Opening a US bank account

4 min read

You usually do not need an SSN to open a basic account — many banks accept a passport plus other ID. Compare fees before you choose.

Checking vs. savings

A checking account is for everyday spending (debit card, bills, direct deposit). A savings account holds money and earns a little interest. Most people open both.

What you will usually need

A government photo ID (passport), a US address, and either an SSN or ITIN — though some banks accept a passport and visa without an SSN. An opening deposit may be required.

Quick tips

• Look for "no monthly fee" or newcomer-friendly accounts.
• Avoid overdraft fees by turning on low-balance alerts.

Avoiding fees

Watch for monthly maintenance fees, ATM fees, and overdraft charges. Many online banks and credit unions charge little to nothing.

Stay safe

Use the bank’s official app, enable alerts, and never share your account or card details in response to calls or texts.

Official resources

General guidance, not official advice

These guides explain how things generally work. Rules and amounts vary by state and change over time — always confirm the details with the official sources linked in each guide.