Opening a bank account no longer means taking time off work or waiting in line at a branch. Today, most banks in the U.S. let you open an account online in just a few minutes right from your phone or laptop. Whether you’re choosing a traditional bank, a credit union, or an online-only bank, the process is mostly the same and fully digital.
Once your account is approved, you can start sending money, paying bills, and managing your finances online without ever stepping into a bank.
Below is a simple, beginner-friendly guide to how it works.
What You Need to Open a Bank Account Online
Before you start, it helps to have everything ready. Banks are required by law to verify your identity, so they’ll ask for some basic personal details.
1. Personal Identification Details
Most banks will ask for:
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Your Social Security number
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Your date of birth
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A government-issued ID, such as a driver’s license or passport
(including the ID number and expiration date)
This information helps the bank confirm that you are who you say you are.
2. Contact Information
You’ll need to provide:
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Your home address (a physical address is required)
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A phone number
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An email address
Even though everything happens online, banks must have a real residential address on file. You can usually add a P.O. box as a mailing address if needed.
3. Money to Fund the Account
Many banks require an opening deposit, usually between $25 and $100, though some online banks offer $0 minimums.
You can fund your account by:
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Linking another bank account (using routing and account numbers)
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Using a debit or credit card
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Mailing a check or money order (less common)
Example: If you’re switching banks, you can link your old checking account and transfer money electronically in minutes.
Signing Documents Online (or by Mail)
Most modern banks allow you to sign all required documents electronically using an e-signature. When that’s the case, your account may be ready to use the same day.
Some banks especially smaller or regional ones still require a handwritten signature. If so, they’ll mail you a welcome packet with forms to sign and return. This can delay access to your account by a few days.
Tip: If you need an account immediately, look for banks that advertise “100% online account opening.”
Common Challenges When Opening a Bank Account Online
While the process is easy for most people, certain situations can make online approval harder.
Limited or No Credit History
Banks often check your credit report not because you’re borrowing money, but to verify your identity. If you’re young or new to the U.S. and don’t have much credit history, the bank may ask you to visit a branch with ID.
Being Under 18
Most banks don’t allow minors to open accounts alone online. If you’re under 18, you’ll usually need:
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A parent or guardian as a co-owner
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Possible in-person verification
Many banks offer special teen or student accounts for this reason.
Past Issues with Checking Accounts
If you’ve had problems like unpaid overdrafts or account closures in the past, banks may flag your application through systems like ChexSystems. In these cases, visiting a branch or applying for a “second-chance” checking account may work better.
Non-U.S. Citizenship
Non-citizens can still open U.S. bank accounts, but online approval isn’t always guaranteed. Some banks require:
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An ITIN instead of an SSN
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A foreign passport or consular ID
If the online application doesn’t work, a branch visit often solves the issue.
Business or Organization Accounts
Personal accounts are easy to open online. Business, trust, or nonprofit accounts are more complicated and may require additional steps or paperwork.
To open a business account, you’ll usually need:
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An Employer Identification Number (EIN)
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Business formation documents
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Required licenses or permits
Some banks allow online business account setup, but many still require extra verification.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I open a checking account online instantly?
For many banks, yes. The application itself usually takes 5–10 minutes. Approval can be immediate, though full access may depend on funding and verification.
Can I open an online bank account for my child?
Often yes especially if you already bank with that institution. However, the account usually must be jointly owned with an adult, and some banks still prefer in-person setup for minors.
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