Yes, you can open most bank accounts entirely online without visiting a branch

Most banks and credit unions now let you open a checking or savings account from your computer or phone. You will not need to go to a physical location. The process usually takes 10 to 20 minutes, and you can start using the account within one to three business days.

The catch is that you need certain documents and information ready before you start. Banks verify your identity using what you provide online, so having the right paperwork matters. Some banks are stricter than others about what they accept, and a few still require an in-person visit for certain account types.

Key Takeaways

  • Most online bank accounts open in 10 to 20 minutes and become usable within one to three business days, though some banks take longer to mail a debit card.
  • You will need a government-issued ID, proof of address, and your Social Security number or tax ID to open an account online at nearly any bank.
  • Some banks use video verification to confirm your identity, while others use knowledge-based questions or instant database checks.
  • Online-only banks (like Ally, Charles Schwab, or Discover) often have fewer restrictions and lower minimum balances than traditional banks with physical branches.
  • If you do not have a government ID or proof of address, you may need to visit a branch in person or use a co-signer.

What documents and information you need to have ready

Before you start, gather a government-issued photo ID (driver's license, passport, or state ID card), proof of your current address, and your Social Security number. Proof of address can be a recent utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, or bank statement in your name. The document usually needs to be dated within the last 60 to 90 days, though this varies by bank.

You will also need to know your employment status and income (if the bank asks), and you should have a phone number and email address the bank can use to contact you. Some banks ask for your mother's maiden name or other personal details to verify your identity during the application. If you are opening a joint account, the other person will need to provide the same documents.

How banks verify your identity online

Banks use three main methods to confirm who you are without meeting you in person. The most common is knowledge-based verification, where the bank asks you questions only you should know the answers to — things like previous addresses you have lived at or credit accounts you have opened. These questions come from your credit report or public records.

Some banks use video verification, where you record yourself holding your ID up to the camera or answer questions while a bank employee watches. This is more thorough but takes longer. A third method is instant database verification, where the bank checks your information against databases they subscribe to and approves you immediately if everything matches. Online-only banks often use this method because they have fewer fraud concerns than traditional banks.

If the bank cannot verify you through any of these methods, they may ask you to mail in copies of your documents or visit a branch. This happens most often if you have no credit history, a very new address, or if your information does not match what is in their databases.

The difference between online-only banks and traditional banks with online options

Online-only banks (Ally, Charles Schwab, Discover, Marcus, Chime) have no physical branches, so they have streamlined their online account opening. They typically have lower minimum balances, fewer verification steps, and faster approval times. Many online-only banks also offer higher interest rates on savings accounts because they have lower overhead costs.

Traditional banks with branches (Chase, Bank of America, Wells Fargo, your local credit union) let you open accounts online, but they may have stricter identity verification, higher minimum balances, or require you to visit a branch within a certain time period to activate the account. Some traditional banks still require an in-person visit for certain account types, like business accounts or accounts for people under 18.

If you already have a relationship with a traditional bank — meaning you have an existing account there — opening a second account online is usually faster and easier because they already have your information on file.

What happens after you submit your application

Once you complete the online form and pass identity verification, the bank will either approve you immediately or tell you they need more information. If approved, you will receive a confirmation email with your account number and routing number. You can usually start using the account for transfers and bill payments right away, even if your debit card has not arrived yet.

Debit cards typically arrive by mail within 7 to 10 business days. Some banks offer a temporary digital card you can use immediately for online purchases or contactless payments through your phone. If you need cash before the card arrives, you can withdraw money at an ATM using your account number and PIN, or transfer money to another account you already have.

The bank will also send you login credentials (username and password, or a link to set them up) so you can access your account online or through their mobile app. Write these down or save them in a password manager — you will need them to check your balance, set up automatic payments, and manage your account.

When you might need to visit a branch instead

A few situations require an in-person visit. If you do not have a government-issued photo ID, most banks will not open an account for you online. If you have no proof of address or your address is very new, some banks will ask you to come in. If you are under 18, many banks require a parent or guardian to be present, though some allow online opening with a co-signer who verifies their identity separately.

If you are opening a business account, a trust account, or an account for a minor with special restrictions, the bank may require a branch visit. Some banks also ask you to come in if their online verification system flags your application as higher risk — this happens occasionally with people who have no credit history or who are new to the country.

If you fall into any of these categories, call the bank before you try to open an account online. They can tell you whether you can complete the process remotely or whether you need to visit a branch.

How long it takes from start to usable account

The application itself takes 10 to 20 minutes. Identity verification can happen instantly (if you use an online-only bank with database verification) or take a few hours to a few days (if the bank uses knowledge-based questions or video verification). Once you are approved, your account is usually active within one business day, though some banks take up to three.

Your debit card will arrive separately by mail, usually within 7 to 10 business days. If you need to use the account before the card arrives, you can transfer money in from another account, set up direct deposit, or use the temporary digital card if the bank offers one. Some banks let you request expedited card delivery for a fee, though this is uncommon.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

If you have an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) instead, many banks will accept it. Some online-only banks are more flexible about this than traditional banks. Call the bank before you apply to confirm they accept ITINs, because the online form may not give you the option to enter one.

What if I fail the identity verification questions?

If you cannot answer the knowledge-based questions correctly, the bank will usually ask you to mail in copies of your ID and proof of address, or visit a branch. This can add one to two weeks to the process. Some banks will let you try again after a waiting period.

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

Most online-only banks have no minimum deposit. Traditional banks often require $25 to $300 to open an account, though some waive the minimum if you set up direct deposit. Check the bank's website for their specific requirement before you apply.

Can I open a joint account online with someone who lives far away?

Yes. Both people will need to complete the online application separately, verify their identity, and agree to be on the account together. The bank will send confirmation to both email addresses. Some banks require both people to sign documents, which they can do electronically.

What if the bank rejects my application?

Banks reject applications for reasons like unpaid overdrafts at other banks, fraud flags, or ChexSystems records (a banking history report). Ask the bank why you were rejected. If it was a ChexSystems issue, you can dispute it. If it was overdrafts, try a different bank or wait a few months before applying again.