Banks That Accept ITIN 2026: Requirements Compared

Last updated: October 21, 2026
By ITINWorks Team · How we verify

Can you open a checking account with only an ITIN?

Yes, at some banks. Wells Fargo and Citibank both list an ITIN as an accepted alternative to a Social Security number on checking applications, and Bank of America accepts one from U.S. visa holders applying in person. The ITIN replaces only the SSN on the application, so banks still ask for identity documents and a U.S. address.

The IRS issues ITINs under Internal Revenue Code section 6109 for federal tax purposes; it is not proof of identity on its own. If you don't have one yet, here's how to apply for an ITIN.

Not sure which kind of account fits your immigration status? See best banks for immigrants, by status, or the step-by-step banking guide for immigrants. Once your account is open, learn how immigrants build credit in the U.S.

Which banks accept an ITIN to open an account in 2026?

In 2026, Wells Fargo and Citibank state on their own websites that an ITIN can stand in for a Social Security number on a checking application. Bank of America says U.S. visa holders can open an account in person with an ITIN. Chase, Chime, and most online banks don't publish an ITIN policy, so confirm with them first.

The table at the top of this page summarizes each bank’s ITIN rule. Below are monthly fees for common checking accounts at those banks, so you can compare cost once you know where you can apply.

Monthly fees and how to avoid them

Fees checked on each bank’s website on October 21, 2026: Bank of America Advantage Banking, Chase Total Checking, Wells Fargo Everyday Checking, Wells Fargo Clear Access Banking. Fees and waiver rules can change; confirm before opening.

What does each bank require from ITIN applicants?

Wells Fargo requires an SSN or ITIN and asks non-permanent U.S. residents to apply at a branch by appointment. Citibank accepts an SSN or ITIN online or in person. Bank of America asks visa holders for an ITIN, two addresses, and two IDs at a financial center. Chase publishes no ITIN-specific checklist for checking.

How do you choose a bank that accepts an ITIN?

Choose by how you can apply and what you'll pay. Citibank takes ITIN applications online or in person with no minimum opening deposit, while Wells Fargo (for non-permanent residents) and Bank of America (for visa holders) require a branch visit. Monthly fees in this guide run from $4.95 to $15, and most can be waived.

Should I Compare Banks, Credit Unions, or Fintech Apps?

Banks, credit unions, and fintech providers differ in location, fees, services, and eligibility. The FDIC generally covers eligible deposits up to $250,000 per depositor, per insured bank, per ownership category; NCUA coverage follows its own rules. Fintech services are not themselves insured, so compare how providers hold deposits and what protection applies.

Wells Fargo and Citibank list the ITIN as accepted on their own sites; Bank of America covers visa holders; Chase doesn’t publish a policy. Branch networks and account products differ, so check which bank has a branch you can reach.

Credit unions are member-owned financial cooperatives. Fees, rates, services, eligibility, and membership rules vary by institution and location. Some publish information about serving ITIN holders; confirm current terms directly. Eligible deposits at federally insured credit unions may be covered under NCUA rules and applicable limits.

Some mainstream fintech products may require an SSN; check each provider’s current eligibility rules. Many fintech apps are not banks themselves and hold deposits through partner banks. The 2024 Synapse Financial collapse left thousands of fintech customers temporarily locked out of their funds. If you use a fintech, verify it names its FDIC-insured partner bank directly — not just "funds FDIC insured" in fine print.

What Documents Do I Need to Open a Bank Account With an ITIN?

Documents vary by institution, account, application channel, and applicant. Banks may ask for a taxpayer identification number, one or more identity documents, and proof of address; some specify document age, language, or original-document requirements. Ask the bank for its current checklist before visiting, and do not assume the IRS ITIN assignment letter replaces photo identification.

1. Your ITIN — the nine-digit number, or your IRS CP565 letter (the notice the IRS sent when it assigned your ITIN).
2. Government-issued photo ID — a foreign passport is a common choice. Some banks also accept a consular ID such as the Matrícula Consular or a second ID; ask which ones your bank takes. Bank of America asks visa holders for one primary photo ID and one secondary ID.
3. Proof of U.S. address — a utility bill, lease agreement, or bank statement showing your name and current U.S. address. Ask how recent it must be.

Should ITIN holders use a credit union instead of a bank?

A credit union is worth comparing if the big banks' branch or visa rules don't fit you. Community credit unions such as Latino Community Credit Union and Self-Help Federal Credit Union publish ITIN membership information, but each sets its own membership field, ID list, and fees, so confirm locally before applying.

Verify coverage at NCUA.gov, and use the NCUA credit union locator to find one near you.

For the full nationwide list with membership requirements and a comparison table, see Credit Unions That Accept ITIN →

If your priority is the interest rate rather than a branch, check current savings eligibility and rates with each provider. See High-Yield Savings Accounts With an ITIN →

Does Chime accept an ITIN?

Chime doesn't publish a firm ITIN policy. Chime's blog says you may be able to open a bank account without an SSN by using an ITIN or a passport, and advises confirming with the institution. Treat Chime, Current, and Cash App as unconfirmed for ITIN holders until the app's own sign-up accepts your number.

Many apps hold deposits at a partner bank, so check which FDIC-insured bank holds your money before you sign up. For peer-to-peer apps, see how to use Cash App, Venmo, or Zelle without an SSN.

What If a Bank Rejects My ITIN Application?

A bank may decline an application based on eligibility, identity-verification, or documentation requirements. Ask which requirement was not met, request its current checklist, and compare another institution. Federal bank-identification rules do not make an ITIN proof of identity or guarantee that an account must be approved; policies and documents vary by account and applicant.

1. Ask the bank for clarification. Confirm which requirement was not met and whether another product or application channel is available.
2. Review the bank’s current document checklist. Ask whether additional identity or address records would resolve the issue.
3. Compare another institution. Wells Fargo, Citibank, and Bank of America each set different channel and ID rules for ITIN applicants.
4. Try a community credit union. Credit unions have institution-specific eligibility and membership requirements; confirm directly with one serving your area.
5. Ask about other application channels. Citibank accepts online or in-person applications; Wells Fargo and Bank of America require a branch for some applicants.

What Should I Do After Opening a Bank Account With an ITIN?

Once your account is open, your next step is to start building a U.S. credit history. A bank account alone does not build credit — you need a credit card or credit-builder loan that reports to the 3 major credit bureaus (Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion). Some issuers publish guidance about ITIN use for credit applications; check the current requirements for each product.

Frequently Asked Questions