I want to open a new account. What type(s) of identification do I have to present to the bank?

The required identification number for a U.S. citizen is a Social Security number and for a U.S. company is an employer identification number. For all others, an identification number is one or more of the following:

• Taxpayer identification number
• Passport number and country of issuance
• Alien identification card number
• Number and country of issuance of any other government-issued document evidencing nationality or residence and bearing a photograph or similar safeguard

The bank must then verify the accuracy of the information the applicant provided by reviewing documents, such as a driver's license or passport. It can also verify the information by other means, such as comparing it with information from a credit reporting agency or by checking the applicant's references with other financial institutions.

Last Reviewed: April 2021

Please note: The terms "bank" and "banks" used in these answers generally refer to national banks, federal savings associations, and federal branches or agencies of foreign banking organizations that are regulated by the Office of the Comptroller of the Currency (OCC). Find out if the OCC regulates your bank. Information provided on HelpWithMyBank.gov should not be construed as legal advice or a legal opinion of the OCC.