How to open a Wells Fargo account online or in person
You can open a Wells Fargo checking or savings account either online through their website or by visiting a branch in person. Online takes about 10 minutes and you can fund the account immediately; in-person takes longer but lets you ask questions and hand over cash or a check on the spot. Both routes require a government ID, your Social Security number, and an initial deposit (the amount depends on the account type).
Wells Fargo offers several account types — basic checking, interest-bearing checking, savings, and money market accounts — each with different monthly fees, minimum balances, and interest rates. The account you choose depends on how you plan to use it and how much you can keep in the account.
Key Takeaways
- Online account opening takes about 10 minutes and requires a government ID, Social Security number, and an initial deposit.
- In-person account opening at a branch lets you deposit cash or a check immediately and ask questions about account features.
- Wells Fargo charges monthly maintenance fees on most accounts, but fees are waived if you meet balance or direct deposit requirements.
- You will receive a debit card in the mail within 7 to 10 business days after opening an account online.
- If you have a history of overdrafts or closed accounts, Wells Fargo may decline your application or restrict your account.
Opening an account online
Go to wellsfargo.com and select "Open an Account" from the homepage. You will choose your account type, enter your personal information (name, address, date of birth, Social Security number), and provide a government-issued ID — Wells Fargo will verify it electronically. The process takes 10 to 15 minutes.
After you complete the application, Wells Fargo will tell you immediately whether you are approved. If approved, you will set up online banking login credentials and link a bank account or debit card to fund your new account with an initial deposit. The money typically moves within one business day. Your debit card will arrive by mail in 7 to 10 business days; you can use your online account and set up bill pay before the card arrives.
If Wells Fargo declines your application, they will send you a letter explaining why — common reasons include a negative ChexSystems report (a banking history report similar to a credit report), unpaid overdrafts at another bank, or a history of closed accounts. You can dispute inaccurate information on your ChexSystems report by contacting ChexSystems directly.
Opening an account in person at a branch
Bring a government-issued ID (driver's license, passport, or state ID), your Social Security number, and your initial deposit. A Wells Fargo employee will walk you through the application, answer questions about account features and fees, and process your application on the spot. The entire visit usually takes 20 to 30 minutes.
If you deposit cash or a check in person, the money is available immediately (for cash) or by the next business day (for checks). You will receive a temporary debit card at the branch or a permanent one by mail within 7 to 10 business days. You can also set up online banking during your visit so you can access your account right away.
What documents and information you need
Have these items ready before you start:
- A current government-issued photo ID (driver's license, passport, state ID, or military ID)
- Your Social Security number
- Your current address
- A phone number and email address
- Your initial deposit (cash, check, or linked bank account for online applications)
If you are opening an account for a minor, you will need to be the parent or legal guardian and bring the child's birth certificate or Social Security card along with your own ID. Wells Fargo offers youth savings accounts for customers under 18.
Monthly fees and minimum balance requirements
Most Wells Fargo checking accounts charge a monthly maintenance fee of $10 to $15, but the fee is waived if you meet one of these conditions: maintain a minimum daily balance (usually $500 to $1,500 depending on the account), set up direct deposit of at least $500 per month, or maintain a linked savings account with a certain balance. Savings accounts typically charge $5 per month and waive the fee with a minimum balance of $300 to $500.
Read the account disclosure document before you open the account — it lists all fees, minimum balances, and conditions for fee waivers. You can also ask a Wells Fargo employee to explain the fee structure and help you choose an account that fits your situation.
What happens if your application is declined
Wells Fargo uses ChexSystems, a banking history report, to screen new account applications. If you have unpaid overdrafts, a pattern of returned checks, or closed accounts due to negative balances at other banks, Wells Fargo may decline you. You can request a copy of your ChexSystems report for free at chexsystems.com and dispute any errors.
If you are declined, ask Wells Fargo for the specific reason — they are required to provide it. Some banks offer second-chance checking accounts designed for people with banking history issues; Wells Fargo does not, but other banks like Chime, LendingClub, or your local credit union may. You can also reapply to Wells Fargo after 12 months if you have resolved the underlying issue (paid off overdrafts, for example).
Setting up online banking and mobile access
After your account is open, log in to wellsfargo.com or download the Wells Fargo mobile app to manage your account. You can view your balance, transfer money between accounts, set up bill pay, deposit checks by phone camera, and receive alerts for low balances or large transactions. You will need to set up a username and password, and Wells Fargo will ask security questions to verify your identity.
Enable two-factor authentication (a security code sent to your phone) to protect your account from unauthorized access. You can also set spending limits on your debit card and turn the card on or off through the app if it is lost or stolen.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I open a Wells Fargo account without a Social Security number?
No. Wells Fargo requires a Social Security number to open any account. If you do not have one, you may be able to open an account at a credit union or community bank that accepts an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) instead, though this is rare.
How much do I need to deposit to open an account?
Wells Fargo does not publicly state a minimum opening deposit, but most customers report depositing $25 to $100 to open a checking account. Call your local branch or check wellsfargo.com for current requirements, as they may vary by account type and location.
What if I do not have a government ID?
You will need a government-issued photo ID to open an account. If you do not have a driver's license or passport, you can apply for a state ID card at your local DMV. Some branches may accept other forms of ID — call ahead to ask.
Can I open an account if I am not a U.S. citizen?
Yes, but you will need an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) or a valid visa and passport. Call your local Wells Fargo branch to confirm what documents they need before you visit.
How long does it take to receive my debit card?
If you open an account online, your debit card arrives by mail in 7 to 10 business days. If you open an account in person, you may receive a temporary card at the branch or a permanent card by mail. You can use your account for online transfers and bill pay before your card arrives.