Not every bank account can be opened online, and the ones that can have different requirements depending on the bank and the type of account

Most large banks and many online-only banks let you open a checking or savings account entirely online. You'll need a valid government ID, a Social Security number or tax ID, proof of your current address, and an initial deposit (which can be as small as $1 at some banks, or $0 at others). The process usually takes 10 to 15 minutes.

But some accounts — particularly business accounts, certain investment accounts, and accounts at smaller or community banks — still require you to visit a branch in person or complete part of the process by mail. A few banks won't open accounts online for people without an existing U.S. address or credit history. Knowing which category your bank falls into before you start saves time and frustration.

Key Takeaways

  • Most checking and savings accounts at large national banks and online-only banks can be opened entirely online with an ID, Social Security number, and proof of address.
  • Community banks and credit unions often require an in-person visit or mail-based verification, even if they have a website.
  • Business accounts, joint accounts with someone you don't live with, and accounts for people under 18 usually cannot be opened online.
  • If you don't have a U.S. address or a Social Security number, fewer banks will open accounts online, and you may need to visit a branch or provide additional documents.

Banks that let you open accounts fully online

Online-only banks — companies like Ally, Charles Schwab Bank, and Discover Bank — were built to operate without physical branches, so opening an account online is their only option. You upload your ID, enter your information, and fund the account from another bank or with a debit card. These banks typically have no monthly fees and competitive interest rates on savings accounts.

Large national banks like Bank of America, Chase, Wells Fargo, and Citibank all let you open a basic checking or savings account online. The process is similar: you provide your ID, Social Security number, address, and an initial deposit. Some of these banks charge monthly maintenance fees unless you meet certain conditions (like keeping a minimum balance or setting up direct deposit).

A few regional banks — U.S. Bank, PNC, and others — also offer full online account opening, though this varies by state. If you're considering a specific bank, their website will usually say "open an account online" or "explore online" if they support it. If you don't see that language, you'll likely need to visit a branch or call.

Banks and accounts that require a branch visit or mail

Community banks and credit unions often do not open accounts online, even if they have a website. They may ask you to come in person so a staff member can verify your identity face-to-face and answer questions about your banking needs. Some will let you start the process online but require you to sign documents in person or by mail before the account is active.

Business accounts — whether you're a sole proprietor, partnership, or corporation — almost always require a branch visit. The bank needs to see your business license, tax ID, and sometimes a personal may provide from the owner. You may also need to bring a corporate resolution (a document showing the business authorized you to open the account).

Joint accounts where the account holders don't live together typically can't be opened online. Both people usually need to be present or sign documents separately, which is harder to do remotely. Some banks will mail documents for both people to sign, but this takes longer than opening an account alone.

What you need to open an account online

The standard documents are a valid government-issued ID (a driver's license, passport, or state ID card), your Social Security number (or an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number if you don't have a Social Security number), and proof of your current address. Proof of address can be a recent utility bill, lease, mortgage statement, or government mail with your name and address.

Most banks also ask for your phone number and email address. Some require an initial deposit before the account opens — this can be $0, $1, $25, or more depending on the bank. You can usually fund the account by transferring money from another bank account or depositing with a debit card.

If you're opening an account in a different state than where you live, or if you're new to the U.S., some banks may ask for additional documents. A few banks use a third-party verification service that checks your identity against public records; if that check fails, they may ask you to upload extra documents or visit a branch.

Situations where online opening is harder or not available

If you don't have a U.S. address yet — for example, you're moving to the country or living abroad — many banks won't open accounts online. Some will let you use a temporary address or a friend's address, but others require a permanent U.S. residential address. Call the bank directly to ask, because their website may not explain this clearly.

If you don't have a Social Security number, you can use an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) instead. However, fewer banks accept ITINs, and those that do may require additional verification or a branch visit. Online-only banks are sometimes more flexible here than large national banks.

If you're under 18, you generally cannot open an account in your own name online. Most banks require a parent or guardian to open a custodial account in person or to co-sign an account online. A few banks have teen checking accounts with special rules, but these still usually require a parent to be present or to verify their identity online.

How to learn about a specific bank opens accounts online

The fastest way is to go to the bank's website and look for a button or link that says "open an account," "explore online," or "get your free guide." If you see that option, the bank likely supports full online opening for at least some account types.

If the website doesn't have an obvious online option, call the bank's customer service number and ask directly: "Can I open a checking account online?" Be specific about the type of account, because a bank might let you open a savings account online but not a business account. If they say no, ask whether you can start the process online and finish by mail, or whether you must visit a branch.

For credit unions, check their website or call their member services line. Many credit unions have membership requirements (like living in a certain area or working for a specific employer), and some only let members open accounts in person.

What happens after you open an account online

Once your account is approved — usually within a few minutes to a few hours — you'll receive a confirmation email with your account number. The bank will mail you a debit card, which typically arrives within 5 to 10 business days. In the meantime, you can usually log into your online account and transfer money or set up bill pay.

Some banks let you use a temporary digital card number right away so you can make purchases online before your physical card arrives. Others require you to wait for the card or to visit a branch to pick one up.

If the bank needs to verify anything else — for example, if their identity check flagged something unusual — they'll contact you by email or phone before opening the account. This can add a few days to the process.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I open an account online if I've been denied a bank account before?

It depends on why you were denied. If you were denied because of a mistake in your credit report or banking history, you can try a different bank — not all banks check the same records. If you were denied because you're listed in ChexSystems (a banking history database), some banks that don't use ChexSystems will still open accounts for you. Call ahead and ask whether the bank checks ChexSystems before you explore.

Do I need a credit card to open a bank account online?

No. A bank account and a credit card are separate products. You can open a checking or savings account with just an ID and Social Security number. You don't need an existing credit card, credit history, or credit score.

Can I open an account online if I'm not a U.S. citizen?

Yes, if you have a Social Security number or ITIN and a U.S. address. Some banks are more flexible than others about non-citizens. Online-only banks sometimes have fewer restrictions than large national banks. If you're having trouble, try a community bank or credit union in your area, as they may have different policies.

What if the bank's website says I can't open an account online in my state?

Some banks are licensed to operate in only certain states, so they can't open accounts for people in other states online. You can still visit a branch in a state where the bank operates, or you can choose a different bank that serves your state. Most large national banks and all online-only banks operate nationwide.

How long does it take to open an account online?

The process itself usually takes 10 to 15 minutes. Approval is often when ready or within a few hours. However, if the bank needs to verify additional information, it can take a few days. Your debit card will arrive by mail within 5 to 10 business days after approval.