Yes, you can open your first bank account online, but you'll need to prove who you are

Many banks now let you open a checking or savings account entirely online without visiting a branch. You can do this from your phone or computer, and the whole process often takes 10 to 15 minutes. However, online banks still need to verify your identity before they'll let you deposit money — they're required by federal law to do this.

The catch is that online verification works differently depending on which bank you choose and what documents you have. Some banks use video calls where you show your ID to a person or camera. Others use when ready verification systems that check your information against databases. A few still require you to mail in documents or visit a branch at some point, even though most of the process happens online.

The easiest path is usually a bank that offers online account opening with when ready verification — meaning they can confirm who you are right away using information you already have, like your Social Security number and driver's license number. This is different from banks that require a video call or a mailed document, which add extra steps.

Key Takeaways

  • Most major banks and online-only banks let you start an account on their website or app, but they must verify your identity before you can use it.
  • when ready verification (checking your information against existing databases) is the fastest method and works if you have a Social Security number and a state ID or driver's license.
  • Video verification requires you to show your ID on camera to a bank employee or automated system, and usually takes a few minutes during business hours.
  • If you don't have a state ID or driver's license, you may need to mail documents or visit a branch, even if the bank advertises online opening.
  • You'll need a valid email address and phone number to start, plus proof of your current address (a utility bill, lease, or bank statement usually works).

What documents and information you'll need before you start

Have these items ready before you begin the online process. You'll need your Social Security number, which is a nine-digit number the government assigns to you. If you don't have one, you cannot open an account online — you'll need to visit a branch in person.

You'll also need a valid government-issued ID. For most people this means a state driver's license or state ID card. A passport works too. The ID must not be expired, and the bank will ask for the number printed on it.

Finally, you'll need proof of your current address. This is usually a utility bill (electric, gas, water, or internet), a lease agreement, or a recent bank statement with your name and address on it. The document typically needs to be from the last 60 days. A piece of mail from your bank, insurance company, or government agency also works at most banks.

How when ready verification works and why it's the fastest option

when ready verification is a system where the bank checks your information against databases they have access to — things like credit bureaus, the Social Security Administration, and state ID records. You enter your Social Security number, date of birth, and address, and the system checks whether that combination matches what's already on file. If it does, you're verified when ready.

This method works best if you've had a credit card, loan, or previous bank account, because those create records the system can check against. If you're opening your first account ever and have no credit history, when ready verification may not work, and the bank will ask you to use video verification instead.

The advantage is speed — you can finish the whole process in 10 minutes and start using your account the same day. The disadvantage is that it only works if the bank's verification system recognizes you, which depends on your financial history.

Video verification: what happens during the call

If when ready verification doesn't work, many banks offer video verification. You'll schedule a short video call with a bank employee or use an automated video system. During the call, you'll show your ID to the camera, and the person or system will check that the photo matches your face and that the ID is real.

This usually takes 5 to 10 minutes. Some banks do this during business hours only (typically 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. on weekdays), while others offer it 24/7 through automated systems. You'll need a device with a camera — a smartphone, tablet, or computer — and decent lighting so the ID is readable.

After the call, the bank usually verifies you within a few minutes to a few hours. You'll get an email or text confirming that your account is open and ready to use. Video verification is more reliable than when ready verification if you're new to the financial system, because it doesn't depend on existing records.

When you'll still need to visit a branch or mail documents

Some situations require you to complete part of the process offline, even if the bank advertises online opening. If you don't have a state ID or driver's license — for example, if you only have a passport or a tribal ID — some banks will ask you to mail in a copy of your ID or visit a branch to verify it in person.

If you're opening an account for a minor (someone under 18), most banks require a parent or guardian to come to a branch or complete a video call with the minor present. A few online banks have systems for this, but it's not standard.

If you can't pass when ready verification and the bank doesn't offer video verification, they may ask you to mail in copies of your ID and proof of address. This adds 1 to 2 weeks to the process. Before you start, check the bank's website for their specific requirements — they usually list what happens if when ready verification doesn't work.

Which banks offer fully online account opening

Large national banks like Chase, Bank of America, and Wells Fargo let you open accounts online with video verification. Online-only banks like Ally, Charles Schwab Bank, and Chime are built around online opening and often have faster verification systems. Credit unions vary — some offer online opening, others require you to visit a branch or mail documents.

The fastest experience is usually with online-only banks, because their entire system is designed for remote verification. National banks often have the same verification options but may have longer wait times during busy hours.

Before you choose a bank, visit their website and look for a section called "Open an Account" or "get your free guide." This will show you exactly what verification method they use and what documents they need. If the website doesn't clearly explain the process, call their customer service number — they can tell you whether when ready verification will work for you before you start.

What happens after your account is verified

Once you're verified, the bank will send you a confirmation email with your account number and routing number. You can usually start using your account right away through their app or website, even if your debit card hasn't arrived yet.

If you need to deposit money when ready, you can use mobile check deposit (taking a photo of a check through the app) or set up a direct deposit from your employer. Some banks let you transfer money from another account you own. You won't be able to use the debit card until it arrives in the mail, which usually takes 5 to 10 business days.

If the bank needs additional information after you open the account — for example, to verify your address or employment — they'll contact you by email or phone. Respond to these requests quickly, because your account may be limited until they confirm everything.

Frequently Asked Questions

What if I don't have a Social Security number?

You cannot open a bank account online without one. You'll need to visit a branch in person. Some banks may accept an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) instead, but this is rare — call ahead to ask. If you're working toward getting a Social Security number, contact your local Social Security office for the process process.

Can I open an account if I'm not a U.S. citizen?

Yes, if you have a Social Security number or ITIN and a valid ID. Some banks are stricter than others about who they'll accept. Online-only banks sometimes have fewer restrictions than large national banks. You may need to visit a branch or provide additional documents proving your immigration status.

What if when ready verification fails — does that mean I'm rejected?

No. It just means the bank's system couldn't match your information to existing records. You'll be offered video verification or asked to mail documents instead. Failing when ready verification does not hurt your credit or mean the bank thinks you're ineligible.

Do I need a credit card or existing bank account to open an account online?

No, but having one makes when ready verification more likely to work. If you're opening your first account ever, video verification is a normal alternative and works just as well — it just takes a few extra minutes.

Can I open multiple accounts at the same bank online?

Yes. Once your first account is verified, you can usually open additional accounts (like a savings account) through the app or website without going through the full verification process again.