Bring these documents to open an account

Most banks will ask for a government-issued photo ID, proof of your address, and your Social Security number or ITIN (Individual Taxpayer Identification Number). The exact list varies by bank and by the type of account you want, but these three things cover nearly every situation. Some banks let you open an account online or by phone and skip the in-person visit entirely — if that matters to you, call ahead and ask.

If you don't have a photo ID yet, a few banks will accept a combination of other documents instead: a utility bill plus a birth certificate, or a lease agreement plus a state ID card without a photo. This takes longer and may require a manager's approval, so it's worth calling your specific branch first to see what they'll accept.

Bring originals, not copies. Banks need to see the real document to verify it's genuine. If you're worried about handing over your Social Security card, you don't have to — you can write the number on the process form instead, and most banks prefer that anyway.

Key Takeaways

  • A government photo ID, proof of address, and your Social Security number or ITIN are the standard documents banks ask for.
  • Proof of address can be a utility bill, lease, mortgage statement, or government mail — it just needs to show your name and current address.
  • If you don't have a photo ID, some banks will accept a combination of other documents, but you should call your branch first to confirm.
  • Many banks now let you open an account online without visiting in person, which means you may not need to bring physical documents at all.
  • Bring originals rather than copies, and write your Social Security number on the form instead of handing over your card.

What counts as proof of address

Proof of address means a recent document that shows your name and where you live. A utility bill (electric, gas, water, or internet) works best because it's current and official. A lease agreement, mortgage statement, or property tax bill also works. Some banks accept government mail like a tax return or voter registration card.

The document usually needs to be dated within the last 60 days, though this varies by bank. If you just moved and your utility bill still shows your old address, bring a lease or a signed rental agreement for your new place instead. If you live with family and aren't on any bills, a notarized letter from the person whose name is on the bill, plus a copy of that bill, sometimes works — but call ahead first.

Your Social Security number or ITIN

Banks are required by federal law to collect your Social Security number (SSN) or ITIN before opening an account. They use it to check your banking history and to report account activity to the IRS. You don't need to bring your Social Security card itself — you can straightforward tell the bank the number, or write it on the process.

If you don't have a Social Security number, you may have an ITIN instead. An ITIN is a nine-digit number issued by the IRS to people who don't have an SSN but need to file taxes or open financial accounts. Some banks accept ITINs; others don't. If you have an ITIN, call the bank before you go in to confirm they'll open an account with it.

Photo ID options

A driver's license or state ID card is what most banks expect. A passport works too. Some banks also accept a military ID, tribal ID, or a foreign passport with a U.S. visa. The ID needs to be current — expired IDs are usually rejected, though some banks will make exceptions if the ID expired recently.

If you don't have any of these, ask the bank what they'll accept instead. Some will take a combination of documents: a birth certificate plus a utility bill, or a school ID plus a lease. The process takes longer and may need manager approval, so it's worth calling your branch first rather than showing up and finding out they can't help you that day.

What to bring if you're opening a joint account

If two people are opening an account together, both of you need to be present (or both need to complete the online process if the bank offers it). Each person brings their own photo ID, proof of address, and Social Security number or ITIN. The bank will verify both people's information before opening the account.

Some banks let one person start the account online and the other person sign in later to complete their part. Ask the bank whether you both need to show up at the same time, or whether you can do it separately.

What to bring if you're opening an account for someone else

If you're opening an account on behalf of a minor or an adult who can't manage their own finances, you'll need the account holder's documents (ID, proof of address, Social Security number) plus your own. You'll also need legal paperwork showing you have the authority to act on their behalf — a birth certificate for a minor, or a power of attorney or guardianship order for an adult.

Rules for this vary significantly by bank and by state. Some banks won't open accounts for minors at all. Others require the minor to be present even if you have legal authority. Call ahead and ask what documents you need to bring and whether the account holder needs to be there.

Opening an account without visiting a branch

Many banks and credit unions now let you open a checking or savings account entirely online. You'll upload photos of your ID and proof of address instead of bringing physical documents. The bank's website will walk you through the process and tell you what they need.

Online accounts are usually faster — you can be done in 10 to 15 minutes — and you don't need to find time to visit a branch. The tradeoff is that you won't have a banker there to answer questions or help you choose between account types. If you're new to banking, you might find it helpful to call the bank's customer service line while you're filling out the online form.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I open an account if my address keeps changing?

Most banks need a current address to open an account. If you're homeless or living temporarily, ask whether the bank will accept a shelter address, a PO box, or a friend's address where mail can reach you. Some banks have programs specifically for people experiencing homelessness and may have different rules.

What if my ID is expired?

Many banks will still accept an expired ID if it expired recently (within the last year or two). Call your branch first to ask. If your ID is very old, bring a second form of ID or proof of identity along with it — a utility bill, birth certificate, or passport.

Do I need to bring my Social Security card?

No. You can write your Social Security number on the process form, or straightforward tell the banker the number. Most banks prefer you don't hand over your card, since it's easier to replace the number if something goes wrong than to replace the card itself.

What if I don't have a U.S. address yet?

Some banks will open an account with a foreign address temporarily while you're waiting for a U.S. address. Others require a U.S. address before they'll open the account. Call the bank and explain your situation — they may have options you don't know about.

Can someone else bring my documents for me?

No. Banks require the person opening the account to be present (or to complete the online process themselves) to verify their identity. You can't send someone else with your documents.