What you need before you walk in or go online
Security Bank requires a government-issued photo ID, proof of your current address, and your Social Security number or Tax ID. Bring an original document for the address — a recent utility bill, lease, or bank statement all work. If you're opening the account in person at a branch, bring these items with you. If you're opening online, you'll upload images or enter the information directly into their system.
You'll also need an opening deposit. Security Bank's minimum varies by account type — some savings accounts have no minimum, while others require $500 or $1,000 to open. Check the specific account you're interested in before you start, because this affects which route makes sense for you.
If you don't have a photo ID yet, get one before you attempt to open the account. Security Bank will not proceed without it, and this step alone can add weeks to your timeline if you're waiting on a state ID or passport.
Key Takeaways
- You need a government photo ID, proof of address, and your Social Security number — Security Bank will not open an account without all three.
- The opening deposit requirement ranges from zero to $1,000 depending on which savings account you choose, so confirm the amount before you begin.
- Online account opening takes 10 to 15 minutes and you can fund the account when ready; in-branch opening takes longer but lets you ask questions in real time.
- Once your account is open, Security Bank typically activates it within one business day, and you can start using your debit card or transfers right away.
Opening an account online through Security Bank's website
Go to securitybank.com and look for the "Open an Account" button, usually in the top navigation or under a "Products" menu. Select the savings account type you want — Security Bank offers several, including basic savings and money market accounts. The site will walk you through a series of screens asking for your personal information: name, date of birth, address, Social Security number, and employment status.
When you reach the identity verification step, Security Bank will ask you to upload a photo of your ID (front and back) and a proof of address document. Take clear photos in good lighting — blurry or cut-off images will be rejected and you'll have to resubmit. The system usually confirms whether your documents passed within a few minutes, though sometimes it takes a few hours.
After verification, you'll set up your login credentials and choose how to fund the account. You can link an existing bank account and transfer money, use a debit card, or in some cases mail a check. If you transfer from another bank, the money typically arrives within one to three business days. Once Security Bank receives your opening deposit, your account is active.
Opening an account in person at a Security Bank branch
Find your nearest branch using the branch locator on securitybank.com. Walk in during business hours with your ID, proof of address, and your opening deposit (cash or a check). Tell the representative you want to open a savings account and they'll direct you to an available banker.
The banker will verify your information, run a background check through ChexSystems (a banking history database), and review the account terms with you. This conversation usually takes 15 to 30 minutes. You'll sign documents on paper or on a tablet, and the banker will process your opening deposit right there. Ask questions about fees, interest rates, and how to access your account online — this is the moment to clarify anything before you leave.
Your account is typically active by the next business day. You can set up online banking and mobile app access before you leave the branch, or do it at home later. The banker will give you temporary access information and explain how to set a permanent password.
What happens after you open the account
Security Bank will mail you a debit card within 7 to 10 business days. In the meantime, you can transfer money in and out of your account online or through the mobile app. Your account number and routing number are available when ready — you can use these to set up direct deposit from an employer or transfer money from another bank.
Check your account settings to understand the fees attached to your specific account. Security Bank charges monthly maintenance fees on some savings accounts, though these are often waived if you maintain a minimum balance or set up direct deposit. Interest rates on savings accounts are low across the industry right now, but Security Bank publishes its current rates on the account details page — compare these to other banks if you're shopping around.
If you need to add another person to the account later (a joint owner or authorized user), you can do this online or by visiting a branch with that person's ID and Social Security number.
If your process is denied or delayed
Security Bank may deny your process if ChexSystems shows a history of unpaid overdrafts, fraud, or other banking problems. If this happens, you'll receive a letter explaining the reason. You have the right to dispute inaccurate information in your ChexSystems report — contact ChexSystems directly at 1-800-428-9623 to request a copy of your report and file a dispute if needed.
If your process is delayed, it's usually because your documents didn't pass verification the first time. Check your email for a message from Security Bank explaining what went wrong — common issues are blurry photos, documents that don't match your name, or proof of address that's too old. Resubmit the documents as instructed.
If you're having trouble with the online process, visit a branch in person instead. A banker can verify your identity face-to-face and often resolve issues faster than the automated system can.
Choosing between online and in-person opening
Open online if you want speed and convenience. The entire process takes 10 to 15 minutes, you can do it from home, and your account is usually active within a day. This works well if you're comfortable with technology and don't have questions about the account terms.
Open in person if you want to ask questions, prefer to hand over documents directly, or have had banking problems in the past. A banker can explain fees and features in detail, answer questions about your specific situation, and sometimes override minor issues that would block an online process. In-person opening takes longer — plan for 30 to 45 minutes — but you walk out knowing exactly how your account works.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to be a Security Bank customer already to open a savings account?
No. You can open a savings account as your first account with Security Bank. You don't need an existing checking account or any prior relationship with the bank.
What if I don't have a permanent address?
Security Bank requires proof of a current address — a homeless shelter address, a friend's address where you're staying, or a PO box may work depending on the branch. Call your local branch directly at the number on securitybank.com and ask what documents they'll accept for your situation.
Can I open an account for someone else, like a child or elderly parent?
You can open a joint account with another adult if both of you are present with ID. For a minor, a parent or guardian opens the account and is the primary owner; the child's name can be added as an authorized user. For someone who can't come in person, you'll need power of attorney or guardianship documents — contact your branch to confirm what they need.
How long does it take to use my debit card after I open the account?
Your account is active when ready, but your physical debit card arrives in 7 to 10 business days. In the meantime, you can use your account number to transfer money and set up direct deposit. Some banks offer temporary digital card numbers you can use online right away — ask Security Bank if this is available.
What if I made a mistake on my process?
Contact Security Bank as soon as you notice the error. If the account hasn't been fully activated yet, a banker can often correct it. If the account is already open, you may need to close it and open a new one, or update your information through online banking. Call your branch directly rather than trying to fix it through the website.