What you need to open a TD Bank checking account

TD Bank will let you open a checking account in person at a branch, by phone, or online. The fastest route is online if you have the documents ready. You will need a government-issued photo ID (driver's license, passport, or state ID), your Social Security number, and an initial deposit—usually $25 to $100 depending on the account type you choose.

If you are opening in person, bring your ID and Social Security card. If you are opening by phone or online, have your ID number and Social Security number available. TD Bank also asks for your current address and a phone number where they can reach you.

Some accounts require a minimum opening deposit; others do not. The TD Bank Checking account (their standard option) typically requires $25 to open. The TD Bank Advantage Checking account, which includes overdraft protection and other features, may have a higher minimum. Check the current requirements on TD Bank's website or call 1-800-937-8372 before you start, because these minimums change.

Key Takeaways

  • You can open a TD Bank checking account online, by phone, or in person at a branch, and online is usually fastest if you have your ID and Social Security number ready.
  • You will need a government-issued photo ID, your Social Security number, and an opening deposit (usually $25 to $100, but minimums vary by account type).
  • Online applications take a few minutes and you can start using the account within one business day; in-person and phone applications may take longer.
  • TD Bank offers multiple checking account types with different features and fees, so compare them before you open to make sure you pick the one that fits your banking habits.

Opening an account online

Go to tdbank.com and look for the "Open an Account" or "Checking" link on the homepage. You will be asked to choose which type of checking account you want. Read the fee structure and features for each one—some have monthly maintenance fees that are waived if you keep a minimum balance or set up direct deposit, and others do not.

Once you have chosen, the form will ask for your personal information: name, date of birth, address, phone number, email, and Social Security number. Have your ID in front of you so you can enter the number correctly. You will also need to choose a username and password for online banking.

At the end, you will be asked to make an opening deposit. You can link a bank account you already have and transfer money from it, or you can provide a debit card number. The deposit usually posts within one business day, and you can start using your new account right away—you will get a temporary debit card number for online purchases, and a physical card will arrive in the mail within 7 to 10 business days.

Opening an account in person at a branch

Find your nearest TD Bank branch on their website or call 1-800-937-8372 to confirm hours. Bring your government-issued photo ID, your Social Security card, and the opening deposit (cash or a check drawn on another bank). You do not need an appointment, but going early in the week or early in the day usually means a shorter wait.

A banker will walk you through the account setup, answer questions about fees and features, and help you choose the right account type. They will take your opening deposit and give you a receipt. You will receive a temporary debit card on the spot or within a few days, and a permanent card will arrive in the mail. You can set up online banking during your visit or do it later at home.

The whole process usually takes 15 to 30 minutes. If the branch is busy, it may take longer. You can use your account the same day, though some features (like online bill pay) may not be active until the next business day.

Opening an account by phone

Call TD Bank at 1-800-937-8372 and tell them you want to open a checking account. A representative will walk you through the options and help you choose the right account type. Have your ID number, Social Security number, and address ready.

The representative will take your opening deposit information—either a bank account number to transfer from, or a debit card number to charge. They will also set up your online banking username and password over the phone. The whole call usually takes 15 to 20 minutes.

After the call, you will receive a confirmation email with your account number. Your debit card will arrive in the mail within 7 to 10 business days. You can start using your account online right away, but some features may not be active until the next business day.

Account types and what they cost

TD Bank offers several checking account options. TD Bank Checking is the basic option and usually has no monthly fee if you keep a $500 minimum balance or set up direct deposit. If you do not meet either requirement, there is typically a $6.95 monthly maintenance fee. TD Bank Advantage Checking includes overdraft protection and other perks but may have a higher minimum balance requirement or monthly fee.

Both accounts come with online banking, bill pay, mobile banking, and a debit card. Both also include access to TD Bank's ATM network and partner ATMs. Some accounts waive out-of-network ATM fees; others charge $2 to $3 per transaction. Read the fee schedule on TD Bank's website before you open, because fees and minimums change and vary slightly by state.

What happens after you open your account

Once your account is open, you will receive a debit card in the mail within 7 to 10 business days. You can set up it by calling the number on the back of the card or through your online banking portal. You will also receive checks if you ordered them (some people do not use checks anymore, so you can skip this step).

Set up online banking and mobile banking as soon as you can. This lets you check your balance, transfer money between accounts, pay bills, and deposit checks by taking a photo with your phone. You can also set up direct deposit for paychecks or benefits—your employer or benefit provider will need your account number and routing number, which you can find in your online banking portal or on the bottom left of any check.

If you have questions after you open, call 1-800-937-8372 or visit a branch. TD Bank customer service is available seven days a week.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I open a TD Bank account if I do not have a Social Security number?

TD Bank requires a Social Security number or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) to open an account. If you do not have either, you will need to obtain one before you can open an account. Contact the Social Security Administration or the IRS for information about how to get one.

What if I do not have a government-issued photo ID?

If you are opening in person, TD Bank may accept other forms of ID, such as a passport card, tribal ID, or military ID. Call your local branch or 1-800-937-8372 to ask what they will accept. Online and phone applications require a photo ID number, so you will need one of those methods.

How long does it take to get my debit card?

If you open online or by phone, your physical debit card arrives in 7 to 10 business days. You can use a temporary card number for online purchases right away. If you open in person at a branch, you may get a temporary card on the spot or within a few days.

Can I open an account with someone else's money?

Yes. The opening deposit can come from anyone—a family member, a friend, or another account you have. The account will be in your name only unless you specifically request a joint account. If you want a joint account, you and the other person will both need to be present (in person or by phone) and provide ID and Social Security numbers.

What if I want to close the account later?

You can close a TD Bank checking account anytime by visiting a branch, calling 1-800-937-8372, or using online banking. There is no penalty for closing. Make sure you have moved any remaining money out of the account and that no automatic payments are still set to draw from it.