What Do You Need to Open a Bank Account?

Opening a bank account is one of the first steps to managing your money more efficiently. Whether you’re setting up direct deposit, paying bills, or saving for a goal, a bank account makes it all easier.

If you’re searching for what you need to open one, chances are you’re ready to get started—but you don’t want any surprises at the branch or during an online application.

This guide cuts through the noise and gives you a simple checklist of what banks typically ask for. You’ll also learn how to choose the right account and avoid common hang-ups that could slow you down.

What You Need to Open a Bank Account

Before you apply, make sure you have the right documents and details on hand. Most banks ask for the same core information, whether you’re opening a checking or savings account.

Basic Requirements Most Banks Ask For

You’ll need to provide:

Government-issued photo ID – This could be a driver’s license, state ID, passport, or military ID.
Social Security number or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) – Banks use this to verify your identity and report interest income.
Date of birth and physical address – A P.O. box alone usually isn’t accepted.
Phone number and email address – These help with account alerts and identity verification.

Some banks may also ask you to answer security questions or provide a digital photo if you’re applying online.

Initial Deposit Requirements and Funding Options

Not every bank requires an initial deposit, but many do. Here’s what to expect:

Typical minimum deposit amounts – These range from $0 to $100, depending on the bank and account type.
Funding options – You can usually fund your account using a debit card, ACH transfer from another bank, or cash (if opening in person).

How to Choose the Right Type of Bank Account

Not all accounts serve the same purpose. Knowing what you’re opening helps you avoid fees or limitations that don’t fit your needs.

Checking vs. Savings Account

Checking accounts – Best for everyday spending, bill payments, and direct deposits. These accounts usually come with a debit card and mobile app access.
Savings accounts – Meant for storing money you don’t plan to spend right away. They earn interest, but may limit the number of withdrawals each month.

If you need both, many banks let you open them at the same time.

Specialized Account Types

Depending on your situation, one of these options might make more sense:

Student accounts – Often come with no monthly fees and lower minimum deposit requirements. Some even offer overdraft forgiveness.
Joint accounts – Shared accounts for couples, family members, or business partners. Both account holders can access and manage funds.
Second chance checking accounts – Designed for people who’ve been denied in the past, often due to issues reported in ChexSystems. These accounts may have some limitations but help you rebuild your banking history.

Where to Open Your Account: Banks, Credit Unions, or Online?

You have options beyond your neighborhood branch. Each one offers different pros and cons depending on how you like to manage your money.

Traditional Banks

These include national banks and regional chains with physical branches. They often offer full-service support, ATMs, and in-person customer service—but they may also come with higher fees.

Credit Unions

Credit unions are member-owned and typically focus on community service. They usually offer lower fees and better customer service, but their technology and mobile apps may be less advanced than big banks.

Online Banks

Online banks don’t have physical branches, which allows them to cut costs and offer better interest rates and fewer fees. If you’re comfortable doing everything digitally, this can be a great option. Just make sure they have solid customer support and FDIC insurance.

Additional Documents Some Banks May Request

Most people only need the basics to open an account, but certain situations require extra paperwork.

For Minors or Students

Proof of enrollment – A student ID, transcript, or class schedule may be required for student-specific accounts.
Parent or guardian’s ID and signature – If you’re under 18, an adult will usually need to co-own the account.

For Non-U.S. Citizens

ITIN or passport – Instead of a Social Security number, many banks accept an ITIN or foreign passport.
Secondary forms of ID – This could include a utility bill or lease to confirm your address.
Immigration or visa documents – Some banks may request additional documentation to verify your status.

For Joint Accounts

ID and personal details for both parties – Each person must provide identification and agree to the account’s terms. Some banks may also require both people to be present for in-branch openings.

Can You Open a Bank Account Online?

Yes—most banks now let you open an account completely online. You can apply from your phone or computer without ever visiting a branch.

Here’s how the process usually works:

Upload your ID – You’ll take a photo of your driver’s license, passport, or state ID.
Enter your personal information – This includes your name, address, date of birth, Social Security number or ITIN, and contact info.
Fund the account – You can use a debit card, external bank transfer, or mobile check deposit to add your opening balance.

In some cases, you may still need to visit a branch. This usually happens if the bank can’t verify your identity online or if your application requires documents that must be submitted in person.

What If You’ve Been Denied a Bank Account Before?

Getting denied doesn’t mean you’re out of options. Many banks use a system called ChexSystems to screen applicants, and if your history shows unpaid fees or account closures, you could be turned down.

How ChexSystems Can Affect You

ChexSystems is a database that tracks your past banking activity—specifically negative marks like overdrafts, unpaid fees, or suspected fraud. Most traditional banks check this report before approving your application.

If your ChexSystems report raises red flags, the bank may reject your application automatically.

Options if You’ve Been Denied

You still have several ways to get access to banking services:

Options if You’ve Been Denied

You still have several ways to get access to banking services:

Banks that don’t use ChexSystems – A growing number of online banks, regional banks, and credit unions skip ChexSystems entirely. These are great options if you want to avoid the restrictions that come with second chance accounts.
Second chance checking accounts – These are designed for people with a troubled banking history. They come with fewer features, but they can help you rebuild your record.
Prepaid debit cards – While not full bank accounts, they let you receive direct deposit and pay bills electronically without requiring a ChexSystems check.

Quick Checklist Before You Apply

Before starting your application, make sure you’ve got everything ready:

ID and personal information – A government-issued photo ID, your Social Security number or ITIN, and current address.
Decide account type and features you need – Checking, savings, joint, student, or second chance.
Compare banks and fees – Look at minimum balance rules, monthly fees, ATM access, and online banking tools.
Make initial deposit arrangements – Confirm whether a deposit is required and how you plan to fund the account.

Be Prepared and Open Your Account With Confidence

Opening a bank account is simple when you know what to expect. With the right documents and a clear plan, you can get set up in minutes—either online or in person.

Take a moment to compare banks, account types, and fees so you choose one that actually works for you. There’s no reason to settle.

Need help finding a bank that fits your needs? Check out the best free checking accounts.