Yes, you can open most bank accounts entirely online without visiting a branch
Most banks and credit unions now let you open a checking or savings account from your computer or phone. You won't need to go to a physical location. The process typically takes 10 to 20 minutes, and you can start using the account within one to three business days.
What you'll need varies slightly by bank, but the basics are the same everywhere: a valid government ID, your Social Security number, proof of your current address, and an initial deposit (which can be as small as $1 at some institutions, or $0 at others). Some banks verify your identity when ready through your phone camera; others ask you to upload documents or answer security questions based on your financial history.
The main catch is that not every bank offers full online account opening. Some require you to start online but finish in a branch, or they only let existing customers open new accounts remotely. A few still require an in-person visit. Before you start, check the specific bank's website to confirm they offer what's called "remote account opening" or "digital account opening."
Key Takeaways
- Most major banks and credit unions let you open a checking or savings account entirely online using your phone or computer.
- You will need a valid government ID, Social Security number, proof of address, and usually an initial deposit of $1 to $25.
- Identity verification happens when ready at some banks through your phone camera, or within a few hours through document upload at others.
- Your account becomes usable within one to three business days, though some banks let you use it when ready for transfers and bill pay.
- A small number of banks still require an in-person visit or finishing step, so confirm the bank's process before you start.
What documents and information you need to have ready
Gather these items before you begin, so you don't have to stop halfway through:
Government-issued ID: A driver's license, state ID card, or passport. Some banks accept military ID or tribal ID. The ID must not be expired, though banks vary on how recently it expired—most accept IDs expired within the last year.
Social Security number: Banks use this to check your credit history and verify your identity. If you don't have a Social Security number, some banks and credit unions have accounts for non-citizens, but the process is different and slower.
Proof of current address: A recent utility bill, lease, mortgage statement, or government mail showing your name and address. It usually needs to be dated within the last 60 to 90 days. A bank statement from another institution also works at most banks.
Initial deposit: The amount varies. Some banks require $25 or $100 to open; others ask for $1; some ask for nothing. Check the bank's website for the specific account type you want. You can usually fund it with a debit card, another bank account, or a wire transfer.
How identity verification works online
Banks verify who you are through one of three methods, depending on the bank and the account type.
when ready verification through your phone camera: You take a photo of your ID and a selfie. The bank's software compares your face to your ID photo and checks the ID details against databases. This usually takes seconds to a few minutes. Banks like Ally, Chime, and many others use this method. It's the fastest route.
Document upload: You photograph or scan your ID and proof of address and upload them to the bank's website. A person or automated system reviews them within a few hours to a business day. This is slower but works if your phone camera is poor quality or if you're uncomfortable with facial recognition.
Knowledge-based questions: The bank asks you questions about your financial history—previous addresses, loan amounts, credit card accounts you've had. You answer based on your own records. This method is less common now but still used by some banks, especially if you have a thin credit history or the other methods fail.
If verification fails, the bank will tell you why. Common reasons are a blurry ID photo, an expired ID, or a mismatch between the name on your ID and the name you entered. You can usually try again or contact the bank's support line to finish the process by phone.
Timeline from start to usable account
The speed depends on the bank and how you fund the account:
Same-day or next-day: Some banks (Chime, Ally, Charles Schwab) let you use your account for transfers and bill pay when ready after you finish opening it, even though the debit card hasn't arrived yet. You can move money in and out right away.
One to three business days: Most traditional banks take this long to fully set up your account. Your debit card arrives separately, usually within 5 to 10 business days. During this waiting period, you can often transfer money in and out, but you can't use the card yet.
Longer if there's a hold: If the bank can't verify your identity when ready, or if your initial deposit is a check, the timeline stretches. A check deposit can take 5 to 10 business days to clear. If verification stalls, contact the bank—you may need to upload additional documents or call to finish by phone.
Ask yourself what you need the account for. If you need to move money when ready, choose a bank that activates accounts same-day. If you're opening it for direct deposit that won't hit for two weeks anyway, the standard timeline is fine.
Banks and credit unions that offer full online account opening
These institutions let you open a checking or savings account entirely online without visiting a branch:
| Institution Type | Examples | Typical Minimum Deposit | Account Active By |
|---|---|---|---|
| Online-only banks | Ally, Charles Schwab, Discover, Marcus, Vanguard | $0 to $25 | Same day to 1 business day |
| Traditional banks with online option | Bank of America, Chase, Wells Fargo, Citibank | $0 to $100 | 1 to 3 business days |
| Credit unions | Navy Federal, Alliant, Pentagon Federal, many local credit unions | $0 to $25 | 1 to 3 business days |
Not all branches of a bank offer the same online opening process. Check the specific bank's website before you start. Some regional banks still require an in-person visit or a phone call to finish the process.
What to do if you can't open an account online
If a bank won't let you open online, your options are to visit a branch in person, call their phone line and ask a representative to walk you through it, or choose a different bank.
Some banks require an in-person visit if you don't have a U.S. address, if you're opening a business account, or if you're a non-citizen without a Social Security number. In those cases, you'll need to go to a branch with your documents. Call ahead to confirm they have what you need and to ask whether you should make an appointment.
If you're trying to open an account but verification keeps failing, don't keep trying the same bank. Instead, contact their customer service line and ask what's blocking you. Common fixable problems are a blurry photo, a name mismatch, or an address that doesn't match their records. They can often resolve it over the phone or tell you what additional document to upload.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to have money in my account before I can use it?
No. You can open an account with $0 or $1 at many banks. However, you do need to fund it before you can make transfers or use a debit card. Some banks let you set up direct deposit before the account is fully active, so your paycheck can be your first deposit.
What if I don't have a government ID?
Most banks require a government ID to open an account online. If you don't have one, you'll need to visit a branch in person with whatever ID you do have—a passport, tribal ID, or state ID. Some credit unions are more flexible. Call ahead to ask what they accept.
Can I open an account if I'm not a U.S. citizen?
It depends on the bank and whether you have a Social Security number or ITIN (Individual Taxpayer Identification Number). Some banks accept non-citizens with an ITIN; others require in-person verification. Online-only banks are often stricter. Call the bank's customer service line to ask before you try to open an account.
How long does it take to get a debit card after I open the account?
Usually 5 to 10 business days. Some banks offer expedited shipping for a fee. A few banks (like Chime) issue a temporary digital card you can use when ready in your phone's digital wallet while you wait for the physical card.
What happens if I give the wrong address or name when I open the account?
Contact the bank when ready and ask them to correct it. Most banks can update your name and address online through your account settings, or by calling customer service. If you can't fix it yourself, a representative can do it for you. Don't ignore it—a wrong address can cause mail and statements to go to the wrong place.