The documents and information you'll need before you walk in

To open a bank account, you need a government-issued photo ID, proof of your current address, and your Social Security number or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN). Most banks also ask for an initial deposit, though the amount varies—some require $25, others $100 or more, and a few have no minimum. That's the core list. What else you bring depends on the bank, whether you're opening in person or online, and whether you already have a relationship with that bank.

The ID requirement is non-negotiable. Banks use it to verify you are who you say you are and to check you against fraud databases. A driver's license, passport, state ID card, or military ID all work. If you don't have a photo ID yet, you'll need to get one from your state's DMV or equivalent before the bank will open your account.

Proof of address can be a utility bill, lease, mortgage statement, or government mail with your name and current address. It usually has to be dated within the last 60 days. If you're homeless or living with someone else, some banks accept a letter from a shelter, social services agency, or the person you're staying with—call ahead to ask what they'll take.

Key Takeaways

  • You must bring a government-issued photo ID, proof of current address, and your Social Security number or ITIN to open an account in person.
  • Most banks require an initial deposit to open, ranging from zero to several hundred dollars depending on the account type and bank.
  • Online accounts often need less documentation upfront but may ask for additional verification by mail or video call later.
  • If you don't have a Social Security number, an ITIN from the IRS works at most banks, though some have restrictions on ITIN accounts.
  • Bring a second form of ID or contact information if you have it—it speeds up the process and helps if there are questions about your identity.

What happens if you don't have a Social Security number

If you're not a U.S. citizen or don't yet have a Social Security number, you can use an ITIN—a nine-digit number the IRS issues for tax purposes. You can request one from the IRS even if you don't work. Some banks treat ITIN accounts the same as Social Security accounts. Others limit them: they may not offer certain features, may require a higher deposit, or may not open them at all.

Before you go to the bank, call and ask whether they open accounts for ITIN holders and what documents they need. If your local bank won't, credit unions and some online banks are more likely to. You'll still need your ITIN letter from the IRS, a photo ID, and proof of address.

The difference between opening in person and online

In-person accounts at a branch require everything listed above, handed over at the desk. The banker verifies your ID on the spot, takes a copy of your address proof, and you can deposit money when ready. The whole process usually takes 15 to 30 minutes.

Online accounts ask for the same information but you upload photos of your documents instead. Most online banks also require a video call where you hold up your ID to the camera so they can confirm it matches your face. Some skip the video call if you're opening with a debit card or if you already bank with their parent company. The timeline is longer—approval can take a few days to a week—because the bank is verifying documents remotely.

Online accounts often have lower or no minimum deposits, which makes them useful if you're short on cash. But you can't deposit physical checks or cash at a branch, so you'll need to use mobile check deposit, transfers from another account, or direct deposit to fund it.

What to bring if you're opening a joint account

If two people are opening an account together, both of you need to be present (in person) or both need to complete the online verification process. Each person brings their own photo ID, proof of address, and Social Security number or ITIN. The bank will verify both identities before the account opens.

Some banks let one person open the account and add the other person later, but that's a separate process and may take longer. It's faster to do it together from the start if you can.

Initial deposits and account minimums

The amount you need to deposit when you open varies by account type and bank. A basic checking account at a large bank might require $25 to $100. Savings accounts sometimes have higher minimums, from $100 to $500. Some online banks and credit unions have no minimum at all.

You can usually make this deposit by cash, check, or transfer from another account. If you're opening online, you'll transfer money from an existing account—you can't hand cash to a computer. If you don't have another account to transfer from, open in person so you can deposit cash or a check directly.

What you don't need but might help

You don't need a job, a credit history, or a certain amount of money in savings. Banks don't check your credit to open a checking or savings account. They do check ChexSystems, a database of banking history, to see if you've had accounts closed for fraud or unpaid overdrafts at other banks. If you have a record there, some banks will still open an account for you, but others won't—it depends on the bank's policy.

Bringing a second form of ID or a phone number where the bank can reach you speeds things up. If there's any question about your identity or address, having extra information on hand means you don't have to come back later.

What to do if you're missing a document

If you don't have a photo ID, get one before you try to open an account. Your state's DMV can issue a non-driver ID card, and the process usually takes a few weeks. A passport works too, though it costs more and takes longer to get.

If you don't have proof of address, ask the bank what they'll accept. Some take a bank statement from another account, a phone bill, or a letter from a government agency. If you're homeless, bring a letter from a shelter or social services agency on their letterhead. If you're living with family and have no mail in your name, some banks accept a notarized letter from the person whose name is on the lease or utility bill, stating that you live there.

If you're missing your Social Security card itself, that's fine—you just need to know your number. If you don't know your number, contact the Social Security Administration to request a replacement card or a letter with your number on it.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I open an account without a Social Security number?

Yes, if you have an ITIN from the IRS. Some banks restrict ITIN accounts or don't offer them at all, so call ahead. Credit unions and online banks are often more flexible than large national banks.

Do I need to bring the original documents or can I bring copies?

In person, bring originals—the banker needs to see them to verify they're real. Online, you upload photos or scans of the documents. The bank may ask you to mail in originals later for their records, but that's not always required.

What if I don't have a current address or I'm homeless?

Bring a letter from a shelter, social services agency, or the person you're staying with on their letterhead, stating your current living situation. Call the bank first to confirm they'll take it—policies vary.

How long does it take to open an account?

In person, 15 to 30 minutes. Online, a few days to a week for verification and approval. Some online banks are faster if you're opening with a debit card or if you already have an account with their parent company.

Can I open an account if I've had problems at another bank?

It depends. Banks check ChexSystems for fraud or unpaid overdrafts. Some banks will still open an account for you despite a record there; others won't. Call ahead and ask about their policy for applicants with banking history issues.