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 ITIN (Individual Taxpayer Identification Number). Most banks will also ask for your phone number and email. That's the baseline. What else they ask for depends on the bank, whether you're opening a checking or savings account, and sometimes on your state.

Bring originals or certified copies of documents—banks won't accept photos or digital scans for the ID and address proof, though some larger banks now let you upload these through their app after you start the process online. If you don't have a photo ID yet, you'll need to get one from your state's DMV or equivalent before most banks will open an account for you.

Some banks ask for a minimum opening deposit on the spot. This ranges from zero dollars at some online banks and credit unions to $25 or $100 at regional banks. A few still ask for $500 or more, though this is less common than it used to be. If you're opening an account with no money to deposit, call ahead or check the bank's website to confirm they allow zero-dollar openings.

Key Takeaways

  • You must bring a government photo ID, proof of your current address, and your Social Security number or ITIN in person or upload them through the bank's app.
  • Proof of address can be a utility bill, lease, mortgage statement, or government mail dated within the last 60 days—a bank statement from another bank also works.
  • Some banks require a minimum opening deposit of $25 to $100, while others let you open with zero dollars; check before you go.
  • If you don't have a photo ID, you'll need to get one from your state's DMV before most banks will open an account for you.
  • Online banks typically ask for the same documents but let you upload them and complete the whole process from home.

What counts as proof of your address

Banks need to confirm where you live. A utility bill (electric, gas, water, internet), a lease or mortgage statement, or a piece of government mail with your name and address all work. The document needs to be dated within the last 60 days. If you've just moved and don't have a recent bill in your name yet, a lease signed by you and your landlord counts, even if it's older.

A bank statement from another bank also works as address proof. If you're living with family and have no bills in your name, ask if they'll let you use a utility bill or lease with both names on it, or ask the bank whether a notarized letter from the person whose name is on the bill will work—policies vary.

If you don't have a Social Security number

You can open a bank account with an ITIN instead. An ITIN is a nine-digit tax identification number issued by the IRS to people who don't have a Social Security number but need to file taxes or conduct business in the United States. You explore for one through the IRS using Form W-7, and the process takes four to six weeks.

Some banks ask for an ITIN number before you open the account; others will open it and ask you to provide the number later. If you're in the middle of explore for an ITIN and don't have the number yet, call the bank and ask whether they'll let you open an account and add the ITIN once you receive it. A few banks will let you use a passport or other government ID from your home country as a substitute while you're waiting.

Opening an account online versus in person

Online banks let you upload your ID and address proof through their app or website and complete the whole process without visiting a branch. This usually takes 10 to 15 minutes. You'll still need the same documents, and the bank will still verify your identity—they just do it remotely. Some online banks will deposit a small amount of money into your account while they're verifying you, then remove it once the verification is complete.

In-person accounts at a bank branch take longer because you're waiting in line and the banker is manually entering your information, but you walk out with a debit card the same day at some banks. If you open online, your debit card arrives by mail in five to ten business days. Online banks often have no monthly fees and no minimum balance requirements, while branch banks vary widely.

What happens if you have a banking history problem

If you've been reported to ChexSystems (a banking history database) for unpaid overdrafts, fraud, or other issues, some banks will still open an account for you, but others won't. ChexSystems is not a credit report—it's a separate system that tracks banking behavior. You can request your ChexSystems report for free once a year at www.chexsystems.com.

If you're in ChexSystems, look for banks that specifically say they work with people with banking history issues. Credit unions often have more flexible policies than large national banks. Some banks will open an account if you bring a co-signer or if you agree to start with a savings account instead of a checking account. Call ahead and ask directly—don't assume you'll be turned down.

What to bring and what to expect on the day

Bring your photo ID, your address proof document, and write down your Social Security number or ITIN before you go. Bring a phone number and email address where the bank can reach you. If you're opening a joint account with someone else, both people need to be present with their own ID and address proof.

The banker will ask you questions about why you're opening the account, whether you want checking or savings, and whether you want online banking and a debit card. They'll also ask about your employment and income—this is for anti-money-laundering compliance, not to judge you. Answer honestly. The whole process takes 15 to 30 minutes in person. If the bank asks for documents you don't have, ask whether they'll accept something else or whether you can provide it later.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I open a bank account without a photo ID?

No. Every bank is required by federal law to verify your identity with a government-issued photo ID. If you don't have one, you'll need to get a state ID or driver's license from your DMV first. This usually takes one to two weeks.

Do I need to have money to open an account?

Most banks no longer require a minimum opening deposit, but some still do—usually $25 to $100. Online banks almost never require one. Call or check the bank's website before you go to confirm whether they'll let you open with zero dollars.

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

Some banks will accept a shelter address, a PO box, or a care-of address (c/o someone else's address) as proof of residence. Credit unions are often more flexible with this. Call ahead and explain your situation—don't assume you'll be turned down.

How long does it take to open an account online?

The process itself takes 10 to 15 minutes. The bank then verifies your identity, which can take anywhere from a few minutes to one business day. Your account is usually active the same day or the next business day, though your debit card arrives by mail in five to ten business days.

Can someone else open an account for me?

No. You must be present in person or complete the online process yourself. The bank needs to verify your identity directly. If you're unable to go to a branch, use an online bank instead.