Yes, you can open a bank account even if you are an undocumented or documented immigrant. While you can open a bank account with a social security number, you do not need a social security number to open a bank account. Instead, you may be able to use an Individual Taxpayer Number (ITIN) number.

Why should I open a bank account?

Opening a bank account can provide many benefits. You can:

• Get a debit card
• Get statements for proof of address
• Access funds at an ATM
• Keep records of your transactions
• Protect your money

Additionally, if you are going to start or are in an immigration proceeding, having a bank account can serve as proof that you have participated in the financial system of the U.S. It can also show a record of the dates you have lived in the U.S. and the taxes you have paid.  

What do I need to open an account?

Not all banks will let you open a bank account so you will need to first make sure that the bank you want to open an account with has that option. Many big name banks and financial institutions will offer an option for you to open a bank account.

To open a bank account, you will need to double check with your bank on the kinds of documents they accept. Usually, however, you will need the following documents.

At least two forms of government issued documents: 
Primary identification:

• Birth certificate, 
• Government issued driver’s license or learner's permit
• Valid foreign passport with or without a visa.
• U.S. non-immigrant visa and border crossing card
• Mexican, Guatemalan, Dominican or Colombian consular ID.
• Canadian citizenship certificate card.

Secondary identification:

• Foreign driver’s license (or U.S. driver’s license).
• U.S. issued work ID card or badge.
• Debit or major credit card bearing a Visa or Mastercard logo.
• Retail credit card from a nationally known company.
• Major retail credit card from a nationally well-known company.
• U.S. State Department ID
• Mexican voter registration card

Proof of address: must have your name and current address:

• Utility bills (for the phone, gas, electricity, etc.)
• Lease contract

Identification: 

• Tax Identification Number (ITIN)

Cash deposit:

• This depends on your bank but it can range from $25 to $100

How do I apply for an ITIN?

An Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) is a tax processing number issued by the Internal Revenue Service (IRS). The IRS issues ITIN’s to help people complete their tax reporting requirements. You can only get an ITIN if you do not have a social security number and cannot get one.

Please note that an ITIN does not: 

• Authorize work in the U.S.
• Provide eligibility for Social Security benefits
• Qualify a dependent for Earned Income Tax Credit Purposes

To apply, you will need to fill out a W-7 application form and submit it to the IRS along with your completed tax return. You don’t need to apply for an ITIN at an IRS location. However, you can file the application in person. You will need to submit original documents that verify your identity and your status as a foreigner. The IRS accepts 13 documents for this verification process. Learn more about this process on the IRS website. 

Some other things to keep in mind

Regardless of whether you are a U.S. citizen or not, you usually need to be at least 18 years old to set up a checking or savings account and a U.S. address. Additionally, if you are not a U.S. citizen, you likely will not be able to open a bank account online. This means you will need to actually visit the bank in person. 

What if I still don’t qualify to open a bank account?

If you still do not qualify to open a bank account, one last option for you could be to rely on a bank in your home country. Some foreign banks have relationships with U.S. banks. If your bank is one of them, it might be able to help you open an account at a U.S. bank.