Opening a checking account is a straightforward process that typically requires personal identification, basic information, and sometimes a minimum deposit. Banks and credit unions verify your identity to comply with federal regulations like the USA PATRIOT Act.

Essential Documents

Gather these core items before applying, as requirements are consistent across most U.S. financial institutions.

  • Government-issued photo ID : A driver's license, passport, state ID, or military ID is standard; two forms may be needed at branches.
  • Social Security Number (SSN) or ITIN : Required for tax reporting and identity verification; minors might need a birth certificate instead.
  • Proof of address : Utility bill, lease, or bank statement (dated within 60 days) confirms residency; online applicants often just enter it.

Pro Tip : Scan documents digitally for online applications to speed things up.

Minimum Age and Joint Accounts

Age rules vary slightly but follow clear patterns.

  • 18 and older : Open solo online or in-person; must have a U.S. address and phone.
  • Under 18 : Needs a parent/guardian co-signer with their own ID and info; branch visits often required.

"If you’re under 18, you’ll need an adult." – Reddit user insight from r/Banking

Initial Deposit and Fees

Most accounts need a small starting balance, but options exist without one.

Requirement| Typical Amount| Notes
---|---|---
Minimum Deposit| $25–$100 3| Waived at some online banks; use cash/check at branches.
Monthly Fees| $0–$15| Avoid via direct deposit or minimum balance. 8

No deposit? Look for "second chance" or student accounts.

Online vs. In-Person Steps

Online (Fastest, 5–10 Minutes) : Choose bank (e.g., Chase, Ally), enter info, upload ID, fund via linked account. Instant approval if eligible.

  1. Compare accounts on bank sites for fees/APY.
  2. Apply via app/website.
  3. Verify identity (may e-sign).
  4. Deposit funds.

In-Person : Bring docs to branch; great for questions but slower.

Trending Tips (2026 Context)

With digital banking booming post-2025 rate shifts, online-only accounts like Chime or Capital One dominate forums—no SSN needed for some basic ones, per recent Reddit threads. Credit unions offer lower fees amid inflation talks. Always check ChexSystems report for past banking issues.

From multiple viewpoints: Traditionalists prefer branches for trust; millennials rave about app perks on X (formerly Twitter). Speculation: Rising cyber threats mean two-factor ID checks are standard now.

TL;DR : ID + SSN + address get you 90% there; deposit seals it. Shop around to dodge fees. Information gathered from public forums or data available on the internet and portrayed here.