How To Open a Bank Account Online

You can open a bank account online in about 10 to 15 minutes by choosing an account, filling out an application, confirming your identity and making an opening deposit if needed. You can do it through the bank’s website or app without visiting a branch.

Here's what to expect and what could slow down your application.

Part 2: Key Takeaways

• What you need: A government-issued photo ID, a Social Security number or ITIN, a U.S. street address and money for any required opening deposit are usually all it takes to open a bank account online.

• How long it takes: Most online applications take about 10 to 15 minutes, though a funding transfer can still take a few business days to clear before you can use the money.

• Minimum age: In most states you must be at least 18 to open an account on your own; younger applicants can open a joint account with a parent, guardian or other trusted adult.

• FDIC coverage is automatic: At an FDIC-insured bank, qualifying deposits are covered up to at least $250,000 per depositor, per insured bank, per ownership category — you never have to sign up for it.

• If you're denied, you still have options: An ID mismatch, suspected fraud or a ChexSystems flag can trigger a denial, but a corrected report or a second-chance account may still get you approved.

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What You Need To Open a Bank Account Online

To open a bank account online, you need a government-issued photo ID, a Social Security number or ITIN, a U.S. street address and money for any required opening deposit. 

Most banks will ask for:

• A government-issued photo ID, such as a driver's license, state ID or passport

• Your Social Security number or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number

• A U.S. street address and, if requested, proof of address such as a utility bill or lease

• Your date of birth

• Opening deposit funds, if the account requires it

Requirements vary by bank and by account type, so confirm what's needed before you start. 

You must be at least 18 years old in the U.S. to open a bank account on your own. If you're younger, a parent, guardian or other trusted adult may be able to open a joint account with you. You may also want to consider a bank account especially for teens or kids.

How To Open a Bank Account Online in 5 Steps

Here’s how to open a bank account online from start to finish.

1. Choose an Account and Bank

Choose a checking account for bills and everyday spending, or a savings account for an emergency fund. Compare fees, interest rates, ATM access and how easy it is to get help from customer support when you need it. Think about how you’ll use the account. For example, check whether you can deposit cash, scan checks through the app or use your card abroad. Confirm that the bank is FDIC-insured before applying.

2. Fill Out the Application

Open the application through the bank’s official website or app. You’ll enter basic details such as your legal name, birth date, address, contact information and Social Security number or ITIN. Make sure everything matches your identification, since even a small difference can delay approval. For a joint account, each person must complete their part of the application. Review account fees, minimum balance rules and overdraft terms before submitting.

3. Verify Your Identity

The bank may ask for photos of your ID, a selfie, a one-time passcode or another document to confirm your identity. Make sure the photos are easy to read and that the information you entered matches your ID.

4. Fund the Account

Some banks require a deposit to get your account started. Depending on the bank, you may be able to add funds from another account, use a debit card, deposit a check or add cash. MoneyLion, for example, lets you add funds through cash, debit card, direct deposit or an external transfer. Before moving money, check how much you need to deposit and when you’ll be able to use it. The account may open in minutes, but a transfer can still take a few business days to clear.

5. Activate Your Card and Set Up Direct Deposit

Once the account is open, activate your debit card and set up your PIN, transaction alerts and direct deposit with your employer. Keep your old account open with enough money to cover pending payments until deposits and bills have moved over. Then save any statements you need before closing it.

Why a Bank Account Application Might Get Denied

A bank may deny your application because of an ID mismatch, suspected fraud or a ChexSystems flag tied to negative account history. These issues may be fixable, so a denial does not mean you are out of options.

If the bank used a checking account report to deny your application, it must send an adverse action notice explaining the decision and naming the company that provided the report. You can request a free copy of the report and review it for mistakes. If something is wrong, dispute it with both the reporting company and the bank or credit union that supplied it. If the report is accurate, ask the bank whether paying an old balance could improve your chances. You can also look for a second-chance account that may not use ChexSystems.

Is It Safe To Open a Bank Account Online?

Banks secure the personal information you submit online using encryption by converting it into code that only the bank can read. Confirm you’re on the bank's official website or app before entering your Social Security number or uploading your ID.

Look for HTTPS, which encrypts information sent between your browser and the site. A lock symbol does not prove the site belongs to a legitimate bank.

You do not need to sign up for FDIC insurance. If the bank is FDIC-insured, qualifying deposits are covered without any extra step from you. Each depositor is covered for at least $250,000 at that bank, and some accounts may qualify for additional coverage depending on how they are owned.

Watch for these red flags:

• An unexpected email or text directs you to an application link

• Someone asks for payment to approve, activate or unlock the account

• The site does not identify the bank holding your deposits or provide an FDIC insurance disclosure

If something feels inconsistent, look up the bank through FDIC BankFind or contact the bank using a verified phone number.

FAQ

Can you open a joint bank account online?

Many banks allow two adults to apply online. Each owner may need to provide personal information and identification, and both may need to complete verification or accept the account agreement before the account becomes active.

What if you do not have a Social Security Number?

You may be able to open an account. Some banks accept an ITIN or, for non-U.S. persons, another government-issued identification number or document. Requirements vary, so ask which forms of identification the bank accepts before applying.

Can you open a bank account online with a negative ChexSystems report?

Yes. A negative ChexSystems report can limit your options, but you may still qualify for a second-chance account. Compare the fees and account features before applying.

How soon can you use a new account?

You may be able to use your account soon after approval, but access can take time. Banks follow different timelines for activating online banking and making deposited funds available. Check the bank's timeline and funds-availability policy before scheduling payments.

Part 3: Key Terms + Sources

Key Terms

• ChexSystems: A consumer reporting agency that tracks checking and savings account history, including unpaid negative balances and involuntary account closures.

• Adverse action notice: The notice a bank must send when it denies an application based on a consumer report, explaining the decision and naming the company that supplied the report.

• FDIC insurance: Federal deposit insurance that covers qualifying deposits up to at least $250,000 per depositor, per insured bank, per ownership category.

• ITIN (Individual Taxpayer Identification Number): A tax processing number the IRS issues to people who need a U.S. taxpayer ID but aren't eligible for a Social Security number.

• Opening deposit: The initial amount of money some banks require to activate a new account.

• Second-chance account: A checking account built for people with negative banking history who may not qualify for a standard account.

• Identity verification: The steps a bank uses to confirm you are who you say you are — often a photo ID, a selfie or a one-time passcode.

Sources

• FDIC. Understanding Deposit Insurance.

• FDIC. How Do I Find Out if a Bank Is FDIC-Insured?

• Consumer Financial Protection Bureau. Why Was I Denied a Checking Account?

• Consumer Financial Protection Bureau. How Do I Dispute an Error on My Checking Account Consumer Report?

• Consumer Financial Protection Bureau. What Is a Second-Chance Bank Account and Who Is It For?.

• Consumer Financial Protection Bureau. Moving Your Checking Account.

• Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency. Understanding Website Certificates.

• FDIC. Expedited Funds Availability Act (Regulation CC).