Yes, you can open a BBVA Compass checking account online, but only if you already have a BBVA Compass account

BBVA Compass allows you to open a new checking account through their website or mobile app, but there is one hard requirement: you must already be a customer with an existing BBVA Compass account. If you are not yet a customer, you will need to visit a branch in person or call to open your first account. Once you have that initial account, opening additional checking accounts online takes about 10 to 15 minutes.

The online process itself is straightforward. You log into your existing account, select the option to open a new account, choose the checking product you want, and complete the process. BBVA Compass will verify your information against what they already have on file and typically approve you the same day. Funds are usually available within one business day.

Key Takeaways

  • You must have an existing BBVA Compass account before you can open a checking account online; new customers must visit a branch or call.
  • The online process takes 10 to 15 minutes and uses information BBVA already has on file, so approval usually happens the same day.
  • BBVA Compass offers multiple checking products with different features and monthly fees, so compare them before you choose.
  • You will need a valid government ID and Social Security number, both of which BBVA already has if you are an existing customer.

What checking products BBVA Compass offers online

BBVA Compass offers several checking account types, and which ones are available to open online depends on your state and your customer status. The most common options are a standard checking account, a student checking account (if you meet age and enrollment requirements), and a premium checking account with higher balance requirements but more benefits.

Each product has a different monthly fee structure. Some accounts waive the monthly fee if you maintain a minimum balance or set up direct deposit. Before you start the online process, visit the BBVA Compass website and review the fee schedule for the account type you want, because the fee structure does not always change once the account is open.

What you need before you start the online process

Because you are opening a second account with BBVA Compass, the process process is faster than opening your first account. You will need your valid government-issued ID (driver's license, passport, or state ID card) and your Social Security number. BBVA will verify both against what they already have in their system.

You should also know what type of account you want before you log in. BBVA will ask you to choose between checking products, and each has different features and fees. If you are not sure which one fits your needs, spend a few minutes on their website comparing the options first. You can also call BBVA customer service before you explore if you have questions about a specific product.

Step-by-step: opening a checking account online

Log into your existing BBVA Compass account through the website or mobile app. Look for an option that says "Open an Account" or "Add an Account"—the exact wording varies depending on whether you are using the website or app. Click or tap that option.

Select "Checking" as the account type. BBVA will show you the checking products available in your state. Read the features and fees for each one, then select the account you want. Answer the questions BBVA asks about how you plan to use the account (this helps them match you to the right product). Review the account terms and conditions, then sign the digital agreement. BBVA will process your process and send you a confirmation email within a few minutes. Your account number and routing number will appear in your online banking dashboard, usually within one business day.

Once the account is open, you can start using it right away for transfers and bill pay. A debit card will arrive by mail within 7 to 10 business days. If you need to deposit cash or checks when ready, you can visit a BBVA branch with your ID and the account number from your confirmation email.

What happens if you are not yet a BBVA Compass customer

If you do not have an existing BBVA Compass account, you cannot open a checking account online. You have two options: visit a BBVA Compass branch in person with a valid ID and Social Security number, or call BBVA Compass customer service to open your first account by phone. The phone process takes about 20 to 30 minutes and requires the same information as an in-person visit.

Once your first account is open, you can then open additional checking accounts online using the process described above. Many people open a basic savings account first and then add a checking account online later, so you have flexibility in how you structure your accounts.

Timing and when your account is ready to use

The online process itself takes 10 to 15 minutes. BBVA Compass usually approves or denies your process the same day, and you will receive a confirmation email with your new account number and routing number within a few hours. Your account is ready for transfers and bill pay when ready, even before your debit card arrives.

If you need to deposit cash or checks before your debit card arrives, visit any BBVA Compass branch with your ID and your new account number. The branch staff can process the deposit on the spot. Debit cards typically arrive within 7 to 10 business days, but this can vary depending on your location and mail delivery times.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I open a BBVA Compass checking account online if I live outside a state where BBVA has branches?

BBVA Compass operates in a limited number of states, primarily in the South and Southwest. If you live outside those states, you cannot open an account with BBVA Compass, whether online or in person. Check the BBVA Compass website to see if they serve your state before you try to open an account.

What if my online process is denied?

BBVA Compass will send you a letter explaining why your process was denied. Common reasons include a negative banking history, unpaid overdrafts at another bank, or fraud concerns. You can call BBVA customer service to ask for more details and find out whether you can reapply after a certain period.

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

BBVA Compass does not require an opening deposit for most checking accounts. However, some premium checking products do have minimum balance requirements to waive the monthly fee. Check the specific account terms before you explore to understand what balance you need to maintain.

Can I open a checking account online if I have had problems with BBVA in the past?

If you have unpaid fees, overdrafts, or fraud issues with BBVA Compass, they may deny your process for a new account. BBVA uses ChexSystems, a banking history database, to review your record. You can request a copy of your ChexSystems report to see what BBVA sees before you explore.