Whether you apply for a bank account online or in person, you’ll need a government-issued ID and personal details, such as your Social Security number, on hand. (If you don’t have a Social Security number, you can still open a bank account — skip ahead for more details.) You might also be asked to fund your account with an initial deposit.
Opening a bank account is usually a quick and easy process. Here’s what to expect.
What you need to open a bank account
You can open a bank account online or at a branch, if the bank has brick-and-mortar locations. You’ll need to provide the same information whether you’re opening a savings account, checking account, certificate of deposit or money market account. The minimum information that banks are required to get from account applicants are name, address, date of birth and an ID number.
Here’s a more detailed list of what you’ll need in order to open your new bank account:
1. A valid, government-issued photo ID, such as a driver’s license or a passport. Nondrivers can get a state ID card at the Department of Motor Vehicles office.
2. Other basic information, such as your birthdate, Social Security number or taxpayer identification number, or phone number.
3. An initial deposit is required by some banks, but other banks let you open an account without a deposit. Skip ahead to learn more about account funding.
Depending on your circumstances, you might need a few other items, too.
4. Identification details for other applicants, if you’re opening a joint account. Because the account will be owned by multiple people, the bank will want all owners’ identification and personal information. Accounts for kids and teens fall under the category of joint accounts as well. Minors generally can’t open a bank account without a parent or legal guardian signing on as a co-owner for the account.
» MORE: Check out the best banking apps for kids and teens
If you’re undocumented (and don’t have a Social Security number, for example), banks typically require your permanent (foreign) and local addresses and individual tax identification number (ITIN), and one or two of the following documents:
- One or two forms of photo identification such as an unexpired passport (including foreign passports), a government-issued driver's license (including foreign licenses), a citizenship card or a consular ID. ID from your school or place of work or a Visa or Mastercard credit card or debit card may sometimes be accepted.
- Proof of residency such as a current rental agreement, utility bill or paystub showing your name and U.S. address.
» Don’t have a government visa or immigration documentation? Find out how you can get a bank account
Decide what type of account you want: checking vs. savings
| Checking accounts can help you: | Savings accounts can help you: |
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| What to look for in a checking account: | What to look for in a savings account: |
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You can compare accounts side by side with NerdWallet's list of top checking accounts and our best savings accounts.
» Need more detail? Read more about the difference between checking and savings accounts
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Find a bank that suits your needs
If you're willing to consider online-only banks, you'll likely find lower fees and higher interest rates. Brick-and-mortar institutions typically have more fees and lower rates, but often come with a wider array of services and in-person assistance.
» Interested in an online-only account? See NerdWallet's picks for best online banks
What to expect when you open your new account
Applying for a new account usually doesn’t take very long, especially if you apply online. Some accounts don’t require you to make a deposit right away, but others ask that you have $25 to $100 on hand to open one. If you already have an account at a different bank or credit union, you can simply transfer money from that existing account into the new one. Otherwise, a check or cash will work.
» Interested in earning interest? Learn about the best kinds of accounts to store your money
Close your old account, if needed
Knowing how to properly switch banks can save you late fees and headaches. Address these items to make sure the transition is seamless.
Direct deposit: Give your employer your new account information.
Automatic bill payments: Cancel any old ones — whether in the bank’s own bill-pay platform or through, say, your streaming service provider’s website — and set up new ones with your new account information.
Recurring transfers and linked accounts: This could involve setting up a transfer between a new checking and an existing savings account, or making sure your PayPal, Venmo, Zelle and other payment app information is up to date.
» MORE: Banks that use Zelle
Smartphone apps, mobile banking and alerts: Download your new bank’s app, sign out of and delete your old one and turn off any alerts you were receiving.
Paper checks: Destroy any leftover blank checks from your the old account.
Safe-deposit boxes: If you’re cutting ties completely, collect your items in person and consult your rental agreement for specifics about closing out your box.
Get a written statement from your old bank confirming that your account is closed and ask about the bank’s account-reopening policies. Why? Some banks will reactivate closed accounts to honor automatic payments or receive deposits, putting you back on the hook for any fees.
» Want answers to common online banking questions? Check out our online banking FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
What do I need to open a bank account?
Here’s what you’ll need to open a bank account online or in person: a government-issued ID, personal details such as your Social Security number, and a way to fund your new account with an initial deposit.
What banks allow you to open an account online?
You can open a bank account online with an online-only bank, a neobank, a credit union or any of the largest brick-and-mortar banks. In many instances, you can open a new account entirely online. In some cases, you might need to mail in or visit the financial institution in person to submit paperwork or other documents.
What is required when opening a checking account?
Requirements for opening a checking account generally include a valid, government-issued photo ID such as a driver’s license, state ID or passport. You’ll also need basic personal information, such as your birthdate, Social Security number, taxpayer identification number or phone number.
