Yes, you can open most bank accounts online, but you'll need to verify who you are
Many banks and credit unions let you start an account from your computer or phone without visiting a branch. The process usually takes 10 to 20 minutes. You'll answer questions about yourself, provide a document to prove your identity, and sometimes verify your phone number or email. Some banks finish the whole thing online. Others ask you to come in later or mail in a signed form.
Not every bank offers online opening, and not every account type can be opened this way. Checking accounts are easiest. Savings accounts usually work too. Some specialty accounts — like those for children or joint accounts with specific requirements — may need a visit or a phone call instead.
Key Takeaways
- Most online bank openings take 10 to 20 minutes and require a government ID, proof of address, and your Social Security number or tax ID.
- You'll need a working email address and phone number that the bank can use to contact you and verify your identity.
- Some banks finish everything online; others ask you to mail in a signature card or visit a branch to complete the account.
- If you don't have a government ID or proof of address, call the bank directly — many have workarounds for people new to the banking system.
- Online accounts usually take one to three business days to become active, though some banks let you use them the same day.
What documents and information you'll need
Before you start, gather a government-issued ID — a driver's license, passport, state ID card, or tribal ID all work. You'll also need proof of your current address. A utility bill, lease, or recent bank statement with your name and address on it counts. If you don't have these yet, call the bank's customer service line and ask what alternatives they accept.
Have your Social Security number or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) ready. The bank needs this to report interest you earn and to check whether you have unpaid debts or fraud flags. You'll also need a working email address and phone number — the bank uses these to send you account information and to verify that you're really the person opening the account.
If you're opening a joint account with someone else, both people will need to provide their own ID, address proof, and Social Security number or ITIN. Some banks let both of you do this online at the same time; others ask the second person to come in or call.
How the online verification process works
When you start the process, the bank will ask you personal questions: your full name, date of birth, address, and phone number. Then it asks for your Social Security number or ITIN. This information goes to a verification service that checks whether you are who you say you are.
Next, you'll upload or photograph your ID and address proof. Some banks use software that reads these documents automatically. Others have a person review them. This step usually takes a few minutes, though some banks take longer if they need to check something.
Many banks then send a code to your phone or email. You type the code back into the app or website to prove you control that phone number or email address. This is called two-factor verification, and it's a security step to make sure someone else isn't opening an account pretending to be you.
When the bank might ask you to come in or mail something
If the bank can't verify you fully online — because your ID is expired, your address doesn't match their records, or the verification service flags something — they'll ask you to take another step. Some banks let you do a video call with an employee who watches you hold up your ID. Others ask you to mail in a signed form or visit a branch.
If you're opening a joint account, the bank may require both account holders to sign a signature card in person or by mail. This is less common now, but some banks and credit unions still do it.
Don't let this slow you down. Call the bank and ask what they need. Many have faster paths for people who are new to banking or who don't have standard documents. Some accept alternative ID, like a passport card, a work ID, or a letter from a government agency.
How long it takes from start to finish
If everything verifies online, your account is usually active within one to three business days. Some banks, especially online-only banks, set up accounts the same day. Others take longer because they do extra checks or because the verification service is slow.
If the bank asks you to mail something or come in, add one to two weeks for mailing time, or however long it takes you to visit a branch. Once the bank receives and processes what you sent, the account usually becomes active within a few business days.
While you wait, the bank will send you information by email: your account number, routing number, and instructions for setting up online banking and a debit card. Don't panic if you don't see money move right away. Your account exists as soon as the bank says it does, even if your debit card hasn't arrived yet.
What to do if you don't have standard documents
If you don't have a government ID, a lease, or a utility bill in your name, you're not locked out. Call the bank's main customer service number and explain your situation. Many banks have programs for people new to the formal banking system.
Some accept alternative documents: a passport card, a work ID with your photo, a letter from a social service agency, a school ID, or a tribal ID. Others accept a combination of documents that together prove who you are and where you live — for example, a utility bill plus a letter from an employer.
A few banks ask you to come in with whatever documents you have and let a teller help you. This is slower than online opening, but it works. Credit unions are sometimes more flexible than large banks, especially if you live in the community they serve.
Choosing between online-only banks and banks with branches
Online-only banks (sometimes called digital banks) have no physical locations. They open accounts fast, usually have no monthly fees, and let you manage everything on your phone. The tradeoff is that you can't walk into a branch if you have a problem. You have to call, email, or use the app.
Banks with branches let you visit in person if you need help. This is useful if you're new to banking and want to talk to someone face-to-face. Many of these banks also let you open accounts online. The downside is that they sometimes charge monthly fees, though many waive them if you keep a minimum balance or set up direct deposit.
Credit unions are member-owned and often have lower fees than big banks. Many let you open accounts online. If you don't live near a branch, some credit unions belong to shared branching networks that let you use other credit union branches for free.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a minimum deposit to open an account online?
Most banks don't require a minimum deposit to open an account. Some online banks ask for $1 or $25 to set up the account, but many ask for nothing. Check the bank's website or call before you start the process. If you're opening a savings account, some banks require a small deposit to earn interest, but you can usually add it right away.
What if I don't have a Social Security number?
If you have an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN), use that instead. If you don't have either, call the bank and ask. Some banks work with people who are explore for an ITIN or who have other tax identification. Credit unions are sometimes more flexible than large banks for this situation.
Can I open an account if I've had banking problems before?
It depends on what happened. If you owe money to a bank or have unpaid overdraft fees, that bank will likely reject you. Other banks may still open an account. Some specialize in serving people with banking history issues. Call ahead and ask, or start with a credit union in your area.
How do I know if the website is really the bank's website?
Check the web address carefully — it should match the bank's official name. Go to the bank's website by typing the address yourself or by searching the bank's name, rather than clicking a link in an email or text. Never give your Social Security number or password to someone who contacts you first.
What happens after my account is open?
The bank will send you a debit card by mail, usually within one to two weeks. You'll get online banking access right away so you can check your balance and move money. Set up a strong password and enable two-factor verification on your online account to keep it find.