The documents banks ask for when you open an account

Most banks will ask for two pieces of identification: one that shows your photo and one that proves your address. A driver's license covers both at once. If you don't have a driver's license, you'll bring a photo ID (like a passport) plus a separate document showing where you live (like a utility bill or lease).

Banks are required by federal law to verify who you are before opening an account. This is called Know Your Customer (KYC) verification, and it's the same rule at every bank. The specific documents they accept can vary slightly, but the principle is always the same: prove your identity and prove your address.

You don't need perfect documents or documents in perfect condition. A bent driver's license or a utility bill with a coffee stain will work fine. What matters is that the information is readable and current enough to match who you are right now.

Key Takeaways

  • A valid driver's license or state ID card satisfies both the photo ID and address requirements in one document.
  • If you don't have a driver's license, bring a passport or other photo ID plus a utility bill, lease, or bank statement showing your current address.
  • Address documents must be recent (usually from the last 60 to 90 days), but ID documents can be older as long as they're still valid.
  • Banks cannot turn you away for not having a specific type of ID—they must accept reasonable alternatives that prove identity and address.
  • You'll also need your Social Security number or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) to complete the account opening.

Photo ID options that banks accept

A driver's license or state ID card is what most people bring, and it's the fastest route because it shows both your face and your address. These are issued by your state's Department of Motor Vehicles and are valid for several years.

If you don't drive or don't have a state ID, a passport works as your photo ID. A U.S. passport book or passport card both count. Passports don't show your address, so you'll need to bring a separate address document with it.

Other photo IDs that banks accept include military ID, tribal ID cards, and some state-issued documents like professional licenses or concealed carry permits. The key is that the ID must have your photo, your name, and an expiration date that hasn't passed.

If you're a permanent resident or have a work visa, your green card or employment authorization document (EAD) can serve as your photo ID. Again, you'll need an address document to go with it.

Address documents and how recent they need to be

An address document proves where you live right now. Banks typically accept documents dated within the last 60 to 90 days, though some are stricter and some are more flexible. Call the bank before you go in if you're unsure whether your document is recent enough.

Common address documents include utility bills (electric, gas, water, internet), lease agreements, mortgage statements, bank statements, and government mail like tax forms or benefit letters. The document must show your full name and your current address.

If you've recently moved and don't have a utility bill or lease in your new name yet, a bank statement from your old address sometimes works as a temporary solution—ask the bank first. Some banks will also accept a letter from a landlord or property manager on official letterhead, though this is less common.

If you live with family and aren't on the lease or utilities, ask whether the bank will accept a letter from the person whose name is on those documents, stating that you live there. Not all banks will, but some do.

Your Social Security number or ITIN

Banks need a nine-digit tax identification number to open an account. For most people, this is your Social Security number (SSN). If you don't have a Social Security number, you can use an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN).

An ITIN is issued by the IRS 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 United States. You explore for an ITIN through the IRS by filing Form W-7. The process takes several weeks.

If you're in the country without work authorization and don't have an ITIN, some banks (particularly community banks and credit unions) will open an account using just your passport number and country of origin instead. This is less common but not impossible. Call ahead to ask.

What to bring on the day you open your account

Bring your photo ID, your address document, and know your Social Security number or ITIN. Write down the number if you're worried you'll forget it—you don't need to memorize it. Bring the actual documents, not copies; the bank will look at the originals.

Bring your phone number and email address. The bank will use these to contact you about your account and to send statements if you choose paperless banking.

If you're opening an account for a child, bring the child's birth certificate and your own ID and address document. Some banks require both parents to be present; others don't. Call ahead to ask what your specific bank needs.

If someone else is opening an account on your behalf (for example, a family member helping you), bring a signed letter giving them permission, plus both of your IDs. Not all banks allow this, so confirm first.

What happens if your documents don't match

If your address document shows a different last name than your ID—for example, because you recently married or changed your name—bring documentation of the change. A marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order for a legal name change will explain the difference.

If your address is slightly different on different documents (one says "123 Main Street" and another says "123 Main St."), this is usually fine. Banks understand that abbreviations and formatting vary. If the street address is actually different, you'll need to clarify which one is current.

If you've moved very recently and your ID still shows your old address, bring your new address document (like a lease or utility bill) and explain that you just moved. The bank will use the newer document as your current address.

If you don't have traditional ID documents

If you've never had a driver's license and don't have a passport, you can get a state ID card from your state's Department of Motor Vehicles. This is a non-driver ID that serves the same purpose as a driver's license for banking. You'll need to bring your birth certificate, Social Security card (or a letter from the Social Security Administration), and proof of address to get one.

If you're experiencing homelessness or don't have a permanent address, some banks and credit unions will open an account using a shelter address, a mail forwarding service address, or even a bank branch address as your temporary address. Call local community banks or credit unions first—they're often more flexible than large national banks.

If you're undocumented and don't have a state ID, passport, or ITIN, some community banks and credit unions will still open an account. They may ask for a combination of documents like a consular ID (issued by your country's embassy), a utility bill, and a reference letter. The rules vary widely by bank and by state, so you'll need to call and ask directly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I open a bank account with just a passport?

Yes, but you'll also need a document showing your current address, like a utility bill or lease. A passport alone proves who you are but not where you live. Bring both documents to the bank.

What if my address document is older than 90 days?

Call the bank before you go in and ask whether they'll accept it. Some banks are stricter about the date than others. If it's too old, a recent utility bill or bank statement in your name will work better.

Do I need to bring my Social Security card to the bank?

No. You just need to know your Social Security number and tell the bank what it is. The bank will not ask to see the card itself. If you don't know your number, you can call the Social Security Administration at 1-800-772-1213 to confirm it before you go to the bank.

Can I open an account if I'm not a U.S. citizen?

Yes. You'll need a valid photo ID (like a passport), an address document, and either a Social Security number or an ITIN. If you don't have either, some community banks will work with you using your passport number instead. Call ahead to ask what the bank can do.

What if I'm opening an account for my child?

Bring your child's birth certificate, your own photo ID, and your address document. Some banks require both parents to be present if the account is in the child's name alone. Others allow one parent to open it. Ask the bank what they need before you visit.