What you need to bring to Union Bank
Union Bank requires two forms of identification before you can open a checking account. One must be a government-issued photo ID — a driver's license, passport, or state ID card. The second can be another photo ID or a document that shows your address, like a utility bill, lease, or bank statement from another institution.
You will also need to provide your Social Security number. Union Bank uses this to check your banking history through ChexSystems, which is a system that tracks how people have managed checking accounts in the past. This is standard practice at most banks and does not affect your credit score.
Bring a small amount of money to make your opening deposit. Union Bank's minimum opening deposit varies by account type and changes over time, so call your local branch at the number on their website or ask when you arrive. Some accounts have no minimum, while others may require $25 or more.
Key Takeaways
- You need a government-issued photo ID, a second form of ID or address proof, and your Social Security number to open an account.
- Union Bank will check your banking history through ChexSystems, which does not affect your credit and is used by most banks.
- You can open an account in person at any Union Bank branch or online through their website, depending on the account type.
- The process takes about 15 to 30 minutes in person, and you can start using your debit card the same day at many locations.
Opening an account in person at a Union Bank branch
Walking into a branch is the most straightforward route if you are new to banking or prefer to ask questions face-to-face. Bring your two forms of ID, your Social Security number, and your opening deposit. A banker will walk you through the account options available, explain the fees, and help you choose what fits your situation.
The banker will ask you basic questions: your name, address, phone number, and employment status. They will explain what services come with your account — things like online banking, mobile app access, and whether you get a debit card when ready or have to wait for it to arrive by mail. Some branches can issue a debit card on the spot; others mail it to you within 5 to 10 business days.
Once you sign the account agreement, your account is open. You can use online banking right away, even if your debit card has not arrived yet. Ask the banker for your account number and routing number before you leave — you may need these to set up direct deposit at work or to transfer money from another bank.
Opening an account online through Union Bank's website
Union Bank offers online account opening for some checking account types. Go to their website, select "Open an Account," and choose the account that matches your needs. You will enter your personal information, upload photos of your ID, and verify your identity through their system.
The online process usually takes 10 to 15 minutes. Union Bank will send you a confirmation email with your account number and temporary login information for online banking. Your debit card will arrive by mail within 5 to 10 business days. You can start using your account for transfers and bill pay as soon as it is open, even before your physical card arrives.
One limitation: if you want to deposit cash, you will need to visit a branch or use an ATM that accepts cash deposits. Online-only accounts cannot receive cash deposits through the mail, so plan your first deposit accordingly.
Understanding Union Bank's checking account options
Union Bank offers several checking accounts, and the right one depends on how you plan to use it. Their basic checking account is designed for everyday use — paying bills, receiving paychecks, and withdrawing cash. Premium accounts often come with higher interest rates on your balance, but require a larger opening deposit or a minimum balance to avoid monthly fees.
Ask the banker or check the website for the current fee structure. Most accounts charge a monthly maintenance fee unless you meet certain conditions, like keeping a minimum balance or setting up direct deposit. Some accounts waive the fee entirely if you use direct deposit, which is when your employer puts your paycheck straight into your account.
Union Bank also offers accounts designed for students or people under 25, which often have lower or no monthly fees. If you are opening your first account, mention that to the banker — they may recommend an account with features that help you learn how banking works.
What happens after you open your account
Your account is active when ready, but you cannot use your debit card until it arrives. In the meantime, you can pay bills online, set up direct deposit, and transfer money between accounts using your account number and routing number. Union Bank's routing number is the same for all customers and is available on their website or from any banker.
Set up online banking as soon as your account opens. You will need to create a username and password, and Union Bank will ask you security questions to verify your identity each time you log in from a new device. This protects your account from unauthorized access.
If you receive a paycheck, ask your employer's payroll department for a direct deposit form. Provide them with your account number and Union Bank's routing number. Direct deposit usually takes one to two pay periods to set up, but once it is active, your paycheck will arrive automatically on payday without you having to do anything.
Fees and things to watch for
Union Bank charges fees for certain actions, and knowing them ahead of time helps you avoid surprises. Monthly maintenance fees are the most common — these are charged just for having the account open. As mentioned, you can often avoid this fee by setting up direct deposit or keeping a minimum balance.
Other fees include overdraft fees (charged when you spend more than you have in your account), ATM fees (charged when you use an ATM outside Union Bank's network), and wire transfer fees (charged when you send money to another bank). Ask your banker for a complete fee schedule before you open your account, or look for it on Union Bank's website.
One important note: if you have had trouble with a checking account in the past — for example, if you bounced checks or left an account with a negative balance — ChexSystems may flag this. Union Bank may still open an account for you, but they may require a larger opening deposit or offer you a different account type. Be honest with the banker about your history; they have seen it before and can work with you.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I open a Union Bank checking account if I do not have a Social Security number?
Union Bank requires a Social Security number or an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) to open an account. If you have an ITIN, bring it instead of a Social Security number. Call your local branch to confirm they can process an account with an ITIN, as some branches may have different procedures.
How long does it take to get my debit card after I open an account?
If you open your account in person at a branch, ask whether they can issue a debit card on the spot. If not, your card will arrive by mail within 5 to 10 business days. If you open your account online, expect 5 to 10 business days. You can use your account for online transfers and bill pay before your card arrives.
What if Union Bank denies my account because of ChexSystems?
You have the right to see what ChexSystems has on file about you. Visit chexsystems.com or call them to request your report. If there is an error, you can dispute it. Some banks offer second-chance checking accounts for people with ChexSystems issues — ask Union Bank if they have this option.
Do I need to keep a minimum balance to avoid fees?
It depends on the account type. Some Union Bank checking accounts waive the monthly fee if you keep a certain balance — often $500 or $1,000, though this varies. Others waive the fee if you set up direct deposit. Ask your banker which option is easiest for your situation.
Can I open a joint checking account with someone else?
Yes. Both people will need to bring their ID, Social Security number, and be present in person at the branch. Joint accounts let two people access the same money and both receive statements. Ask the banker about the rules for joint accounts before you open one, as they vary by account type.