Yes, you can open most bank accounts entirely online

Most banks and credit unions now let you open a checking or savings account from your computer or phone without visiting a branch. The process typically takes 10 to 20 minutes. You will need a government-issued ID, a Social Security number, and a way to verify your identity — usually a video call or a code sent to your phone.

Not every bank offers online account opening. Some smaller regional banks and credit unions still require you to come in person. But the major national banks — Chase, Bank of America, Wells Fargo, Citibank, and most online-only banks like Ally and Charles Schwab — all do it online from start to finish.

The account is real and usable the moment you finish. You get a routing number and account number when ready, though your debit card arrives by mail in 7 to 10 days. Some banks let you use a temporary digital card in their app while you wait.

Key Takeaways

  • You need a government-issued ID, Social Security number, and a way to verify your identity — usually a video call or a text code.
  • The entire process takes 10 to 20 minutes and you can use the account the same day, though your physical debit card arrives later by mail.
  • Banks check your banking history through ChexSystems, a system that tracks closed accounts and fraud; a bad history may block you from opening online.
  • If you cannot open online due to ChexSystems issues or a missing ID, you can still open in person at a branch with additional documentation.

What you need before you start

Have these items ready before you begin: a valid government-issued ID (driver's license, passport, or state ID card), your Social Security number, and a phone number where you can receive a text or take a video call. Some banks also ask for your current address and employment status, though you do not need to be employed to open an account.

If you do not have a Social Security number — because you are not a U.S. citizen or permanent resident — some banks will open an account using an ITIN (Individual Taxpayer Identification Number) instead. Not all banks do this, so you may need to call ahead or visit a branch. Immigrant-focused banks and some credit unions are more likely to accept an ITIN.

Have your ID and Social Security card or number visible before you click start. The bank will ask you to photograph or upload your ID during the process, and the image quality matters — the bank's system has to read it automatically.

How the identity verification step works

After you enter your personal information, the bank verifies who you are. Most banks use one of two methods: a video call with a real person, or an automated text-based verification.

With video verification, you will be asked to show your ID to a camera and answer a few questions about yourself. The call usually lasts 2 to 3 minutes. The person on the other end is checking that the ID is real, that it matches your face, and that you are the person named on it. Some banks do this when ready; others schedule it within a few hours.

With automated verification, the bank sends a code to your phone via text or email. You enter the code to prove you control that phone number. The bank may also ask you security questions based on your credit history — things like "Which of these addresses have you lived at?" — to confirm your identity without a video call.

ChexSystems: why some people cannot open online

ChexSystems is a database that banks use to check your banking history. It tracks accounts you have closed, overdrafts you did not pay back, fraud, and other problems. When you explore online, the bank runs your name and Social Security number through ChexSystems automatically.

If ChexSystems shows a problem — unpaid overdrafts, a closed account due to fraud, or too many accounts opened in a short time — the bank may deny your process or flag it for manual review. You will not be told the specific reason online; the bank will send you a letter or email saying the process was denied.

If this happens, you have the right to see what ChexSystems has on file about you. You can request your report for free at chexsystems.com. If there is an error, you can dispute it. If the information is correct but old, some banks will still open an account for you in person, where a manager can override the automatic denial.

What happens after you submit your process

Once you finish the online form and pass identity verification, the bank processes your process. This usually takes a few minutes to a few hours. You will see a confirmation screen with your new account number and routing number.

Your checking or savings account is active when ready. You can set up direct deposit, transfer money in from another bank, or deposit checks using the bank's mobile app. If the bank offers a temporary digital debit card, it appears in your app right away and you can use it for online purchases or contactless payments.

Your physical debit card arrives by mail in 7 to 10 business days. Some banks send it faster if you pay a fee; others do not offer expedited shipping. You can usually set up the card in the app as soon as it arrives, or the bank activates it automatically.

When you cannot open online and need to go to a branch

If your online process is denied, or if you do not have a government-issued ID or Social Security number, you can open an account in person at a branch. Bring your ID, Social Security card or number, and proof of address (a utility bill or lease dated within the last 60 days).

Some banks have a second-chance checking program for people with ChexSystems issues. These accounts may have lower limits, higher fees, or require a minimum deposit, but they exist specifically for people who cannot open a standard account online. Ask the branch manager if the bank offers one.

If you do not have a government-issued ID, bring two forms of alternative ID — a passport card, a tribal ID, a school ID, or a utility bill with your name and address. Different banks accept different combinations, so call the branch first to ask what they will take.

Fees and minimum deposits

Most banks do not charge a fee to open an account online. Some require a minimum deposit to set up the account — often $25 to $100 — but many waive this if you set up direct deposit. A few online-only banks have no minimum deposit at all.

Monthly maintenance fees vary widely. Some banks charge $10 to $15 per month unless you maintain a minimum balance or set up direct deposit. Others charge nothing. Read the fee schedule before you finish opening the account; it is usually linked on the final confirmation page.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take to open an account online?

The process itself takes 10 to 20 minutes. Identity verification adds another few minutes if it is automated, or up to 3 minutes if you do a video call. Some banks process everything in real time; others take a few hours to complete the background check. Your account is usually active the same day.

Can I open an account if I have been denied before?

It depends on why you were denied. If ChexSystems shows unpaid overdrafts or fraud, you will likely be denied again by the same bank. Try a different bank — they use different criteria and may be willing to open an account for you. In-person applications at branches sometimes succeed where online ones fail.

What if I do not have a Social Security number?

Some banks accept an ITIN instead. Call the bank's customer service line and ask whether they open accounts for non-citizens or permanent residents. Credit unions and immigrant-focused banks are more likely to say yes. You will probably need to open in person rather than online.

Can I use a passport instead of a driver's license?

Yes. A valid U.S. passport, passport card, or state-issued ID all work. The bank's system needs to be able to scan and read your ID automatically, so make sure the image is clear and well-lit when you upload it.

What if the video verification call fails?

If your internet drops or the call disconnects, the bank will usually let you try again. If you cannot complete a video call, ask whether the bank offers text-based verification instead. If neither works, you can always open in person at a branch.