The core documents every bank requires
Most banks will ask for two things: proof of identity and proof of address. A driver's license or passport covers identity. For address, bring a recent utility bill, lease, mortgage statement, or government mail—something dated within the last 60 days with your name and current address on it. Some banks accept a bank statement from another institution instead.
If you don't have a driver's license, a state ID card works the same way. A passport works everywhere. A tribal ID, military ID, or permanent resident card (green card) all count as valid identity documents at most banks. The bank is checking that you are who you say you are and that you actually live where you claim to live.
Bring the originals, not copies. Banks will look at them in person and may make a copy for their file, but they need to see the real document to verify it's genuine.
Key Takeaways
- You need one government-issued photo ID (driver's license, passport, state ID, or military ID) and one document showing your current address dated within the last 60 days.
- Address documents can be a utility bill, lease, mortgage statement, government mail, or bank statement from another institution.
- Bring originals; banks will not accept photocopies as proof of identity.
- If you have no address history, some banks will accept a letter from a shelter, employer, or social services agency on letterhead with your name and their address.
- Some banks ask for a Social Security number, but not all—call ahead if you don't have one.
What to bring if you have limited or no address history
If you are homeless, newly arrived in the country, or have just moved and have no utility bill yet, bring a letter on official letterhead from a shelter, employer, government agency, or social services organization. The letter should have your name, their address, and the date. Some banks will accept this in place of a utility bill or lease.
If you have been living with family or friends and have no lease, ask them for a notarized letter stating that you live at their address. Not every bank requires notarization, but having it notarized removes doubt. A notary public is available at most banks, UPS stores, and some libraries for a small fee (usually $5 to $15).
Call the specific bank branch before you go. Address requirements vary slightly between institutions, and some branches are more flexible than others. A five-minute phone call can save you a wasted trip.
Social Security number and tax ID alternatives
Most banks ask for your Social Security number (SSN) when you open an account. They use it to run a background check and report account activity to the IRS. If you don't have an SSN, ask whether the bank will accept an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) instead. Some will; some won't.
Banks that work with immigrants and people without SSNs sometimes use an ITIN or a passport number plus country of origin as an alternative. This is less common, but it exists. If you don't have an SSN or ITIN, call ahead and ask which documents the bank will take. Do not assume you cannot open an account until you have asked directly.
If you are explore for an ITIN because you don't have an SSN, that process goes through the IRS and takes several weeks. You can open a bank account while your ITIN process is pending if you bring proof that you have applied (a receipt from the IRS).
Documents for joint accounts or accounts for someone else
If you are opening an account with another person, both of you must bring ID and proof of address. The bank will verify both identities in person. You cannot open a joint account by proxy or with someone else's documents.
If you are opening an account for a minor child, bring the child's birth certificate and your ID and proof of address. Some banks require the child to be present; others do not. Ask when you call. If the child is old enough to have a state ID or school ID, bring that too—it speeds up the process.
If you are opening an account as a power of attorney or guardian for an adult, bring your power of attorney document or guardianship papers along with your own ID and proof of address. The bank will need to see the legal document that gives you authority to act on their behalf.
What banks do not require (and why)
Banks do not need your employment history, credit report, or credit score to open a basic checking or savings account. They may ask where you work, but they are not verifying it. They do not care whether you have ever had a bank account before or whether you have been denied one in the past.
Banks do not require a minimum deposit to open most accounts, though some offer better rates or waive fees if you maintain a certain balance. That is a separate question from what documents you need to open the account itself.
Banks do not need permission from anyone else to let you open an account in your own name. A spouse, parent, or creditor cannot prevent you from opening a personal account, though they may be able to see it if they have legal authority (like a court order or power of attorney).
What happens after you bring your documents
The bank employee will look at your ID and address document, ask you to sign some forms, and usually open the account on the spot. You will get a debit card in the mail within 5 to 10 business days. Your account number and routing number are available when ready—you can use them to set up direct deposit or transfers before your card arrives.
The bank will run a background check using your name, date of birth, and Social Security number (or ITIN). This check looks for fraud history and unpaid bank fees from other institutions. Most people pass without issue. If the bank finds something, they will tell you before opening the account.
Keep your receipt or confirmation email. It shows the account was opened on that date and can help you if there is ever a dispute about when the account started.
Documents you might need later, not now
Once your account is open, the bank may ask for additional documents if you want to increase your withdrawal limits, add a beneficiary, or set up certain services. You do not need these documents to open the account. They come up later, depending on what you do with the account.
If you plan to deposit checks, you may need to sign the back of the check in front of a bank employee the first time. If you plan to wire money internationally, the bank will ask for more information about the recipient. These are separate steps, not part of opening the account.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I open a bank account without a Social Security number?
Some banks will, using an ITIN or passport number instead. Call the bank first to ask. If you are explore for an ITIN, bring your IRS receipt showing you have applied, and the bank may open the account while you wait for the ITIN to arrive.
What if my address document is older than 60 days?
Ask the bank whether they will accept it anyway. Some branches are flexible, especially if you have recently moved and have no newer documents yet. If not, a notarized letter from your landlord or a current resident stating you live there can work as a substitute.
Do I need to bring original documents or can I use copies?
Bring originals. Banks need to see the real document to verify it is genuine. They will make a copy for their file, but they will not open an account based on a photocopy alone.
Can someone else open a bank account for me?
No. You must be present with your own ID. The only exception is for minors, where a parent or guardian can sometimes open an account without the child present, depending on the bank's policy.
What if I don't have a current address?
Bring a letter on official letterhead from a shelter, employer, or government agency with your name and their address. Some banks will accept this. If not, ask whether you can use a notarized letter from someone who can confirm you live with them.