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

Most banks need two things to open an account: proof of who you are, and proof of where you live. You'll also need to bring money to deposit—usually at least $25, though some banks ask for $100 or more. The exact list depends on the bank, but the core documents are the same across nearly all of them.

Bring a government-issued photo ID. A driver's license, passport, or state ID card all work. If you don't have one of these, some banks will accept a tribal ID, military ID, or passport card. Call the bank before you go if you're unsure whether what you have will work.

For proof of address, bring a recent utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, or government mail with your name and current address on it. The document usually needs to be dated within the last 60 days, though this varies by bank. A cell phone bill counts at some banks but not others, so check first if that's what you have.

Key Takeaways

  • You need a government photo ID and a document showing your current address dated within the last 60 days.
  • Bring the initial deposit the bank requires—often $25 to $100, though some accounts have no minimum.
  • If you don't have a traditional address, a PO box, shelter address, or care-of address may work at some banks; call ahead to confirm.
  • Your Social Security number or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) will be requested for tax reporting purposes.
  • Some banks ask for a second form of ID or additional information if your address proof doesn't match your photo ID exactly.

Your Social Security number or ITIN

Banks are required by federal law to collect your Social Security number (SSN) or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) for tax reporting. This is not optional. If you don't have an SSN, you can get an ITIN from the IRS—it's a nine-digit number used for tax purposes if you're not may be able to access for an SSN.

If you're undocumented or don't have an SSN yet, bring your ITIN documentation or a letter from the IRS showing your ITIN. Some banks will open an account while your SSN process is pending if you provide a receipt showing you've applied. Ask the bank directly what they accept.

What to bring if you don't have a permanent address

If you're unhoused or living in a shelter, some banks will accept your shelter's address as proof of residence. Bring a letter from the shelter on their letterhead stating your name and the address, dated within 60 days. A few banks also accept a PO box address, though this is less common—call first.

If you're staying with someone else, some banks will accept a "care of" address (your name, care of the person's name and address) if you bring a signed letter from the person whose address it is, confirming you live there. Requirements vary widely, so contact the bank before you visit.

Information you'll provide in person or online

Beyond documents, you'll answer questions about yourself: your full legal name, date of birth, phone number, and email address. The bank will ask about your employment status and income, though you don't need to prove it—they're asking for their own records. You'll also confirm whether you want online banking and a debit card.

Some banks ask whether you've been convicted of certain crimes. This is part of a federal check called ChexSystems. Answering honestly is important; lying on the form can result in account closure later.

The initial deposit

You'll need to deposit money to open the account. The minimum varies: some banks have no minimum, some require $25, and others ask for $100 or more. Bring cash, a check, or be prepared to transfer money from another account if you already have one. Ask the bank what forms of deposit they accept on opening day.

This deposit becomes part of your account balance—it's not a fee. You can withdraw it whenever you want after the account is open.

If you're opening an account for someone else

If you're opening a joint account or an account for a minor, the other person needs to be present with their own ID and proof of address. For a minor's account, a parent or legal guardian must be present with their own documents. Some banks allow one person to open an account on behalf of an incapacitated adult, but they'll need power of attorney documentation or guardianship papers.

If you're opening a business account, you'll need your business license or EIN (Employer Identification Number) from the IRS, plus your personal ID and proof of address.

What happens if you're missing something

If you show up without all the documents, the bank will tell you what's missing and you can come back. They won't open the account that day, but you haven't lost your place—just bring what you need next time. If your address proof is expired or doesn't match your ID, ask whether they'll accept something else or if you can update your address after opening.

If you've been denied a bank account before, it may be because of ChexSystems—a database banks use to check for fraud or mismanagement. You can request your ChexSystems report for free at chexsystems.com and dispute any errors. Some banks specialize in second-chance accounts for people with ChexSystems records.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

You need either an SSN or an ITIN. If you have an ITIN, bring documentation from the IRS. If you're in the process of getting an SSN, bring the receipt showing you've applied. Some banks will hold the account open while you wait for your number to arrive.

What if my address proof has a different name than my ID?

Call the bank before you go. Some will accept it if you explain the reason (marriage, name change, etc.). Others may ask you to bring additional documents showing the name change, like a marriage certificate or court order. A few will let you update your address after opening and come back with corrected proof later.

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

Banks require originals so they can verify them. They'll look at your ID and address proof in person, then return them to you. You don't leave documents with the bank.

What if I don't have a government photo ID?

Some banks accept non-photo government IDs like a Social Security card plus a secondary ID with your photo (school ID, work badge, passport card). Call ahead to ask what combination they'll accept. Getting a state ID card is another option if you need one.

Can I open an account online instead of going to a branch?

Online banks often have different requirements—many ask you to verify your identity through a video call or by uploading photos of your documents. You'll still need the same documents, but the process happens remotely. Some online banks don't require proof of address if they can verify your identity another way.