The documents and information banks actually ask for

Most banks need two things from you: proof of who you are, and proof of where you live. A government-issued ID like a driver's license or passport covers the first. For the second, they usually accept a recent utility bill, lease agreement, or government mail with your name and address on it. Some banks will also take a bank statement from another institution if you have one.

Beyond those two pieces, you'll need to provide your Social Security number (or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number if you don't have one). The bank uses this to check your banking history and to report your account to the IRS. You'll also need to decide how much money you want to deposit to open the account — this varies widely by bank, from zero dollars to several hundred, depending on the account type.

The exact list changes from bank to bank and sometimes depends on which type of account you're opening. A basic checking account usually has fewer requirements than a savings account with special features. Before you go in, call the bank or check their website to confirm what they need — it takes two minutes and saves a wasted trip.

Key Takeaways

  • You need a government-issued photo ID and proof of your current address, such as a recent utility bill or lease.
  • Banks will ask for your Social Security number to verify your identity and report the account to the IRS.
  • The minimum deposit required to open an account ranges from zero to several hundred dollars depending on the bank and account type.
  • Different account types have different requirements, so confirm what your specific bank needs before visiting in person.
  • Many banks now let you open an account online or by phone, which means you may not need to visit a branch at all.

What counts as proof of identity

A government-issued photo ID is the standard. This means a driver's license, state ID card, passport, or passport card. If you don't have a driver's license, a state ID card (which you can get from your DMV without needing to drive) works just as well. A passport or passport card also works if you have one.

Some banks will accept other forms of ID if you don't have one of these — a tribal ID, a military ID, or a consular ID from your home country. But these are less common, so call ahead if that's what you have. A Social Security card, birth certificate, or school ID won't work on their own because they don't have a photo.

If you're opening an account in person, the bank will look at your ID to make sure the photo matches your face. If you're opening online, you may be asked to take a photo of your ID or to answer security questions based on information in your ID.

What counts as proof of address

The bank needs to confirm where you actually live. A utility bill — electric, gas, water, or internet — is the easiest proof. It needs to have your name and current address on it and be dated within the last 60 to 90 days. Different banks have different time windows, so if your bill is older than three months, call first.

Other documents that work include a lease or rental agreement with your name and address, a mortgage statement, a property tax bill, or government mail like a tax return or voter registration card. Some banks will also accept a bank statement from another bank if you have one. A few will take a phone bill or cell phone bill, though this is less common.

If you're homeless or living with someone else and don't have a document in your name, some banks have workarounds. You might be able to use a letter from a shelter, a social services agency, or even a trusted person who can confirm your address. This varies by bank, so ask what they can accept in your situation.

Your Social Security number and tax information

Banks are required by federal law to collect your Social Security number (SSN) or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN). They use this to check whether you have unpaid debts, to see if you've had problems with other banks, and to report your account to the IRS for tax purposes.

If you don't have a Social Security number, you can get an ITIN from the IRS. This is a nine-digit number similar to an SSN, and it's designed for people who are not may be able to access for an SSN but need to file taxes or open financial accounts. You explore for an ITIN through the IRS using Form W-7. The process takes several weeks.

The bank will run what's called a ChexSystems check — a report that shows your banking history with other institutions. This isn't a credit check. It shows whether you've had accounts closed due to unpaid fees, fraud, or other problems. If you have a negative ChexSystems history, some banks will still open an account for you, though they may offer a different type of account or require a larger deposit.

Minimum deposit amounts and account types

How much money you need to open an account depends on the bank and the type of account. Many banks now offer checking accounts with no minimum deposit at all. Others require $25 to $100 to open. A few require $500 or more, though these are usually premium accounts with extra features.

The account type matters too. A basic checking account usually has a lower or zero minimum than a savings account with interest, a money market account, or a certificate of deposit (CD). If you're opening your first account and don't have much money, look for a bank that advertises "no minimum deposit" checking accounts — these exist and are common.

The deposit you make to open the account becomes your starting balance. It's your money, and you can withdraw it whenever you want. It's not a fee.

Opening an account online versus in person

Many banks now let you open a checking account entirely online, which changes what you need to bring. If you open online, you'll upload photos of your ID and proof of address instead of showing them in person. You'll type in your information rather than filling out a form by hand.

Some online banks (banks that have no physical branches) only let you open accounts online. Others are traditional banks with branches that offer both options. Opening online is usually faster — sometimes you can be done in 10 minutes — but you may need to wait a few days for the bank to verify your documents before the account is fully active.

If you open in person at a branch, you'll bring your documents with you, show them to a banker, and often walk out with a debit card the same day. This takes longer in the moment but means your account is ready to use when ready. Choose whichever fits your schedule and comfort level.

What happens if you don't have one of these documents

If you don't have a government-issued ID, you have options. You can get a state ID card from your DMV — you don't need a driver's license. The process usually takes a few weeks and costs $10 to $30 depending on your state. Bring your birth certificate, Social Security card, and proof of address to the DMV.

If you don't have proof of address, ask the bank what alternatives they accept. Some will take a letter from your employer, a school, a shelter, or a social services agency. A few will accept a statement from another bank or credit union. If none of those work, you may need to get a utility bill in your name first — this usually takes a few weeks after you set up service.

If you don't have a Social Security number, explore for an ITIN through the IRS before you go to the bank. This takes several weeks, so plan ahead. Some banks will hold your process while you're waiting for your ITIN number, though not all will.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I open a bank account without a Social Security number?

No, but you can get an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) from the IRS if you don't have an SSN. You explore using Form W-7, and the process takes several weeks. Once you have an ITIN, you can use it to open a bank account just like an SSN.

What if my ID or address proof is expired?

An expired ID is usually fine as long as the photo still looks like you. An expired utility bill or lease won't work — the bank needs proof of your current address, which usually means a document dated within the last 60 to 90 days. Call your bank to confirm their exact time window.

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

No. You just need to tell the bank your Social Security number. They'll write it down or you'll type it in. Bringing the actual card isn't necessary and isn't recommended — it's safer to leave it at home.

Can someone else open a bank account for me?

No. You need to be present and provide your own ID and signature. Some banks let you open an account online without visiting a branch, but you still have to be the one doing it. A parent or guardian can open an account for a minor child, but they'll need the child's birth certificate and Social Security number along with their own ID.

What if I have a ChexSystems problem from a past account?

A negative ChexSystems report won't automatically stop you from opening a new account. Many banks will still open one for you, though some may require a larger deposit or offer a different account type. Some banks specialize in second-chance accounts for people with ChexSystems issues. Call ahead and ask if the bank works with people in your situation.