Yes, you can open most bank accounts entirely online
Many banks and credit unions let you open a checking or savings account without visiting a branch. You can do it from your computer or phone, and the whole process usually takes 10 to 20 minutes. You'll need a few documents and some basic information, but you won't need to sit across from anyone at a desk.
Not every bank offers online account opening, and some have restrictions based on where you live or what type of account you want. But the major national banks — Chase, Bank of America, Wells Fargo, Citibank — all do. Many smaller banks and most credit unions do too. The real question isn't whether it's possible, but whether the bank you're interested in supports it.
Key Takeaways
- Most national banks and credit unions let you open a checking or savings account online without visiting a branch in person.
- You will need a government-issued ID, a Social Security number or tax ID, and proof of your current address to complete the process.
- The bank will check your banking history through ChexSystems or a similar service, which takes a few minutes and happens automatically during signup.
- Your account is usually ready to use the same day or within one business day, though some banks take up to five business days to fully set up it.
- If you don't have the documents the bank asks for, you may need to visit a branch or choose a different bank that has fewer requirements.
What documents and information you'll need
The bank will ask for your name, address, phone number, and email. They'll also ask for your Social Security number (or an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number if you don't have a Social Security number). Have this information ready before you start — you can't save and come back later on most banks' websites.
You'll need to prove who you are with a government-issued ID. A driver's license, state ID card, or passport all work. The bank will ask you to take a photo of it or upload an image file. Some banks use video verification instead — they'll ask you to show your ID to your camera while you're on the site, and a person or automated system will check it.
You'll also need to prove where you live. A recent utility bill, lease, mortgage statement, or government document with your current address usually works. The bank will tell you what they accept. If you don't have any of these, ask the bank what alternatives they allow — some will accept a bank statement or a letter from a government agency.
How the bank checks your history
During signup, the bank will run a check on your banking history through a service called ChexSystems or Early Warning Services. These are not credit checks. They're databases that track whether you've had problems with bank accounts in the past — things like overdrafts you didn't pay back, accounts closed because of fraud, or repeated bounced checks.
This check happens automatically and takes just a few minutes. You don't have to do anything. The bank will tell you right away whether you've been approved. If you've had serious problems with a bank account before, the bank might decline you or offer you a different type of account with more restrictions.
If you're worried about your history, you can check your own ChexSystems report for free before you explore. Visit chexsystems.com and look for the link to request your report. It takes a few days to arrive. Knowing what's in there means you won't be surprised if a bank turns you down.
The step-by-step process
Start by going to the bank's website and looking for a button that says "Open an Account" or "Sign Up." Click it and choose the type of account you want — usually checking, savings, or both. The bank will ask you basic questions: your name, date of birth, address, phone number, and email.
Next, you'll enter your Social Security number and answer security questions. The bank uses these to verify your identity. Then you'll upload or photograph your ID and proof of address. Make sure the images are clear and show all four corners of the document. If the photo is blurry or cut off, the bank will ask you to try again.
Some banks will ask you to verify your identity through a video call. You'll show your ID to your camera, and the bank will confirm it matches your face. This usually takes two to three minutes. After that, you'll review the account terms, agree to them, and submit. The bank will tell you whether you're approved when ready or within a few hours.
When your account is ready to use
Most banks set up your account the same day you open it. You can log in right away and see your account number. However, some banks take up to five business days to fully set up the account, especially if they need to mail you a debit card first.
You can usually start using your account for direct deposits and transfers before your debit card arrives. If you need to deposit cash or checks, you may have to wait for the card or use your bank's mobile app to deposit a check by photograph. Ask the bank what you can do while you're waiting for your card.
Your debit card will arrive by mail within 7 to 10 business days. Some banks offer rush delivery for a fee, or they'll let you pick up a card at a branch if you visit in person.
Banks that don't offer online account opening
Some smaller banks and credit unions require you to open an account in person at a branch. This is less common than it used to be, but it still happens. If the bank you want doesn't offer online opening, you have two choices: visit a branch, or choose a different bank.
If you're set on a particular bank, call them and ask whether they offer online account opening. If they don't, ask what documents you need to bring to a branch and whether you can make an appointment. Some branches are busier than others, and an appointment means you won't wait.
If you don't have a branch nearby, ask whether the bank will let you open an account by mail. A few banks will send you forms to sign and return, though this is slower than opening online or in person.
What to do if you don't have the required documents
If you don't have a government-issued ID, you have limited options. Some banks will accept a passport card, tribal ID, or military ID. A few will accept a state ID that's expired if it's recent enough. Call the bank and ask what they'll take.
If you don't have a Social Security number, you can use an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) instead. You'll need to explore for one through the IRS if you don't have one already. The process takes several weeks, so plan ahead.
If you can't prove your address because you're homeless or living with someone else, some banks will accept mail from a government agency, a shelter, or a social services organization. Others will let you use a PO box or a friend's address temporarily. Call the bank and explain your situation — they may have options you don't know about.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a minimum deposit to open an account online?
Most banks don't require a deposit to open an account online. You can open it with zero dollars and add money later. Some banks offer higher interest rates if you maintain a minimum balance, but that's different from requiring a deposit upfront. Check the bank's website to see what they require.
Can I open an account if I'm not a U.S. citizen?
Yes, but you'll need an ITIN instead of a Social Security number, and you'll need a valid government-issued ID. Some banks are stricter about this than others. Call ahead and ask what documents they need. Credit unions are sometimes more flexible than large national banks.
What if the bank rejects me during online signup?
The bank will tell you why — usually because of your ChexSystems history or because you couldn't verify your identity. If it's a ChexSystems issue, you can try a different bank, or ask the first bank whether they offer a second-chance account with restrictions. If it's an identity verification problem, visit a branch in person and bring your original documents.
Can I open an account on my phone?
Yes. Most banks have mobile apps that let you open an account the same way you would on a computer. The process is identical — you'll upload photos of your ID and proof of address through the app. Make sure you have good lighting when you take the photos so they're clear enough for the bank to read.
How long does it take to get my debit card after opening online?
Usually 7 to 10 business days. Some banks offer expedited shipping for a fee, which can get it to you in 3 to 5 days. You can start using your account for transfers and direct deposits before the card arrives. Ask the bank what you can do while you're waiting.