What you need before you walk in

Most banks will open an account for you in one visit if you bring the right documents. You need a government-issued photo ID — a driver's license, passport, or state ID card — and proof of your current address. A utility bill, lease, or recent bank statement with your name and address on it works for the address proof. Some banks also ask for a second form of ID, like a Social Security card or birth certificate, though this varies by bank and by state.

If you don't have a photo ID yet, you'll need to get one first. That's a separate process through your state's DMV or your country's passport office. If you don't have a Social Security number, you can still open an account at most banks — they'll use an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) instead, though you may face higher fees or account restrictions.

Bring the originals, not copies. Banks verify these documents in person and won't accept photocopies. If your address on your ID doesn't match your current address, bring both the ID and a separate proof of your current address.

Key Takeaways

  • You need a government photo ID and proof of your current address to open an account; most banks complete this in one visit.
  • Different account types — checking, savings, money market — have different minimum balances and fee structures, so ask what each costs before you choose.
  • Banks run a background check through ChexSystems, which flags accounts closed for fraud or unpaid overdrafts; if you're flagged, some banks still open accounts for you.
  • You can open an account online with some banks, but you'll still need to verify your identity, usually by uploading photos of your documents or visiting a branch.
  • Once your account is open, you can set up direct deposit, request a debit card, and link external accounts — but these take a few days to set up.

Choosing between checking, savings, and other account types

A checking account is designed for regular spending. You get a debit card and checks, and you can make unlimited deposits and withdrawals. Most checking accounts have no minimum balance requirement, though some banks charge a monthly fee ($5 to $15 is common) if you don't maintain a certain balance or set up direct deposit. A few banks offer free checking with no strings attached.

A savings account is meant for money you're not spending right away. Banks pay you interest on the balance, though the rate is usually very low (currently 0.01% to 5% depending on the bank and account type). Savings accounts typically limit you to six withdrawals per month, though this rule is enforced loosely now. Minimum balances vary widely — some banks require $100, others require $25,000.

A money market account is a hybrid: it pays interest like a savings account but lets you write checks and use a debit card like a checking account. The tradeoff is a higher minimum balance (often $2,500 or more) and lower interest rates than a dedicated savings account.

Ask the bank what each account type costs, what the interest rate is, and what the minimum balance is. These details change by bank and sometimes by branch, so don't assume two banks offer the same terms.

What happens during the account-opening process

When you arrive at the bank with your documents, a banker will ask you to fill out an account process. This form asks for your name, address, date of birth, Social Security number (or ITIN), and employment information. You'll also choose which account type you want and decide whether to link any external accounts.

The bank then runs a background check through ChexSystems, a database that tracks accounts closed for fraud, unpaid overdrafts, or other problems. If you've had accounts closed for these reasons, ChexSystems will flag you. This doesn't automatically disqualify you — many banks will still open an account for you, though some may require a higher minimum balance or charge higher fees. A few banks, like Chime and LendingClub, specialize in opening accounts for people flagged by ChexSystems.

If everything clears, the bank will fund your account (usually with a $0 opening deposit) and give you temporary access. Your debit card arrives by mail in 7 to 10 business days. Checks take 1 to 2 weeks. If you need to withdraw money before your card arrives, you can use your account number and routing number at any ATM in the bank's network.

Opening an account online versus in person

Many banks let you start the account-opening process on their website. You'll enter your personal information, upload photos of your ID and proof of address, and choose your account type. The bank then verifies your identity — some do this when ready through software that reads your documents, others ask you to video call with a banker, and some require you to visit a branch in person to finish.

Online accounts are faster if the bank can verify you when ready. You can start using the account within hours, and your debit card ships the same day. However, if the bank can't verify you automatically, you'll be asked to visit a branch anyway, which defeats the speed advantage.

In-person accounts take longer on the day you open them (plan for 30 to 45 minutes) but are simpler — the banker handles verification on the spot and you walk out with temporary access. This is the better choice if you're uncomfortable uploading documents online or if you want to ask questions about fees and features in real time.

Setting up direct deposit and linking other accounts

Once your account is open, you can set up direct deposit so your paycheck goes straight to your new account. You'll need to give your employer your account number and the bank's routing number. Direct deposit usually takes one to two pay periods to set up — your first deposit may still go to your old account.

You can also link external accounts — savings accounts at other banks, investment accounts, or payment apps like PayPal. This lets you transfer money between accounts without visiting an ATM or writing a check. Linking takes 1 to 3 business days, and some banks require you to verify the link by making two small test deposits and confirming the amounts.

Don't link accounts until you're sure you want to. Each link creates a record, and removing a link can take several days. If you're moving money to pay off debt or for a specific goal, set up the link only when you're ready to transfer.

What to do if the bank denies your account

Banks can deny an account if ChexSystems flags you for fraud, if you have an outstanding debt to a bank, or if you can't verify your identity. If this happens, ask the bank why. They're required to tell you, and the reason matters — it determines what you can do next.

If you were flagged for unpaid overdrafts, you may be able to pay the debt and have the flag removed. If you were flagged for fraud, the flag usually stays for five years, but some banks will still open an account for you anyway. If you can't verify your identity, bring additional documents — a birth certificate, utility bill, or letter from your employer — and try again.

If a traditional bank won't open an account for you, look into second-chance banking programs. These are accounts designed for people with ChexSystems flags or no banking history. They often have higher fees and lower limits on daily withdrawals, but they're a real option. Credit unions sometimes offer second-chance accounts too, and their requirements are often less strict than banks.

Fees and minimum balances to watch for

Banks make money from account fees. The most common are monthly maintenance fees ($5 to $15), overdraft fees ($25 to $35 per transaction), and ATM fees ($2 to $3 if you use an out-of-network ATM). Some banks waive the monthly fee if you maintain a minimum balance, set up direct deposit, or keep a linked savings account open.

Overdraft fees are the biggest trap. If you spend more than you have, the bank covers the difference and charges you a fee. You can opt out of overdraft coverage — if you do, transactions that would overdraw your account are straightforward declined instead. This is usually free and protects you from surprise fees, though it means your card may be rejected at the register.

Read the fee schedule before you open the account. Banks are required to give you this in writing, and it's usually on their website. Compare fees across at least two banks — the difference can be $100 or more per year.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I open a bank account without a Social Security number?

Yes. You can use an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) instead. You'll need to bring the ITIN letter from the IRS along with your other documents. Some banks charge higher fees for ITIN accounts or restrict certain features, so call ahead and ask.

What if I don't have a current address to prove?

If you're homeless or living temporarily, bring a letter from a shelter, social services agency, or trusted person confirming your current address. Some banks accept mail from government agencies sent to a general delivery address at the post office. Call the bank first and ask what they'll accept — policies vary.

How long does it take to get my debit card after I open the account?

Standard delivery takes 7 to 10 business days. Some banks offer expedited shipping for a fee ($10 to $25). If you need cash when ready, use your account number and routing number at any ATM in the bank's network, or ask the banker for a temporary card you can use right away.

Can I open an account if I'm under 18?

Most banks require you to be 18 or older to open an account alone. If you're younger, a parent or guardian can open a custodial account in your name. You'll both need to be present with ID. Once you turn 18, the account becomes yours and the adult's name comes off.

What happens if I never use the account?

Banks can close inactive accounts after 12 months with no deposits or withdrawals. Before they close it, they'll try to contact you. If they close your account, any remaining balance is yours — they'll send it to you by check or hold it until you claim it. The closure may show up on ChexSystems, which could affect future accounts.