The basic answer: almost everyone

You can open a bank account if you have a government-issued photo ID and a way to prove where you live. That is the starting point for most banks. The specific documents and rules vary by bank and by the type of account you want, but no bank will turn you away straightforward because you are new to banking, have no credit history, or have had money problems in the past.

What matters most is that you can show who you are and that you actually live where you say you do. After that, the main differences come down to your age, immigration status, and whether you have had trouble with a bank before.

Key Takeaways

  • You need a government-issued photo ID and proof of your current address to open an account at any bank.
  • If you are under 18, you will need a parent or guardian to co-sign, and the account will be in both your names.
  • Non-citizens can open accounts with a valid passport or national ID card, though some banks also accept an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) instead of a Social Security Number.
  • Having a prior banking problem — like an unpaid overdraft or a closed account — does not automatically disqualify you; some banks specialize in second-chance accounts.
  • You do not need a minimum deposit to open most accounts, though some banks require a small opening deposit or a monthly direct deposit.

What documents you will need to bring

Every bank requires two things: proof of identity and proof of address. For identity, bring a government-issued photo ID — a driver's license, state ID card, or passport all work. If you do not have one, some banks will accept a tribal ID or a passport card.

For proof of address, bring a recent document with your name and current street address on it. A utility bill, lease agreement, or mortgage statement dated within the last 60 days usually works. Some banks also accept a bank statement, insurance document, or government letter. Call the bank before you go in if you are unsure whether your document will be accepted.

If you do not have a Social Security Number, bring your Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) instead. Banks use one of these to report interest you earn and to check whether you have had problems at other banks.

If you are under 18

You can open a bank account before you turn 18, but a parent or legal guardian must be present and must co-sign. The account will be in both your names, and the adult will have full access to the money and the account. Some banks call this a "youth account" or "teen account" and may offer it with lower or no monthly fees.

At 18, you can ask the bank to remove the adult from the account, though some banks do this automatically and others require you to ask. Check with your bank about their policy before you turn 18 so you know what to expect.

If you are not a U.S. citizen

You can open a bank account with a valid passport or national ID card from your country. You will also need proof of a U.S. address — the same documents that any other person would bring.

If you do not have a Social Security Number, bring your ITIN. If you do not have an ITIN either, some banks will open an account using only your passport number, though this is less common. A few banks specialize in accounts for non-citizens and immigrants; if your first bank says no, ask whether they can refer you to one that can help.

If you have had banking problems before

A prior problem — an unpaid overdraft, a closed account, or a dispute with a bank — does not automatically disqualify you. Most banks check a system called ChexSystems, which records closed accounts and unpaid fees. If you show up in that system, some mainstream banks may decline you. But many banks do not use ChexSystems, and some specialize in "second-chance" accounts for people with banking history.

Before you explore, you can request your own ChexSystems report for free at www.chexsystems.com. If there is an error on it, you can dispute it. If the information is correct, be honest with the bank about what happened. Some banks will work with you if you explain the situation and show that you are ready to manage an account responsibly now.

If you have no address or an unstable address

Banks require proof of a current address, and that creates a real barrier if you are homeless or moving frequently. Some options: use a shelter address if you are staying at one, use a trusted friend's or family member's address with their permission, or use a mail forwarding service address. The address just needs to be a place where mail can reach you.

If you are living in a shelter, ask the staff whether the shelter can serve as your mailing address. Many shelters are set up to do this. If you are in a transitional housing program, use that address. If neither works, a private mail service (like UPS Store or a local mail center) can provide an address for a monthly fee, usually between $10 and $25.

What happens after you bring your documents

The bank will verify your identity and address, check ChexSystems if they use it, and ask you questions about the account you want — checking, savings, or both. They will also ask about your employment and income, though this is usually just for their records and does not determine whether you can open the account.

Most banks can open your account the same day. You will receive a debit card in the mail within 7 to 10 days, and you can start using your account online or at the ATM as soon as it is open. Some banks offer a temporary card you can use right away while you wait for the permanent one.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I open an account if I have never had a bank account before?

Yes. Banks do not require you to have prior banking history. Being new to banking does not disqualify you. You just need a government-issued photo ID, proof of your current address, and a Social Security Number or ITIN.

What if I do not have a Social Security Number?

Bring your ITIN instead. If you do not have an ITIN, some banks will open an account using your passport number, though this is less common. You can also contact banks that specialize in accounts for immigrants and non-citizens.

Do I need money to open an account?

Most banks do not require a minimum deposit to open an account. Some banks ask for a small opening deposit — often $25 or less — and a few require a monthly direct deposit. Ask the bank about their specific requirements before you go in.

What if the bank says I cannot open an account?

Ask why. If it is because of ChexSystems, request your report and check for errors. If the information is correct, try a bank that specializes in second-chance accounts or one that does not use ChexSystems. Credit unions sometimes have different policies than large banks.

Can someone open an account on my behalf?

No. You must be present with your own ID. A parent or guardian can co-sign if you are under 18, but you still need to be there with your own documents.