The core documents every bank will ask for
Most banks require two things before they will open an account: proof of your identity and proof of your address. A driver's license or state ID covers identity. For address, bring a recent utility bill, lease, mortgage statement, or government mail—something dated within the last 60 days that shows your name and current address.
Some banks will accept a passport instead of a state ID, and a few will take a consulate ID or tribal identification if you don't have a US driver's license. The address document is harder to substitute—banks are required by federal law to verify where you live, and they have strict rules about what counts. A credit card statement or bank statement from another institution usually works. A phone bill does not, even if it shows your address.
If you don't have a recent address document in your name, you have options. Some banks will accept a letter from a government agency, a lease signed by your landlord, or a utility bill in a roommate's name if you bring a signed statement saying you live there. Call the bank before you go in—policies vary by branch and by account type.
Key Takeaways
- You will need a government-issued photo ID (driver's license, state ID, or passport) and a document showing your current address dated within the last 60 days.
- Address documents must be official—utility bills, lease agreements, and mortgage statements work; credit card statements and phone bills usually do not.
- If you lack a recent address document in your name, some banks will accept a lease, utility bill in a roommate's name with a signed statement, or a government letter confirming your residence.
- Banks verify address because federal law requires it; the rules are strict, so call ahead if your situation is unusual.
What to bring if you don't have a standard ID
If you have no driver's license or state ID, a US passport works at every bank. A passport card (the wallet-sized version) also counts. If you have neither, a consulate ID, tribal identification card, or military ID will usually be accepted, though you should confirm with the bank first.
Some banks will open an account with a foreign passport, but they may ask additional questions about your immigration status or require an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN). This is not a barrier—it just means the process takes longer and you may need to bring more paperwork. If you have an ITIN, bring the letter from the IRS that issued it.
Documents for joint accounts and accounts for someone else
If you are opening an account with another person, both of you must be present with your own ID and address proof. Some banks allow one person to open an account on behalf of a minor child, but they will ask for the child's birth certificate and proof that you are the parent or legal guardian. A certified copy of the birth certificate is safest; an uncertified copy may work, but call ahead.
If you are opening an account for an elderly parent or someone who cannot come to the bank, the rules depend on the account type and the bank. A power of attorney document may work, but some banks require guardianship papers or a conservatorship order. This is one situation where calling the bank before you visit is essential—the requirements are not standard.
Tax identification and Social Security numbers
Banks are required by federal law to collect your Social Security number or ITIN when you open an account. If you have a Social Security number, bring your Social Security card or a document that shows it—a tax return, W-2, or 1099 form works. You do not have to bring the physical card; the bank can look it up if you know the number.
If you do not have a Social Security number, you will need an ITIN. The IRS issues ITINs to people who are not may be able to access for a Social Security number but need to file taxes or conduct financial business in the US. Bring the IRS letter that assigned your ITIN. Without one or the other, the bank cannot open the account—this is a federal requirement, not a bank choice.
What happens if your documents don't match
If your ID shows one name and your address document shows another—because you recently married, divorced, or changed your name—bring documentation of the change. A marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order for a name change will explain the discrepancy. The bank will keep a copy for their records.
If your address has changed very recently and you have no document yet showing the new address, some banks will accept a lease or a signed statement from your landlord. Others will ask you to wait until you have a utility bill or government mail at the new address. A few will open the account with your old address and let you update it later. Again, this varies by bank, so ask.
Documents you do not need (and should not bring)
You do not need a credit report, a reference letter, or proof of income to open a basic checking or savings account. Banks do not ask for your employment history or financial statements. If you are opening a business account, the rules are different—you will need an Employer Identification Number (EIN) and business registration documents—but for a personal account, income is not required.
You do not need to bring original documents for everything. A photocopy of your ID is usually fine. For address documents, the bank may ask to see the original to confirm it is genuine, but they will return it to you. Never leave originals behind unless the bank specifically asks and explains why.
Bringing documents online or by mail
Some banks let you open an account entirely online. If you choose this route, you will upload photos of your ID and address document through their website or app. Make sure the photos are clear—the bank's system has to read the text and see your face. If the upload fails, the bank will contact you and ask you to try again or visit a branch in person.
A few banks will let you mail documents instead of visiting a branch, though this is less common. If you go this route, send copies, not originals. Include a cover letter with your name, phone number, and the account type you want to open. Mail it to the address the bank provides—do not guess. The process usually takes longer by mail because the bank has to verify the documents before they can open your account.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I open a bank account with an expired ID?
Most banks will not accept an expired ID, even if it is only expired by a few months. The ID has to be current to prove you are who you say you are. If your ID is expired, renew it at your state's DMV or passport office before you go to the bank. This usually takes a few days to a few weeks depending on your state.
What if I don't have a permanent address?
If you are homeless or living in a shelter, some banks will accept a letter from the shelter on their letterhead as proof of address. Others will accept a PO box or the address of a trusted friend or family member if you can provide a signed statement saying you receive mail there. Call the bank first—policies vary widely, and some branches are more flexible than others.
Do I need to bring my Social Security card itself?
No. You can bring the number written down, or a document that shows it like a tax return or W-2. The bank just needs to verify the number; they do not need the physical card. If you have lost your card, you can still open an account as long as you know your number.
Can someone else bring my documents for me?
No. You must be present with a photo ID. The bank is required to see you in person and confirm that you are the person in the ID. The only exception is for minors, where a parent or guardian can open the account, or for someone with a power of attorney, though even then many banks prefer you to be present.
What if my address document is older than 60 days?
Most banks will not accept it. However, if you have just moved and have no newer document yet, some banks will accept an older utility bill plus a lease or signed statement from your landlord confirming your new address. If you have been at your current address for months but have no recent document, a letter from your landlord or a lease agreement usually works.