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

When you walk into a bank or sit down online to open an account, you will need to show who you are and where you live. The bank uses these to verify your identity and meet federal anti-money-laundering rules. The exact documents vary by bank and by the type of account you're opening, but the pattern is consistent: one document that proves your identity, one that proves your current address, and information about how you want the account set up.

Some banks will accept digital copies or photos of documents. Others require originals or certified copies. Online banks often have different requirements than branches — they may accept more forms of ID but require a video call to confirm your identity. Calling ahead or checking the bank's website saves you a trip with the wrong paperwork.

Key Takeaways

  • A government-issued photo ID (driver's license, passport, or state ID card) is required by every bank to open an account.
  • Proof of address must be recent — usually dated within the last 60 to 90 days — and can be a utility bill, lease, or bank statement in your name.
  • You will need your Social Security number or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number so the bank can report interest earned and meet tax reporting rules.
  • Some banks ask for employment information or initial deposit amount before opening, but these are not universal requirements.
  • Online banks often have faster processes but may require a video call to verify your identity instead of showing documents in person.

Government-issued photo ID is the first requirement

Every bank requires a government-issued photo ID. The most common forms are a driver's license, state ID card, or passport. Some banks also accept a passport card, military ID, or tribal ID. The ID must not be expired — banks check the expiration date as part of their verification process.

If you do not have a driver's license or state ID, you can get one from your state's Department of Motor Vehicles. A passport takes longer to obtain but works at any bank. If you are not a U.S. citizen, a passport from your country of origin is usually accepted, though some banks may also ask for a visa or work permit to confirm your immigration status.

Proof of current address narrows down which documents work

The bank needs to confirm where you live right now. A utility bill in your name — electric, gas, water, or internet — dated within the last 60 days is the most straightforward proof. A lease agreement, mortgage statement, or recent bank statement also works. Some banks accept a government-issued document like a voter registration card or tax return if it shows your current address.

The key word is current. If you moved recently, bring a document dated after the move. If you live with family or in a shared space and the utility bill is in someone else's name, ask the bank what they will accept — some take a lease with your name on it, others may accept a letter from the landlord confirming you live there. A few banks will accept a recent piece of mail from a government agency or financial institution addressed to you at that address.

Your Social Security number or tax ID is required for reporting

Banks report interest earned on savings accounts to the IRS, so they need your Social Security number or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN). You will provide this during the account opening process, either on a form or verbally. The bank will verify it matches your name and date of birth.

If you do not have a Social Security number, you can explore for an ITIN through the IRS. The process takes several weeks. Some banks will open an account without a Social Security number if you provide an ITIN, but most require one or the other before they complete the account setup.

Initial deposit amount and employment information vary by bank

Some banks require an opening deposit before the account becomes active. The amount ranges from zero to several hundred dollars depending on the bank and account type. A checking account at a large national bank might require $25 to $100. Some online banks and credit unions have no minimum. A few banks waive the minimum if you set up direct deposit of your paycheck.

Employment information is less common but some banks ask for it. They may want your employer's name and your job title. This is optional at most banks — if they ask and you are not employed, you can usually leave it blank or write "self-employed" or "retired." Banks do not use this to decide whether to open the account; they use it for their own record-keeping and to comply with certain regulatory requirements.

What to bring if you are opening an account for someone else

If you are opening an account on behalf of a minor, you will need your own ID and proof of address, plus the child's birth certificate or Social Security card. Some banks require the child to be present. Others allow a parent or legal guardian to open a custodial account without the child there.

If you have power of attorney for an adult, bring the power of attorney document itself along with your ID and the account holder's ID and proof of address. The bank will make a copy of the power of attorney and keep it on file. If you are opening a joint account with another adult, both people usually need to be present with their own ID and proof of address, though some banks allow one person to open it and the other to sign later.

Online banks have different document processes

Online banks often do not require you to mail or upload documents. Instead, you provide your information on their website or app, and they verify it electronically using third-party services that check against government records and credit bureaus. You may be asked to take a photo of your ID with your phone, and some banks will call you or ask you to join a video call to confirm you are the person in the photo.

The advantage is speed — you can open an account in minutes without leaving home. The disadvantage is that if the electronic verification fails, you may need to mail in documents or visit a branch. A few online banks require a video call for all new accounts, which adds 10 to 15 minutes to the process but reduces the chance of delays later.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

Most banks require either a Social Security number or an ITIN. Some banks will open an account with an ITIN alone. A few will open a temporary account without either while you obtain one, but the account will be limited until you provide the number. Call the bank directly to ask what they accept.

What if my address on my ID is old?

Bring a separate document that shows your current address, such as a utility bill or lease. The bank will use your ID for identity verification and the other document for address verification. You do not need to update your ID first.

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

Online banks usually accept photos or scans. In-person at a branch, most banks will accept copies, but some require originals to compare against the photo on your ID. Call ahead to ask what the specific branch accepts.

What if I do not have a utility bill in my name?

A lease agreement, mortgage statement, or recent bank statement works. If none of those are available, ask the bank what they will accept — some take a letter from your landlord or a government document like a voter registration card.

Can someone else open an account for me?

For adults, no — you must be present and provide your own ID. For minors, a parent or legal guardian can usually open a custodial account alone, though some banks require the child to be present. For adults with power of attorney, the person with power of attorney can open the account with the power of attorney document and their own ID.