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.
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 long does it take to open a Capital One account online? ›
How long does it take for my account to be open online, and when will I have access? Your online access should be available within a few hours after opening an account.
How do I get $350 from Capital One checking? ›
What is the offer? 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.
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.
Why are banks not letting me open an account? ›
Common reasons consumers are turned down for a bank account include a history of overdrafts, unpaid bank fees or suspected fraud. Applications can also be denied due to mistakes on one's checking account report. If you've been denied a bank account, ask the bank why this happened.
What to do if no banks accept you? ›
If you are unable to open a new bank account, here is what you should do.
- Ask the bank to reconsider. ...
- Get a copy of your report. ...
- Check your report for errors. ...
- Clean up your report. ...
- Look into getting a 'second-chance account' ...
- When you're ready to apply for a traditional checking or savings account.
Reasons You Can Be Denied a Checking Account
Excessive overdrafts or nonsufficient funds incidents. Unpaid fees or negative account balances, whether from an active or closed account. Suspected fraud or identity theft. Applying for too many bank accounts over a short period of time.
Is Capital One online banking legit? ›
Yes, Capital One is FDIC-insured (FDIC certificate No. 33954).
Capital One downsides
While we recommend many Capital One products, there are some important downsides about the bank to consider. For one, its interest rates on savings accounts aren't the highest out there—especially when compared with the best high-yield rates offered by some fully online banks.
Is it a good idea to bank with Capital One? ›
There are no balance minimums or monthly fees, and you won't need to worry about overdraft fees either. Capital One was named best big bank and best bank for ATM access as part of the 2024 Bankrate Awards, which recognizes the best financial products available to consumers.
How much money do you need to open an account with Capital One? ›
Initial deposit requirement – There is no minimum deposit required. You can open the account with any amount you wish.
Can I open a bank account online and use it right away? ›
Once you're approved, you can usually use your account right away and transfer funds. You'll likely need to wait a few days or weeks for printed checks and ATM and debit cards to arrive.
How long does it take for Capital One to verify bank account? ›
If you did not receive confirmation of instant verification after providing your external account information, we may send two small test deposits, less than $1, to your external link to verify it. These test deposits will arrive in your external account either immediately or up to 3 business days after linking.
Can I open a bank account online without going to the bank? ›
You can apply for most checking accounts online if you're 18 or older by going to the bank's website and filling out the application. The application will ask for basic information about yourself as well as submitting some documents for verification.
How much does it cost to open a Capital One checking account? ›
If you're looking for a new checking account with no monthly maintenance fees and no minimum deposit requirements, Capital One offers a great option. This bank's 360 Checking account even earns a little bit of interest -- and right now it offers a $350 bonus.
How do I open a capital account online? ›
Quick steps to complete and eSign Open Capital Account Online Application Form online:
- Use Get Form or simply click on the template preview to open it in the editor.
- Start completing the fillable fields and carefully type in required information.
