Bank account document checklist
Every US bank has to verify who you are before opening an account. What they accept beyond that minimum is up to each bank.
Reviewed by Alex Thomas · Updated Nov 5, 2026
You have what most banks ask for, and several let you apply online. Your checklist has 5 items.
How to apply
Online or in a branch
Federal rules require every bank to collect your name, date of birth, address and an ID number. For non-US persons, a passport number can stand in for a tax number, but each bank sets its own policy.
What to bring
Your passport
Unexpired. Most banks accept a foreign passport as the main ID.
A second ID
Many banks ask for one more document, such as a foreign driver's license, national ID or credit card.
Your SSN or ITIN
Bring the card or the IRS letter. The bank uses it to report interest to the IRS.
Proof of your US address
A lease, utility bill or official letter in your name, usually from the last 60 to 90 days.
Your opening deposit
Often $25 to $100, by cash or transfer. Check the monthly fee and how to avoid it.
Ask members who've been there
Questions
Can I open a bank account with just a passport?
Can I open a bank account with an ITIN?
Why was my bank account application denied?
Related guides and answers
- What do I need to open a bank account?To open a bank account you need a government photo ID, your SSN or ITIN, your date of birth, a street address and sometimes an opening deposit. You usually need to be 18 to open one alone. Without an SSN or ITIN, a non-US person can give a passport number instead.
- Can I open a bank account with a passport?Yes, you can open a US bank account with a passport, but usually not with the passport alone. Federal rules let a non-US person give a passport number instead of an SSN or ITIN. Banks like Chase, Bank of America and Wells Fargo also ask for a second ID, and often a US address.
- Do I need an SSN to open a bank account?No, you don't need an SSN to open a US bank account. Federal rules let a bank take an ITIN instead, and a non-US person can give a passport number. Each bank sets its own policy, though. Wells Fargo and Huntington accept an ITIN, while BMO's online application asks for an SSN.
- Why can't I open a bank account?A bank can refuse to open your account if it can't verify who you are, or if a checking account report from a company like Chex Systems shows unpaid negative balances, bad checks or suspected fraud. When a report is the reason, the bank must tell you which company made it, and you can get that report free.
- Do I need money to open a bank account?You don't always need money to open a bank account. Some accounts have no minimum opening deposit, such as Huntington checking, and Bank On certified accounts ask for $25 or less. Other banks require a minimum initial deposit when you apply. Also check the monthly fee and how to waive it.
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