Banks That Offer Accounts Without a Social Security Number (SSN)
For many immigrants and newcomers to the United States, one of the biggest challenges is opening a bank account without a Social Security Number (SSN). Since the SSN is the most common form of identification in the U.S., some banks require it to verify customers.
However, that doesn’t mean you’re out of options. Many banks, credit unions, and fintech platforms now accept alternative forms of ID such as an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN), passport, or even consular identification cards.
This article explains how you can open a bank account without an SSN in the U.S., which documents are accepted, and which financial institutions are best for immigrants in 2025.
1. Why Banks Ask for an SSN
Banks request a Social Security Number for identification and tax reporting purposes. It helps them:
- Verify your identity under Know Your Customer (KYC) rules.
- Report interest earned to the Internal Revenue Service (IRS).
- Prevent fraud and comply with federal banking regulations.
But if you don’t qualify for an SSN — for example, if you’re a student, recent immigrant, or nonresident worker — you can still open an account using alternative identification.
2. What You Can Use Instead of an SSN
If you don’t have an SSN, several other documents can serve as valid identification. The most common are:
- Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN): Issued by the IRS for noncitizens who need to pay taxes.
- Passport (foreign or U.S.)
- Visa or immigration documents (I-94, Green Card, EAD card).
- Consular Identification (CID) – issued by some countries, such as the Mexican Matrícula Consular.
- Proof of U.S. address (utility bill, lease, or employer letter).
Having at least one form of government-issued ID and proof of address is typically enough to start the account-opening process.
3. Banks That Accept ITINs or Passports
The following banks are known for welcoming immigrants and offering accounts without an SSN.
1. Bank of America
Bank of America is one of the most immigrant-friendly banks in the U.S. It accepts both ITINs and foreign passports as identification.
✅ Pros:
- Nationwide presence with multilingual staff.
- Accepts ITIN or passport.
- Offers online banking and debit cards.
⚠️ Cons:
- Monthly maintenance fees (around $12, can be waived).
Ideal for: Immigrants seeking a reliable, well-known bank with in-person support.
2. Wells Fargo
Wells Fargo is another strong choice for newcomers. You can open a checking or savings account using an ITIN, passport, and proof of address.
✅ Pros:
- Wide branch network.
- Accepts ITIN or consular ID.
- Offers bilingual service (English and Spanish).
⚠️ Cons:
- Fees can apply for small balances.
Ideal for: Spanish-speaking immigrants and those seeking personal customer service.
3. Chase Bank
Chase Bank allows account openings with an ITIN and passport at select branches.
✅ Pros:
- Large branch network.
- Easy-to-use mobile banking app.
- Great for those planning to build credit later.
⚠️ Cons:
- SSN required for some online applications.
Ideal for: Professionals or students who prefer full-service banking options.
4. TD Bank
TD Bank is particularly popular on the East Coast and accepts nonresident customers with passports and proof of address.
✅ Pros:
- Open seven days a week.
- Friendly policies for newcomers.
- Bilingual staff in many locations.
⚠️ Cons:
- Limited branches outside the East Coast.
Ideal for: Immigrants on the East Coast needing in-person convenience.
5. Citibank
Citibank is a global institution that accepts ITINs and foreign documents from many countries.
✅ Pros:
- Global presence for easy international transfers.
- Accepts passport or ITIN.
- Multilingual staff and customer service.
⚠️ Cons:
- High minimum balances on some accounts.
Ideal for: Expats or international professionals managing money in multiple countries.
6. Capital One
Capital One offers online and branch-based accounts with flexible verification options.
✅ Pros:
- No monthly fees.
- Accepts ITIN.
- Easy online account management.
⚠️ Cons:
- Limited branch availability.
Ideal for: Immigrants seeking a hybrid between digital and traditional banking.
4. Credit Unions That Don’t Require an SSN
Credit unions are nonprofit financial institutions that often serve local communities — and many of them cater specifically to immigrants.
1. Latino Credit Union
- Accepts ITIN and consular ID.
- Offers accounts, loans, and credit cards.
- Focused on financial inclusion for Hispanic immigrants.
2. Self-Help Federal Credit Union
- Accepts foreign documents.
- Provides affordable accounts and financial education.
- Offers small loans to help build credit.
3. Alliant Credit Union
- Online-based, accepts ITIN.
- Competitive interest rates.
- Excellent mobile banking experience.
Credit unions usually have lower fees and higher savings rates than big banks, making them a great choice for newcomers.
5. Digital Banks and Fintechs for Immigrants
Several fintechs and online banks have designed their platforms with immigrants in mind. These companies often have simpler requirements and faster onboarding.
1. Chime
- No SSN required (ITIN accepted).
- No monthly or overdraft fees.
- Fast online signup and early paycheck access.
2. Revolut
- Accepts passports and proof of address.
- Supports multiple currencies.
- Great for international transfers.
3. Wise (ex-TransferWise)
- Allows users to hold multiple currencies.
- Transparent exchange rates and low fees.
- No SSN required.
4. Remitly Passbook
- Specifically built for immigrants.
- Accepts foreign IDs, consular cards, or ITINs.
- Multilingual app and customer support.
These fintechs combine accessibility with modern technology, making them especially appealing to immigrants and remote workers.
6. How to Apply Without an SSN
Here’s how you can open an account without a Social Security Number:
- Gather your documents: passport, ITIN, visa, or consular ID.
- Choose the right institution: prefer banks that openly accept nonresidents.
- Provide proof of address: this can be a rental agreement, utility bill, or employer letter.
- Visit a branch or apply online: some banks require in-person visits to verify documents.
- Make an initial deposit: usually between $25 and $100.
Tip: If you’re using an ITIN, make sure the name and address on your bank form exactly match those on your IRS documents.
7. Advantages of Having a Bank Account Without an SSN
Even without an SSN, opening a U.S. bank account provides many benefits:
- Safe place to store money.
- Ability to receive salary payments.
- Access to debit cards and online banking.
- Lower transfer fees than cash services.
- Opportunity to build financial history.
Over time, a well-managed account can help you qualify for credit cards, loans, or even mortgages once you obtain a credit profile.
8. Potential Challenges
While many banks welcome immigrants, some may still:
- Require in-person applications.
- Limit certain features (like credit cards).
- Request additional documentation.
Don’t be discouraged. The market for immigrant banking is expanding, and competition among fintechs is making access easier every year.
9. Tips for a Smooth Application
- Call ahead to confirm what IDs your branch accepts.
- Bring both original and photocopies of your documents.
- Avoid using prepaid cards — they don’t build financial history.
- Keep your proof of deposit and bank correspondence organized.
If you encounter rejection at one bank, try another — policies differ widely between institutions.
10. Legal and Tax Considerations
Using an ITIN instead of an SSN is completely legal. The IRS created the ITIN program specifically for individuals who must pay taxes but aren’t eligible for an SSN.
Having a bank account under your ITIN does not affect your immigration status, nor does it count as public assistance. In fact, it shows financial responsibility and can be beneficial in the long term.
11. Why More Banks Are Adopting Inclusive Policies
The U.S. has over 45 million immigrants, representing nearly 14% of the population. Banks are increasingly recognizing this demographic’s importance and adapting policies to attract them.
Financial inclusion has become both a social responsibility and a business opportunity, driving growth in multilingual services, flexible identification requirements, and immigrant-focused financial education.
12. Best Choice by Profile
| Profile | Best Option |
|---|---|
| New immigrant | Bank of America or Wells Fargo |
| Spanish-speaking customer | Latino Credit Union or TD Bank |
| Tech-savvy user | Chime or Revolut |
| Frequent traveler | Citibank or Wise |
| Without address proof | Remitly Passbook or local credit union |
Conclusion
Opening a bank account in the U.S. without an SSN is not only possible — it’s becoming increasingly easy. Whether you use an ITIN, passport, or consular ID, there are now multiple banks, credit unions, and fintechs ready to serve you.
Having a U.S. bank account gives you access to a safer, more efficient financial life and helps you integrate into the country’s economic system.
In 2025, financial inclusion is no longer a privilege — it’s a growing standard. With the right preparation and choice of institution, you can open your account confidently, start saving, and build your financial future in America.
