What you need to open a Regions account

Regions Bank lets you open a checking or savings account in person at a branch, online through their website, or by phone. The fastest route for most people is online, which takes about 10 minutes. You will need a government-issued ID (a driver's license, passport, or state ID card), your Social Security number, and an initial deposit — the amount varies by account type, so check the current requirement on Regions' website or call your local branch.

If you do not have a Social Security number yet, you can still open an account, but the process takes longer because Regions will need to verify your identity through other means. Bring your ID and any documents that show your address, like a utility bill or lease.

You do not need to have a credit history or a previous bank account. Regions does check ChexSystems, a database that tracks banking history, but a first-time account holder or someone returning after a gap will not be rejected for that reason alone.

Key Takeaways

  • You can open a Regions account online in about 10 minutes with a government ID, Social Security number, and an initial deposit.
  • Opening in person at a branch takes longer but may be easier if you are new to banking or do not have online access.
  • Regions offers different account types — checking, savings, and money market — each with different minimum deposit amounts and monthly fees.
  • You can fund your new account with a debit card, bank transfer, or cash deposit at a branch on the same day you open it.

Opening an account online

Go to Regions.com and look for the "Open an Account" button, usually near the top of the page. You will be asked to choose your account type first — most people start with a checking account. Regions will then ask for your personal information: full name, date of birth, address, phone number, email, and Social Security number.

Next, you will upload or photograph your ID. Make sure the photo is clear and the document is not expired. Regions will verify your identity when ready in most cases. If there is a delay, you will receive an email within one business day.

After identity verification, you will set up your online login and choose a debit card design if you want one. Then you will fund the account — you can transfer money from another bank account, use a debit card, or wait to deposit cash in person. Your account opens when ready, though your debit card will arrive by mail in 7 to 10 business days.

Opening an account at a Regions branch

Find your nearest Regions branch using their branch locator on Regions.com. Bring your government ID, Social Security number, and the initial deposit amount in cash or on a debit card. A banker will walk you through the account setup, which usually takes 15 to 30 minutes.

Opening in person is useful if you are new to banking and want to ask questions, or if you do not have online access. The banker can also order your debit card on the spot, and you can make your first deposit right away. If you bring cash, the deposit posts when ready. If you use a debit card, it may take one business day.

You will receive your temporary debit card at the branch or by mail, depending on the branch's equipment. Your permanent card arrives in 7 to 10 business days.

Account types and their costs

Regions offers several checking and savings options. Their basic checking account has no monthly fee if you maintain a minimum balance or set up direct deposit. If you do not meet either requirement, there is a monthly maintenance fee — the amount varies, so ask your banker or check Regions' website for the current fee.

Savings accounts at Regions earn interest, meaning the bank pays you a small percentage of your balance each month. The interest rate changes based on how much money you have in the account and current market conditions. A money market account combines checking and savings features but usually requires a higher minimum balance.

Some accounts come with overdraft protection, which means the bank will cover a purchase if your balance goes negative — but you will pay a fee for each overdraft. Ask about this when you open your account so you understand the cost.

Funding your account on day one

You can deposit money into your new Regions account the same day you open it. If you opened online, you can transfer money from another bank account using the routing number and account number Regions gives you. This usually takes one to three business days to show up in your account.

If you opened at a branch, you can deposit cash or a check when ready. Cash posts right away. A check usually clears within one to two business days, depending on who the check is from.

You can also use your debit card to withdraw cash from any Regions ATM or to make purchases once your account is open, even if your physical card has not arrived yet. Regions will give you a temporary card number you can use online or over the phone.

What happens after you open your account

Your account is active when ready, but your debit card arrives by mail in 7 to 10 business days. You can use your temporary card number to shop online or by phone before the physical card arrives. You can also visit any Regions branch to withdraw cash using your ID and account number.

Set up online banking right away so you can check your balance, transfer money, and pay bills. You will also receive a welcome packet by mail with information about your account, your routing number, and your account number. Keep this packet in a safe place — you will need the routing and account numbers to set up direct deposit or to have money transferred from another bank.

If you have questions after opening, call Regions' customer service at the number on your debit card or visit a branch. Regions also offers a mobile app where you can deposit checks by taking a photo, transfer money, and manage your account from your phone.

If you have trouble opening an account

If Regions declines your process, they will send you a letter explaining why. Common reasons include a mismatch between the name on your ID and the name you provided, or a flag in ChexSystems from a previous banking problem. If ChexSystems is the issue, you can dispute the information — ChexSystems has a process for that, and Regions can tell you how to start it.

If you do not have a government ID, some Regions branches will work with you to open an account using alternative documents. Call ahead to ask what your local branch accepts. If you do not have a Social Security number, bring your passport and any documents showing your address, and ask the banker about the timeline for opening your account.

If you cannot open an account at Regions, other banks and credit unions may have different requirements. Community banks and credit unions sometimes work with people who are new to banking or who have had banking problems in the past.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I open a Regions account without a Social Security number?

Yes, but the process takes longer. Bring your passport and documents showing your address. Regions will verify your identity through other means, which may take several business days. Call your local branch first to confirm they can process this type of account.

Do I need an initial deposit to open a Regions account?

Yes. The minimum deposit amount depends on the account type — checking accounts usually require $25 to $100, while savings accounts may require more. Check Regions' website or call your local branch for the current minimum.

How long does it take to open a Regions account online?

The process takes about 10 minutes if your identity verifies when ready. Your account opens right away, but your debit card arrives by mail in 7 to 10 business days. You can use a temporary card number to shop online or by phone before the physical card arrives.

What if I do not have a government ID?

Call your local Regions branch and ask what documents they will accept. Some branches can work with a passport, state ID, or other government-issued documents. The process may take longer, and you may need to visit in person.

Can I open a joint account with someone else?

Yes. Both people will need to provide their ID and Social Security number. You can open a joint account online together, or both visit a branch in person. Each person can access the account and make withdrawals.