The documents and information banks ask for

When you walk into a bank or credit union to open a checking account, you will need to bring a government-issued photo ID — a driver's license, passport, or state ID card. This is not optional. Banks are required by federal law to verify who you are before they open any account.

You will also need to bring proof of your current address. A utility bill, lease, or recent mail from a government agency works. It needs to show your name and the address where you live now. If your ID has your current address on it, you may not need a second document — ask the bank before you go.

Bring your Social Security number or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN). Have it written down or memorized. The bank will ask for it as part of the verification process. If you do not have either, tell the bank when you call to ask what documents they accept instead.

Key Takeaways

  • You must bring a government-issued photo ID with your current address, or a separate proof of address document.
  • Banks will ask for your Social Security number or ITIN to verify your identity with federal databases.
  • You do not need an opening deposit at many banks and credit unions, though some require a small one.
  • Bring a phone number and email address where the bank can reach you, as they will use these for account alerts and statements.
  • If you have had banking problems in the past, the bank may check a database called ChexSystems, which tracks closed accounts and fraud.

Why banks ask for these things

The documents serve two purposes. First, they confirm you are who you say you are. Second, they help the bank follow federal anti-money-laundering rules. These rules exist to prevent criminals from using banks to hide illegal money. You are not under suspicion — every person opening an account goes through the same process.

When you give the bank your Social Security number, they run it through a federal database to make sure the number matches your name and date of birth. This takes a few minutes. If something does not match, the bank will ask you questions before moving forward.

What happens if you do not have a photo ID

If you do not have a driver's license or passport, you can use a state ID card. These are issued by your state's Department of Motor Vehicles and cost less than a driver's license. You do not need to own a car to get one.

If you have no photo ID at all, call the bank before you go. Some banks will work with you using other documents — a birth certificate plus a utility bill, for example. Others will not. It is worth asking, because policies vary by bank and by state.

If you are not a U.S. citizen and do not have a Social Security number, you can use an ITIN instead. You explore for an ITIN through the IRS. Some banks also accept a passport from another country plus an ITIN, or a passport plus proof of address. Again, call ahead to ask what your specific bank will take.

Opening deposits and minimum balances

Many banks no longer require you to put money in the account when you open it. You can open a checking account with zero dollars and deposit money later. However, some banks and credit unions do require an opening deposit — often between $25 and $100.

Ask the bank about this when you call or visit. If they do require a deposit, ask whether that money counts toward a minimum balance you have to keep in the account. Some accounts charge a monthly fee if your balance drops below a certain amount. Others do not. The fee structure matters more than the opening deposit.

Information the bank will ask you to provide

Beyond documents, the bank will ask for a phone number and email address. They use these to send you alerts — for example, when a large withdrawal happens, or when your balance is low. They also use email to send your statements if you choose paperless statements.

The bank may also ask what you plan to use the account for — personal spending, small business, payroll deposits, and so on. This helps them recommend the right type of checking account. It does not disqualify you from opening an account.

Some banks will ask whether you have banked with them before, or whether you have accounts at other banks. This is optional information. You do not have to answer, though it may affect which account type they recommend.

ChexSystems and banking history checks

Many banks check a database called ChexSystems before opening your account. ChexSystems is a private company that tracks closed bank accounts, overdrafts, and fraud reports. If you closed an account with a large unpaid overdraft, or if someone reported fraud on an account you held, it may show up here.

If ChexSystems has a record about you, the bank will tell you. You have the right to see what it says and to dispute it if it is wrong. You can request your ChexSystems report for free at www.chexsystems.com. If there is a mistake, you can file a dispute with ChexSystems directly.

A ChexSystems record does not automatically disqualify you. Some banks will still open an account for you. Others will not. If one bank turns you down, try a different bank or a credit union — they have different policies.

What to do before you go to the bank

Call the bank or visit their website and ask what documents they need. Policies vary. Some banks want a utility bill; others accept a lease or recent mail. Some accept passports from other countries; others do not. Knowing what your specific bank wants saves you a trip.

Write down your Social Security number or ITIN so you do not have to search for it. Bring your phone number and email address in writing. If you have had accounts closed in the past, know what happened — the bank may ask.

If you are opening an account for a child or teenager, ask whether they need to be present. Some banks require it; others let a parent open an account on their behalf. If you are opening a joint account with another adult, both people usually need to be there with ID.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I open a checking account online instead of going to the bank?

Many online banks and some traditional banks let you open an account entirely online. You upload photos of your ID and proof of address using your phone or computer. The process is the same — they still verify your identity — but you do not have to visit a branch. Online banks often have lower fees because they have no physical locations.

What if I do not have a current utility bill for proof of address?

A lease, mortgage statement, or recent mail from a government agency works. If you are homeless or living with someone else, ask the bank what they accept. Some will take a letter from a shelter or social services agency. Others may accept mail addressed to you at a temporary address.

Do I need to bring my checkbook or debit card to open the account?

No. The bank will order these for you after the account is open. Debit cards usually arrive in five to ten business days. Checks take longer — one to two weeks. You can start using your account when ready through the bank's app or website, even before the physical card arrives.

What if the bank says I cannot open an account because of ChexSystems?

Ask the bank for the specific reason. Then request your ChexSystems report and check for errors. If there is a mistake, dispute it. If the record is accurate, try a different bank — some specialize in second-chance accounts for people with banking history issues. Credit unions are sometimes more flexible than large banks.

Can someone else open an account on my behalf?

No. You must be present with your own ID. The only exception is a parent or guardian opening an account for a minor child, and even then, policies vary by bank. If you cannot go to the bank in person, ask whether they offer online account opening.