Yes, you can open most bank accounts entirely online, but the process and what you'll need varies by bank and account type

Most banks now let you start an account from your computer or phone without visiting a branch. You'll fill out an process with your personal information, verify your identity (usually through a video call or by uploading documents), and link a funding source. The whole thing typically takes 10 to 20 minutes, though approval can take anywhere from when ready to a few business days depending on the bank and how quickly they verify who you are.

The catch: not every account type works online. Basic checking and savings accounts almost always do. Money market accounts, certain savings products, and accounts tied to investment services sometimes require a branch visit or a phone call. Credit unions are more likely than large banks to require in-person verification, though many now offer online options too.

Key Takeaways

  • Most banks can open a checking or savings account online in under 20 minutes, but approval takes one to three business days while they verify your identity.
  • You will need a government-issued ID, proof of address (utility bill, lease, or bank statement), and a Social Security number or tax ID to complete the process.
  • Banks verify your identity either through a video call with an employee or by having you upload photos of your documents—the method depends on the bank.
  • Some banks require a minimum opening deposit (often $25 to $100), while others let you open with zero dollars and deposit later.
  • If you have a history of overdrafts or fraud, or if you're on ChexSystems or Early Warning Services, some banks will decline your process even if you complete it online.

What you need to have ready before you start

Gather these items before you begin the process. You will need a government-issued photo ID—a driver's license, passport, or state ID card. You will also need proof of your current address, which can be a recent utility bill, lease agreement, bank statement, or government mail. The document usually has to be dated within the last 60 days.

Have your Social Security number or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) ready. If you're opening the account online from outside the United States, some banks will not proceed—check the bank's website first to see if they serve your location. You will also need a way to fund the account initially, either a debit card, another bank account for a transfer, or (at some banks) a check you can photograph and deposit.

How banks verify your identity online

Banks use one of two main methods to confirm you are who you say you are. The first is video verification: you schedule a short call with a bank employee (or it happens when ready, depending on the bank), show your ID to the camera, and answer a few questions. This usually takes 5 to 10 minutes. The second is document upload: you photograph both sides of your ID and your proof of address, upload them through the app or website, and the bank reviews them. This can take a few hours to a few days.

Some banks also use knowledge-based authentication, where they ask you questions only you should know the answer to—things pulled from your credit history or public records. This is faster but less common for new account opening. If the bank cannot verify you through any of these methods, they will ask you to visit a branch in person or call their phone line to complete the process.

Minimum deposits and account funding

Many banks let you open an account with $0 and deposit money later. Others require a minimum opening deposit, typically $25 to $100 for a basic checking account. A few banks (usually those targeting high-net-worth customers) require $500 or more, but these are the exception for standard accounts.

When you fund the account online, you can usually transfer money from another bank account you own, deposit a check by photograph, or use a debit card. Some banks let you do all three; others limit you to one method during the initial setup. If you're transferring from another bank, the money typically arrives within one to three business days. Checks deposited by photo usually clear within the same timeframe.

What happens after you submit your process

Once you hit submit, the bank runs a background check through ChexSystems or Early Warning Services, which are banking history databases. These systems flag accounts that were closed due to overdrafts, fraud, or other problems. If you appear in either system, the bank may decline your process or ask you to call and explain. This decision usually comes within 24 hours.

If you pass the background check, the bank verifies your identity using the method you chose. If everything clears, your account is officially open—you can see it in the app or online portal when ready, even if your debit card hasn't arrived yet. Some banks let you use a temporary digital card right away; others make you wait for the physical card. You can usually start transferring money or setting up direct deposit within hours of approval.

When online account opening won't work

Some banks decline online applications for accounts if you have a recent history of overdrafts, fraud, or if you appear in ChexSystems. If this happens, you will need to visit a branch in person or call the bank's phone line to discuss your options. A few banks will reopen accounts for people with a history if you can explain what happened and show you have corrected the problem.

Certain account types—business accounts, trust accounts, or accounts for minors—often require a branch visit or notarized documents. Credit unions are more likely than national banks to require in-person verification, though this is changing. If the bank's website says an account type is available online, it should work; if it does not list online opening, call before you make the trip.

How long the whole process takes

The process itself takes 10 to 20 minutes. Identity verification takes anywhere from when ready (video call) to a few business days (document review). Approval typically comes within one to three business days, though some banks approve when ready if you pass all checks when ready. Your debit card usually arrives within 7 to 10 business days, but you can use a temporary digital card or transfers before then.

If the bank needs more information—a clearer photo of your ID, additional proof of address, or a phone call to verify details—the timeline stretches. This is why it helps to have all your documents ready and to use a clear photo of your ID. If you are in a hurry to open an account, call the bank first and ask which method (video or document upload) tends to be faster; this varies by bank.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I open an account if I don't have a Social Security number?

Yes, if you have an ITIN (Individual Taxpayer Identification Number). Some banks accept ITINs; others do not. Call the bank before you start the process to confirm. If the bank will not accept an ITIN, you may need to visit a branch in person or try a credit union, which sometimes has different rules.

What if my ID is expired?

Most banks will not accept an expired ID for online opening. You will need a current government-issued ID. If you do not have one, you will need to visit a branch in person with whatever ID you have and explain the situation to the employee.

Can I open an account if I'm on ChexSystems?

Being in ChexSystems does not automatically disqualify you, but many banks will decline your process. Some banks (often smaller ones or credit unions) will still open accounts for people in ChexSystems if you explain what happened. Call the bank's customer service line before explore to ask if they work with people who have ChexSystems records.

Do I need to have money in another account to open one online?

No. Many banks let you open with $0 and deposit money later. However, if the bank requires a minimum opening deposit, you will need to fund it during the process—either from another account, a debit card, or a check you photograph and deposit.

Can I use a temporary address or PO box for proof of address?

No. Banks require a residential street address, not a PO box or temporary address. If you recently moved and do not have a utility bill yet, a lease agreement or bank statement with your new address usually works.