How to Open a Bank Account Online [Best Bank Offers]

Opening a bank account no longer means waiting in line at a branch or setting aside time during a busy weekday. Today, you can open a new account with just a few clicks while sipping coffee in your pajamas. Online banking has redefined convenience, and in 2025, the options are more flexible and rewarding than ever. So, whether you're looking to stash your savings, set up direct deposit, or simply switch to a bank with better perks, the process is easier and smarter online.

But how exactly can you open a bank account online? What documents do you need? And more importantly, which banks are offering the best incentives right now? From cash bonuses and high-yield savings to zero fees and sleek mobile apps, some offers are just too good to ignore. This guide walks you through the step-by-step process and highlights the best banks offering online account opening services, so you can open your next account with confidence and clarity.

Can you really open a bank account online in 2025?

Yes, you can open a bank account online. In fact, many major U.S. banks and credit unions offer fully digital sign-up processes. This means you can set up a bank account online without ever having to visit a branch.

Here are a few pros of online bank account opening:

• No need to visit a physical location

• Less paperwork

• Faster setup

• 24/7 access to services

If you manage international finances, it's also helpful to use services such as BOSSMONEY,  an international online money transfer platform. It operates well with many U.S. banks and is a convenient way to send and receive funds globally.

What do you need to set up a bank account online?

Before you start the process, you'll need a few important documents and details. Here's a checklist to follow:

• Government-issued ID (passport, state ID, or driver’s license¹)

• Social Security Number (SSN) or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN)

• U.S. residential address

• Mobile phone number and email address

• Initial deposit (optional with some banks)

Step-by-step: How to open a bank account online

Believe it or not, opening a bank account online is one of the simplest ways to start managing your money. Not only does it save you time, but it also eliminates the need to visit a branch, allowing you to bank from anywhere.

Wondering, "Can I open a bank account online?" If so, follow the step-by-step guide to know the exact process. 

Selecting a bank

The first step is to select the bank where you would like to open your account. This is an important decision because your bank will handle your money and provide the tools you use to manage it.

When comparing banks, consider the following:

• Fees: Look for accounts with low or no monthly maintenance fees.
• Bonuses: Some banks offer welcome bonuses when you open an account and meet certain requirements.
• Mobile app: Ensure the bank provides a highly rated app for convenient access to your account.
• ATM access: Choose a bank with a large ATM network to avoid fees.
• Customer support: 24/7 support is ideal if you ever need help.

To make your decision easier, check out our list of the best banks to open a bank account online in 2025 below.

Selecting an account type

Next, you'll need to select the type of bank account you want to open. Listed below are the most common options you can choose from:

Checking account

A checking account² is used for everyday transactions and expenses. You can deposit your paycheck, pay bills, and make purchases with a debit card. Most people open a checking account as their primary banking option.

Savings account

A savings account is designed to help you save money and earn interest. It's not meant for frequent transactions, but it's a safe place to grow your savings over time³.

Student account

If you're a student, many banks offer special accounts just for you. These typically come with low or no fees and added perks, such as free overdraft protection or discounts on specific services.

Filling out the online form

Once you've selected your bank and account type, you're ready to start the application.
Visit the bank's official website and locate the "Open an Account" button. This will take you to an online form.

Here's what you'll typically need to provide:

• Full legal name
• Date of birth
• U.S. residential address
• Email address
• Mobile phone number

This part of the process usually takes about 10–15 minutes to complete.

Entering personal information and verifying your identity

Next, you'll be asked to provide additional information to verify your identity. This is an important security step required by law to prevent fraud and money laundering.
You will likely need to provide:

• Government-issued ID, whether a passport, driver's license, or state ID
• Social Security Number (SSN) or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN)
• Proof of address. In some cases, a utility bill or lease agreement may be requested

Some banks verify your identity instantly online. Others may ask you to upload scanned copies of your documents.

Once your identity is verified, you're almost there!

Deposit (if required)

Some banks in the US may require an initial deposit to activate your new account. This can typically be done in several ways, such as:

• Transfer from an existing bank account
• Debit card payment
• Credit card payment (less common)

Curious how much you need to deposit? It varies! For example, banks such as PNC⁴ or TD Bank⁵ offer accounts with no initial deposit required. Others may ask for $25 to $100⁶ as a first deposit.

Make sure to check the account terms before you start the process so you're prepared.

Confirming and creating online banking

Once your application is complete and your deposit (if required) is made, the bank will process your account opening.

In most cases, approval happens within minutes⁷. You'll receive a confirmation email and instructions on how to access your new account.

At this point, you'll want to:

• Set up your online banking profile: Choose a username and a strong password.
• Enroll in mobile banking: Download the bank's official app for on-the-go access.
• Set up security features: Enable multi-factor authentication (MFA) to keep your account safe.

Your account is now ready to use. You can start depositing funds, paying bills, sending money, and managing your finances, all from your phone or computer.

Best banks to open a bank account online in 2025

Choosing the right bank in 2025 means finding a balance between ease of access, low fees, strong customer support, and competitive account features. Many banks now offer fully digital account opening, with added perks like sign-up bonuses, high-yield savings, and advanced mobile tools. Below, we break down the top banks that make online account opening both simple and worthwhile.

Bank of America

Bank of America is one of the most trusted names in U.S. banking, and its online account opening process is fast and easy. 

To open an account, you'll need a U.S. address, valid ID, and a Social Security Number or ITIN. There is no hard credit check for standard checking and savings accounts.

The bank frequently offers bonuses of $300⁸ when you open a new checking account and meet direct deposit requirements. Their mobile app is highly rated, offering features like mobile check deposit, real-time alerts, and a built-in financial assistant called Erica.

Security is a top priority. Bank of America uses multi-factor authentication and advanced encryption to protect your account. Their customer support is available 24/7 through chat and phone.

Fees can vary by account. For example, the Advantage Plus Checking account has a $12 monthly fee⁹, but this can be waived with qualifying direct deposits. The minimum first deposit is generally $100¹⁰.

Chase

Chase is another excellent option. The application process is fully digital and takes just a few minutes. You'll need a government-issued ID, Social Security number (SSN) or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN), and a U.S. address.

Chase regularly offers $100–$3000 bonuses¹¹ for new checking customers who set up qualifying direct deposits. Their mobile app is one of the best in the industry, with seamless integrations for managing accounts, sending money via Zelle, and tracking spending.

Security features include encryption, biometric login options, and alerts for unusual activity. Chase's customer support is highly rated and available by phone, online chat, and even in person at their many branch locations.

Fees for Chase Total Checking are typically $12 per month¹², though you can waive this fee with direct deposits or minimum balance requirements. 

Wells Fargo

Wells Fargo continues to improve its online banking experience in 2025. You can set up a bank account online easily with a U.S. address, SSN or ITIN, and a valid ID.

The bank offers a bonus up to $325¹³ on new checking accounts when you meet deposit requirements. Their mobile app is user-friendly and includes bill pay, Zelle transfers, budgeting tools, and security alerts.

On the security front, Wells Fargo uses two-factor authentication and state-of-the-art encryption. Their customer service is accessible by phone, chat, and at thousands of branches nationwide.

Monthly fees for their Everyday Checking account start at $10¹⁴, but they can be waived with a $500 minimum direct deposit or a $500 daily balance. You'll generally need at least $25¹⁵ to fund your account when opening.

PNC

PNC is often cited as offering some of the easiest bank accounts to open online, with flexible account options and a fast approval process. You'll need a government-issued ID, SSN or ITIN, and a U.S. address.

One of PNC's standout offers is its Virtual Wallet, which combines checking and savings accounts with powerful money management tools. Bonuses typically range from $100 to $400, depending on the account and deposit amount.

The PNC mobile app is robust, with mobile check deposit, bill pay, budgeting tools, and account alerts. For security, PNC uses multi-layer encryption and biometric login options.

Fees vary by account; however, PNC offers no initial deposit required options on some of its accounts, making them great for first-time banking customers. Many accounts also come with no or low monthly fees that can be waived with direct deposits.

TD Bank

TD Bank is another great option, especially if you're looking for fast online approval and flexible account terms. To open an account, you'll need standard documentation: U.S. address, SSN or ITIN, and ID.

The bank frequently offers bonuses of $200–$300 to new checking customers who make qualifying direct deposits. Their mobile app supports mobile deposits, budgeting tools, bill pay, and instant money transfers.

It takes security seriously with encryption, multi-factor authentication, and fraud monitoring. TD offers live customer service by phone 24/7, as well as extended hours at many branch locations.

One of the best things about TD Bank is that many of their accounts have no first deposit required, and fees are relatively low and easy to waive with regular deposits.

What is the easiest bank account to open online?

If you're looking for the easiest bank account to open online, PNC and TD Bank are top choices in 2025. Both allow you to open accounts with:

• No initial deposit
• Fast identity verification
• Instant access to online banking

They also have user-friendly apps, which make it easy to manage your finances immediately after signing up.

How secure is it to open a bank account online?

Many people often wonder: Is it really safe to open a bank account online? The answer is yes, as long as you follow best practices.

Here's how banks protect you:

• Encryption: All data is transmitted securely
• Multi-factor authentication (MFA): You'll verify login attempts with SMS, email, or app-based tokens
• Real-time fraud monitoring: Alerts you instantly if suspicious activity occurs
• That said, here are a few things you should consider:
• Always check that you're on the bank's official website (look for HTTPS and a secure lock icon).
• Use the official app from the Apple App Store or Google Play.
• Avoid public Wi-Fi for account setup.
• Never share your password or personal banking information with anyone.

Sources: all third party information obtained from applicable website as of June 11, 2025

1. https://www.usnews.com/banking/articles/steps-to-open-a-bank-account-online
2. https://www.investopedia.com/terms/c/checkingaccount.asp
3. https://mycreditunion.gov/manage-your-money/credit-union-accounts-services/savings-accounts
4. https://www.pnc.com/insights/personal-finance/spend/what-is-a-minimum-opening-deposit.html
5. https://www.td.com/us/en/personal-banking/checking-accounts
6. https://www.usnews.com/banking/articles/how-to-open-a-bank-account
7. https://www.bmo.com/en-us/main/personal/bank-accounts/checking-accounts/
8. https://www.cnbc.com/select/best-checking-account-bonuses/
9. https://www.bankofamerica.com/deposits/checking/advantage-banking/
10. https://www.bankofamerica.com/deposits/savings/savings-accounts/
11. https://www.cnbc.com/select/best-checking-account-bonuses/
12. https://www.chase.com/personal/checking/total-checking
13. https://accountoffers.wellsfargo.com/checkingoffer/
14. https://www.wellsfargo.com/checking/everyday/account-fees-summary/
15. https://www.investopedia.com/wells-fargo-bank-promotions-7106061

This article is provided for general information purposes only and is not intended to address every aspect of the matters discussed herein. The information in this article is not intended as specific personal advice. The information in this article does not constitute legal, tax, regulatory or other professional advice from IDT Payment Services, Inc. and its affiliates (collectively, “IDT”), and should not be taken or used as such by any individual. IDT makes no representation, warranty or guaranty, whether express or implied, that the content in this article is current, accurate, or complete. You should obtain professional or other substantive advice before taking, or refraining from, any action on the basis of the information in this article.