Yes, you can open a checking account entirely online from your computer or phone

Most banks and credit unions now let you open a checking account online without stepping into a branch. You fill out an application on their website or app, upload a photo of your ID, and verify your identity through a video call or by answering security questions. The account is usually active within one to three business days, and you can start depositing checks immediately through mobile deposit or by mailing them in.

The speed and convenience depend on which bank you choose. Some institutions approve you in minutes; others take longer because they run additional background checks. A few still require you to visit a branch or mail in a signed form, so checking the specific bank's process before you start matters.

Key Takeaways

  • Online checking accounts open in one to three business days for most banks, with some approving you the same day you apply.
  • You will need a valid government-issued ID, a Social Security number, and a way to verify your identity — usually a video call or security questions.
  • Once your account is open, you can deposit checks by photographing them through the bank's mobile app or by mailing them to the bank's address.
  • Some banks charge monthly fees for checking accounts while others waive fees if you maintain a minimum balance or set up direct deposit.
  • Credit unions often have lower fees and higher interest rates on checking accounts, but may have fewer ATMs and branches than large national banks.

What you need to open an account online

Have your government-issued ID ready — a driver's license, passport, or state ID card. The bank will ask you to photograph both sides or hold it up to your camera during a video call so they can read the information. You will also need your Social Security number, which the bank uses to check your credit history and verify your identity.

You will need a current email address and a phone number. Some banks text you a code to confirm you own the phone number. If the bank uses video verification, you will need a device with a camera and microphone — a smartphone, tablet, or computer all work. Make sure you have good lighting so the bank can see your face and ID clearly.

Have a small amount of money ready to deposit, though many banks do not require an opening deposit. If you plan to set up direct deposit from your employer or another source, have that information on hand so you can provide your new account and routing numbers.

How the online application process works

Start on the bank's website or download their app and look for a button that says "Open an Account" or "New Customer." You will enter your name, address, date of birth, and Social Security number. The bank will ask what type of account you want — in this case, a checking account — and whether you want any additional features like overdraft protection.

Next comes identity verification. Some banks use a video call where you show your ID to a representative on screen. Others send you a link to a third-party verification service where you photograph your ID and answer security questions about your past (like "What was the name of your first pet?" or "Which address did you live at in 2015?"). A few banks mail you a code that you enter to confirm your identity.

Once the bank verifies who you are, you will see your account number and routing number. Write these down or take a screenshot — you will need them to set up direct deposit or to give to your employer. The account is usually ready to use within one business day, though some banks activate it immediately.

Banks and credit unions that open accounts online

Large national banks like Chase, Bank of America, Wells Fargo, and Citibank all offer online checking account opening. Regional banks like PNC, US Bank, and SunTrust also let you open accounts online. Online-only banks like Ally, Charles Schwab, and Discover have no physical branches but often have lower fees and higher interest rates on checking balances.

Credit unions typically offer online account opening too, though the process varies by union. If you are a member of a credit union through your employer or a community organization, check their website first — credit union checking accounts often have lower fees and better interest rates than bank accounts. If you are not a member, you may be able to join online or by visiting a branch.

Each institution has different fee structures, minimum balance requirements, and interest rates. Before you open an account, compare the monthly maintenance fee (many waive it if you set up direct deposit or keep a minimum balance), ATM fees, and overdraft fees. Some banks charge $35 per overdraft; others charge nothing.

How long it takes to open an account and start using it

The fastest accounts open in minutes. Charles Schwab and some online banks approve you and activate your account the same day. Most traditional banks take one to three business days because they run background checks and verify your information through multiple systems.

Once your account is active, you can start depositing checks immediately. Download the bank's mobile app, go to the mobile deposit section, and photograph the front and back of the check. The bank will tell you how long it takes to process — usually one to two business days. Some banks let you deposit checks by mail; you would address an envelope to the bank's lockbox address (listed on their website) and mail the check in.

You can also transfer money into your new account from another bank account you own. This usually takes one to three business days. If your employer offers direct deposit, you can provide your new account and routing numbers to your payroll department, and your paycheck will go directly into the account on your regular pay date.

Fees and minimum balance requirements

Monthly maintenance fees range from zero to $15 depending on the bank. Many banks waive the fee if you maintain a minimum balance (often $500 to $1,500), set up direct deposit, or use their debit card a certain number of times per month. Online-only banks tend to have no monthly fees at all.

Overdraft fees — charged when you spend more than you have in the account — typically run $25 to $35 per transaction. Some banks charge a fee for each overdraft; others charge one fee per day no matter how many overdrafts occur. A few banks offer overdraft protection, which links your checking account to a savings account and automatically transfers money if you overdraft, usually for a small fee or no fee.

ATM fees vary widely. Banks with large networks (like Chase or Bank of America) let you withdraw money free at thousands of ATMs. Online-only banks may reimburse ATM fees or partner with networks like Allpoint or MoneyPass. Credit unions often participate in shared branching networks, so you can withdraw money at other credit unions' ATMs for free.

What happens if your application is denied

Banks can deny your application if you have unpaid overdrafts or negative balances from a previous account, if you have a history of fraud, or if you do not pass their identity verification. Some banks use ChexSystems, a checking account history database, to screen applicants. If you have been denied before, you can request a copy of your ChexSystems report to see what is on file.

If you are denied, ask the bank why. If it is because of a past overdraft or unpaid balance, you may be able to pay it off and reapply. If it is because of a ChexSystems record, you can dispute inaccurate information with ChexSystems directly. Some banks specialize in second-chance checking accounts for people with banking history problems — these accounts often have higher fees but will open for you.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need to have money in the account before I open it?

Most banks do not require an opening deposit. You can open the account with zero dollars and deposit money later through mobile deposit, direct deposit, or a transfer from another account. A few banks ask for a small opening deposit of $25 to $100, but this is becoming less common.

Can I open a checking account if I do not have a Social Security number?

Banks are required by law to collect a Social Security number or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) to open a checking account. If you have an ITIN, you can open an account. If you do not have either, you will need to obtain one before you can open a bank account.

How long does mobile deposit take to clear?

Most banks clear mobile deposits within one to two business days. Some banks offer next-day clearing if you deposit before a certain time (usually 5 p.m.). The bank will show the deposit as pending immediately, but the money may not be available to spend until the check clears. Check your bank's app for the exact timeline.

Can I open a checking account if I have been denied before?

Yes. If you were denied because of a past overdraft or unpaid balance, pay it off and try again with the same bank or a different one. If you were denied because of a ChexSystems record, request your report, dispute any errors, and look for banks that specialize in second-chance accounts. These accounts have higher fees but are designed for people rebuilding their banking history.

What is the difference between opening an account online and in person?

The main difference is speed and convenience. Online accounts open in one to three days from your home; in-person accounts open the same day but require a branch visit. The account features and fees are usually the same. Some people prefer in-person opening because they can ask questions face-to-face, while others prefer online because it is faster and more private.