If you’re moving to a new city, or just a new neighborhood, chances are you will need a bank account. As with most things in life, the easiest way is also the best way: Below are the steps you should take to open a bank account, so that it’s as easy and straightforward as possible.
1) Find your nearest branch of the bank you want to open an account with, and go inside.
2) Ask the teller for information about opening an account.
3) Fill out a form, providing personal information (name, address, phone number), identification (driver’s license or passport), social security number if you have one–don’t worry if you don’t–and employment info (where do you work?). Make sure you’ve got the right information!
4) The teller will either give you an application, or ask you to come back in.
5) Bring back the form and all of the required information, and fill it out. You may need to show proof of identification that matches your name on your application, such as a driver’s license, passport or military ID card. In some cases, you’ll be asked to take a photo with your phone and send it in via text message.
6) Show proof of employment, if requested to.
7) Depending on the bank, you may need to provide a check (it will be returned to you, once it clears).
8) Pay your fee. Many banks will charge a small fee for the privilege of opening an account, so plan ahead and bring enough cash with you. If you can’t pay the fee in cash, some banks have debit card machines that allow you to pay over the counter.
9) Wait for your new bank card and other necessary paperwork to arrive in the mail, at which point you’re good to go.
You can now use the account to set up direct deposit, make deposits or withdrawals, transfer money between accounts and pay bills.
