What you need to open an account at Wells Fargo

Wells Fargo lets you open a checking or savings account online, by phone, or in person at a branch. You will need a government-issued ID, a Social Security number or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN), and an initial deposit — though the amount varies by account type and changes periodically.

If you are opening online, you can complete the process in about 10 minutes. If you go to a branch, bring your ID and be ready to sign documents. Wells Fargo will check ChexSystems, a banking history database, to see if you have had problems with previous accounts — this is standard across the industry and does not prevent you from opening an account, but a history of overdrafts or fraud may limit which accounts you can open.

Key Takeaways

  • You can open a Wells Fargo account online, by phone, or at a branch, and the process takes about 10 minutes online or 30 minutes in person.
  • You will need a government ID, Social Security number or ITIN, and an initial deposit amount that varies by account type.
  • Wells Fargo checks your banking history through ChexSystems; a negative history may limit which accounts you can open but does not automatically disqualify you.
  • Different account types have different monthly fees, minimum balances, and features — compare them before you decide which one fits your situation.
  • If you cannot meet the minimum deposit or have a ChexSystems issue, you may want to explore second-chance banking accounts at other institutions.

Opening an account online

Go to wellsfargo.com and select "Open an Account." You will choose between checking, savings, or money market accounts. Wells Fargo will ask for your name, address, date of birth, Social Security number or ITIN, and employment information. You will also need to provide a valid email address and phone number.

During the online process, you will set up login credentials and choose a username and password. Wells Fargo will verify your identity by asking security questions based on your credit history. Once you complete the form, you will see whether your account is opened immediately or if Wells Fargo needs additional information — this usually happens within a few minutes, but sometimes takes up to one business day.

You will need to fund the account with an initial deposit. You can transfer money from another bank account, or if you have a Wells Fargo debit card already, you can use that. If you do not have either, you can mail a check or visit a branch to deposit cash.

Opening an account at a Wells Fargo branch

Find your nearest branch on wellsfargo.com or call 1-800-869-3557. Bring your government-issued ID (driver's license, passport, or state ID card), your Social Security number or ITIN, and your initial deposit in cash or check form. A Wells Fargo representative will walk you through the account options and help you choose the right one for your needs.

The branch representative will fill out the account application with you and explain the terms — monthly fees, minimum balance requirements, and overdraft policies. You will sign the account agreement and deposit your initial funds. Most accounts are active the same day, though some features like online banking may take a few hours to set up.

If you do not have a government ID, call ahead to ask what alternative documents the branch will accept. Some branches accept a combination of documents like a birth certificate and utility bill, but policies vary by location.

Account types and their costs

Wells Fargo offers several checking and savings accounts with different features and fees. The Wells Fargo Everyday Checking account has a monthly maintenance fee that is waived if you maintain a minimum balance or set up direct deposit. The Wells Fargo Premier Checking account is designed for customers with higher balances and offers more perks but charges a higher monthly fee.

Savings accounts include the Wells Fargo Savings Account, which earns interest but has a monthly fee waived by maintaining a minimum balance, and the Wells Fargo Money Market Account, which typically requires a higher opening deposit but offers a higher interest rate. Interest rates change frequently and vary based on market conditions — check wellsfargo.com for current rates.

Each account type has different overdraft policies. Some accounts allow overdrafts for a fee; others do not. Before you open an account, review the fee schedule on Wells Fargo's website or ask a representative to explain which fees apply to the account you are considering.

What happens after you open your account

Once your account is open, Wells Fargo will mail you a debit card within 7 to 10 business days. You can use your online login to access your account immediately and set up bill pay, transfer money between accounts, or deposit checks using mobile deposit. Your routing number and account number appear in your online banking portal and on any checks you order.

If you opened your account online and need cash before your debit card arrives, you can visit a Wells Fargo branch and withdraw money using your ID and account number. You can also set up direct deposit right away — your employer will need your routing number and account number, which you can find in your online account or by calling Wells Fargo.

If you have a ChexSystems issue or cannot meet the minimum deposit

If Wells Fargo denies your account because of a ChexSystems report, you have the right to see what is in that report. Contact ChexSystems directly at 1-800-428-9623 or chexsystems.com to request your report and dispute any errors. Negative items typically stay on your report for five years, but you can still open accounts at banks that offer second-chance checking programs.

If you cannot meet Wells Fargo's minimum deposit requirement, look into second-chance banking accounts at credit unions or online banks, which often have lower opening deposits or no deposit requirement at all. Some credit unions also offer accounts to people with ChexSystems issues. Check with your local credit union or search for "second-chance banking accounts" in your area.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I open a Wells Fargo account without a Social Security number?

Yes. If you do not have a Social Security number, you can use an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) instead. You will need to provide your ITIN and a government-issued ID. Call 1-800-869-3557 to confirm that your local branch accepts ITINs before you visit.

What is the minimum deposit to open a Wells Fargo account?

The minimum opening deposit varies by account type and changes periodically. Most checking accounts require $25 to $100. Check wellsfargo.com or call 1-800-869-3557 for the current minimum for the account you want to open.

How long does it take to open an account online?

The online process usually takes 10 to 15 minutes to complete. Identity verification happens immediately in most cases, but Wells Fargo may need up to one business day to confirm your information. You can use your account online right away, but your debit card will arrive by mail in 7 to 10 business days.

What if I have had problems with a bank account before?

Wells Fargo checks ChexSystems, which reports overdrafts, fraud, and account closures. A negative history does not automatically disqualify you, but it may limit which accounts you can open. You can request your ChexSystems report at chexsystems.com to see what is reported about you.

Can I open an account for someone else?

No. The person whose name is on the account must be present to sign the account agreement and provide their ID. If you want to add someone to your account later, you can set up a joint account or add an authorized user — ask a Wells Fargo representative about the options.