Opening a checking account online has a number of advantages. For starters, the process is quick and can be completed 100 percent online, without ever leaving your home. There's no need to wait online or deal with paperwork. Most online checking accounts have no waiting time except for just a couple of minutes while your social security number is verified.
Step 1
Select the bank you want to use. Most traditional banks, such as Bank of America, Chase and Wells Fargo, allow you to open a checking account online. Other banks, such as Ing Direct USA, work only online and have no brick-and-mortar branches or ATMs. Depending on what the primary use for the account will be (paying bills online, using the ATM card), you should decide what type of bank works better for you.
Step 2
Visit the bank's official site and compare the different accounts available. Most banks usually offer more than one type of checking account. For example, Bank of America offers My Access Checking (no minimum balance), CampusEdge® Checking Account (for college students), Advantage with Tiered Interest Checking Account (with interest) and the Small Business Checking Bundle. Again, what you choose depends on your individual needs and even on your initial deposit amount, as some accounts require a larger deposit to open an account.
Step 3
Click on "Open Account Now" (or similar wording) once you've decided on an account. You will have to enter some personal information, including your full name, residential address, phone, social security number and date of birth. Some banks ask for additional information, such as occupation and income.
Step 4
Wait for your information to be verified. This usually takes a couple of minutes and is done while you wait when the website open. You might be asked for additional information during the verification process, such as your driver's license number.
Step 5
Fund your account. Most accounts have a minimum you need to deposit in order for the account to be activated. You can make that initial deposit with a credit or debit card or by transferring money directly from another bank account, whether it is with the same bank or not. Some banks accept wires. If the process was successful, you will be redirected to a screen that will welcome you to the bank. If not, you will be prompted to enter more information.
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