Opening a bank account is usually straightforward, but a missing document can stop the application. Banks must confirm your identity, and each bank can set its own account rules.
This guide explains what you need to open a bank account, how the application works, and what to check before you apply. It also covers special requirements for minors, joint account owners, and non-U.S. citizens.
You can open many accounts online in a few minutes. A branch visit may still be the better choice when your identification documents require extra review or your application has a problem.
What to Bring When Opening a Bank Account
Most banks ask for the same basic information. Federal customer identification rules require banks to collect your name, date of birth, address, and an identification number. The bank must also verify your identity through documents or another approved method.
You will usually need the following:
- Government-issued identification: A driver’s license, state identification card, passport, or military identification card may work. Some banks ask for a second form of identification.
- Tax identification number: A Social Security number is common for U.S. citizens and residents. Some banks accept an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number or another approved identification number.
- Date of birth: The bank uses your date of birth to confirm your identity and determine whether you can open the account on your own.
- Residential address: Banks usually ask for a physical address. You may also provide a separate mailing address.
- Contact details: Expect to provide a phone number and email address.
- Opening deposit: Some accounts require a deposit at account opening. Other accounts have no opening deposit requirement.
- Co-owner information: Each owner must provide the required personal and identification details for a joint bank account.
- Parent or guardian information: A minor may need an adult co-owner or custodian. Bank rules and state law can affect the requirements.
Check the bank’s website before you apply. The exact document list may differ by bank, account type, application method, and applicant status.
Documents Needed to Open a Bank Account
A bank may accept one identification document, or it may request two. Bring original documents to a branch unless the bank says copies are acceptable.
Common primary identification documents include:
- Driver’s license: The license should be current and show your legal name.
- State identification card: A current state-issued card may serve as your main photo identification.
- Passport: A U.S. or foreign passport may work, based on the bank’s policy.
- Military identification card: Some banks accept a current military identification card.
- Permanent resident card: Banks may accept this card from lawful permanent residents.
A bank may also request a document that confirms your address. A utility bill, lease, mortgage statement, insurance document, or government letter may work. The document should show your name and current address.
Your legal name should match across the application and your documents. Bring documentation for a recent name change. A marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order may satisfy the bank’s request.
Bank Account Requirements for Minors, Joint Owners, and Non-U.S. Citizens
The basic checklist covers most applications, but some applicants need extra information.
A minor often cannot open a standard bank account alone. Many banks offer youth accounts with a parent or guardian as a joint owner. The adult and minor may both need identification and Social Security numbers. Review the bank’s policy and our guide on how old you have to be to open a bank account before you apply.
Every owner of a joint account must complete identity verification. Each owner can usually deposit, withdraw, and manage the money unless the account agreement says otherwise. Read the ownership terms before you open a joint bank account.
U.S. citizenship is not always required. Many banks accept non-U.S. citizens, but document rules differ. A bank may accept an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number, foreign passport, or another government-issued document. Ask the bank which documents it accepts before you visit a branch. Our guide explains how to open a U.S. bank account as a non-resident.
How to Choose the Right Bank Account
The documents matter, but the account itself matters just as much. Start with your main purpose for the money.
A checking account works best for direct deposit, debit card purchases, bill payments, and cash withdrawals. A savings account works better for emergency savings and short-term goals.
Other account types can meet more specific needs:
- Money market account: A money market account may offer interest plus limited payment access.
- Certificate of deposit: A certificate of deposit holds your money for a set term in exchange for a stated interest rate.
- Prepaid debit card: A prepaid debit card can provide payment access without a standard checking account.
- Freelancer account: Self-employed workers can compare bank accounts for freelancers and gig workers with tax tools, invoice features, or subaccounts.
Next, decide what type of financial institution fits your habits. A branch bank may suit you if you deposit cash or want in-person help. An online bank may offer lower fees or a higher annual percentage yield. A credit union may offer personal service and competitive terms, but you must qualify for membership.
Our guides on how to choose a bank and credit unions versus banks can help you compare the main differences. You can also review how common banking products and services work before you select an account.
Some financial technology companies offer banking features through partner banks. These companies are often called neobanks. Compare their deposit insurance structure, fees, customer support, and cash deposit options. Start with our lists of the best neobanks and alternatives to traditional banks.
How to Open a Bank Account Step by Step
The process may take only a few minutes when your documents are ready.
- Compare accounts: Review monthly fees, minimum balance rules, ATM access, annual percentage yield, mobile tools, branch access, and customer support.
- Confirm eligibility: Check residency rules, minimum opening deposit, membership requirements, and any special rules for minors or joint owners.
- Gather your documents: Prepare your identification, tax identification number, address details, contact information, and opening deposit.
- Submit the application: Apply through the bank’s website, mobile app, or branch. Answer every question accurately.
- Complete identity verification: Upload your documents or show them to a bank employee. The bank may ask extra questions if its records do not match your application.
- Fund the account: Add money through an electronic transfer, debit card, cash deposit, check, or another method the bank accepts.
- Activate account access: Create your online login, activate your debit card, set a personal identification number, and turn on account alerts.
- Move recurring transactions: Update direct deposit, bill payments, subscriptions, and transfer instructions.
- Close an old account when appropriate: Wait until every pending payment and deposit has cleared. Follow the full process for closing a bank account to avoid returned payments or surprise fees.
Applicants who value speed can compare the easiest bank accounts to open online. A fast application does not mean automatic approval. The bank still must verify your identity and apply its account rules.
Can You Open a Bank Account With No Money?
Yes, some banks offer accounts with no minimum opening deposit. You may open the account first and fund it later.
A zero-dollar opening requirement does not mean the account has no other costs. Check the monthly fee, minimum balance rule, inactivity fee, ATM charges, and overdraft policy.
Our list of free online checking accounts with no opening deposit can help you find accounts that do not require money at account opening.
Why Banks Deny New Account Applications
A bank can deny an application even when you provide the correct documents. Identity verification problems, past unpaid bank balances, suspected fraud, or negative banking history may affect the decision.
Banks may review a specialty checking account consumer report from ChexSystems or Early Warning Services. These reports can include prior account applications, account closures, unpaid balances, and suspected fraud records. They are not the same as a credit report or credit score.
Ask the bank why it denied the application. When a consumer report influenced the decision, the bank should provide an adverse action notice with information about the reporting company. Request a copy of the consumer report and dispute information that is inaccurate.
A denial does not mean you have no options. You may qualify for a second chance checking account with simpler features or extra restrictions. You can also compare banks that do not use ChexSystems. A bank may still review another consumer reporting service or apply its own approval standards.
Bank Fees to Check Before You Open an Account
Bank fees can turn a basic account into an expensive one. Read the fee schedule before you apply.
Pay close attention to these charges:
- Monthly maintenance fee: Check the amount and the requirements for a waiver.
- Overdraft fee: Learn how overdraft fees work and whether the bank charges them on debit card purchases, checks, or automated payments.
- Nonsufficient funds fee: Review what an NSF fee costs and when the bank may charge it.
- ATM fee: Confirm the size of the bank’s ATM network and whether it reimburses outside ATM charges. These tips can help you avoid ATM fees.
- Paper statement fee: Some banks charge customers who choose mailed statements.
- Wire transfer fee: Domestic and international wire transfers may have separate charges.
- Cash deposit fee: Some online accounts charge for cash deposits through retail partners.
- Early closure fee: A bank may charge this fee if you close a new account within a set period.
You may prefer an account that declines transactions when the balance is too low. Compare checking accounts with no overdraft fees if overdraft costs concern you.
Also review how overdraft protection works. A linked savings account or line of credit may prevent a declined payment, but a transfer fee or interest charge may still apply.
What to Do After You Open the Account
A few setup steps can reduce fees and account problems.
- Set account alerts: Turn on notifications for low balances, large transactions, deposits, withdrawals, and password changes.
- Add direct deposit: Direct deposit may help you avoid a monthly fee or receive income sooner.
- Review the account agreement: Confirm transaction limits, deposit hold rules, fee waivers, and overdraft settings.
- Monitor transactions: Check the account often and report unfamiliar charges promptly.
- Keep contact details current: Update your address, phone number, and email after any change.
- Store account records: Keep the account agreement, fee schedule, and confirmation of the opening deposit.
- Protect login information: Use a unique password and any extra security method the bank offers.
Bottom Line
To open a bank account, prepare your identification, tax identification number, date of birth, address, contact details, and opening deposit. Minors, joint owners, and non-U.S. citizens may need extra documents.
Compare account fees and access before you apply. Confirm the bank’s requirements first, submit accurate information, and ask for a clear reason if the bank denies your application.
Learn More About Opening a Bank Account
- Free Online Checking Accounts: No Opening Deposit Required – These online checking accounts do not require an initial deposit and offer many other benefits as well.
- How To Open a Bank Account in the US as a Non-Resident – As long as you have the necessary documentation, it is possible for a non-US resident to open a bank account.
- What Is the Easiest Bank Account to Open Online? – There are some banks that have made it very easy to apply online. Using the options on this list, you can open a bank account online in just a few minutes.
