Yes, you can open most bank accounts entirely online

Most banks and credit unions now let you open a checking or savings account from your computer or phone without visiting a branch. You provide your personal information, verify your identity, and fund the account—all without leaving home. The whole process usually takes 10 to 15 minutes.

Not every account type works this way. Some banks still require an in-person visit for certain products, like business accounts or accounts for minors. But for a standard personal checking or savings account, online opening is the norm, not the exception.

Key Takeaways

  • Most banks and credit unions let you open a checking or savings account online using a computer or smartphone.
  • You will need a government-issued ID, your Social Security number, and proof of your current address to complete the process.
  • Identity verification usually happens instantly through automated systems that check your information against public records.
  • You can fund your new account by transferring money from another bank account or, at some banks, by depositing a check through mobile deposit.
  • Some account types—business accounts, accounts for children under 18, and certain specialty products—still require you to visit a branch in person.

What you need before you start

Have these items ready before you begin: a valid government-issued ID (driver's license, passport, or state ID card), your Social Security number, and proof of your current address. Proof of address can be a recent utility bill, lease agreement, or bank statement with your name and address on it.

You will also need access to a phone number and email address where the bank can reach you. Some banks text you a code to verify your identity during the sign-up process. If you plan to fund the account immediately, have the routing and account number from another bank account ready, or a check you can photograph.

How identity verification works online

When you submit your information, the bank runs it through automated verification systems that cross-check your details against public records, credit bureaus, and other databases. This usually takes seconds to a few minutes. The system asks you questions only you would know the answer to—previous addresses, loan amounts, or names of creditors—to confirm your identity.

Some banks also ask you to photograph your ID or take a selfie to match against the ID photo. This is called knowledge-based authentication or document verification, depending on the method. If the automated check cannot verify you, the bank may ask you to call or visit a branch, but this is uncommon.

Funding your account after opening it

Once your account is open, you can add money in several ways. The fastest is usually an ACH transfer from another bank account you own—the money moves in one to three business days. You provide your other bank's routing number and your account number there, and the bank pulls the funds over.

Many banks also let you deposit a check by taking a photo of it through their mobile app. Some banks waive the initial deposit requirement entirely, so you can open the account with zero dollars and add money later. A few banks still offer the option to mail in a check or deposit cash at a branch, though this is less common.

Which accounts you cannot open online

Business accounts, joint accounts with someone who is not present, and accounts for minors (usually anyone under 18) typically require at least one person to visit a branch in person. Some banks make exceptions for joint accounts if both owners can verify their identity online simultaneously, but this varies by bank.

Certain specialty products—like trust accounts, accounts for non-U.S. residents, or accounts tied to specific investment products—may also require a branch visit. Before you start the online process, check the bank's website to confirm that the account type you want can be opened online.

What happens after you open your account

Your account is usually active immediately, though some banks place a brief hold on deposits while they confirm the transfer went through. You can set up direct deposit, bill pay, and mobile check deposit right away through the bank's app or website. Your debit card arrives by mail within 5 to 10 business days in most cases.

If you need a debit card sooner, some banks offer a temporary digital card number you can use for online purchases while you wait for the physical card. A few banks let you pick up a card at a branch the same day you open the account.

Banks and credit unions that offer online account opening

Nearly every major bank—Chase, Bank of America, Wells Fargo, Citibank, and others—lets you open a checking or savings account online. Most online-only banks like Ally, Charles Schwab Bank, and Discover Bank operate entirely through their websites and apps. Credit unions vary: some allow online opening, while others require you to visit a branch or be a member of a specific group to open an account.

Check your bank's website directly to confirm the account types available for online opening. The process and requirements differ slightly between institutions, so reading the specific steps for your chosen bank saves time.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need to have another bank account to open one online?

No. You can open an account with zero dollars and add money later, or by mailing in a check. However, having another account makes funding faster because you can transfer money electronically in one to three business days.

How long does it take to open an account online?

The application itself takes 10 to 15 minutes. Identity verification is usually instant. Your account is typically active the same day, though some banks take up to one business day to fully process it.

What if the bank cannot verify my identity online?

The bank will contact you and ask you to call or visit a branch to complete verification in person. This happens in a small percentage of cases, usually when someone's information does not match public records clearly.

Can I open a joint account online with someone else?

Most banks require at least one person to visit a branch for a joint account. Some banks now let both account holders verify their identity online at the same time, but policies vary. Contact your bank to ask about their specific process.

Will opening an account online affect my credit score?

No. Opening a bank account is not a credit inquiry and does not appear on your credit report. Banks may do a soft pull of your information to verify your identity, but this does not affect your credit score.