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

Every bank has its own list, but the core set is almost always the same: a government-issued photo ID, proof of your current address, and your Social Security number or tax ID. Some banks add a second form of ID or ask for proof of income. A few ask for nothing but your ID and SSN. The fastest way to know what a specific bank wants is to call their customer service line or walk into a branch — they can tell you in five minutes whether you have what you need.

The documents listed below cover what most mainstream banks ask for. Credit unions and online-only banks sometimes have shorter lists. Banks that specialize in second-chance accounts (for people with banking history problems) may ask for more. If you are opening an account for a business or a minor, the requirements change significantly.

Key Takeaways

  • A government-issued photo ID and proof of your current address are required by nearly every bank, along with your Social Security number.
  • Acceptable IDs include a driver's license, passport, state ID card, or tribal ID — the bank will tell you which ones they take.
  • Proof of address can be a recent utility bill, lease, mortgage statement, or government mail, usually dated within the last 60 days.
  • Some banks ask for a second form of ID, proof of income, or an initial deposit amount before you can open the account.
  • Online banks and credit unions often have shorter document lists than traditional banks, so it is worth checking multiple places.

Government-issued photo ID

This is the one document every bank requires. The ID must have your photo, your name, and an expiration date. A driver's license or state ID card is the most common choice. A U.S. passport, passport card, or tribal ID also work at most banks. Military ID works at some banks but not all.

The ID must not be expired, though banks vary on how much grace they give. Some accept an ID that expired within the last year. Others will not take anything past the expiration date. If your ID is expired, renew it before you go to the bank — it takes longer to sort out at the counter, and some banks will turn you away.

If you do not have a government-issued photo ID, you will need to get one first. A state ID card (non-driver) is usually faster and cheaper than a driver's license and works just as well for opening a bank account. Your state's DMV or equivalent office handles these.

Proof of current address

Banks use this to confirm where you live right now. A utility bill (electric, gas, water, internet) dated within the last 60 days is the standard. A lease agreement, mortgage statement, or property tax bill also works. Some banks accept government mail — a tax return, Social Security statement, or voter registration card with your current address.

The document must have your name and your current address printed on it. A bank statement from another bank counts. A cell phone bill usually does not, even though it has your name and address, because banks treat it as less reliable. If you live with family and are not on the utility bill, ask the account holder for a recent bill in their name, or ask the bank whether they accept a lease or a letter from your landlord.

If you have just moved and do not yet have a utility bill in your name, bring whatever you have — a lease, a move-in confirmation from your landlord, or a forwarding address confirmation from the post office. Call the bank first and ask what they will accept. Some will work with you. Others will ask you to come back once you have a utility bill.

Social Security number or tax ID

Banks need this for two reasons: to verify your identity and to report interest you earn to the IRS. You will provide it verbally or on a form — you do not bring a physical card. If you do not have a Social Security number, you can use an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) instead, though not all banks accept it. Call ahead if you plan to use an ITIN.

If you are not a U.S. citizen and do not have an SSN or ITIN, some banks will still open an account for you using a passport number or other identification. This varies widely by bank and by state. Online banks are sometimes more flexible than branches. If this is your situation, contact several banks before you go in.

Second form of ID or additional documents

Some banks ask for a second form of identification to reduce fraud. This can be another government ID (a passport if your first ID was a driver's license), a recent credit card, or a utility bill. A few banks ask for proof of income — a recent pay stub, tax return, or letter from your employer — especially if you are opening a business account or a high-balance account.

Banks that focus on second-chance accounts (for people with a history of overdrafts, fraud, or banking problems) sometimes ask for more: a ChexSystems report, proof that you have resolved past issues, or a reference from someone with an account at that bank. These requirements exist to manage risk, and they are not negotiable at those institutions.

A few banks require an initial deposit before the account opens. This is usually $25 to $100 for a checking account. Some online banks have no minimum. Ask about this when you call or visit.

What you do not need to bring

You do not need to bring your Social Security card itself — banks do not want the physical card. You do not need a credit report, a credit score, or proof of employment (unless the bank specifically asks). You do not need a reference letter from another bank, though some second-chance programs request one.

You do not need to have a job or a minimum income. Banks cannot turn you down for a basic checking account based on income alone. You do not need to bring cash for a deposit unless the bank has a minimum deposit requirement — and even then, many allow you to deposit the minimum after the account opens.

What to bring to the bank

Bring originals, not copies. Banks will not accept photocopies of your ID or address proof. Bring the documents themselves. If you are opening an account online, you will upload photos or scans of your documents — the bank will tell you the file format and size they need.

Bring more than one document if you can. If your driver's license is expired and you are worried the bank will not take it, bring your passport as a backup. If you do not have a recent utility bill, bring a lease and a piece of government mail. Banks appreciate having options, and it speeds up the process.

If you are opening an account in person, bring the documents in a folder or envelope so they do not get lost or bent. If you are opening online, scan or photograph them in good light so the text is readable. Blurry photos cause delays.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I open a bank account with just a passport?

Yes, if the passport is current and has your photo. You will still need proof of address and your Social Security number or ITIN. Some banks accept a passport as your only form of ID; others want a second form. Call the bank first to confirm.

What if I do not have a Social Security number?

An ITIN works at some banks but not all. If you are not a U.S. citizen, ask the bank whether they accept an ITIN or a passport number instead. Online banks and banks in states with large immigrant populations are often more flexible than others.

Can I use a lease instead of a utility bill for proof of address?

Yes. A signed lease with your name and current address works at most banks. If the lease is old, bring it with a recent piece of mail to the same address — a bank statement, government mail, or a letter from your landlord confirming you still live there.

Do I need to bring cash to open an account?

Only if the bank has a minimum deposit requirement, which is usually $25 to $100. Many banks waive the minimum or let you deposit it after the account opens. Ask when you call or visit. If you do not have cash, ask whether you can transfer money from another account instead.

What if my address on my ID does not match my current address?

Bring both your ID and a separate proof of your current address. The bank will use the ID to verify who you are and the address document to confirm where you live now. This is common and not a problem.