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

Every bank has its own list, but the core documents are nearly always the same: something that proves who you are, something that proves where you live, and your Social Security number or tax ID. Some banks ask for more—a second form of ID, proof of income, or documentation of your employment. The specific requirements vary by bank, by account type (checking versus savings), and by whether you're opening the account in person or online.

The good news is that most people have what they need already. The challenge is knowing which documents each bank will accept, because "acceptable ID" means different things to different institutions. This guide walks you through what banks typically ask for, what counts as proof of address, and what to do if you don't have a standard document.

Key Takeaways

  • You will need a government-issued photo ID (driver's license, passport, or state ID card), proof of your current address, and your Social Security number or ITIN.
  • Proof of address can be a utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, or government mail—it usually must be dated within the last 60 days.
  • Online account openings often require fewer documents upfront but may ask for additional verification later if the bank flags your process.
  • If you don't have a standard ID, bring multiple documents that together establish your identity—a combination of a birth certificate, school ID, and a recent bill can work.
  • Bring originals or certified copies; banks will not accept photos of documents or digital scans for in-person openings, though online banks may accept scans.

Government-issued photo ID: what counts and what doesn't

Banks almost always require a government-issued photo ID. The most common are a driver's license, state ID card, or U.S. passport. Some banks also accept a passport card, a military ID, or a tribal ID. A few accept a permanent resident card (green card) if you don't have a U.S. ID yet.

What does not count: a school ID, a work badge, a library card, or a state benefit card without a photo. These are not government-issued or not photo IDs, so banks will turn them down. If your ID is expired, some banks will still take it—call ahead to ask. If your ID is damaged or the photo is no longer recognizable, most banks will reject it.

If you don't have any of these, you have options. Some banks will accept a combination of documents—a birth certificate plus a school ID plus a recent utility bill—to establish identity. Others will not. Before you gather documents, call the bank or check their website to ask what they accept for people without a standard photo ID.

Proof of address: documents that work and timing that matters

Banks need to know where you live. They accept documents that show your name and current address. The most common are a utility bill (electric, gas, water, or internet), a lease agreement, a mortgage statement, or a bank statement. Government mail also works—a tax return, a voter registration card, or a benefits statement from Social Security or unemployment.

The document must usually be dated within the last 60 days. Some banks are stricter and want 30 days; others are looser and accept up to 90 days. If you just moved, bring a lease or a signed move-in agreement. If you're staying with someone else temporarily, ask the bank whether they accept a notarized letter from the homeowner confirming you live there—some do, some don't.

What does not work: a credit card statement, a cell phone bill, or mail addressed to "Resident." Banks reject these because they don't confirm your actual address. If your name on the address document doesn't match your ID exactly—for example, your ID says "Robert" but the bill says "Bob"—bring both documents and explain the difference to the banker.

Your Social Security number or tax ID

Banks are required by federal law to collect your Social Security number (SSN) or, if you don't have one, your Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN). You don't need to bring a physical document—you can straightforward tell the banker your number. If you're opening the account online, you'll type it in.

If you don't have an SSN or ITIN, you cannot open a standard bank account. You may be able to open a second-chance or basic checking account at some banks or credit unions, but these are rare and often come with higher fees. If you're in the U.S. without a Social Security number, contact your local Social Security office about whether you're may be able to access for an ITIN.

Additional documents some banks request

Depending on the bank and account type, you may be asked for more. Some banks want a second form of ID—a passport, a military ID, or a state ID in addition to your driver's license. Some ask for proof of income, especially if you're opening a premium account or explore for overdraft protection. A recent pay stub, a tax return, or a letter from your employer usually satisfies this.

If you're opening an account for a business or a trust, the requirements are much longer. You'll need business registration documents, an Employer Identification Number (EIN), and sometimes personal financial statements from the owners. Ask the bank for their business account checklist before you visit.

Some online banks ask for nothing beyond your ID and SSN at signup, then request additional documents later if they need to verify your identity. This is normal. If the bank sends you a message asking for more information, respond within the timeframe they give—usually 10 to 30 days—or your account may be frozen.

In-person versus online: what documents you need to bring

If you're opening an account in person at a branch, bring originals or certified copies of your documents. Banks will not accept photos or digital scans. Bring your ID, your proof of address, and anything else the bank listed on their website or told you to bring when you called.

If you're opening an account online, the bank will ask you to upload scans or photos of your documents. Make sure the images are clear, show the full document, and are in focus. Some banks use automated verification—software that reads your ID and confirms it's real—so the quality matters. If the scan is too blurry or cut off, the bank may reject it and ask you to resubmit.

Online openings are usually faster, but they can stall if the bank's verification system flags your process. This happens randomly and is not a sign of a problem. The bank will send you an email asking for additional documents or a video call to confirm your identity. Respond quickly, and the account will usually be approved within a few days.

What to do if you don't have standard documents

If you don't have a driver's license or passport, you can use a state ID card. If you don't have any government photo ID, call the bank first and ask what they accept. Some will take a birth certificate plus a school ID plus a utility bill. Others will not. It's worth asking multiple banks—their policies differ.

If you don't have a recent utility bill or lease, bring whatever address documentation you have: a bank statement, a benefits letter, a tax return, or a piece of government mail. If nothing is in your name, ask the bank whether they accept a notarized letter from a family member or landlord confirming your address.

If you're homeless or living in a shelter, some banks and credit unions have programs for people without a permanent address. They may accept a shelter address, a mail forwarding service address, or a letter from a social service agency. Call ahead—not all banks offer this, but some do.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use an expired ID to open a bank account?

Some banks will accept an expired ID if the photo is still recognizable and the ID itself is not damaged. Others will not. Call the bank before you visit and ask whether your specific ID is acceptable. If it's been expired for many years, the bank may reject it.

What if my address on my ID doesn't match where I live now?

Bring both your ID and a recent document showing your current address—a utility bill, lease, or bank statement. The bank will use the address document as proof of where you live now. You don't need to update your ID first.

Do I need to bring my Social Security card?

No. You only need to tell the banker your Social Security number or type it in online. The bank does not need to see the physical card. If you don't know your number, contact the Social Security Administration before you visit the bank.

Can someone else open a bank account for me if I can't go in person?

No. Banks require the account holder to be present and to verify their identity in person or online. You cannot authorize someone else to open an account in your name. If you cannot visit a branch, open the account online instead.

What happens if the bank rejects my documents?

The banker will tell you which document didn't meet their standards and what they need instead. You can then bring a different document or try a different bank. Keep in mind that each bank has its own rules, so a document one bank rejected may be acceptable at another.