It can sometimes be tricky for new arrivals and non-US citizens to open bank accounts.
In this guide, we’ll aim to make things a little easier. We’ll take a look at one of the main requirements for opening a US bank account, the Social Security Number (SSN).
We’ll also run through the options for opening a US bank account without an SSN. This includes alternatives to banks, such as Money Services Businesses, like Wise, which offers the Wise Account, where you can hold a balance in USD - but more on that later.
Is it possible to open a US bank account without an SSN?
A large number of US banks do require you to have a Social Security Number. This is usually required along with proof of residence in the US and other documentation proving your identity.
However, not all banks require this. Some will accept an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) instead.
Opening a US bank account with an ITIN
The Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) is designed for people who
do not qualify yet or are in the process of obtaining a Social Security Number, but who need a US taxpayer identification number.
For example, if you’re a foreign citizen who spends time in the US or does business there, but isn’t a permanent resident. If you’re required to file a US tax return, you’ll need some form of taxpayer identification.
In this case, you’ll need to apply for an ITIN. You can apply through the Internal Revenue Service (IRS). Be aware though that it can take up to seven weeks¹ to get your ITIN, so do this in plenty of time before applying for your US bank account.
The US banks which don’t require an SSN
The good news is that certain banks in the United States don’t require an SSN during the account application process. They may require other documentation instead, or accept an ITIN. You’ll need to check with the bank to find out their specific requirements to apply for an account.
To help you start your search, here are just a few of the banks in the US which don’t require an SSN:
- Citibank - will accept either an SSN or an ITIN².
- Wells Fargo - if you don’t have an SSN or ITIN, you can provide evidence of nationality or residence by providing a government-issued ID instead³.
- Chase - will accept either SSN or ITIN, or a valid form of ID instead⁴.
- Bank of America - will accept an ITIN⁵.
How to get an SSN or ITIN
If you are eligible for a Social Security Number, you’ll need to apply to the Social Security Administration (SSA).
For an ITIN, it’s the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) you’ll need to apply to.
Alternatives to banks if you don’t have an SSN
If you don’t have either an SSN or an ITIN, it’s also likely that you don’t have proof of US residence. This is required by most US banks, so your options for opening a checking account may be limited.
However, there are alternatives available. You can look into opening an international bank account. This is a specialized type of account aimed at foreigners, which means it doesn’t necessarily require an SSN. Banks to take a look at include Charles Schwab, Zenus and global banks like HSBC.
Another potential option is an online account with a digital or mobile bank such as Revolut. These ‘neobanks’ offer many of the same services as an ordinary checking account, but all managed via online banking or a mobile app. These accounts still require documentation such as proof of ID, but the requirements may be less stringent than traditional banks.
Wise - the quick and easy way to manage your money in USD
If you don’t want the hassle of all that paperwork, but you do want a US account - Wise is the perfect solution.
Wise isn’t a bank, however, Wise is a trusted Money Services Business that provides an alternative option, when it comes to holding USD currency.
The Wise Account offers a fast, convenient and cost-saving way to manage your money in US dollars. It lets you send, spend, receive and convert between multiple currencies all in the one handy online account.
There’s even a Wise Card available for a one-off fee of just $9⁶. It can be used in 170 countries worldwide, including the US. It works in a clever way, automatically converting your money to the local currency at the mid-market exchange rate whenever you spend.
It takes just minutes to register for a Wise account online. So you can start getting paid, paying bills and sending money to friends as soon as possible.
After reading this guide, you should have a better idea of the requirements for opening a US bank account. It can be difficult for new arrivals and non-US citizens to find the right solution for their needs. US banks are quite strict on what they ask for, and many ask for both an SSN and proof of US residence.
But the great news is that there are alternative routes available. You might be eligible for an ITIN, be able to open an international account, or go for a versatile online solution like Wiseinstead.
So, even if you don’t have every piece of paperwork to hand, you should still be able to open some kind of US account.
Sources used for this article:
Sources checked on 09-Jan-2023.
*Please see terms of use and product availability for your region or visit Wise fees and pricing for the most up to date pricing and fee information. This publication is provided for general information purposes and does not constitute legal, tax or other professional advice from Wise Payments Limited or its subsidiaries and its affiliates, and it is not intended as a substitute for obtaining advice from a financial advisor or any other professional. We make no representations, warranties or guarantees, whether expressed or implied, that the content in the publication is accurate, complete or up to date.
