The core documents banks ask for

Most banks will ask for a government-issued photo ID and proof of your current address before they open an account. The photo ID is almost always required—a driver's license, passport, or state ID card. Some banks also accept a tribal ID or military ID if you don't have a state-issued one.

Proof of address typically means a recent utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, or government mail with your name and current address. The document usually needs to be dated within the last 60 days, though this varies by bank. A few banks will accept a bank statement or insurance policy instead if you don't have a utility bill.

If you don't have a photo ID at all, some banks and credit unions will work with you using alternative documents—a combination of a birth certificate, Social Security card, and recent address proof. Call ahead to ask; this is not standard, but it happens.

Key Takeaways

  • A government-issued photo ID and proof of your current address are the baseline documents nearly every bank requires.
  • Your Social Security number will be requested so the bank can verify your identity and check for fraud risk.
  • If you have a history of overdrafts or fraud, some banks may deny you, but credit unions and second-chance banking programs often have lower barriers.
  • Opening an account online usually requires the same documents but lets you upload photos of them instead of visiting a branch.
  • Some banks charge monthly fees or require a minimum balance; reading the fee schedule before you open is the only way to avoid surprises.

Your Social Security number and identity verification

Banks are required by federal law to collect your Social Security number and verify your identity before opening an account. This is part of the Know Your Customer (KYC) rule, which all banks follow. The bank will use your SSN to check whether you have unpaid debts, fraud flags, or other red flags in the banking system.

If you don't have a Social Security number, you may still open an account at some banks and credit unions using an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) instead. This is less common, so you will need to call ahead and confirm the bank accepts it. Bring the same documents you would for a regular account.

What happens if you have a banking history problem

Banks check a system called ChexSystems when you explore. This database tracks overdrafts, fraud, and closed accounts due to negative balances. If you appear in ChexSystems with unpaid overdrafts or fraud, some banks will deny you outright. Others will ask you to pay off the old debt first.

If you are denied, you have options. Credit unions typically have fewer restrictions than large banks and may open an account for you even with a ChexSystems record. Second-chance banking programs, offered by some regional banks and credit unions, are designed for people with banking problems and usually require a smaller opening deposit or no deposit at all.

You can request your own ChexSystems report for free at chexsystems.com. If there is an error on your report, you can dispute it directly through their website. Disputes usually take 30 days to resolve.

Opening deposits and minimum balance requirements

Some banks require an opening deposit to create an account; others do not. The amount varies widely—anywhere from $0 to $500 depending on the bank and account type. Many online banks have no opening deposit requirement at all.

Separate from the opening deposit is the minimum balance requirement. This is the amount you must keep in the account at all times to avoid a monthly fee. Some accounts have no minimum; others require $500 or more. If your balance drops below the minimum, the bank will charge you a monthly maintenance fee, usually $5 to $15.

Read the fee schedule before you open the account. Banks are required to give you this information, either in writing or online. Look for the monthly maintenance fee, overdraft fees, and ATM fees if you plan to use out-of-network machines.

Online account opening versus in-person

Many banks now let you open an account entirely online. You will upload photos of your ID and proof of address instead of showing them in person. The process usually takes 10 to 15 minutes, and your account can be active the same day or within 24 hours.

Online opening requires the same documents as in-person opening. You will still need to provide your Social Security number and answer identity verification questions. Some banks will ask you to verify your identity through a video call with a representative instead of uploading documents.

In-person opening at a branch takes longer—usually 30 minutes to an hour—but you can ask questions and get help on the spot. If you have an unusual situation (no photo ID, ITIN instead of SSN, or a ChexSystems issue), in-person is often easier because a banker can see your full situation and may have more flexibility.

Special situations: joint accounts and accounts for others

If you want to open a joint account with another person, both of you will need to be present (in person or online, depending on the bank) and provide your own ID and Social Security number. The bank will verify both of you separately.

If you are opening an account for a minor, you will need to be the parent or legal guardian. You will provide your own documents and the child's birth certificate or Social Security card. The account will be in both your names, and you will have full control until the child reaches the age of majority (usually 18).

If you are opening an account as a power of attorney for someone else, bring the power of attorney document itself, your ID, and the other person's ID if they are present. Some banks require the original document; others accept a certified copy. Call ahead to confirm what your bank needs.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

Yes, if you have an ITIN (Individual Taxpayer Identification Number). Some banks and most credit unions will open an account for you with an ITIN instead of an SSN. Call the bank first to confirm they accept it, because not all do. Bring the same documents you would for a regular account.

What if I don't have a current address proof?

Some banks will accept alternative documents like a bank statement, insurance policy, or government mail. Others will let you use a PO box or a relative's address if you live there. Call the bank and explain your situation—many have workarounds for people without recent utility bills or leases.

How long does it take to open an account?

Online opening usually takes 10 to 15 minutes, with the account active the same day or within 24 hours. In-person opening at a branch takes 30 minutes to an hour. Some banks may take longer if they need to verify your identity through additional steps or if there is a ChexSystems flag.

What if I was denied because of ChexSystems?

Request your free ChexSystems report at chexsystems.com and dispute any errors. If the record is accurate, pay off the old debt if you can, then try a credit union or a second-chance banking program. These programs are designed for people with banking problems and have lower barriers to opening an account.

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

For in-person opening, bring the originals so the banker can see them. For online opening, you will upload photos or scans. Some banks may ask for certified copies of certain documents (like a power of attorney), so call ahead if you are in an unusual situation.