The documents you'll need depend on the bank, but most want proof of who you are and where you live

Every bank needs to verify your identity before opening an account. This is a federal requirement, not a bank choice. Most banks will ask for a government-issued photo ID and proof of your current address. Some banks accept fewer documents than others, and a few have options if you don't have a traditional ID yet. The specific documents vary slightly by bank and by state, so calling ahead saves a trip.

The core documents are straightforward: something that proves who you are, and something that proves where you live. You'll also bring your Social Security number or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN). That's usually enough to walk out with an account open the same day.

Key Takeaways

  • A government-issued photo ID (driver's license, passport, or state ID card) is required by nearly every bank to prove your identity.
  • Proof of address typically means a recent utility bill, lease, or bank statement with your name and current address — usually dated within the last 60 days.
  • You'll need your Social Security number or ITIN, which you can provide verbally; the bank will record it.
  • Some banks accept alternative documents if you lack a traditional ID, so ask your specific bank what options they have before you visit.
  • Bringing originals is safer than copies, though many banks will photocopy documents for you at the branch.

Government-issued photo ID: what counts

A driver's license is the most common form of ID banks accept. A state-issued ID card (not a driver's license) works just as well. A U.S. passport, passport card, or military ID also work. Some banks accept tribal IDs or Enhanced Driver's Licenses. The ID must be current or only recently expired — most banks accept IDs expired within the last year, though this varies.

If you don't have a driver's license or passport, a state ID card is the easiest path. You get one from your state's Department of Motor Vehicles (or equivalent office) using your birth certificate and Social Security card. The process takes a few weeks and costs between $10 and $30 depending on your state. Once you have it, you can open a bank account.

If you're in the U.S. without a Social Security number, you can use a passport from your home country plus an ITIN (Individual Taxpayer Identification Number). An ITIN is a nine-digit number the IRS issues to people who need to file taxes but don't have a Social Security number. You request one from the IRS using Form W-7. Some banks will open an account with just a passport and ITIN; others won't. Call ahead to confirm.

Proof of address: what documents work

A utility bill in your name is the standard proof of address. Electric, gas, water, internet, or phone bills all count. The bill must show your name and current address and be dated within the last 60 days. If you don't have a utility bill, a lease agreement or rental agreement works just as well — it needs your name, the address, and a recent date.

Other documents banks accept include a recent bank or credit card statement, a mortgage statement, a property tax bill, or a government letter (like one from Social Security or unemployment). Some banks accept mail from your employer showing your address. A few accept a recent paystub if it has your address printed on it.

If you're homeless or living with someone else and don't have mail in your name, ask the bank what they accept. Some will take a letter from a shelter or social services agency on letterhead, or a statement from the person whose address you're using, signed and dated. Options vary widely, so a phone call to your chosen bank is worth the time.

Your Social Security number or ITIN

You'll provide your nine-digit Social Security number or ITIN when you open the account. You don't need to bring a card or document — you can tell the bank representative the number and they'll record it. If you don't know your number, you can look it up on your Social Security card, a past tax return, a W-2 form from an employer, or by calling the Social Security Administration at 1-800-772-1213.

If you don't have a Social Security number and don't have an ITIN yet, you can still open some accounts. A few banks will open an account with just your passport and a promise to provide the number later. Most won't. If you're in this situation, getting an ITIN first (using IRS Form W-7) makes the process smoother, though it takes several weeks.

What to bring and what to leave at home

Bring originals of your ID and proof of address. Banks can photocopy them at the branch, so you don't need to make copies beforehand. Bring your Social Security card if you have it, though you don't have to — you can just tell the bank your number. Bring a small amount of money to make your first deposit if you want, though many banks let you open an account with zero dollars.

Don't bring original birth certificates, passports, or Social Security cards unless you're comfortable leaving them with the bank to photocopy. Some people prefer to make copies at home first. Don't bring multiple forms of ID — one government-issued photo ID is all you need. Don't bring expired bills or statements; banks want documents dated within the last 60 days.

When you don't have standard documents

If you've recently moved and don't have a utility bill or lease yet, bring what you have: a signed lease, a move-in inspection form, a letter from your landlord, or even a recent text message exchange with your landlord confirming the address. Banks understand that new residents don't have bills in their names yet. Call ahead and describe what you have; most will work with you.

If you're undocumented or don't have a Social Security number, some banks have specific programs. Chime, for example, opens accounts with just a passport and ITIN. Some community banks and credit unions are more flexible than large national banks. Call several banks in your area and ask directly what documents they need. Being honest about your situation often opens doors that a generic website can't predict.

If you're reopening an account after a gap or have had banking problems in the past, bring whatever documents you have. Some banks check ChexSystems (a banking history database) and may decline you if you owe money to a previous bank or have unpaid overdrafts. If that's your situation, a credit union or community bank is often more willing to work with you than a national chain.

What happens after you bring your documents

The bank representative will look at your ID to confirm it matches your face, check that your proof of address is recent and in your name, and record your Social Security number or ITIN. They'll ask you a few questions about the account type you want (checking, savings, or both) and any special features you need. The whole process usually takes 15 to 30 minutes.

Once approved, you'll sign paperwork and receive your account number, debit card (if you opened a checking account), and sometimes a temporary card number you can use online right away. The physical debit card arrives by mail in 7 to 10 days. Your account is active when ready, so you can start using it online or at the ATM as soon as you leave the branch.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I open an account online instead of going to a branch?

Yes, many banks let you open accounts online. You'll upload photos of your ID and proof of address instead of showing originals. The process is the same, but you do it from home. Online banks like Ally, Charles Schwab, and Discover often have faster approval because they don't need you to visit a branch. You'll still need the same documents.

What if my ID is expired?

Most banks accept IDs expired within the last year. Some accept IDs expired up to two years ago. Call your bank first to confirm. If your ID is older than that, renew it at your state's Department of Motor Vehicles before opening the account — the process takes a few weeks.

Do I need a second form of ID?

No. One government-issued photo ID is the standard requirement. A few banks ask for a second form of ID if your first one is expired or if you're opening the account online, but most don't. Call ahead if you're unsure about your specific bank.

Can someone else open an account for me?

No. Banks require you to be present with your own ID. This is a federal anti-fraud rule. If you're unable to visit a branch, some banks offer online account opening, or you can ask a family member to help you get to a branch.

What if I don't have a permanent address?

Some banks accept a shelter address, a PO box, or a care-of address (like a friend's house where you receive mail). Call your bank and describe your situation. Credit unions and community banks are often more flexible than national chains. If you're in a shelter, ask the staff — many have relationships with local banks that understand housing instability.