Whether you’re a new US resident or a foreign exchange student, opening a bank account without a Social Security number (SSN) might seem daunting, but it’s entirely possible. We’ll guide you through the essential steps and alternative documents needed so you can easily open an account that suits your needs.
Some banks do require an SSN to open a bank account, but many will accept alternative forms of identification. To open an account without an SSN, you’ll find that each bank has its own criteria.
If you don’t have an SSN, a bank may require alternative forms of identification like a passport or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) along with US government-issued IDs to verify your identity.
An ITIN is a unique number given by the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) to people who need to pay taxes in the US but aren’t eligible for an SSN. It’s a way for non-US citizens, such as foreign workers or resident aliens, to comply with tax laws. An ITIN is also a handy number that can be used to confirm your identity.
Here are three options to acquire an ITIN, according to the IRS:
Here’s a quick checklist of common documents you may need to open a bank account:
These banks don’t require an SSN to open an account, but many require an ITIN. Some, like Revolut, let you open an account with passport or student visa.
SoFi is an online bank that accepts ITINs. You can open a SoFi Checking and Savings account as a US citizen, lawful permanent resident or a non-resident if you’re 18 or older and have a physical US address.
SoFi Checking and Savings
With SoFi Checking and Savings account, you get two for one.
Revolut offers borderless personal and business accounts well-suited for frequent travelers or businesses that work internationally. You don’t need an SSN or ITIN to apply for a Revolut account. Revolut accepts government-issued IDs, including your passport or valid student US visa, to open an account.
Revolut
The Revolut account offers a prepaid card with multi-currency features, ideal for frequent travelers.
Bank of America does not require an SSN to apply for a bank account. However, you must provide both a foreign and US address, along with two forms of ID and a tax identification number, such as ITIN or FTIN.
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Chase is the largest bank in the US and offers multiple deposit account options. To apply for an account with Chase, including any of its savings or checking options, you must provide an SSN, US address and a state ID. Non-US citizens can use a visa or ITIN instead of an SSN.
Chase Total Checking®
Chase Total Checking® is easy to use and gives you access to thousands of Chase ATMs and branches.
Wells Fargo requires either an SSN or ITIN for identification when applying for a checking or savings account, along with a physical US address and mobile phone number. The Wells Fargo Everyday Checking account is a popular, no-frills account.
To apply for a checking or savings account with Citibank, or just Citi, you must be a US citizen or a resident alien at least 18 years old. Citi requires applicants to provide a physical US address of birth and identification documentation, such as an SSN or ITIN.
Yes, there are international debit cards available with great perks. Some come with no foreign transaction fees, making them perfect for overseas use, while multi-currency options like Revolut let you hold and spend in different currencies.
For more details, explore our list of the best international debit cards.
Yes, it’s possible to be denied a bank account.
Similar to when lenders check your credit history when you apply for a loan, many banks, credit unions and fintechs check your banking history. Common reasons for bank account denial can include unpaid negative balances on another account, suspicion of fraud or a history of bounced checks. You could also be denied for not meeting specific requirements, like not having a valid ID or being able to meet minimum opening deposit.
If you’ve been denied, you can consider a second-chance bank account designed for those with less-than-perfect banking histories.
While opening a bank account without an SSN is possible, it varies by bank. Many institutions accept alternative forms of identification such as an ITIN, passport or visa. By understanding what documents you need and exploring options like international debit cards or second-chance accounts, you can probably find an account that fits your needs.
Need more options? Check out our detailed guides on checking accounts and the best checking accounts.
Yes, you can open a bank account without a Social Security number or as an undocumented immigrant. You’ll need to present alternative identification, like a passport or ITIN, based on the bank’s requirements. Undocumented immigrants can also apply for an ITIN, according to the Immigrant Legal Resource Center.
A passport may be enough as a way to verify your identity for a bank account application, but you won’t be able to open an account with just a passport. Plan on needing to provide additional information, like your address and tax status, which may require an SSN or ITIN.
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