What you need to open a savings account at Arvest

Arvest Bank is a regional bank operating in Oklahoma, Arkansas, Kansas, and Missouri. To open a savings account, you will need a government-issued photo ID (a driver's license or passport), your Social Security number, and an initial deposit. Arvest does not require a minimum opening deposit for most savings accounts, though some accounts may have different rules — call your local branch to confirm what applies to the specific account type you want.

You can open an account in person at any Arvest branch, online through their website, or by phone. The in-person route is often fastest if you have questions, since a banker can walk you through the process and answer them on the spot. Online and phone openings take a few days longer because the bank needs to verify your identity through additional steps.

Key Takeaways

  • You will need a photo ID, Social Security number, and an initial deposit to open a savings account at Arvest.
  • Opening in person at a branch is the quickest method and lets you ask questions as you go.
  • Online and phone openings are possible but require extra verification steps that add a few days to the process.
  • Arvest savings accounts typically have no monthly maintenance fee, but you should confirm the current terms with your branch.

Opening an account in person at an Arvest branch

Find the Arvest branch nearest you using their branch locator on the Arvest website. Bring your photo ID, Social Security number (or have it memorized), and your initial deposit — you can bring cash, a check, or a debit card to fund the account. Go during regular business hours; most branches are open Monday through Friday and some are open on Saturday mornings.

When you arrive, tell a banker you want to open a savings account. They will ask you to choose an account type (Arvest offers basic savings accounts and higher-yield options for larger balances), review the account terms with you, and collect your information. The whole process usually takes 15 to 30 minutes. You will receive a debit card and checks (if you request them) either that day or within a few business days by mail.

Opening an account online

Visit the Arvest website and look for the "Open an Account" or "New Accounts" section. You will enter your personal information, Social Security number, and the type of account you want. The system will ask you to verify your identity — this usually means answering security questions based on your credit history or uploading a photo of your ID.

After you submit your information, Arvest will review it and contact you if they need anything else. Once approved, you will fund the account by transferring money from another bank account or providing payment information. The account typically opens within one to three business days. You can set up online banking access when ready, but your debit card will arrive by mail.

Opening an account by phone

Call Arvest's customer service number (available on their website) and ask to open a savings account. A representative will walk you through the same questions as an in-person or online opening: your personal details, Social Security number, and account type preference. They will verify your identity by asking security questions or requesting that you upload a photo of your ID through a find link they send you.

Once approved, you will fund the account by transferring money from another bank or providing a check. Phone openings take three to five business days because the bank needs written confirmation of your identity before the account is fully active. Your debit card will arrive separately by mail.

What happens after you open the account

Once your account is open, you can deposit money by visiting a branch, using an ATM, or transferring funds from another bank account. Arvest offers online banking so you can check your balance, transfer money between accounts, and pay bills from your computer or phone. You can also set up direct deposit if your employer or a government agency sends you regular payments.

Your savings account will earn interest on the money you keep in it, though the rate changes based on how much you have in the account and what the broader interest rate environment is doing. Arvest publishes current rates on their website. You can withdraw money from your savings account at any time, but federal rules limit you to six withdrawals per month — if you go over, the bank may charge a fee or convert the account to a checking account.

Documents to bring or have ready

For an in-person opening, bring your photo ID and know your Social Security number. If you are opening online or by phone, have both of these ready plus access to a camera or scanner if the bank asks you to upload a photo of your ID. If you are funding the account with a check, have the check information available. If you are transferring from another bank, have that account number and routing number ready.

If you do not have a Social Security number but are a legal resident, ask the banker whether Arvest can open an account using an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) instead. Policies vary by branch, so calling ahead can save you a trip.

If you do not have a photo ID

A standard driver's license or passport is the easiest path, but if you do not have one, call your local Arvest branch and ask what other forms of ID they will accept. Some branches may accept a state ID card, tribal ID, or passport card. The banker can tell you what documents they need before you come in.

If you have no government-issued ID at all, the process is more complicated — some banks will not open accounts without one. Call Arvest directly to ask whether they have options for people without photo ID, and what steps you would need to take.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does Arvest charge a monthly fee for savings accounts?

Most Arvest savings accounts have no monthly maintenance fee. However, some specialty accounts may have different terms. Call your local branch or check the Arvest website to confirm the fee structure for the specific account you are interested in.

Can I open an account if I have had banking problems in the past?

Arvest checks ChexSystems, a banking history database, when you open an account. If you have unpaid overdrafts or closed accounts in bad standing, the bank may decline to open an account or require you to resolve those issues first. Call ahead and ask what your options are.

How long does it take to receive my debit card?

If you open in person, you may receive a temporary card that day or a permanent card within five to seven business days. Online and phone openings take longer — typically 7 to 10 business days for the card to arrive by mail. You can use online banking and transfers before the card arrives.

What is the minimum balance I need to keep in the account?

Most Arvest savings accounts have no minimum balance requirement. Some higher-yield accounts may require you to maintain a certain balance to earn the advertised rate. Ask the banker about the specific account you are opening.

Can I open an account for someone else, like a child?

You can open a custodial or joint account for a minor. The adult on the account will need to provide their own ID and Social Security number, and the child's Social Security number. Visit a branch or call to discuss the options for accounts designed for young people.