What you need to open a Truist checking account

You can open a Truist checking account in person at a branch, online through Truist's website, or by phone. The fastest route for most people is online, which takes about 10 minutes. You'll need a valid government-issued ID (a driver's license or passport), your Social Security number, and an initial deposit — Truist does not require a minimum opening deposit for most checking accounts, though you should confirm the current requirement when you start.

If you're opening online, you'll also need a debit card or bank account number from another bank to fund your new account. If you're opening in person or by phone, you can bring cash or a check. Have your address ready, including your zip code, and know your phone number and email address — Truist will use these to contact you and set up online banking access.

If you don't have a government ID yet, you can still open an account in person at a branch with alternative documents — ask the branch what they accept. If you don't have a Social Security number, Truist can open accounts using an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) instead, though you'll need to do this in person or by phone rather than online.

Key Takeaways

  • You can open a Truist checking account online in about 10 minutes with a valid ID, Social Security number, and an initial deposit method.
  • Online opening requires a debit card or bank account from another bank to fund your account; in-person opening accepts cash or checks.
  • Truist does not require a minimum opening deposit for most checking accounts, though you should confirm the current requirement when you begin.
  • If you don't have a government ID or Social Security number, you can open an account in person at a branch with alternative documents or an ITIN.
  • After opening, you'll receive online banking access and can request a debit card, which typically arrives within 7 to 10 business days.

Opening online through Truist's website

Go to Truist.com and look for the "Open an Account" button, usually near the top of the page. Select "Checking" and choose the specific checking product you want — Truist offers several types, including a basic checking account and accounts with higher interest rates if you meet certain balance or deposit requirements. Read the product details carefully so you understand any monthly fees and what you need to do to waive them.

The form will ask for your name, date of birth, address, phone number, email, and Social Security number. Enter these exactly as they appear on your ID. You'll then choose a username and password for online banking — make this password strong and something you can remember. Truist will send a verification code to your email or phone; enter it to confirm your identity.

Next, you'll link a funding source. This must be a debit card or a bank account at another institution. Enter the card or account number and the routing number (if using a bank account). Truist will make two small deposits to that account within one to two business days, then ask you to confirm the amounts — this is how they verify you own the account. Once confirmed, your Truist account is open and you can use it when ready for transfers and bill pay, though your debit card will arrive separately.

Opening in person at a Truist branch

Find your nearest Truist branch using the branch locator on Truist.com. Bring your government-issued ID, your Social Security number (or ITIN), and your initial deposit — cash, a check, or a transfer from another account. You don't need an appointment, though calling ahead during busy times can save you a wait.

A Truist employee will walk you through the account opening process, which takes 15 to 20 minutes. They'll verify your identity, confirm your address and contact information, and explain the checking account options available. You'll sign documents and choose your username and password for online banking. The employee will also order your debit card, which will be mailed to you — standard delivery takes 7 to 10 business days.

Your account is active when ready, so you can use online banking and bill pay right away. If you need cash or checks before your debit card arrives, ask the branch if they can issue a temporary card or provide checks at opening.

Opening by phone

Call Truist's customer service line at 1-800-872-2657 to open an account by phone. Have your ID, Social Security number, and initial deposit method ready. A representative will guide you through the same questions as the online form: name, date of birth, address, phone, email, and Social Security number.

For funding, you can provide a debit card number, a bank account number and routing number from another bank, or arrange to mail a check. If you're mailing a check, the representative will give you an address and instructions. Your account opens once the representative confirms your identity and processes your information, which usually takes a few minutes. Your debit card will be mailed to you within 7 to 10 business days.

What happens after you open your account

Once your account is open, you'll receive a confirmation email with your account number and online banking details. Log into Truist.com or the Truist mobile app using the username and password you created. From there, you can check your balance, set up bill pay, transfer money between accounts, and manage your account settings.

Your debit card will arrive by mail within 7 to 10 business days. When it arrives, you'll need to set up it — Truist will send instructions by mail or email, or you can set up it through the mobile app or online banking. Once activated, you can use it at ATMs and stores. If you need cash before the card arrives, you can withdraw from a Truist branch or use a transfer to another bank's ATM.

Truist will also send you a welcome packet with your checks (if you ordered them), account agreements, and information about your account features. Read the account agreement so you understand any monthly fees, minimum balance requirements, and how to waive fees if applicable.

Understanding Truist checking account types

Truist offers several checking accounts with different features and fee structures. The most basic option is usually a standard checking account with a low or no monthly fee if you maintain a minimum balance or set up direct deposit. Some accounts offer interest on your balance, though the rate is typically very low — usually less than 0.01% — so the interest earned is minimal unless you keep a large balance.

Premium checking accounts may have higher monthly fees but offer benefits like higher interest rates, fee waivers for overdrafts, or discounts on other Truist products. Student and senior accounts may have lower fees or waived requirements. When you open your account, ask which type fits your situation, or review the product comparison on Truist.com before you begin.

Pay attention to the monthly maintenance fee and what you need to do to waive it. Common ways to waive fees include maintaining a minimum balance (often $500 to $1,500), setting up direct deposit, or keeping a linked savings account. If you can't meet these requirements, choose an account with no monthly fee instead.

If you have trouble opening an account

If your online process is declined or stuck, call Truist at 1-800-872-2657 and ask to speak with an account representative. They can often open an account over the phone or direct you to a branch where you can open in person. Common reasons for online delays include a mismatch between your name and ID, an issue with your funding source, or a problem with identity verification.

If you don't have a government ID, visit a branch in person with alternative documents like a passport, state ID card, or tribal ID. If you don't have a Social Security number, bring your ITIN and open in person or by phone. If you're new to the country and don't have either, ask the branch what documents they accept — some branches can work with you on a case-by-case basis.

If your initial deposit didn't go through, contact Truist when ready. If you used a debit card, the charge may appear as a pending transaction on your other bank's statement and will drop off if not completed. If you mailed a check, ask for tracking information so you know when it arrives.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a minimum deposit to open a Truist checking account?

Most Truist checking accounts do not require a minimum opening deposit, though some account types may. When you begin the opening process online, by phone, or in person, the product details will state whether a minimum is required. If you're unsure, ask the representative or check the account comparison on Truist.com before you start.

How long does it take to open a Truist checking account?

Online opening takes about 10 minutes. In-person opening at a branch takes 15 to 20 minutes. Phone opening takes 10 to 15 minutes. Your account is active when ready, though your debit card arrives by mail within 7 to 10 business days.

Can I use my account before my debit card arrives?

Yes. Once your account is open, you can use online banking to transfer money, pay bills, and check your balance. You can also withdraw cash at any Truist ATM or branch. You'll need your debit card to make purchases at stores or use non-Truist ATMs.

What if I don't have a Social Security number?

You can open a Truist account using an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) instead. You must open in person at a branch or by phone — online opening requires a Social Security number. Bring your ITIN documentation and a valid ID.

Can I change my account type after opening?

Yes. You can contact Truist by phone, through online banking, or in person at a branch to switch to a different checking account type. There is usually no fee to change account types, though you may be subject to different fees or requirements once you switch.