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Opening a bank account when you’re new to the US

What banks ask for, ID options, credit unions, low-fee accounts, deposit insurance, sending money home and avoiding costly shortcuts.

Quick answer

Banks usually ask for photo ID (a passport often works), a Social Security number or, at some banks, an ITIN, proof of address and a first deposit. Credit unions and community banks are often more flexible. Ask for a low-fee account with no overdraft fees, and make sure the bank is FDIC-insured or the credit union NCUA-insured. When sending money home, compare the fee and exchange rate. Avoid costly check cashers.

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Your checklist

  • Gather ID, SSN or ITIN, and address proof
  • Try credit unions and community banks
  • Ask for a low-fee account
  • Check FDIC or NCUA insurance
  • Compare money transfer costs
  • Avoid check cashers

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Why open one

A bank account is safer than carrying cash, makes it easier to get paid and pay bills, and starts your financial record in the US.

What banks usually ask for

  • Photo ID. Many accept a passport; some accept other foreign IDs.
  • A Social Security number, or at some banks an ITIN.
  • Proof of address, like a lease or utility bill.
  • A first deposit, sometimes small.

Where to go

Credit unions and community banks are often more flexible about ID. Call ahead and ask what they accept. Online banks are another option if you meet their requirements.

Choose a low-cost account

Look for no or low monthly fees and no overdraft fees. Many banks offer certified “Bank On” accounts designed to be low-cost.

Make sure it’s insured

Banks insured by the FDIC and credit unions insured by the NCUA protect your deposits up to federal limits.

Sending money home

Compare both the transfer fee and the exchange rate. U.S. rules require providers to show costs before you pay and give you time to dispute errors.

Avoid costly shortcuts

Check-cashing stores and some prepaid cards charge high fees over time.

Official sources, and where to look

To find your local office, search for:

  • Bank On certified account near me
  • credit union near me ITIN account

Pick sites that end in .gov. Official forms are almost always free.

Common questions

Can I open a bank account without a Social Security number?

Often yes. Some banks and credit unions accept an ITIN or other ID. Call ahead to ask. More ›

Does having a bank account help my credit?

Not directly, since checking accounts don’t usually show on credit reports. But it helps you qualify for credit cards and loans that do. More ›

Can I open a bank account with a passport?

Many banks accept a passport as photo ID. You may also need an SSN or ITIN and proof of address, depending on the bank. More ›

Can I open a bank account with an ITIN?

Some banks and many credit unions accept an ITIN instead of a Social Security number. Call ahead to ask. More ›

What is a Bank On account?

A low-cost checking account that meets national standards, like low or no monthly fees and no overdraft fees. More ›

What does FDIC insured mean?

Deposits at FDIC-insured banks are protected by the federal government up to set limits if the bank fails. Credit unions have similar NCUA insurance. More ›

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Find banks and credit unions that help newcomers

Ask about ID options and low-fee accounts.

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Not yet reviewed by an expert. Last checked 2026-10-29. This is general help, not legal, medical or professional advice. Rules are different in every state.