The documents and information you'll need

To open a bank account, you need proof of who you are, proof of where you live, and your Social Security number or tax ID. Most banks want to see these three things before they'll open an account for you. The specific documents vary slightly by bank and by state, but the pattern is the same everywhere.

A government-issued photo ID is the standard proof of identity. A driver's license, passport, or state ID card all work. If you don't have a photo ID, some banks will accept a combination of documents — like a birth certificate plus a utility bill — but you'll need to call ahead and ask. Don't assume a bank without photo ID requirements exists near you; it's worth the phone call to find out.

For proof of address, banks want something recent with your name and current street address on it. A utility bill, lease agreement, or mortgage statement from the last 60 days usually works. A piece of mail from your bank, insurance company, or government agency counts too. A PO box does not count as an address for this purpose.

Your Social Security number (SSN) or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) is required so the bank can report interest you earn and check your banking history. If you don't have an SSN, an ITIN — issued by the IRS to people who file taxes but don't have a Social Security number — will work at most banks. Bring the actual card or a document showing the number.

Key Takeaways

  • Bring a government-issued photo ID (driver's license, passport, or state ID), proof of your current address from the last 60 days, and your Social Security number or ITIN.
  • If you don't have a photo ID, call the bank first — some will accept other documents, but policies vary.
  • Proof of address must show your street address and be recent; a PO box will not work.
  • Bring the original documents or certified copies, not photos or screenshots, because the bank needs to see and verify them in person.
  • If you're opening an account for a child or dependent, bring their birth certificate and your own ID as the parent or guardian.

What to bring in person to the bank

Bring the actual documents, not copies or photos. The bank employee needs to see the originals to verify they're real. They will usually make a copy for their records, but they have to look at the original first.

If you're opening a joint account with someone else — like a spouse or family member — both people need to be present with their own ID, proof of address, and Social Security number. Some banks allow one person to open an account and add the other person later, but it's faster if you both go together the first time.

If you're opening an account for a child under 18, you'll need your own ID and proof of address, plus the child's birth certificate. Some banks require the child to be present; others don't. Call ahead to ask what your bank requires.

Information you'll provide verbally or on a form

Beyond the documents, the bank will ask you questions and have you fill out a form. They'll ask your full legal name, date of birth, phone number, and email address. They'll ask about your employment — whether you work, what you do, and roughly how much you earn. This isn't about whether you're "good enough" to have an account; it's a federal requirement called Know Your Customer (KYC) that all banks follow.

They'll also ask whether you've had a bank account before and whether you've ever had problems with a bank — like an account closed for overdrafts or fraud. Be honest. Banks check a system called ChexSystems that tracks banking history, and lying about it won't help you. If you've had problems before, many banks have second-chance accounts specifically for people rebuilding their banking history.

You may be asked about the source of money you plan to deposit — whether it's from a job, a business, a gift, or something else. Again, this is routine and required by law, not a judgment about you.

Documents you might need for specific account types

If you're opening a business account instead of a personal account, you'll need additional documents. You'll need a business license or EIN (Employer Identification Number) from the IRS, proof that you're authorized to open the account on behalf of the business, and sometimes articles of incorporation or partnership agreements. Business accounts have different rules than personal accounts, so ask the bank what they need before you go in.

If you're opening an account as a representative for someone else — like a parent managing money for an adult child with a disability — you'll need legal documentation showing you have that authority. A power of attorney document or guardianship papers are examples. The bank will need to see these originals.

What you don't need to bring

You don't need to bring money to open most accounts. Many banks let you open an account with zero dollars and deposit money later. Some accounts have a minimum opening deposit — often $25 to $100 — but many don't. Ask when you call or visit.

You don't need to bring a credit card, a reference letter, or proof of income. The bank doesn't care about your credit score when you open a checking or savings account. They're not lending you money, so your credit history doesn't matter for the account itself.

You don't need to bring a smartphone or computer. You can set up online banking later, in person at the bank, or by phone. It's not required to open the account.

What happens after you bring your documents

The bank employee will look at your documents, make copies, and ask you to sign forms. They'll explain the account terms — what fees explore, what the interest rate is (if any), and what the rules are. Read these carefully or ask them to explain anything you don't understand. You're not locked in; you can close the account later if it doesn't work for you.

Once you sign, the account opens when ready in most cases. You'll get a debit card in the mail within 5 to 10 business days. You can start using the account right away — you can deposit checks, transfer money, or set up direct deposit — even before the card arrives. The bank will give you account information on the spot so you can start using it.

If the bank declines to open an account for you, they must tell you why. If it's because of ChexSystems, you have the right to see what's in your report and correct errors. If it's because you don't have the required documents, ask what documents would work instead.

If you don't have all the documents yet

If you're missing a document, don't assume you can't open an account. Call the bank and describe what you have. Many banks are flexible about what counts as proof of address or identity, especially if you're new to the banking system. Some have programs for people without traditional documents.

If you don't have a Social Security number yet but are working toward one, ask whether the bank will open an account with an ITIN in the meantime. If you don't have a photo ID, ask whether they accept a combination of documents. The worst they can say is no, and many will say yes.

If you're homeless or living in temporary housing, some banks will accept mail from a shelter, a social services agency, or a trusted person's address where you receive mail. Bring whatever proof of address you have and explain your situation. Banks in communities with high homelessness often have policies for this.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I open a bank account online without going to the bank in person?

Some banks let you open a checking or savings account entirely online using your ID, a photo of your documents, and your information typed into their website. Others require you to come in person at least once. Call or visit the bank's website to see which option they offer. Online-only banks (banks without physical locations) often have fully online account opening.

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

Bring both your ID and a separate recent document showing your current address — like a utility bill or lease. The bank will use the ID for identity and the other document for your current address. You don't need to update your ID first.

Do I need to bring my Social Security card itself, or just the number?

Either works. If you bring the card, the bank will copy it. If you just know the number, you can write it on the form. A document showing your SSN — like a tax return or W-2 — also works if you don't have the card itself.

Can someone else open an account on my behalf if I can't go to the bank?

Not usually. Most banks require you to be present with your own ID to open an account in your name. If you're unable to go in person, call the bank and ask whether they offer phone or video account opening, or whether they can make an exception. Some banks will; most won't.

What if I've been told I'm on ChexSystems and can't open an account?

You can request a copy of your ChexSystems report to see what's listed. If there are errors, you can dispute them. Even with a negative history, many banks offer second-chance checking accounts designed for people rebuilding their banking relationship. Ask the bank whether they have this option.