The documents banks actually ask for

Most banks need two things to open an account: proof of who you are, and proof of where you live. That is the baseline. Some banks add a third requirement — proof of your Social Security number or tax ID — and a few ask for more depending on the account type or the amount of money you are depositing.

The specific documents vary by bank and by state. A Chase branch in California may ask for different documents than a Wells Fargo branch in Texas. Online banks often have stricter requirements than brick-and-mortar branches because they cannot verify you in person. The list below covers what most banks ask for; call your bank before you go in or explore online to confirm what they need from you.

Key Takeaways

  • A government-issued photo ID and a recent utility bill or lease are the two documents most banks require to open a checking or savings account.
  • Your Social Security number or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) is almost always required, though some banks accept an ITIN from non-citizens.
  • Online banks often ask for more documents or stricter proof of address than branches you can walk into, because they verify everything remotely.
  • If you do not have a standard ID, some banks accept a passport, a state ID card, or a tribal ID; ask your specific bank what alternatives they take.
  • Bring originals or certified copies — banks rarely accept photos of documents or digital scans, even if you are opening an account online.

Government-issued photo ID

Banks use this to confirm your identity. A driver's license is the most common form. A state ID card, passport, or passport card also work. Some banks take a tribal ID if you are a member of a federally recognized tribe. Military ID works at some banks but not all.

The ID must not be expired, though banks vary on how recently it expired — some accept an ID that expired within the last year, others require it to be current. If your ID is expired and you cannot renew it quickly, call the bank and ask whether they will accept it anyway. Some will; some will not.

If you do not have a photo ID, ask the bank what documents they will take instead. Some banks accept a passport card, a state ID, or a consular ID from your home country. A few accept a combination of non-photo documents — for example, a birth certificate plus a Social Security card — but this is less common and varies widely by bank.

Proof of address

Banks use this to confirm where you live. A recent utility bill (electric, gas, water, or internet) is the standard document. A lease or rental agreement also works. A mortgage statement, property tax bill, or homeowner's insurance statement will do. Some banks accept a bank statement from another bank, though this is less common.

The document must be recent — usually dated within the last 60 days, though some banks accept up to 90 days. If you just moved and your utility bill is not in your name yet, a lease signed by you and your landlord counts. If you live with family and have no document in your name, ask the bank whether they will accept a letter from the person whose name is on the bill, stating that you live there. Some will; some will not.

If you are homeless or living in a shelter, call the bank and explain your situation. Some banks have procedures for people without a fixed address. Others do not. The answer depends on the bank and sometimes on the specific branch.

Social Security number or tax ID

Banks ask for this to report interest you earn and to check whether you have unpaid debts or fraud flags in the banking system. If you have a Social Security number, bring your Social Security card or a document that shows your number — a tax return, a W-2, or a pay stub.

If you do not have a Social Security number, you may be able to use an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN). An ITIN is a nine-digit number issued by the IRS to people who do not have a Social Security number but need to file taxes or open a bank account. Not all banks take an ITIN, so call ahead and ask. If the bank you want does not take an ITIN, try a credit union or a community bank — they are more likely to accept one.

If you have neither a Social Security number nor an ITIN and cannot get one quickly, some banks will open an account without one, though this is rare. Ask the bank directly what they require.

Documents for specific account types

A basic checking or savings account usually needs only the three documents above. Some account types ask for more. A business checking account typically requires your Employer Identification Number (EIN), articles of incorporation or a business license, and proof that you are authorized to open the account on behalf of the business.

A joint account needs identification and proof of address for both account holders. Some banks ask each person to come in together; others allow one person to open the account and add the second person later. Ask the bank what their process is.

A minor's account (for someone under 18) usually requires a parent or guardian to be present with their own ID and proof of address. The minor also needs an ID, though some banks accept a school ID or a birth certificate instead of a government-issued photo ID.

What to bring in person versus online

If you are opening an account at a branch, bring originals of all documents. The bank will look at them, confirm they are real, and either keep copies or scan them on the spot.

If you are opening an account online, the bank will ask you to upload images of your documents. Take clear photos of both the front and back of your ID and your proof of address. Make sure the text is readable and the entire document fits in the frame. Some banks also ask you to take a selfie to confirm that the person in the ID is you.

Banks rarely accept digital documents — a PDF of a utility bill or a screenshot of your ID — even when you are explore online. They want images of the physical document. If you cannot photograph your documents, go to a branch instead and bring the originals.

What happens if you do not have all the documents

If you are missing one document, call the bank and ask what you can substitute. Many banks have flexibility — for example, if you do not have a utility bill, they may accept a lease, a mortgage statement, or a letter from your landlord. If you do not have a government-issued photo ID, they may accept a passport or a combination of other documents.

If you cannot get a document quickly, ask whether the bank will open the account with what you have and let you provide the missing document later. Some will; some will not. The answer depends on the bank and on which document is missing.

If you are stuck, try a credit union or a community bank instead of a large national bank. They often have more flexibility and are more willing to work with people who do not have standard documents.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I open a bank account with just a passport?

A passport works as your photo ID at most banks. You still need proof of address — a utility bill, lease, or mortgage statement — and your Social Security number or ITIN. If you have all three, a passport is enough.

What if my address on my ID does not match where I live now?

Bring both your ID and a recent document showing your current address, such as a utility bill or lease. Tell the bank that you have moved. They will use the ID to confirm your identity and the utility bill to confirm your current address. You do not need to update your ID first.

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

If you are opening an account at a branch, bring originals. If you are opening online, the bank will ask you to photograph the documents and upload the images. Banks do not usually accept photocopies or PDFs, even from a branch.

Can someone else open a bank account for me?

No. You must be present in person or online to open the account. The bank needs to see your ID and confirm your identity. A parent or guardian can open an account for a minor, but the minor must usually be present too, depending on the bank's policy.

What if I do not have a Social Security number?

Ask the bank whether they accept an ITIN (Individual Taxpayer Identification Number). If not, try a credit union or community bank — they are more likely to accept an ITIN or to open an account without one. Some banks will open an account without a Social Security number or ITIN, but this is uncommon.