The documents and information you'll bring to the bank

To open a joint checking account, you and the other account holder will each need a government-issued photo ID, proof of your current address, and your Social Security number or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN). The bank will ask for these in person or online, depending on where you're opening the account.

Proof of address typically means a recent utility bill, lease, mortgage statement, or government mail showing your name and current address — usually from the last 60 days. Some banks accept a bank statement or insurance document instead. Call ahead to ask what your specific bank takes, since requirements vary.

Both account holders must be present and provide their own ID and address proof. If one person cannot go to the bank in person, some banks allow the second person to sign documents on their behalf, but you'll want to confirm this before you go.

Key Takeaways

  • Each account holder needs a government photo ID, proof of current address, and a Social Security number or ITIN before opening a joint account.
  • Proof of address must usually be dated within the last 60 days and can be a utility bill, lease, mortgage statement, or government mail.
  • Both people should plan to visit the bank together, though some banks allow one person to sign on behalf of the other if travel is impossible.
  • You'll choose how the account is owned — as "joint tenants with rights of survivorship" or "tenants in common" — which affects what happens to the money if one person dies.
  • The bank will run a background check through ChexSystems or Early Warning Services, which may delay opening by a few days.

What information the bank will ask you to provide

Beyond the documents themselves, the bank needs to know your employment status, annual income, and the reason you're opening the account. You don't need to be employed — retired, self-employed, or unemployed people open joint accounts regularly — but the bank will ask. They're required by federal law to collect this information for anti-money-laundering purposes, not to judge whether you deserve an account.

You'll also need to decide how you want the account titled. The two main options are joint tenants with rights of survivorship (JTWROS) and tenants in common. With JTWROS, if one account holder dies, the surviving person automatically owns all the money in the account. With tenants in common, each person's share goes to their estate or whoever they named in their will. Most couples choose JTWROS; most business partners or roommates choose tenants in common. Ask the bank which is the default if you don't specify.

How the bank verifies your information

The bank will run your name and Social Security number through ChexSystems or Early Warning Services, which are databases that track banking history. These checks look for unpaid overdrafts, fraud, or other problems at previous banks. If you've had trouble with a bank account before, this check may flag it.

If the check comes back clear, you can usually open the account the same day. If there's a flag, the bank may ask you to explain or may deny the account. You have the right to see what ChexSystems or Early Warning Services has on file about you — you can request your report for free from either company if you're denied.

The whole process typically takes a few minutes to a few hours in person, or one to three business days if you're opening online. Some banks hold new accounts for a few days before you can withdraw money, as a final fraud check.

Initial deposit requirements and minimum balances

Most banks require an opening deposit to create the account — often $25 to $100, though some banks have no minimum. A few banks waive the opening deposit if you set up direct deposit (having your paycheck sent straight to the account). Ask what your bank requires before you go.

After the account is open, some banks require you to keep a minimum balance to avoid monthly fees. This might be $500, $1,000, or nothing at all — it depends on the account type and the bank. If your balance drops below the minimum, you'll typically pay a monthly maintenance fee of $5 to $15. Read the fee schedule the bank gives you so you know what to expect.

Decisions you'll make during the account opening

You'll choose whether you want a debit card, and if so, whether each person gets their own card or you share one. You'll decide if you want online banking and mobile app access. You'll pick a PIN for the debit card and set up login credentials for online banking.

You'll also choose how overdrafts are handled — whether the bank will cover them (and charge a fee) or decline the transaction. Some banks let you link a savings account to cover overdrafts automatically. These choices can be changed later, so don't worry if you're unsure.

What happens after you leave the bank

The bank will mail you debit cards, a checkbook (if you requested one), and account statements within one to two weeks. Your online banking login will usually be active the same day or the next business day. You can start using the account as soon as you have your debit card or online access, even if the physical checkbook hasn't arrived yet.

If you opened the account online, the bank may mail you a confirmation letter or ask you to verify your identity in person within 30 days. This is normal and doesn't mean anything is wrong — it's another anti-fraud step.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do both people have to be present when we open the account?

Most banks prefer both account holders to be present in person. However, some banks allow one person to open the account and add the second person later, or allow one person to sign documents on behalf of the other. Call your bank before you go to confirm what they allow.

What if one of us has a bad banking history?

A bad history at another bank may cause a ChexSystems flag, but it doesn't automatically disqualify you. The bank will ask you to explain what happened. If you were overdrawn or had fraud, be honest about it. Many banks will still open an account for you, though some may require a larger opening deposit or restrict features like overdraft protection.

Can we open a joint account if we're not married?

Yes. Banks don't require marriage to open a joint account. Roommates, business partners, adult children and parents, and unmarried couples all open joint accounts regularly. The bank will ask the same questions and require the same documents regardless of your relationship.

What if we want to change the account ownership type later?

You can usually change from JTWROS to tenants in common (or vice versa) by visiting the bank and signing new paperwork. This takes a few minutes and is free. Call your bank to ask if they charge anything or if there are any restrictions.

How long does it take to actually use the account after we open it?

If you open in person, you can use online banking and set up transfers the same day. Debit cards arrive by mail in one to two weeks. If you open online, the bank may require you to verify your identity in person within 30 days before full access is granted, though you can usually use the account before that step.