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- Some banks check your criminal record and citizenship before allowing you to open an account.
- You'll likely need a government-issued ID, proof of address, and more to open a bank account.
- You may need extra documentation if you're under 18, or if you're opening a student account.
To open a bank account, you'll need basic information, such as your full legal name and contact information, plus certain documentation that banks require from every customer who opens an account. You also may need a few extra documents if you're opening a special type of account.
Can I open a bank account?
Research or call to ask about eligibility requirements before you walk into a bank to open an account.
You must be 18 to open a bank account, although you can open one if a parent or guardian co-owns the account. Some institutions will turn you away if you have a criminal record or aren't a US citizen, and others may reject you if you have a history of overdrafts or other negative activity with your previous bank.
Not all banks have the same eligibility requirements. If you find out you can't open an account with one bank, don't give up — keep looking.
If you do not have a Social Security number or US ID to open a bank account, you'll want to look through our list of banks and credit unions that make it easy for immigrants and non-US citizens to open an account. You may find an option near where you live.
If you've struggled to open a bank account due to a negative banking history, we also have a guide on the best second chance checking accounts, which includes nationwide options.
See Insider's best banks>>
What to bring with you to the bank
A government-issued ID
You can bring a driver's license, passport, or military ID to the bank.
If you don't have any of these documents and aren't ready to take a driving test, visit the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) to get a state-issued ID. It's similar to a driver's license card, except it doesn't authorize you to drive — it's just a tool for identifying yourself.
Social Security number (SSN) or individual tax identification number (ITIN)
If you're a US citizen, bring your Social Security card to the bank. If you're a non-US citizen, bring proof of your ITIN. If you don't have either, you can either order a replacement SSN card or apply for an ITIN online.
Proof of address
Bring a piece of mail with you that contains your home address. This shouldn't just be a letter from your parents with your address on the envelope — a bill or credit card statement should do the trick.
Opening deposit
Not all banks require an initial deposit to open an account, but many ask for a deposit ranging from $5 to $100.
Be ready with cash or a check to make the deposit. You can also transfer money from another bank to your new account, but the other bank may charge a fee for this activity.
What to bring if you're under 18, a student, or opening a joint account
A parent or guardian if you're under age 18
You must be at least 18 years old to open a bank account on your own. You can open a bank account for minor, but you must bring a parent or guardian with the necessary documentation to open the account with you.
Proof of enrollment if you're a student
Student accounts often come with extra perks, such as cash bonuses or waived monthly fees. You should bring proof of enrollment, like a transcript, and your student ID.
Information for both people if you're opening a joint account
If you're opening a joint account, you'll need all the necessary documentation for both people for it to officially belong to both of you.
How to open a bank account online
Opening an account online is pretty similar to doing it in person — you just don't have to make the trip.
You'll still need all the same documentation. An online bank will likely have a way for you to scan or submit pictures of necessary documents. You can't make your opening deposit in cash, so the easiest way is probably to transfer money from another bank account.
How to choose a bank account
The best bank account for you will depend on your priorities.
You may value a bank that doesn't charge monthly bank maintenance fees, requires a low opening deposit, or has a great mobile app. If you're opening a checking account, you probably want easy access to your money. For a savings account, you'll likely want a high interest rate.
You likely want flexible customer service hours with an online bank, and for a brick-and-mortar bank, you might care about which bank has a branch closest to your home.
Opening a bank account FAQs
What documents do you need to open a bank account?
Generally, you need at least three documents to verify your identity in order to open a bank account. For example, a driver's license, utility bill, and Social Security number may be used to open an account.
Can I open a bank account without documents?
No, you can't open a bank account without documents. Documents are needed to verify your identity.
Can I open bank account without SSN?
You do not need a Social Security number to open a bank account. You can use an ITIN number, or some banks may permit other forms of identification, like a Matricula Consular.
How much money do you need to open a bank account?
The minimum opening deposit required to open an account usually may vary from $0 to $100.
What can be used as a proof of address for a bank account?
You may use a credit card statement, utility bill, lease agreement, bank statement, or mortgage statement as a proof of address to open a bank account.