Yes, you can open most bank accounts entirely online, but the process and what you'll need depends on the bank and the account type
Most banks and credit unions now let you start an account from your computer or phone without visiting a branch. The process itself takes 10 to 20 minutes. What takes longer—sometimes days—is the verification step, where the bank confirms you are who you say you are. Some banks do this when ready using data they already have. Others send you a code by mail or ask you to upload documents. A few still require you to visit a branch or video call with someone to finish the process.
The real constraint is not whether you can start online, but whether you can finish online. A bank might let you fill out the form at midnight, but if they need to see your ID in person, you will eventually have to go somewhere. Knowing which banks finish the whole thing remotely—and which ones don't—saves you a wasted trip.
Key Takeaways
- Most major banks and credit unions let you complete the entire account opening online, including identity verification, without visiting a branch.
- You will need a valid government-issued ID, proof of address (usually a recent utility bill or lease), and your Social Security number or tax ID.
- The process takes 10 to 20 minutes, but verification can take anywhere from seconds to several business days depending on the bank's process.
- Some banks use when ready verification through third-party services; others mail you a code or ask you to upload documents, which adds days to the timeline.
- If a bank cannot verify you online, they will tell you during the process and may ask you to visit a branch or provide additional documents.
What you need to have ready before you start
Gather these items before you open the process. Having them ready means you will not lose your place halfway through or have to come back later.
You need a valid government-issued ID—a driver's license, passport, or state ID card. The name on the ID must match the name you use for the account. If you have changed your name recently and your ID does not reflect that, you may need to update the ID first or provide a marriage certificate or court order along with your process.
You need proof of your current address. Most banks accept a recent utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, or government mail dated within the last 60 to 90 days. A few banks will let you use a recent bank statement from another institution. If you do not have any of these, ask the bank what they will accept—some take a phone bill or insurance statement instead.
You need your Social Security number or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN). The bank uses this to check your banking history and run a background check. If you do not have a Social Security number, some banks and credit unions will open accounts for people with an ITIN, but not all. Call ahead if this applies to you.
Have your phone number and email address ready. The bank will use these to send you verification codes or contact you if something does not match.
How online verification actually works
The verification step is where most delays happen, so understanding the different methods helps you know what to expect.
when ready verification is the fastest route. The bank uses a third-party service (often Equifax, Experian, or a company like Socure) to check your identity against databases they already have access to—credit reports, public records, previous banking history. If the match is strong enough, you get approved in seconds or minutes. Your account opens when ready, and you can use it the same day. Most large banks use this method for most applicants.
Code-by-mail verification is slower but straightforward. The bank mails you a code to the address you provided. You receive it in 3 to 7 business days, then log back into your account and enter the code to complete the process. Your account is usually frozen until you do this, so you cannot deposit money or use it yet. Some banks let you use the account before the code arrives; most do not.
Document upload verification means you photograph or scan your ID and proof of address and upload them through the bank's website or app. The bank's team reviews these manually, which takes 1 to 3 business days. If the documents are clear and match what you entered, you are approved. If something is unclear or does not match, the bank will email you and ask for a clearer photo or an explanation.
Video verification is less common but used by some banks and most credit unions. You schedule a brief video call with a bank employee who watches you show your ID to the camera. This takes 5 to 10 minutes and usually happens within 24 hours of your request. Your account opens when ready after the call.
Which banks finish the whole process online
If you want to avoid any branch visits, these types of institutions typically complete everything remotely: most large national banks (Chase, Bank of America, Wells Fargo, Citibank), online-only banks (Ally, Charles Schwab, Discover), and many credit unions. The catch is that credit unions vary widely—some finish everything online, others require a branch visit or video call. Call your credit union before you start the process.
Some regional banks and smaller institutions still require you to visit a branch or provide notarized documents. If you are opening an account at a bank you have not used before, check their website for "online account opening" or call their customer service number and ask: "Can I complete the entire process online, or will I need to visit a branch?" This takes one minute and saves you from starting an process you cannot finish remotely.
If you are opening a business account rather than a personal account, expect more steps. Most banks require a business license, EIN letter, and sometimes a video call with a business owner. Personal accounts are almost always faster.
What happens if the bank cannot verify you online
Sometimes the when ready verification fails. This does not mean you are denied—it means the bank needs more information or a different verification method.
Common reasons verification stalls: your name does not match records exactly (a nickname on your process versus your legal name on your ID), your address is new and not yet in public databases, you have a very common name and the system cannot narrow it down, or you have no credit history. If this happens, the bank will tell you during the process. They will either offer you an alternative verification method (like uploading documents or a video call) or ask you to visit a branch.
If you are asked to visit a branch, bring your ID and proof of address. The employee will verify these in person and open the account on the spot. This usually takes 15 to 30 minutes. Some banks will also let you mail in documents instead—ask the bank which option is available to you.
Timeline from process to usable account
| Verification Method | Time to Approval | When You Can Use the Account |
|---|---|---|
| when ready (third-party database match) | Seconds to minutes | Same day |
| Video call | Within 24 hours of scheduling | Same day or next day |
| Document upload | 1 to 3 business days | 1 to 3 business days |
| Code by mail | 3 to 7 business days (mail delivery) | 3 to 7 business days |
| Branch visit | Same day (when you visit) | Same day |
The timeline above assumes the bank does not ask for additional documents or clarification. If they do, add 1 to 3 business days. Weekends and holidays do not count—if you explore on Friday afternoon, business days start counting Monday.
What to do if you need the account faster
If you need to move money or set up direct deposit quickly, your fastest option is when ready verification. This happens with most large banks for most applicants. When you start the process, the bank will tell you within minutes whether you passed when ready verification or need to use another method.
If when ready verification fails and you cannot wait for mail or document review, ask the bank whether they offer video verification. This is usually available within 24 hours and finishes the process the same day.
If the bank you chose does not offer fast verification and you need the account when ready, consider opening with an online-only bank instead. These banks almost always use when ready verification because they have no branches and cannot do in-person verification. You can open a second account with your preferred bank later once you have time for their slower process.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to have money to deposit when I open the account?
No. Most banks let you open an account with zero dollars. You can deposit money later, either by transferring it from another bank account, using mobile deposit (photographing a check through the app), or visiting an ATM or branch. Some banks offer a small bonus if you deposit a certain amount within 30 days, but this is optional.
What if my address is different on my ID than where I live now?
Tell the bank your current address during the process, not the address on your ID. The bank will ask for proof of your current address (utility bill, lease, etc.). If you do not have proof yet because you just moved, explain this to the bank—some will accept a lease agreement or a letter from your landlord instead of a utility bill.
Can I open an account if I have been denied by ChexSystems or Early Warning Services?
Some banks use ChexSystems or Early Warning Services to check your banking history. If you were denied in the past, you may still open an account at banks that do not use these services, or at banks that have second-chance programs. Call the bank and ask whether they check ChexSystems before you start the process.
Will opening an account online hurt my credit score?
No. Opening a bank account does not affect your credit score. The bank may do a "soft pull" of your credit report to verify your identity, but this does not lower your score. Only credit applications (loans, credit cards) cause a hard pull that can temporarily lower your score.
How long does it take to receive my debit card?
Debit cards usually arrive 7 to 10 business days after your account opens. Some banks offer a temporary digital card you can use when ready in your phone's wallet while you wait for the physical card. Ask the bank about this when your account opens.