Opening a bank account online takes about 10 to 15 minutes at most banks and credit unions. You’ll need a government-issued ID, your Social Security number, and a way to fund the account. The process is straightforward, but a few details, like how identity verification works and how to move money into your new account, are worth understanding before you start.
What You Need Before You Apply
Every bank is required to verify your name, date of birth, address, and an identification number before opening an account. Gather these items before you sit down to apply so you can move through the process without interruptions.
Government-issued photo ID. A driver’s license, U.S. passport, or military ID works at virtually every bank. Some institutions also accept foreign passports or consular IDs like the Matricula Consular card, though acceptance varies.
Social Security number or ITIN. You need one of these to open an interest-bearing account, which includes most checking and savings accounts. If you don’t have either, some banks will let you open a no-interest account using another government-issued identification number, such as a passport number or alien identification card number.
A second form of identification. Banks typically ask for one additional document: your Social Security card, a utility bill with your name and current address, or your birth certificate. A bill doubles as proof of your address, which makes it especially useful if your photo ID shows an outdated one.
You’ll also need a working email address and phone number. Most banks send a verification code by text or email during signup.
The Application Process Step by Step
Start by visiting the bank’s website or downloading its mobile app. Look for a button like “Open an Account” or “Get Started,” then choose the account type you want (checking, savings, or both). From there, the process follows a predictable pattern.
First, you’ll enter personal information: your full legal name, date of birth, address, phone number, email, and Social Security number or ITIN. The form is similar to what you’d fill out on paper at a branch, just typed instead of handwritten.
Next comes identity verification. Most online banks ask you to upload or photograph your government-issued ID using your phone’s camera. Many also require a selfie so the bank can match your face to the photo on your ID. Behind the scenes, the bank’s system analyzes the security features on your ID to confirm it’s genuine and uses liveness detection to make sure you’re a real person taking the photo in real time, not holding up a printout or replaying a video. This all happens in seconds. Some banks skip the selfie and instead use knowledge-based questions, asking you to confirm details from your credit or public records, like a previous address or an old car loan.
Once your identity is confirmed, you’ll review the account terms, agree to the bank’s disclosures, and submit. Many banks approve applications instantly. If the bank needs more time, expect an answer within one to three business days.
How to Fund Your New Account
Some banks require an opening deposit, while others let you open with zero dollars and add money later. Either way, you have several options for getting funds in.
Link an external bank account. This is the most common method. You provide the routing number and account number from your existing bank, and the new bank pulls money via ACH transfer. Verification works in one of three ways. Instant verification requires just your account details. Real-time verification asks for your online banking login credentials so the bank can confirm ownership immediately. Trial deposit verification is slower: the bank sends two tiny deposits (usually a few cents each) to your existing account, and you confirm the exact amounts once they arrive, which typically takes three to five business days.
Mobile check deposit. If you have a paper check, you can deposit it through the bank’s app by photographing the front and back. You’ll need to endorse the check first (sign the back and write “For mobile deposit only” or similar). Funds from mobile deposits may be available within one to two business days, depending on the bank.
Direct deposit. You can set up your paycheck or government benefits (like Social Security) to go straight into your new account. Some banks let you enroll through their app, or you can update your deposit information through your employer’s payroll system. Direct deposit takes one to two pay cycles to kick in, so it’s not an immediate funding method.
Wire transfer or mailed check. If the other options don’t work, most banks accept a mailed check with a deposit slip or an incoming wire transfer. Wire transfers typically carry a fee at the sending bank, often $15 to $30 for a domestic wire.
Choosing Between Online and Traditional Banks
Online-only banks operate without branches, which lets them keep overhead low. That savings gets passed on in two ways: higher interest rates on deposits and fewer fees. The most competitive online savings accounts pay roughly 1% to 2% more in annual percentage yield (APY) than comparable accounts at traditional banks. You’re also less likely to encounter monthly maintenance fees, minimum balance requirements, or charges for routine transactions.
The tradeoff is access. Online banks don’t have their own ATMs, so they partner with networks like Allpoint or MoneyPass to give you free access to thousands of machines nationwide. Many also reimburse a set number of out-of-network ATM fees each month. But if you regularly deposit cash or prefer face-to-face service, a traditional bank with local branches may be a better fit. Some people open accounts at both: an online bank for savings (to earn the higher rate) and a traditional bank for everyday transactions.
What Happens If Your Application Is Denied
Most applications are approved within minutes, but denials do happen. The most common reason is a negative record in ChexSystems, a consumer reporting agency that tracks your banking history. Over 80% of banks and credit unions check ChexSystems when you apply, according to the National Consumer Law Center. Unlike a credit report, which covers loans and credit cards, ChexSystems focuses mostly on negative account history: unpaid overdraft fees, accounts closed by a previous bank, or suspected fraud.
If a past bank reported you for an unpaid balance, that record stays in ChexSystems for up to five years. During that time, it can make opening a new account difficult. You have the right to request a free copy of your ChexSystems report to see what’s on it, and you can dispute any errors directly with the agency.
If you’ve been denied, you still have options. Some banks and credit unions offer “second chance” accounts designed for people with negative banking history. These accounts may have more restrictions, like no check-writing ability, but they let you rebuild your record. After managing the account responsibly for a period, you can often upgrade to a standard account or apply at another bank with a clean slate.
After Your Account Is Open
Once approved, set up online banking access right away if you haven’t already. Download the bank’s mobile app, enable two-factor authentication for security, and save your login credentials somewhere safe. If you plan to use the account as your primary checking account, update your direct deposit, recurring bill payments, and any linked services (like payment apps) with your new account and routing numbers.
Order a debit card if one wasn’t automatically issued. Most banks mail it within five to ten business days. In the meantime, some banks offer a virtual debit card number you can use immediately for online purchases or mobile wallet payments through Apple Pay, Google Pay, or Samsung Pay.