Once you’ve decided which bank you want to use, it’s time to fill out your application online. If you’re under 18, you may need a guardian to co-sign the account. The application process will vary from bank to bank. But all banks are required to verify your identity.5 So it’s helpful to have the following things handy:
- Your driver’s license, passport or other government-issued ID card
- Social Security number or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN)
- A blank check, debit card or credit card to make that first deposit
And you’ll usually need an email address, mailing address and a phone number. Once you have that ready, here’s how to open a bank account online:
- Go to the bank’s website. Stay safe! Any time you’re entering personal information online, take extra care. Find the link to "open an account." (Scroll down the homepage to the site map if you’re having trouble finding the link.)
- Choose the type of account you want. Most banks let you compare different kinds of accounts to help you decide. Do you want an individual account or do you want to open a joint account online? Do you want things like overdraft protection and the ability to earn interest? From checking and savings accounts to CDs and IRAs, there are many types of accounts you can open online.
- Fill out an application. Next, you’ll enter all of your personal information. You might also set up your username and password and create security questions to help protect your account.
- Agree to let the bank collect some information. Sometimes, submitting your application will automatically begin the approval process, but some banks might ask you to review disclosures and privacy policies first. In some cases you’ll have to answer a few legal questions then check a box that lets the bank collect information about you and your credit.
- Check the approval process. Some banks will tell you if you’re approved right away, while others might take a bit longer. You can always sign in later to check on the status of your application or call the bank if you have questions. If you’re not approved, you might have to go into the branch to finish the process.
- Make your first deposit. Once you’re approved, you’ll want to put some money in your new account. You can do this from another account online or over the phone. If it’s your first account, you may need to do this step in person with cash or a check.
With your account set up, you’re all ready to begin banking online! Depending on the account and its features, you may be able to write checks, pay bills with your bank account online, set up direct deposit and more right away. And remember: Always keep your username and password in a safe place where no one can find it.
Down the road, you may wonder "Can I close a bank account online?" You can, but each bank handles it a bit differently. Gather your account information, then check your bank’s policy on its website. Or call or stop by if you’d prefer to discuss it in person.6
Banking today brings lots of choices, including the ability to get a whole lot done from the comfort of your home. From opening an account to paying bills, online banking was built for convenience–yours.
Of course, there will always be hoops to jump through, but making things simpler while safeguarding your money is what online banking is all about.
FAQs
You can open a bank account online with Capital One. Just grab two forms of ID (such as a driver's license, Social Security card, passport or birth certificate) and proof of address, then apply online right from your phone, tablet or computer. Which Capital One bank account is right for me?
Where can you get answers to your questions about opening bank accounts? ›
HelpWithMyBank.gov provides information and assistance for customers of national banks and federal savings associations.
Why can't I open a bank account with Capital One? ›
Most anyone can apply to open an account. But it's up to individual banks if they want to let you open an account with them. That means some banks might deny applications from people with a history of unpaid negative balances, involuntary account closures or suspected fraud issues.
Is it safe to open a Capital One account online? ›
360 Checking Account Benefits
Your online checking account is safe with FDIC insurance and fraud coverage. There are no fees for any overdraft option you choose. See your overdraft options.
How do I get $350 from Capital One checking? ›
Earn a $350 bonus after opening a new 360 Checking account and receive at least two qualifying direct deposits of $250 each within 75 days of opening your account. Your deposit must be “externally sourced funds,” meaning they come from a source not affiliated with Capital One. When do you receive your bonus?
How much money do I need to open an account in Capital One? ›
360 Checking disclosure. Initial deposit requirement – There is no minimum deposit required.
What disqualifies you from opening a bank account? ›
Such negative activities that show up on your report and hurt your approval chances include bouncing checks, leaving an overdraft balance unpaid, abusing a debit card or applying for too many accounts in a short period of time, according to credit bureau Experian.
What bank does not use ChexSystems? ›
Summary: Best Banks That Don't Use ChexSystems
| Bank / Credit Union | Forbes Advisor Rating | LEARN MORE |
|---|
| Capital One 360 Checking Account | 4.5 | |
| Chime® Checking Account | 4.4 | Learn More On Chime's Website |
| LendingClub Bank Rewards Checking | 4.2 | Learn More Read Our Full Review |
| Varo Bank Account | 4.1 | Learn More Read Our Full Review |
1 more rowApr 3, 2024
Many credit unions will open an account for you if you can reasonably explain why you haven't paid a ChexSystems debt, and some credit unions will not pull a report on you even if you do have poor history. Call and ask to speak to the branch manager or other bank official.
What is the easiest bank account to open online? ›
What are the easiest bank accounts to open online?
| Bank | Best for | Time to apply |
|---|
| Capital One | Overall | About 5 minutes |
| Wells Fargo | College students | About 5 minutes |
| Axos | Rewards checking | About 5 minutes |
| Wise | Multi-currency usage | About 5 minutes |
12 more rowsCapital One may place a restriction on your credit card for reasons that include an unactivated new card, fraudulent activity, credit limit or late payments. A card could be flagged for fraudulent activity if you make an unusual transaction, even if it's a legitimate charge.
How to set up an online Capital One account? ›
To activate your account, click on “Set up online access” from the Capital One website, enter your information and follow the prompts to verify your information and create your username and password.
What are the disadvantages of Capital One Bank? ›
Finally, from a product standpoint, Capital One also has less to offer than many other big-name banks. The bank offers no mortgages, home equity loans or personal loans. There are also no investment or retirement account options.
How does Capital One online banking work? ›
How does online banking work? With Capital One online banking, you choose when, where and how to bank. You can access your account online or through the Capital One Mobile app. With built-in security and 24/7 access, your money is always at your fingertips.
Is Capital One 360 a real bank account? ›
The Capital One 360 Checking Account is a simple deposit account that can help you manage your money at no monthly cost. You can receive your paycheck, withdraw money from over 40,000 Capital One and Allpoint ATMs and deposit checks from the convenience of your mobile phone — all at no fee.
Can I open a bank account online without going to the bank? ›
Generally, yes. You can open a checking account online in just a few minutes with an online bank or credit union or with traditional banks and credit unions that offer online banking and checking accounts. The funds in your new account may take a few days to process, though.
What do you need to open a capital bank account? ›
In order to apply for a checking account online you must meet the following requirements:
- At least one account owner must be 18 years of age or older.
- Account owners must have valid Social Security Numbers.
- A separate application must be submitted for each account desired.
Open a TD Checking Account online in minutes—it's easy and secure. With accounts built for every stage of life, you'll get free Online Banking, Mobile Banking, no fees at TD ATMs, plus overdraft options to help you avoid fees.
