Yes, you can open most M&T Bank accounts online, but not all account types

M&T Bank lets you open a checking or savings account through their website without visiting a branch. You can complete the entire process on a computer or phone, and the account typically opens within one business day. However, some account types — like certain business accounts or accounts that require a cash deposit to open — still need an in-person visit or a phone call to finish.

The online process takes about 10 to 15 minutes. You will need a valid government ID, your Social Security number, and a way to fund the account (a debit card, another bank account, or a wire transfer). M&T will verify your identity electronically, so you do not need to upload documents or wait for a callback.

Key Takeaways

  • M&T's online account opening works for most personal checking and savings accounts and takes about 10 to 15 minutes from start to finish.
  • You will need a valid government ID, your Social Security number, and a way to fund the account before you start.
  • M&T verifies your identity electronically during the process, so you do not need to mail in documents or wait for approval calls.
  • Business accounts and some specialty products require a phone call or branch visit to complete, even if you start online.
  • Your account opens within one business day, and you can use it to set up direct deposit or link other accounts right away.

What you need before you start

Gather these items before you go to M&T's website to open an account. You will need a valid government-issued ID — a driver's license, passport, or state ID card. M&T will ask for the ID number and expiration date, so have it in front of you.

You also need your Social Security number and your current address. M&T uses this information to check your identity and run a background check through ChexSystems, which is a banking history database. If you have had problems with a bank account in the past, this check might flag it — but it does not automatically stop you from opening an account.

Finally, you need a way to fund the account with at least the minimum opening deposit. For most M&T checking accounts, this is $25. You can fund it with a debit card from another bank, by transferring money from another bank account, or by wire transfer. M&T will not let you open an account with a credit card or by mailing in a check.

The step-by-step process

Start at M&T's website and look for the "Open an Account" button, usually on the homepage. Click it and choose the account type you want — most people choose a checking account, but M&T also offers savings accounts and money market accounts online.

Enter your personal information: name, date of birth, address, phone number, and email. M&T will ask you to create a username and password for online banking. Make the password strong — use uppercase and lowercase letters, numbers, and symbols.

Next, M&T will ask for your government ID information and Social Security number. The system verifies this information electronically in real time. If there is a problem, M&T will tell you right away and explain what to do next.

Once your identity is verified, you will fund the account. Choose your funding method — debit card, bank transfer, or wire — and enter the details. The money usually arrives within one to three business days, depending on the method. Your account opens when ready, even if the funding is still in transit.

After funding, M&T will send you a confirmation email with your account number. You can log into online banking right away to see your account, set up bill pay, or arrange direct deposit. Your debit card will arrive by mail within 7 to 10 business days.

When you cannot open an account online

Some M&T products require a phone call or branch visit. If you want to open a business checking account, you will need to call M&T or visit a branch in person. Business accounts require additional documentation — a business license, tax ID number, and proof of ownership — that the online system cannot process.

If you want to open an account with a cash deposit as your funding method, you will need to visit a branch. M&T's online system does not accept cash. Similarly, if you are opening an account for a minor, you will likely need to visit a branch with the child and a government ID.

If M&T's identity verification system cannot confirm your information electronically, a representative will call you to complete the process by phone. This usually happens if your address is very new, if you have limited credit history, or if there is a mismatch in the information you provided.

What happens after your account opens

Your account is ready to use within one business day. You can log into M&T's online banking portal or mobile app using the username and password you created. From there, you can check your balance, transfer money between accounts, pay bills, and set up direct deposit.

Your physical debit card arrives in the mail within 7 to 10 business days. Until it arrives, you can use your account number and routing number to set up direct deposit from your employer. You can also transfer money in or out using online banking.

If you need to deposit checks before your debit card arrives, M&T's mobile app has a mobile check deposit feature. Take a photo of the front and back of the check, and M&T deposits it into your account. The funds usually show up within one to two business days.

Fees and account requirements

M&T's checking accounts have different fee structures depending on the type. Some accounts have a monthly maintenance fee, while others waive the fee if you keep a minimum balance or set up direct deposit. The minimum opening deposit is usually $25, but some account types require more.

Read the account details before you open. M&T's website shows the monthly fee, minimum balance requirements, and what you need to do to waive the fee. If you do not meet the requirements, you will be charged a monthly fee — typically $5 to $15, depending on the account.

M&T also charges fees for certain transactions: overdraft fees if you spend more than your balance, out-of-network ATM fees if you use another bank's ATM, and wire transfer fees. These fees vary, so check M&T's fee schedule on their website before you open an account.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take for my account to open?

Your account opens within one business day of completing the online process. You can log into online banking and use your account number right away, even if your funding is still processing. Your debit card arrives by mail within 7 to 10 business days.

Can I open an account if I have been denied by another bank?

It depends on why you were denied. If you were denied because of ChexSystems history — like unpaid overdrafts or fraud — M&T may still open an account for you, but you might need to call a representative instead of using the online process. Contact M&T directly to ask about your situation.

What if I do not have a government ID?

M&T requires a valid government-issued ID to open an account online. If you do not have one, you will need to visit a branch in person with alternative documents. Call M&T to ask what documents they will accept.

Can I open a joint account online?

M&T's online process is designed for individual accounts. If you want to open a joint account with another person, you will need to call M&T or visit a branch. Both account holders will need to provide ID and sign paperwork.

What if the online system cannot verify my identity?

If the electronic verification fails, M&T will call you at the phone number you provided. A representative will ask you questions to confirm your identity and complete the account opening by phone. This usually takes a few minutes and happens the same day you explore.