Yes, you can open most Regions Bank accounts online, but the process stops short of full set up

Regions Bank lets you start a checking or savings account through their website or mobile app without visiting a branch. You can complete the initial process online, but you will need to verify your identity through a video call or by visiting a branch in person before the account becomes fully active and usable. The entire process typically takes one to three business days once identity verification is complete.

The online process itself takes about 10 to 15 minutes. You will need your Social Security number, a government-issued ID, proof of address (a recent utility bill or lease works), and an initial deposit method. Regions accepts transfers from another bank account, debit card, or wire transfer to fund the new account.

Key Takeaways

  • You can start a Regions Bank account process online through their website or mobile app without visiting a branch.
  • Identity verification requires either a video call with a Regions representative or an in-person visit to a branch location.
  • The account becomes fully active and ready to use within one to three business days after identity verification is complete.
  • You will need your Social Security number, government ID, proof of address, and an initial deposit amount to complete the process.
  • Regions offers both checking and savings accounts online, with different minimum deposit requirements depending on the account type.

What you need before you start the online process

Gather these documents and information before opening the Regions website or app. You will need a valid government-issued ID (driver's license, passport, or state ID card), your Social Security number, and proof of your current address. A recent utility bill, lease agreement, or bank statement dated within the last 60 days works for the address requirement.

You also need a way to fund the account. Regions requires an initial deposit, though the amount varies by account type. Check or savings accounts typically require $100 to $500 as an opening deposit. You can transfer this from another bank account, use a debit card, or arrange a wire transfer.

The online process process, step by step

Start at regions.com or open the Regions Mobile Banking app. Select "Open an Account" and choose the account type you want—checking, savings, or money market. The process will ask for your personal information: full name, date of birth, address, phone number, and email address.

Next, you will enter your Social Security number and upload or photograph your government ID and proof of address. Regions uses this information to verify your identity and check against fraud databases. The system will also ask about your employment status and annual income, though this is for account classification, not a barrier to opening the account.

At the end of the process, you will select your initial deposit method and confirm the account terms. Once you submit, you will receive a confirmation email. At this point, your process is submitted but the account is not yet active.

Identity verification: the step that completes your account

After you submit your online process, Regions will contact you to verify your identity. You have two options: a video call with a Regions representative or an in-person visit to a branch.

The video verification call typically happens within 24 hours of your process. A Regions employee will ask you to confirm personal details, show your ID on camera, and answer security questions. The call usually takes 5 to 10 minutes. Once verified, your account moves to active status.

If you prefer not to do a video call, you can visit any Regions branch location with your ID and the confirmation email from your online process. A branch representative will verify your identity in person and set up your account on the spot. This option is faster if a branch is near you, since you avoid waiting for a callback.

When your account is ready to use

Once identity verification is complete, your account becomes fully active within one business day. You can log into online banking, set up bill pay, transfer money, and use your debit card (if one was ordered). Your initial deposit will post during this time as well.

If you ordered a physical debit card, it will arrive by mail within 7 to 10 business days. You can request a temporary digital card in the mobile app to use when ready while you wait for the physical card.

What happens if you do not complete identity verification

If you do not respond to Regions' identity verification request within a certain timeframe—typically 10 to 14 days—your process will expire. You will need to start over with a new process. Your initial deposit will be returned to the source account or method you used.

If you miss the video call window, contact Regions directly to reschedule. You can call their customer service line or visit a branch to complete verification in person instead. There is no penalty for rescheduling; Regions straightforward needs to confirm your identity before the account can be activated.

Account types available online

Regions offers several account options through their online process. Regions Everyday Checking is their basic checking account with no monthly fee if you maintain a minimum balance or set up direct deposit. Regions Premium Checking includes higher interest rates and additional perks for customers who maintain a larger balance.

Regions Savings Account earns interest and has no monthly fee if you keep a minimum balance. Regions Money Market Account combines checking and savings features with higher interest rates, but requires a larger opening deposit and minimum balance.

You can open any of these accounts online. The process process is the same; the difference is in the features, fees, and minimum balance requirements. Review the details for each account type on the Regions website before you explore so you choose the one that fits your needs.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use my account before my debit card arrives?

Yes. Once your account is active, you can transfer money, pay bills online, and set up direct deposit when ready. You can also request a temporary digital card in the mobile app to use for online purchases and contactless payments while you wait for your physical card to arrive by mail.

What if I do not have a government ID?

Regions requires a valid government-issued ID for identity verification. If you do not have a driver's license or passport, a state ID card works. If you cannot obtain one, visit a branch in person with alternative documents like a birth certificate and Social Security card; a branch representative can discuss other verification options with you.

Can I open a joint account online?

Regions allows joint account applications online, but both account holders must complete identity verification separately. You can start the process together, but each person will need to verify their identity through a video call or branch visit before the account becomes active.

What if my initial deposit fails?

If the transfer or card charge does not go through, Regions will notify you by email or phone. You can retry the deposit using a different payment method, or visit a branch to deposit cash or a check. Your account will not be closed if the initial deposit fails; you straightforward need to fund it before you can use it.

How long does the whole process take from start to finish?

The online process takes 10 to 15 minutes. Identity verification typically happens within 24 hours. Once verified, your account becomes active within one business day. Total time is usually one to three business days, depending on how quickly you complete the identity verification step.