Yes, you can open most bank accounts entirely online

Most banks and credit unions let you open a checking or savings account from your computer or phone without visiting a branch. The process usually takes 10 to 15 minutes. You'll need a government ID, a Social Security number or tax ID, proof of your current address, and an initial deposit (which can be as small as $0 at some banks, or $25 to $100 at others).

Not every bank offers the same online setup. Some require you to verify your identity through a video call with a representative. Others use instant verification through a third-party service that checks your information against public records. A few still require you to mail in documents or visit a branch to complete the account, even though you can start the process online.

The speed and ease depend on which bank you choose and whether your information matches what's already on file with credit bureaus and government databases. If there's a mismatch, the bank may ask you to upload documents or call to verify details.

Key Takeaways

  • You can open a checking or savings account online at most banks and credit unions in 10 to 15 minutes using your ID, Social Security number, address proof, and an initial deposit.
  • Identity verification happens through instant automated checks, video calls with a representative, or document uploads—the method varies by bank.
  • Some banks charge monthly fees while others offer free accounts; compare fee structures before you choose.
  • If the bank cannot verify your identity instantly, they will ask you to upload documents or call to confirm your information before the account opens.

What documents and information you need before you start

Gather these items before you begin the online application. You'll need a government-issued photo ID—a driver's license, passport, or state ID card. The name on your ID must match the name you use to open the account.

You'll also need your Social Security number or, if you don't have one, an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN). The bank uses this to verify your identity and report interest earned on the account to the IRS.

Have your current address ready. Most banks ask for a utility bill, lease, mortgage statement, or government mail dated within the last 60 to 90 days. Some accept a recent bank statement or credit card statement instead. If you don't have a physical address, some banks will accept a PO box or shelter address, though policies vary.

Know how much you can deposit to open the account. Minimum deposits range from $0 to $300 depending on the bank and account type. You can fund the account with a debit card, another bank account, or sometimes a wire transfer.

How identity verification works online

Banks use three main methods to verify who you are during online signup. The fastest is instant automated verification, where the bank checks your information against credit bureaus, public records, and databases they subscribe to. If everything matches, your account opens within minutes.

If the automated check cannot confirm your identity, the bank may ask you to upload a photo of your ID and a recent address document. You photograph both sides of your ID and take a photo or scan of your address proof, then upload them through the bank's website or app. A staff member reviews these documents, which usually takes 1 to 3 business days.

Some banks, especially those offering accounts to people with limited credit history, use video verification. You schedule a brief video call with a bank representative, show your ID to the camera, and answer questions about your personal information. This typically happens within 24 hours of your request.

If you have a thin credit file, have recently moved, or your name has changed, automated verification may fail. In those cases, document upload or video verification is your next step. The bank will tell you which method they need when the automated check doesn't go through.

Banks that make online account opening straightforward

Large national banks like Chase, Bank of America, and Wells Fargo let you open accounts online, though they often require a video call or document upload if instant verification fails. Their advantage is branch access if you need to deposit cash or speak to someone in person later.

Online-only banks like Ally, Charles Schwab Bank, and Discover Bank typically have faster online signup because they don't maintain physical branches. They use instant verification more often and have fewer identity-verification delays. The tradeoff is that you cannot walk into a location to deposit cash or resolve problems face-to-face.

Credit unions vary widely. Some, like Connexus Credit Union and Pentagon Federal Credit Union, offer full online signup to anyone in their field of membership. Others require you to visit a branch or have a member sponsor you before you can open an account online. Check your credit union's website or call to confirm they offer online account opening.

Community banks often have online signup but may require a video call or in-person visit to complete the process. Call ahead or check their website to see what their online account opening looks like.

What happens after you submit your online application

Once you finish the online form and submit your information, the bank sends you a confirmation email. If instant verification succeeds, you'll receive your account number and routing number in that email or in the app within minutes. You can start using the account right away—depositing checks through mobile deposit, setting up direct deposit, or transferring money from another account.

If the bank needs to verify your identity further, they'll email you instructions on what to upload or when to schedule a video call. This step usually takes 1 to 3 business days. Until the bank confirms your identity, you may not be able to use the account, or you may have temporary limits on how much you can deposit or withdraw.

Once your identity is verified, the bank will send you a debit card in the mail. Standard delivery takes 7 to 10 business days. Some banks offer expedited shipping for a fee, or let you use a temporary digital card in their app while you wait for the physical card.

If you funded the account with a debit card or transfer from another bank account, that money should appear within 1 to 3 business days. Wire transfers and ACH transfers from other banks can take longer depending on the sending bank's processing time.

Common reasons online account opening gets delayed or denied

The most common delay is a mismatch between the name on your ID and the name in credit bureau records. If you recently married, divorced, or changed your name legally, the credit bureaus may not have updated yet. The bank will ask you to upload a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order showing the name change.

A second common issue is address mismatch. If you recently moved and your ID still shows your old address, the bank may not be able to verify you instantly. Upload a recent utility bill or lease at your new address to resolve this.

Banks also deny accounts if they detect fraud risk—for example, if someone else has recently tried to open an account using your information, or if your Social Security number appears linked to multiple recent account applications. If this happens, the bank will tell you to contact them by phone. Have your ID ready and be prepared to answer security questions.

Some banks will not open accounts for people with a history of unpaid overdrafts or fraud at other banks. This shows up in ChexSystems, a banking history report similar to a credit report. If you're denied for this reason, ask the bank which report they used and request a copy so you can dispute any errors.

Fees and account features to compare before you choose

Before you open an account, check whether the bank charges a monthly maintenance fee. 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. Some banks charge no monthly fee at all.

Look at overdraft fees if you might accidentally spend more than you have. Some banks charge $30 to $35 per overdraft. Others offer overdraft protection, which links your account to a savings account or credit line and transfers money automatically if you go negative. A few banks, like Ally and Discover, do not charge overdraft fees at all.

Check the interest rate on savings accounts. Online banks typically pay higher interest than brick-and-mortar banks because they have lower overhead. Rates change frequently, so compare current rates on the bank's website rather than relying on older information.

Consider whether you need ATM access. Online-only banks often partner with ATM networks so you can withdraw cash for free at thousands of locations. National banks have their own ATM networks. If you travel or live in a rural area, check whether the bank's ATM network covers places you frequent.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I open an account if I don't have a Social Security number?

Yes. You can use an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) instead. Some banks accept ITINs without question; others require you to call or visit a branch to complete the account. Ask the bank during signup whether they accept ITINs, or call their customer service line before you start the application.

What if the bank cannot verify my identity online?

The bank will email you instructions to upload documents (your ID and address proof) or schedule a video call. Upload clear photos of both sides of your ID and a recent utility bill or lease. A staff member will review these within 1 to 3 business days. If you prefer to speak to someone, call the bank and ask to verify by phone instead.

How long does it take to use my account after I open it online?

If instant verification succeeds, you can use your account within minutes—you'll have your account number and routing number right away. If the bank needs to verify your identity further, you may have to wait 1 to 3 business days. Your debit card arrives by mail in 7 to 10 business days, but you can use a digital card in the app while you wait.

Can I open an account online if I have bad credit?

Yes. Banks do not check your credit score to open a checking or savings account. They may check ChexSystems, a banking history report, to see if you have unpaid overdrafts or fraud at other banks. If you have a ChexSystems record, some banks will still open an account for you, while others will not. Call ahead to ask whether the bank accepts applicants with ChexSystems records.

Do I have to use the same bank for checking and savings?

No. You can open a checking account at one bank and a savings account at another. Many people do this to find the best rates and fees for each account type. Just keep track of your account numbers and routing numbers for each bank.