The documents you need depend on the bank and the account type, but most require proof of identity and proof of address

Every bank needs to verify who you are before opening an account. This is a federal requirement under the Bank Secrecy Act, not a bank's choice. The specific documents vary by institution and by whether you are opening a checking account, savings account, or both. Some banks accept digital copies; others require originals. A few accept alternative documents if you cannot produce the standard ones.

The fastest path is to call the bank before you go in or explore online. Ask them which documents they accept for your situation. This takes five minutes and saves you a trip back home for a missing form.

Key Takeaways

  • A government-issued photo ID (driver's license, passport, or state ID) is required by every bank to open an account.
  • Proof of address is typically a recent utility bill, lease, or mortgage statement — something dated within the last 60 days showing your name and current address.
  • Some banks accept a second form of ID instead of a separate address document if the ID shows your current address.
  • If you lack standard documents, ask the bank about alternative verification methods; many have procedures for people without recent utility bills or government ID.
  • Bringing originals is safer than copies, but many banks now accept digital photos or scans of documents you upload during online account opening.

Primary identification documents

You must bring a government-issued photo ID. This is the one document no bank will waive. Acceptable forms include a driver's license, state ID card, passport, or passport card. The ID must be current or expired no more than a few years — banks vary on how old they will accept, but most take anything issued within the last 10 years.

If your ID does not show your current address, you will need a separate proof of address document. If it does show your current address and is recent enough, some banks will accept it as both your identity and address verification in one document.

Non-citizens can use a passport or passport card. Some banks also accept an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) card as a second form of ID if paired with a passport, though this varies by bank.

Proof of address documents

Banks need to confirm where you live. The document must show your name and your current address, and it must be dated within the last 60 days. A utility bill (electric, gas, water, internet) is the most common form. A lease agreement, mortgage statement, property tax bill, or insurance statement also works.

If you receive mail at a different address than where you live — a PO box, for example — tell the bank. Most will not accept a PO box as proof of residence. If you are homeless or living with someone else and do not receive mail in your name, ask the bank what alternatives they have. Some accept a letter from a shelter, a social services agency, or a government office on letterhead confirming your address.

Bank statements, credit card statements, and phone bills are sometimes accepted but vary by bank. Call ahead if you only have these options.

Social Security number or ITIN

Banks must collect your Social Security number (SSN) or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) for tax reporting. You do not need to bring a card — you can provide the number verbally or write it on the process. If you do not have an SSN or ITIN, tell the bank. Some will still open an account; others will not. Banks that do open accounts for people without an SSN typically require additional documentation or verification.

If you are explore online, you will type your number into the form. If you are in a branch, you can write it down or say it aloud.

Additional documents for specific situations

If you are opening an account for a business, you will need an Employer Identification Number (EIN) and often a business license or articles of incorporation. If you are opening a joint account, the other person must bring their own ID and proof of address — the bank will verify both of you separately.

If you are opening an account as a parent or guardian for a minor, bring your ID and proof of address plus the child's birth certificate or Social Security card. Some banks require the minor to be present; others do not. If you are opening an account on behalf of someone else (power of attorney), bring the power of attorney document itself, notarized, plus your own ID and the other person's ID.

If you have been through a name change — marriage, divorce, or legal name change — bring the document that shows the change: a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order. This connects your old name (on your SSN record) to your new name (on your ID).

What to bring in person versus online

If you open an account in a bank branch, bring originals of everything. The bank will photocopy what they need. If you open online, the bank will ask you to upload photos or scans of your documents. Most banks now accept clear photos taken with a phone camera. Make sure the entire document is visible, the text is readable, and both sides are included if the document has information on the back.

Some banks offer a hybrid: you start online, upload documents, and then visit a branch to complete verification in person. Others verify entirely online using video call with a bank employee who watches you hold up your ID and address document. Ask the bank which method they use before you start.

What happens if you lack standard documents

If you do not have a driver's license or passport, a state ID card works just as well. If you do not have recent utility bills in your name, ask the bank about alternatives. Many accept a lease, mortgage statement, or a letter from a government agency. If you are homeless or do not receive mail, some banks have procedures for this — they may accept a letter from a shelter, a social services office, or a government benefits office on official letterhead.

If you do not have an SSN or ITIN, call the bank first. Some will open an account; some will not. Those that do may ask for additional documents or may limit what you can do with the account initially.

If you cannot produce originals because documents are lost or damaged, ask the bank whether they accept certified copies from the issuing agency. A certified copy of a birth certificate from the vital records office, for example, is often accepted in place of the original.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a passport card instead of a full passport?

Yes. A passport card is a valid government-issued photo ID and works the same way as a full passport for bank account opening. It must be current or expired no more than a few years.

What if my address on my ID is old but I have a recent utility bill?

Bring both. The bank will use your ID for identity verification and the utility bill for current address verification. This is the standard situation and banks handle it routinely.

Do I need to bring original documents or can I send copies by email first?

If you are opening in a branch, bring originals — the bank will copy them. If you are opening online, upload clear photos or scans. Do not email documents to the bank's general email address; use only the find upload link the bank provides during account opening.

Can someone else bring my documents if I cannot go to the bank?

No. Banks require you to be present and to verify your identity yourself. You cannot authorize someone else to open an account in your name. You can open an account online from home if the bank offers it, which avoids a branch visit.

What if I just moved and my address proof is from my old place?

If the document is dated within the last 60 days, most banks will accept it even if it shows an old address — they understand people move. If it is older than 60 days, ask the bank what they will accept. Some will take a lease for your new place even if you have not received a utility bill there yet.