership before you can open an account, and membership itself may require an in-person visit or a sponsor who is already a member.

Online-only banks — institutions with no physical branches — almost always let you open accounts remotely, since that's their only option. Examples include Ally, Charles Schwab Bank, and Discover Bank. These banks often have no monthly fees and competitive interest rates on savings accounts.

If you're not sure whether a specific bank offers remote opening, go to their website and look for "open an account" or "get your free guide." If the option exists, you'll see it there. If you don't see it, call the bank's customer service line and ask directly.

What happens after you're approved

Once the bank approves your process, your account is open. You'll receive an email or notification in the bank's app with your account number and routing number. Some banks send a debit card in the mail within five to seven business days. Others let you order a card from the app or wait until you visit a branch.

You can start using your account right away for most purposes. You can set up direct deposit, transfer money from another bank account, or receive wire transfers. You can also set up bill pay and start paying bills electronically. The only thing you may not be able to do when ready is withdraw cash, since you won't have a debit card yet — but you can use ATMs at the bank's network once your card arrives, or you can visit a branch to withdraw cash.

If the bank mailed you a debit card, you'll need to set up it when it arrives. The bank will send instructions by mail or email. set up usually takes one phone call or a few clicks in the app.

When you might need to visit a branch

Most people never need to visit a branch after opening an account remotely. But some situations require an in-person visit. If you want to deposit cash, you'll need to visit a branch or use an ATM that accepts cash deposits — not all ATMs do. If you need a cashier's check or a certified copy of a statement, you'll have to go to a branch.

If the bank could not verify your identity online and asked you to submit documents, and those documents were not clear enough, they may ask you to come in person with your original ID. This is rare, but it happens. The bank will contact you by phone or email if this is necessary.

Some banks require an in-person visit if you want to open a business account or a joint account with someone else. Check with your bank about their specific rules for the type of account you want.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take to open an account online?

The process itself takes 10 to 20 minutes. If the bank verifies your identity when ready using your Social Security number, your account opens when ready and you can use it the same day. If the bank needs to review documents you upload, approval usually takes one to three business days.

Do I need a Social Security number to open an account remotely?

Most banks require one, but not all. Some banks will open accounts for people without a Social Security number if you provide an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) or other government ID. Call the bank you're interested in and ask whether they have this option.

Can I open a joint account online with someone else?

Some banks allow it, but many require at least one person to visit a branch in person. The bank needs to verify both people's identities and get both signatures on the account agreement. Check your bank's website or call to ask whether joint accounts can be opened fully online.

What if the bank rejects my process?

Banks usually reject applications because of identity verification issues — your information doesn't match their records, or your documents are unclear. Contact the bank to ask why you were rejected. You may be able to reapply with clearer documents or visit a branch in person to open an account instead.

Can I use my account before my debit card arrives?

Yes. You can transfer money, set up direct deposit, and pay bills online when ready. You can also visit a branch to withdraw cash or use ATMs once your account is active. You just won't be able to swipe a card at a store until your physical card arrives and you set up it.