Yes, you can open most bank accounts entirely online, but the process and what you'll need depends on the bank and account type

Most banks and credit unions now let you open a checking or savings account from your computer or phone without visiting a branch. The entire process typically takes 10 to 20 minutes. You'll need a valid government ID, a Social Security number or tax ID, proof of your current address, and a way to fund the account (a debit card, another bank account, or sometimes a check).

Not every account type is available online. Some banks restrict certain products—like business accounts, trust accounts, or accounts for minors—to in-person opening. A few banks still require you to visit a branch or use a video call with a representative to verify your identity, though this is becoming less common.

The real difference between banks is speed and what happens if something goes wrong during the process. Some accounts are ready to use when ready; others hold your funds for a few days while the bank confirms your identity. If the bank's system flags your information as unusual, you may be asked to call or visit a branch to finish the process.

Key Takeaways

  • You will need a valid government ID, Social Security number, proof of address, and a way to fund the account before you start the online process.
  • Most checking and savings accounts open in 10 to 20 minutes, but some banks require a phone call or video verification to confirm your identity.
  • Your account may be ready to use when ready, or the bank may hold it for a few days while they verify your information.
  • Business accounts, accounts for minors, and some specialty products usually cannot be opened online and require a branch visit or phone call.
  • If the bank's system flags your process, you will be contacted to provide additional documents or information before the account is activated.

What documents and information you need before you start

Have these items ready before you begin the online process. A valid government-issued ID—a driver's license, passport, or state ID card—is required by every bank. The bank will ask for your full name, date of birth, and the ID number as it appears on the document.

You will also need your Social Security number or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN). Banks are required by federal law to collect this for tax reporting and fraud prevention. If you do not have a Social Security number, some banks will open an account with an ITIN instead, but options are more limited.

Proof of your current address is the third piece. A utility bill, lease, mortgage statement, or government document showing your name and address from the past 30 to 90 days usually works. Some banks will accept a recent bank statement or credit card statement instead. A few will let you skip this step if you verify your address verbally during a phone call.

Finally, you need a way to fund the account. Most banks let you transfer money from another bank account (you will need the routing number and account number), deposit a check by photo, or use a debit card. Some online-only banks require a minimum deposit of $25 to $100 to open the account.

How the online opening process actually works

The process starts on the bank's website or app. You will enter your personal information—name, date of birth, address, phone number, and email. The bank will then ask you to upload or photograph your ID. Most banks use automated software to read the ID and pull the information directly, which speeds up the process.

Next, you will verify your identity. Some banks do this when ready through a database check; others ask you to answer security questions based on your credit history. A few require a video call with a representative who watches you hold your ID and take a selfie. This step usually takes 5 to 10 minutes.

After identity verification, you will choose your account type (checking, savings, or both), set up a PIN or password, and decide how to fund the account. If you are transferring money from another bank, you will enter that account's routing and account numbers. If you are depositing a check, you will photograph the front and back. If you are using a debit card, you will enter the card number and expiration date.

Once you submit everything, the bank will either open your account when ready or tell you it needs to review your information. If there are no red flags, you will receive a confirmation email within minutes and can start using your account right away. If the bank needs more information, you will be contacted by phone or email with instructions on what to provide.

When the bank will ask you to call or visit in person

Some applications trigger a manual review. This happens most often when the bank's system detects something unusual—a name mismatch between your ID and your credit report, an address that does not match your ID, or a pattern that resembles fraud. It does not mean you did anything wrong; it means the bank needs to confirm the information directly.

You will be contacted by phone or email and asked to provide additional documents. Common requests include a recent utility bill, a lease, a pay stub, or a bank statement. You can usually send these by uploading them to your account or emailing them to the bank. The review typically takes 1 to 3 business days.

A few banks require a phone call or video verification for all new accounts, regardless of red flags. This is less common now, but some credit unions and smaller regional banks still do this. If your bank requires it, you will be told during the online process and given a phone number to call or a link to schedule a video appointment.

If you cannot complete the process online—for example, if you do not have a government ID or if the bank's system repeatedly rejects your information—you will need to visit a branch in person. Bring your ID, Social Security card or ITIN documentation, proof of address, and the money you want to deposit.

How long it takes before you can use your account

If everything goes smoothly, your account is ready to use within minutes to a few hours. You will receive a confirmation email with your account number, and you can log in to the bank's app or website to see your account details. Some banks let you set up direct deposit or start transferring money when ready; others wait until the next business day.

If the bank needs to verify additional information, the timeline stretches to 1 to 3 business days. You will be contacted with what they need, and once you provide it, the review usually takes 24 to 48 hours. During this time, your account exists but you may not be able to use it yet.

Debit cards and checks take longer. A physical debit card usually arrives in 7 to 10 business days. Some banks offer a temporary digital card you can use when ready in the app for online purchases and contactless payments. Checks typically arrive 5 to 7 business days after the card.

If you need money in your account right away, ask the bank about temporary solutions. Some offer a digital wallet or allow you to use your account number for direct deposit before your debit card arrives. A few let you pick up a temporary card at a branch.

What happens if you do not have a government ID

Most banks require a government-issued ID and will not open an account without one. However, a few options exist if you do not have a driver's license or passport. Some banks will accept a state ID card, tribal ID, or passport card. A few credit unions accept other forms of ID, like a military ID or a consular ID.

If you do not have any government ID, you will need to visit a branch in person. Bring whatever ID you do have—a school ID, work ID, or state-issued document—along with proof of address and your Social Security number or ITIN. The branch staff can decide whether to open the account based on what you provide.

Getting a government ID takes time. A state ID card usually takes 2 to 4 weeks to arrive; a passport takes 6 to 8 weeks (or 2 to 3 weeks if you pay for expedited processing). If you need a bank account before then, visiting a branch with whatever ID you have is your fastest option.

Online-only banks versus traditional banks with branches

Online-only banks (like Ally, Charles Schwab, or Discover) open accounts faster because they have no branches and no manual review process. Most accounts are ready in minutes. They typically have no monthly fees, no minimum balance requirements, and higher interest rates on savings accounts. The tradeoff is that you cannot deposit cash or visit a physical location if something goes wrong.

Traditional banks with branches (like Bank of America, Wells Fargo, or Chase) let you open accounts online, but some require a phone call or branch visit to verify your identity. They offer the advantage of in-person support and the ability to deposit cash at a branch. Many charge monthly fees unless you maintain a minimum balance or set up direct deposit.

Credit unions often have stricter identity verification requirements and may require a phone call or video appointment. However, they usually have lower fees and better customer service. Some credit unions are part of shared branching networks, which means you can visit other credit union branches to deposit cash or withdraw money.

Choose based on what matters to you: speed and low fees (online-only banks), in-person support and cash deposits (traditional banks), or community focus and shared services (credit unions).

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I open a bank account online if I do not have a Social Security number?

Some banks will open an account with an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) instead. However, options are limited, and you may need to visit a branch or call to complete the process. Credit unions are sometimes more flexible than large banks. Call ahead to confirm the bank accepts ITINs before you start the online process.

What if the bank rejects my process during the online process?

The bank will tell you why—usually a mismatch in your information, a problem with your ID, or a fraud flag. You will be given the option to provide additional documents or call to resolve the issue. If the bank will not budge, you can try a different bank or visit a branch in person with your original documents.

Can I open an account for my child online?

Most banks do not allow online opening of accounts for minors. You will need to visit a branch with your child, their birth certificate or ID, and your ID. Some banks offer teen accounts online if a parent already has an account with them; check with your bank first.

Do I need to have money in my account right away to open it?

Most banks require a minimum deposit to open the account, usually $25 to $100. Some online-only banks have no minimum. If you do not have money to deposit when ready, check the bank's requirements before you start the process.

How do I know if my online process was successful?

You will receive a confirmation email with your account number and instructions on how to log in. If you do not receive an email within a few hours, log in to the bank's website or app and check your account status. If the account is not there, call the bank to find out what happened.