You can open a bank account without an SSN, but the bank will use a different identification number instead

A Social Security number is not the only way a bank can verify who you are. If you don't have an SSN, you can open a checking or savings account using an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN), a passport, a state ID, or other government-issued identification. The specific documents a bank will accept depend on the bank itself — some are more flexible than others, and policies vary by branch.

The process takes longer than it would with an SSN because the bank has to verify your identity through additional steps. You'll also find that some banks won't open accounts for non-residents or people without U.S. addresses, even if you have valid ID. The banks most likely to work with you are those that explicitly serve immigrant communities or have branches in your home country.

What you cannot do is lie about having an SSN or use someone else's number. Banks are required by federal law to verify identity and report suspicious activity. If you misrepresent yourself, the account will be closed and you may face legal consequences.

Key Takeaways

  • An ITIN, issued by the IRS to people who file taxes without an SSN, is the most common substitute for an SSN when opening a bank account.
  • You will need a valid government-issued photo ID — a passport works in most cases — plus proof of address, which can be a utility bill, lease, or bank statement from your home country.
  • Not all banks accept non-SSN accounts; call ahead or visit in person to confirm the bank will work with your documents before you go.
  • The account opening process typically takes one to three weeks longer than it would with an SSN because the bank must complete additional verification steps.
  • Some banks require a minimum deposit or charge higher fees for accounts opened without an SSN, so compare options before committing.

Getting an ITIN if you don't have one

An ITIN is a nine-digit number issued by the Internal Revenue Service. You don't need to be a U.S. citizen or permanent resident to get one — you need it if you have U.S. tax obligations but no SSN. This includes people who work in the U.S., earn investment income, or file taxes on U.S. property.

To request an ITIN, you file Form W-7 with the IRS. You can mail it with copies of your passport and a completed tax return, or you can explore in person at an IRS office or through an authorized acceptance agent — usually a tax professional or community organization. The IRS processes the process in about four weeks if you mail it, or sometimes faster if you explore in person.

Once you have an ITIN, you can use it on bank applications in place of an SSN. Write it in the SSN field and note that it's an ITIN, not an SSN. Some banks will ask you to bring the IRS letter that confirms your ITIN, so keep that document.

Which banks will open accounts without an SSN

Large national banks like Chase, Bank of America, and Wells Fargo have inconsistent policies — some branches will open accounts with an ITIN and valid ID, while others will refuse. Your best approach is to call the specific branch where you want to open the account and ask directly whether they accept non-SSN customers. If they say no, ask whether a different branch in your area has a different policy.

Credit unions often have more flexible policies than national banks, especially if they serve immigrant communities or have a mission to serve underbanked populations. Community banks and smaller regional banks are also more likely to work with you. Some banks specifically market accounts to people without SSNs — these include Chime, LendingClub, and some online banks, though policies change and you should verify current requirements on their websites.

Banks that have branches in your home country or operate internationally may also be willing to open accounts for non-residents. HSBC, Citibank, and some other international banks have this capability, though they typically require higher minimum deposits and charge more in fees.

Documents you'll need to bring

At minimum, you'll need a valid government-issued photo ID. A passport is the most widely accepted. Some banks will also accept a national ID card, driver's license from your home country, or a state ID if you have one. The ID must not be expired, and the bank will photocopy it.

You'll also need proof of your current address in the United States. This can be a utility bill, lease agreement, bank statement, or government mail addressed to you. If you don't have a U.S. address yet, some banks will accept a letter from your employer or a temporary address like a hotel or shelter. A few banks will accept a foreign address if you're opening the account remotely, but this is rare.

Bring your ITIN number or the IRS letter that confirms it. If you don't have an ITIN yet, some banks will let you open an account while you're waiting for it to arrive, but you'll need to provide the number within a set timeframe — usually 30 days — or the account will be closed. Ask the bank about this before you open the account.

What happens during the account opening process

When you arrive at the bank, tell the representative that you don't have an SSN and ask whether they can open an account with an ITIN or other ID. If they say yes, they'll ask you to fill out a signature card and provide your documents. The bank will photocopy your ID and address proof.

The bank will then run a background check using your name, date of birth, and ID number. This is where the process takes longer than usual — the bank has to verify your identity through additional databases because they don't have an SSN to cross-reference. This can take anywhere from a few days to three weeks.

During this time, the bank may call you to confirm information or ask additional questions about your employment, income, or the purpose of the account. Answer honestly and provide any documents they request. Once the bank completes its verification, you'll be notified that the account is open and you can deposit money and start using it.

Fees and minimum deposits for non-SSN accounts

Some banks charge higher monthly fees for accounts opened without an SSN. These fees range from $5 to $15 per month, though some banks waive them if you maintain a minimum balance or set up direct deposit. Ask about fees before you open the account — they're not always disclosed upfront.

Minimum deposit requirements also vary. Some banks require $25 to $100 to open the account, while others require $500 or more. A few banks have no minimum, especially if you're opening an online account. Compare options across multiple banks before you decide, because the difference in fees and minimums can add up over time.

If you're opening an account at a bank that serves immigrant communities, fees are often lower and minimums are often waived. These banks understand that their customers may have limited initial deposits and design their accounts accordingly.

Opening an account remotely if you can't visit a branch

Some banks allow you to open an account entirely online or by mail if you don't have a U.S. address yet. You'll upload photos of your ID and proof of address, provide your ITIN, and sign documents electronically. The bank will then mail you a debit card and account information.

Online banks like Chime, Wise, and some others have streamlined this process for international customers, though they still require identity verification. The process typically takes one to two weeks. You'll need a valid email address and a phone number where the bank can reach you.

If you're opening an account remotely, make sure the bank actually serves your country or region. Some banks claim to offer international accounts but have restrictions on which countries they work with. Check the bank's website or call customer service to confirm they'll open an account for someone in your location.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a passport from my home country to open a bank account?

Yes, a valid passport is one of the most widely accepted forms of ID for opening a bank account without an SSN. It must not be expired. Some banks will also accept a national ID card or driver's license from your home country, but a passport is your safest bet because it's recognized internationally.

What if the bank says they can't open an account without an SSN?

Ask whether they accept ITINs or other forms of ID. If they say no, try a different branch of the same bank or a different bank entirely. Credit unions and community banks are more likely to say yes. You can also call ahead to multiple banks before visiting in person to save time.

How long does it take to get an ITIN?

If you mail Form W-7 to the IRS, it takes about four weeks. If you explore in person at an IRS office or through an authorized acceptance agent, you may get it faster — sometimes within one to two weeks. You can open a bank account while you're waiting for your ITIN to arrive, but the bank will usually require you to provide the number within 30 days.

Do I need a U.S. address to open a bank account?

Most banks require a U.S. address. If you don't have one yet, some banks will accept a temporary address like a hotel, shelter, or your employer's address. A few online banks will accept a foreign address, but this is uncommon. Call the bank to ask what they'll accept before you explore.

Will opening a bank account without an SSN affect my credit?

No. Opening a checking or savings account does not affect your credit score because banks don't report deposit accounts to credit bureaus. Your credit history is separate from your bank account. However, if you later explore for a loan or credit card, lenders will ask about your banking history and may request statements.