Yes, you can open a standard bank account online, but the process depends on which bank you choose and what documents you have

Most banks now let you start a checking or savings account from your computer or phone without visiting a branch. You'll typically need a government ID, a Social Security number or tax ID, proof of your current address, and an initial deposit (which can be as small as $0 to $25 at many banks). The whole process usually takes 10 to 15 minutes, though some banks ask you to verify your identity by video call, which adds a few minutes.

The catch is that not every bank offers the same online process. Large national banks like Chase, Bank of America, and Wells Fargo let you open accounts entirely online. Credit unions and smaller regional banks sometimes require you to visit in person or mail in documents. If you don't have a government ID yet, or if your address doesn't match your ID, the process gets more complicated — but it's still possible.

Key Takeaways

  • Most major banks let you open a checking or savings account online using your ID, Social Security number, and proof of address.
  • Some banks require a video call to verify your identity, while others use when ready verification through your ID number alone.
  • If you don't have a government ID, you may need to visit a branch in person or provide alternative documents like a utility bill and passport.
  • Your initial deposit can often be as small as $0 to $25, and you can usually transfer money from another account or use a debit card to fund it.
  • Credit unions and online-only banks sometimes have different requirements than traditional banks, so checking their specific process before you start saves time.

What documents you'll need to have ready

Before you start, gather these items: a valid government-issued ID (driver's license, state ID, or passport), your Social Security number, and something that shows your current address. That address proof can be a recent utility bill, lease agreement, or bank statement — anything dated within the last 60 to 90 days with your name and address on it.

If you're opening the account on behalf of someone else — for example, a parent opening an account for a minor — you'll need that person's ID and Social Security number as well. Some banks also ask for a phone number and email address, which they use to send you account information and security alerts.

How the online verification process works

When you fill out the process on the bank's website or app, the bank runs your information through verification systems in real time. Most of the time, this happens when ready: the system checks your ID number, Social Security number, and address against public records and confirms you are who you say you are. If everything matches, you're approved within minutes and can start using your account right away.

Some banks, especially if they can't when ready verify you, will ask you to take a video call with a bank employee. During this call, you'll show your ID to a camera, answer a few security questions, and confirm your address. This usually takes 5 to 10 minutes. A few banks still ask you to mail in copies of your documents instead, which takes longer but is an option if you prefer not to do a video call.

Banks that make online account opening straightforward

Large national banks like Chase, Bank of America, Wells Fargo, and Citibank all let you open accounts online with when ready or near-when ready verification. Online-only banks like Ally, Charles Schwab Bank, and Discover Bank are built around online opening and often have the fastest process — sometimes you can be done in under 10 minutes.

Credit unions vary widely. Some, like Connexus Credit Union and Pentagon Federal Credit Union, let you open accounts online if you meet their membership rules. Others require you to visit a branch or mail in an process. If you're interested in a specific credit union, call them or check their website to see whether they offer online opening.

What to do if you don't have a government ID

If you don't have a driver's license or state ID yet, most banks will not let you open an account online. You'll need to visit a branch in person with whatever ID you do have — a passport, a school ID, a work ID, or a tribal ID — plus proof of address. The bank employee can then verify you manually and open the account on the spot.

Some banks will also accept an ITIN (Individual Taxpayer Identification Number) instead of a Social Security number, which is useful if you're not yet a U.S. citizen or permanent resident. If you have an ITIN, call the bank before you explore to confirm they accept it, because not all do.

Funding your new account

Once your account is open, you need to put money into it. Most banks let you transfer funds from another bank account you own — you'll enter the other bank's routing number and your account number there, and the transfer usually takes one to three business days. Some banks also let you deposit a check by taking a photo of it with your phone, or you can visit an ATM or branch to deposit cash.

If you're opening your first bank account and don't have another account to transfer from, you can sometimes use a debit card to fund the initial deposit, though some banks charge a small fee for this. A few banks also waive the initial deposit requirement entirely, so you can open the account with $0 and add money later.

What happens after you open your account

Once you're approved, the bank will send you a debit card by mail, which usually arrives within 5 to 10 business days. In the meantime, you can use your account right away: you can set up direct deposit for paychecks, transfer money between accounts, and pay bills online. You'll get a temporary card number in your app if you need to make purchases before the physical card arrives.

The bank will also send you account documents by mail or email, depending on what you chose during setup. These include your account number, routing number, and information about fees and account rules. Keep these documents in a safe place — you'll need the account and routing numbers to set up direct deposit or to give to an employer.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I open an account if my address on my ID is old?

Most banks will still let you open an account, but they'll ask for a separate proof of your current address — a utility bill, lease, or recent bank statement. Bring both your ID and the address proof to verify that you've moved. If you're opening online, upload the current address document when the system asks for it.

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

The card usually arrives within 5 to 10 business days. You can use your account when ready through the bank's app or website to transfer money and pay bills, but you'll have to wait for the physical card to withdraw cash at an ATM or pay in a store. Some banks offer a temporary digital card number you can use right away.

What if the bank rejects my online process?

The bank will tell you why — usually because information didn't match their records, or because of a past banking issue. You can call the bank to ask what went wrong and whether you can fix it. If you can't resolve it online, visit a branch in person with your ID and documents; a bank employee can often open the account manually.

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

It depends on the bank. Many banks require $0 to $25 to open, while others ask for $100 or more. Some online banks have no minimum at all. Check the bank's website before you explore to see what they require, so you know whether you have enough to fund the account right away.

Can I open a joint account online with someone else?

Yes, most banks let you open a joint account online, but both people usually need to verify their identity. One person starts the process, and the other person receives a link to verify their ID and sign the account agreement. The process takes a bit longer than opening alone, but it's still done entirely online at most major banks.