What you need before you walk in or go online

Most banks will ask for a government-issued photo ID, proof of your current address, and your Social Security number or ITIN (Individual Taxpayer Identification Number). Some banks also want to see a second form of ID — a passport, military ID, or state ID card all work. If you don't have a current address yet, a recent utility bill, lease, or mail from a government agency with your name on it counts as proof.

You'll also need to decide how much money you want to put in when you open the account. Many banks have no minimum deposit requirement anymore, but some still do — usually between $25 and $300. A few banks waive the minimum if you set up direct deposit of your paycheck. Check the specific bank's website or call ahead to know what they expect.

If you're opening an account for a child, you'll need to be the parent or legal guardian and bring their birth certificate or Social Security card along with your own ID and proof of address.

Key Takeaways

  • You need a government photo ID, proof of your address, and your Social Security number or ITIN to open an account at any bank.
  • Many banks no longer require a minimum deposit, but some still do — call or check online before you go in.
  • You can open an account in person at a branch, online through the bank's website, or by phone with some banks.
  • The whole process usually takes 15 minutes in person or 10 to 20 minutes online, and your account is ready to use the same day or within one business day.
  • If a bank denies you, ChexSystems or Early Warning Services may have flagged your banking history — you can request a free report to see why.

Opening an account in person at a branch

Walk into any branch of the bank you've chosen during business hours. Tell the person at the desk or the teller that you want to open a new account. They'll take you to a banker or account representative who will ask you questions about what type of account you want — checking, savings, or both — and whether you want online banking and a debit card.

Bring your ID, proof of address, and Social Security number or ITIN. The banker will verify your information, run a background check through ChexSystems (a banking history database), and then set up your account. You'll sign paperwork, choose a PIN for your debit card if you're getting one, and decide on online banking settings. The whole thing takes about 15 minutes. Your account is active the same day, and your debit card arrives by mail in 7 to 10 business days.

If you want to deposit cash or a check right away, you can do that before you leave. Some banks let you use a temporary debit card number online while you wait for the physical card.

Opening an account online

Go to the bank's website and look for a button that says "Open an Account" or "New Customer." You'll answer questions about the account type, your personal information, and your address. Upload a photo of your ID — most banks accept a driver's license, passport, or state ID. Some banks also ask you to take a selfie to match against your ID photo.

The bank will verify your Social Security number or ITIN through a third-party service and run the same ChexSystems background check. This usually takes 10 to 20 minutes. Once you're approved, your account is open and you can log in to online banking right away. You can transfer money in from another bank account, or wait for your debit card to arrive by mail.

A few banks let you start using a temporary debit card number for online purchases before the physical card shows up. Others require you to wait for the card or use a mobile wallet like Apple Pay or Google Pay once your account is set up.

What happens if the bank says no

Banks use ChexSystems or Early Warning Services to check your banking history. If you've had accounts closed due to overdrafts you didn't pay back, fraud, or too many returned checks, the bank may deny you. You have the right to a free copy of your ChexSystems report — go to chexsystems.com and request it, or call 1-800-428-9623. Early Warning Services reports are available at early-warning.com or 1-866-656-4444.

If there's an error on your report, you can dispute it directly with ChexSystems or Early Warning. If the report is accurate but you want another chance, some banks offer second-chance accounts designed for people with banking history issues. These accounts usually come with lower limits on debit card purchases and monthly fees, but they're a real way back into the banking system. Credit unions often have looser requirements than big banks.

You can also try a bank that doesn't use ChexSystems — a few smaller regional banks and some online banks skip the check entirely. Call ahead and ask whether they pull ChexSystems before you explore.

Choosing between checking and savings

A checking account is for money you spend regularly. You get a debit card, checks, and online bill pay. Most checking accounts have no monthly fee if you keep a small balance or set up direct deposit. A savings account is for money you're keeping — it earns a tiny bit of interest and usually has limits on how many times per month you can withdraw.

Many people open both at the same time. The checking account is where your paycheck lands and where you pay bills. The savings account is where you move money you want to keep. Some banks bundle them together and charge one monthly fee for both; others charge separately or charge nothing.

If you're just starting out, ask the banker or look on the bank's website for accounts with no monthly fee and no minimum balance. These exist at most major banks and credit unions. Once you understand how banking works, you can move to a different account type if you want higher interest on savings or more features.

Setting up online banking and security

When you open your account, the bank will ask whether you want online banking. Say yes. You'll create a username and password — make the password something you can remember but others can't guess. Write it down somewhere safe, not on a sticky note on your monitor.

Most banks now offer two-factor authentication, which means they'll text you a code or send it to an app every time you log in from a new device. Turn this on. It takes an extra 30 seconds but stops someone from logging into your account even if they know your password.

Once you're logged in, you can see your balance, transfer money between your own accounts, set up bill pay, and read statements. You can also set up alerts so the bank texts or emails you if your balance drops below a certain amount or if a large purchase goes through.

Getting your debit card and starting to use your account

Your debit card arrives by mail in 7 to 10 business days. When it comes, call the number on the back or use the bank's app to set up it. You'll be asked to verify your identity and set a PIN — a four-digit number you use at ATMs and sometimes in stores.

Once it's activated, you can use it anywhere Visa or Mastercard is accepted. You can also use it to withdraw cash from ATMs. If your bank is part of a network like Allpoint or MoneyPass, you can use thousands of ATMs nationwide for free. If you use an ATM outside the network, you'll usually pay $2 to $3 per withdrawal.

Keep your PIN private. Don't write it on the card or tell anyone. If your card is lost or stolen, call the bank when ready — they'll cancel it and send you a new one, usually within 5 to 7 business days. You're not responsible for fraudulent charges if you report the card missing before someone uses it.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a job or paycheck to open a bank account?

No. Banks don't require proof of employment or income. You just need ID, proof of address, and your Social Security number or ITIN. You can open an account with no money in it, though some banks ask for a small deposit.

Can I open an account if I don't have a Social Security number?

Yes, if you have an ITIN (Individual Taxpayer Identification Number). You can get an ITIN from the IRS even if you're not a U.S. citizen. Some banks also accept a passport number instead. Call the bank ahead of time to ask what they accept.

What if I don't have a permanent address?

Some banks accept a shelter address, a PO box, or even a friend's address as long as you can receive mail there. A few banks let you use a temporary address and update it later. Call ahead — requirements vary by bank.

How long does it take to get my debit card?

The card arrives by mail in 7 to 10 business days. Some banks offer a temporary card number you can use online right away. A few banks let you pick up a card at a branch the same day you open the account.

What if I make a mistake on my process?

Call the bank as soon as you notice it. They can usually update your information before the account is fully set up. If the account is already open, you can change your address, phone number, and email through online banking or by visiting a branch.