What you need to open a Citizens Bank savings account
To open a savings account at Citizens Bank, you will need a government-issued photo ID, your Social Security number, and an initial deposit. Citizens Bank accepts accounts opened in person at a branch, online through their website, or by phone. The process takes about 15 to 20 minutes if you have your documents ready.
Your photo ID can be a driver's license, passport, or state ID card. If you do not have a Social Security number, you can use an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) instead. The initial deposit amount varies depending on the type of savings account you choose — some accounts require $25 to open, while others may require more.
You will also need a current mailing address and a phone number where Citizens Bank can reach you. If you are opening the account online or by phone, you will need access to email to receive account confirmation and documents.
Key Takeaways
- You need a photo ID, Social Security number or ITIN, and an initial deposit to open a Citizens Bank savings account.
- Citizens Bank lets you open an account in person at a branch, online, or by phone, and the process usually takes 15 to 20 minutes.
- Different savings accounts have different minimum deposit amounts, so check which account type fits your situation before you start.
- Once your account opens, you can deposit money, set up automatic transfers, and begin earning interest on your balance.
Opening an account in person at a Citizens Bank branch
Walking into a branch is the most straightforward route if you want to ask questions while you open your account. Bring your photo ID, Social Security number, and the money for your initial deposit. A banker will ask you which type of savings account you want, explain the interest rate and any monthly fees, and help you fill out the account paperwork.
The banker will also ask for your contact information and set up how you want to receive statements — by mail, email, or through the Citizens Bank mobile app. If you want to set up online banking right away, they can do that before you leave. You will receive a debit card and checks (if you opened a checking account) either that day or within 5 to 7 business days.
To find a Citizens Bank branch near you, visit the Citizens Bank website and use their branch locator tool. You can also call 1-800-922-9999 to ask about branch hours or whether you need an appointment.
Opening an account online
Citizens Bank lets you open a savings account from your computer or phone without visiting a branch. Go to the Citizens Bank website, click on "Open an Account," and select the type of savings account you want. You will answer questions about your personal information, income, and how you plan to use the account.
During the online process, you will upload a photo of your ID and provide your Social Security number. Citizens Bank uses this information to verify your identity and check for fraud. The verification usually happens within a few minutes, though it can take up to 24 hours.
Once your identity is verified, you will choose how to make your initial deposit. You can transfer money from another bank account, use a debit card, or have Citizens Bank mail you deposit slips. Your account opens as soon as the initial deposit clears, which usually takes 1 to 3 business days. You will receive login information by email so you can start using online banking right away.
Opening an account by phone
If you prefer to talk to someone while you open your account, call Citizens Bank at 1-800-922-9999. A representative will walk you through the same questions you would answer online, explain the different savings account options, and help you choose the right one for your situation.
The representative will take your photo ID information, Social Security number, and contact details over the phone. They will also arrange your initial deposit — you can authorize a transfer from another bank account, or they can mail you deposit slips. The account opens once your identity is verified and your deposit clears, usually within 1 to 3 business days.
Phone lines are open Monday through Friday during business hours, and some Citizens Bank locations offer Saturday hours. Call ahead to confirm the hours for your time zone.
Types of savings accounts Citizens Bank offers
Citizens Bank offers several savings account options, and the one you choose affects your interest rate, monthly fees, and minimum deposit. A regular savings account typically has a low minimum deposit and earns a small amount of interest. A high-yield savings account earns more interest but may require a larger initial deposit or a higher balance to avoid monthly fees.
Money Market accounts combine features of savings and checking accounts — they earn interest like a savings account but let you write checks or use a debit card. These accounts usually require a higher minimum deposit and balance than a regular savings account.
Before you open an account, visit the Citizens Bank website or call 1-800-922-9999 to compare the current interest rates, fees, and minimum deposits for each account type. Interest rates and fees change over time, so the rates available today may be different from what you see next month.
What happens after your account opens
Once your Citizens Bank savings account is open, you can start depositing money right away. You can deposit cash or checks at any Citizens Bank branch, transfer money from another bank account online, or set up automatic deposits from your paycheck through your employer.
Citizens Bank will send you a debit card (if you opened a checking account) and information about online banking. You can log into your account on the Citizens Bank website or mobile app to check your balance, see your transaction history, and set up automatic transfers to other accounts. Many people set up automatic transfers to move money from checking to savings on payday, which helps build savings without thinking about it.
Your savings account will earn interest, which Citizens Bank adds to your account monthly or daily depending on the account type. The interest rate you earn may change over time as market conditions change, so check your statements or log into online banking to see how much interest you are earning.
Documents you will need at each step
| Opening Method | Documents Needed | How to Provide Them |
|---|---|---|
| In person at a branch | Photo ID, Social Security number, initial deposit | Show ID and cash or check to the banker |
| Online | Photo ID, Social Security number, initial deposit source | Upload photo of ID, type in Social Security number, authorize transfer or deposit |
| By phone | Photo ID, Social Security number, initial deposit source | Read information to representative, authorize transfer or deposit |
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a checking account to open a savings account at Citizens Bank?
No. You can open a savings account on its own without a checking account. Many people keep their savings separate from checking for this reason — it makes it harder to spend the money you are trying to save.
What is the minimum deposit to open a Citizens Bank savings account?
The minimum deposit varies by account type. Some Citizens Bank savings accounts require as little as $25 to open, while others may require $100 or more. Check the Citizens Bank website or call 1-800-922-9999 to see the current minimum for the account you want.
How long does it take to open an account online?
The online process usually takes 15 to 20 minutes from start to finish. Your identity verification happens within minutes to 24 hours, and your account opens once your initial deposit clears, which takes 1 to 3 business days.
Can I open a Citizens Bank account if I do not have a Social Security number?
Yes. You can use an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) instead of a Social Security number. Bring your ITIN documentation along with your photo ID when you open the account.
What should I do if I have questions about my new account?
Contact Citizens Bank at 1-800-922-9999, visit a branch in person, or log into your account online to message customer service. You can also check the Citizens Bank website for answers to common questions about savings accounts and online banking.