Can You Get a Bank Account without an SSN?

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.

Do I need an SSN for a bank account?

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.

What’s an ITIN, and how do I get one?

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:

1. Mail Application: Complete Form W-7 and submit it with your tax return and proof of identity and foreign status to the IRS.
2. In-Person with a CAA: Apply through an IRS-authorized Certifying Acceptance Agent to avoid mailing original documents.
3. Visit the IRS: Schedule an appointment at an IRS Taxpayer Assistance Center to apply in person and keep your documents with you.

What else do I need for a bank account?

Here’s a quick checklist of common documents you may need to open a bank account:

• Mailing address
• Proof of identity (driver’s license, passport, SSN, ITIN, etc.)
• Opening deposit, if required
• Student US visa, if applicable

Dive deeper: How to open a bank account

6 banks that don’t require an SSN

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.

1. SoFi®

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.

4.5

★★★★★

Finder score

Go to site

SoFi Checking and Savings

With SoFi Checking and Savings get paid up to two days early. Set up direct deposit to automatically get your paycheck up to two days early every time you get paid

• Up to 4.50% APY on savings by meeting deposit requirements
• Get up to a $300 bonus with direct deposits of $5,000 or more
• $0 account or overdraft fees

Partner terms and conditions

New and existing Checking and Savings members who have not previously enrolled in Direct Deposit with SoFi are eligible to earn a cash bonus when they set up Direct Deposit of at least $1,000 during the Direct Deposit Bonus Period. Cash bonus will be based on the total amount of Direct Deposit. Direct Deposit Promotion begins on 12/7/2023 and will be available through 12/31/24. Full terms at sofi.com/banking. SoFi Checking and Savings is offered through SoFi Bank, N.A., Member FDIC. SoFi members with Direct Deposit can earn 4.50% annual percentage yield (APY) on savings balances (including Vaults) and 0.50% APY on checking balances. There is no minimum Direct Deposit amount required to qualify for the 4.50% APY for savings (including Vaults). Members without Direct Deposit will earn 1.20% APY on savings balances (including Vaults) and 0.50% APY on checking balances. Interest rates are variable and subject to change at any time. These rates are current as of 8/27/2024. There is no minimum balance requirement. Additional information can be found at http://www.sofi.com/legal/banking-rate-sheet.
Our account fee policy is subject to change at any time.
SoFi Bank is a member FDIC and does not provide more than $250,000 of FDIC insurance per legal category of account ownership, as described in the FDIC’s regulations. Any additional FDIC insurance is provided by the SoFi Insured Deposit Program. Deposits may be insured up to $2M through participation in the program. See full terms at SoFi.com/banking/fdic/terms
See list of participating banks at SoFi.com/banking/fdic/receivingbanks
We’ve partnered with Allpoint to provide you with ATM access at any of the 55,000+ ATMs within the Allpoint network. You will not be charged a fee when using an in-network ATM, however, third-party fees incurred when using out-of-network ATMs are not subject to reimbursement. SoFi’s ATM policies are subject to change at our discretion at any time
Early access to direct deposit funds is based on the timing in which we receive notice of impending payment from the Federal Reserve, which is typically up to two days before the scheduled payment date, but may vary.

2. Chase

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.

3

★★★★★

Finder score

Go to site

Chase Total Checking®

Chase Total Checking® is easy to use and gives you access to more than 15,000 Chase ATMs and more than 4,700 branches.

• $300 bonus offer when you meet requirements
• Open an account with as little as $0
• Avoid fees with overdraft protections

3. Revolut

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.

4. Wells Fargo

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.

5. Citibank

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.

6. Bank of America

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.

Are there international debit cards?

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.

Related: Credit cards without an SSN requirement

Can I be denied a bank account?

Yes, it’s possible to have your bank account application denied. Common reasons for denial include unpaid negative balances on another account, suspicion of fraud on a previous account or not meeting the bank’s specific requirements, like having a valid ID or a minimum opening deposit.

If you’ve been denied, you can consider a second-chance bank account designed for individuals with less-than-perfect banking histories.

Bottom line

While opening a bank account without an SSN is possible, it varies by bank, each with specific requirements. 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 find a solution that fits your needs.

For further assistance in finding the right bank account or navigating different account options, check out our detailed guides on checking accounts and the best checking accounts.

Frequently asked questions

Can an undocumented person open a bank account?

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.

Can you open a bank account with just a passport?

While banks may use your passport to verify your identity during your application process, you’ll still need to provide additional information, like your address and tax status, which may require an SSN or ITIN.