The documents and information banks ask for

Most banks ask for two things: proof of who you are, and proof of where you live. You will also need to bring money to deposit — the amount varies by bank and account type, but many accounts start with $25 to $100. Some banks have no minimum.

The bank's job is to verify your identity and address before they open your account. This is a federal requirement, not something the bank chose. It protects both you and the bank from fraud and money laundering.

What counts as proof depends on the bank, but the most common documents are listed below. Call your bank before you go in — they will tell you exactly what they accept, because rules vary between institutions and sometimes between branches of the same bank.

Key Takeaways

  • Bring a government-issued photo ID (driver's license, passport, or state ID card) and a document showing your current address, such as a utility bill or lease.
  • If you do not have a photo ID, some banks will accept a combination of other documents — ask what your bank allows before you visit.
  • You will need to bring money to deposit, usually between $25 and $100, though some accounts have no minimum.
  • If you are opening an account for a child or dependent, bring their birth certificate and your own ID and proof of address.
  • Banks may ask about your employment, income, and whether you have had accounts closed before — answer honestly, as false information can delay or block your account.

Photo identification the bank will accept

A government-issued photo ID is the standard first document banks ask for. This means an ID issued by a federal, state, or local government agency that has your photograph on it.

The most common options are a driver's license, a state ID card (sometimes called a non-driver ID), a U.S. passport, or a passport card. If you are not a U.S. citizen, a foreign passport works at most banks. Some banks also accept a tribal ID card or a military ID.

The ID does not have to be current — an expired driver's license is usually fine. The bank is checking that the photo matches your face and that the name matches what you tell them, not that the document is still valid for driving.

Proof of address the bank will accept

Banks need to know where you live. Proof of address is a document showing your name and current street address, issued within the last 60 to 90 days. The exact timeframe varies by bank.

A utility bill (electric, gas, water, or internet) is the most common proof. A lease or rental agreement works. So does a mortgage statement, a property tax bill, or a bank statement from another bank. Some banks accept mail from government agencies, such as a tax return or Social Security letter.

If you live with someone else and the bill is in their name, ask the bank whether they will accept it with a signed letter from the person whose name is on the bill, confirming that you live there. Many will, but policies differ.

If you do not have a recent utility bill or lease, a bank statement from another financial institution is often the fastest option — you may have one from a savings account, a credit union, or even a prepaid card account.

What to do if you do not have standard ID

Not everyone has a driver's license or passport. If you do not have a government-issued photo ID, tell the bank before you visit. Many will work with you using other documents.

Some banks will accept a combination of non-photo IDs instead — for example, a Social Security card plus a birth certificate plus a utility bill. Others will accept a consular ID (an ID issued by a foreign government's embassy or consulate in the United States). A few will accept a school ID or employee ID if you also bring other documents.

The rules are different at each bank, so call ahead. If your bank cannot help you, ask whether they can refer you to another bank in your area that works with people without photo IDs. Community banks and credit unions are sometimes more flexible than large national banks.

Opening an account for a child or dependent

If you are opening an account for someone under 18, you will need to bring their birth certificate or passport, plus your own ID and proof of address. You will also need to be present — the bank will not open an account for a minor without a parent or legal guardian there.

Some banks offer youth accounts designed for teenagers, with lower or no fees and parental controls. Others let you open a joint account where both you and the young person can access the money. Ask what options the bank has before you visit.

If you are opening an account for an adult dependent — someone you are responsible for who cannot manage their own finances — the process is more complex. Bring your ID, proof of address, and the dependent's ID or birth certificate. The bank may ask you to bring a power of attorney or guardianship document showing that you have legal authority to manage their money.

Information the bank will ask you to provide

Beyond documents, the bank will ask you questions and write down your answers. They will ask your full legal name, date of birth, and Social Security number (or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number if you do not have a Social Security number). They will ask your phone number and email address.

Many banks will ask about your employment and income. You do not have to answer, but if you do, be honest — the bank may verify this information later. They may also ask whether you have had a bank account closed before, or whether you have ever been denied an account. Answer truthfully. Banks use this information to assess risk, and false answers can delay your account or cause it to be closed later.

The bank will also ask you to choose a password or PIN for online banking and mobile banking. Write this down somewhere safe — you will need it to log in.

The initial deposit and account fees

You will need to bring money to deposit when you open your account. The amount required varies widely. Some banks ask for $25 or $50. Others ask for $100 or more. Some accounts have no minimum deposit at all.

Before you visit, check the bank's website or call to find out the minimum for the specific account type you want. If you are opening a checking account, the minimum may be different from a savings account.

Ask about monthly fees as well. Some accounts are free. Others charge $5 to $15 per month, though many banks waive the fee if you keep a certain balance or set up direct deposit. Knowing the fee structure before you open the account helps you choose the right one for your situation.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

Some banks let you open an account online and mail in your documents afterward. Others require you to visit a branch in person. A few will do a video call with you instead of an in-person visit. Check your bank's website or call to see what they offer — it depends on the bank and the type of account.

What if I do not have a Social Security number?

You can open a bank account with an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) instead. If you do not have either, some banks will open an account using just your passport and other documents, though this is less common. Call your bank to ask what they can do.

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

Banks almost always want to see the original documents so they can verify they are real. Bring the originals. The bank will usually make a copy for their records, but they need to see the original first.

What happens if the bank rejects my documents?

The bank will tell you what is missing or what they cannot accept. Ask what documents they will take instead. If they cannot help you, ask for a referral to another bank, or visit a credit union — they sometimes have different rules.

Can someone else open an account on my behalf?

No. You must be present and sign the account paperwork yourself. The only exception is if you are a parent or legal guardian opening an account for a minor or dependent — in that case, you sign on their behalf.