Banks You Can Sign Up for Online: A Complete Guide

Banks You Can Sign Up for Online

Opening a bank account online has become straightforward, with dozens of banks letting you apply, verify identity, and fund an account without visiting a branch. The options range from national neobanks with no fees to regional banks that offer online onboarding alongside local branches. The right choice depends on whether you prioritize mobile features, interest rates, ATM access, or the ability to speak with a representative in person if needed.

National Neobanks You Can Sign Up for Online

Several large digital-first banks have built their entire model around remote account opening. These institutions typically offer mobile-first apps, instant card issuance, and no monthly maintenance fees.

• Chase — Offers online application for checking and savings accounts with extensive ATM networks and robust mobile features.
• Bank of America — Allows online sign-up for checking, savings, and CDs, with a large branch and ATM footprint to fall back on.
• Wells Fargo — Supports online account opening for several checking and savings products, backed by a national branch network.
• Citibank — Provides online applications for multiple account types with integrated rewards and digital tools.
• Ally Bank — A pure online bank with no monthly fees, competitive savings rates, and a well-regarded mobile app.
• Marcus by Goldman Sachs — Offers online savings and CD accounts with straightforward terms and no fees.
• SoFi — Provides online checking, savings, and lending products with a focus on cash management and no account fees.

Regional and Online-Only Banks

Beyond the largest national banks, several regional and online-only institutions let you sign up entirely online while maintaining competitive rates and lower fee structures.

• Discover Bank — Operates as an online bank with savings, checking, and CD accounts opened through its website.
• Capital One 360 — Offers online checking and savings accounts with no branch requirement and no monthly fees.

Charles Schwab Bank — Designed for investors, with online account opening and integrated brokerage features.

• Community Federal Savings Bank — An online bank that provides high-yield savings with a fully remote sign-up process.

What to Check Before You Apply

Not every bank that advertises online sign-up delivers the same experience. Before submitting an application, verify the following details.

• Identity verification requirements. Most banks require a government-issued ID, Social Security number, and a U.S. address. Some also ask for a phone number to receive a verification code.
• Initial deposit. Some accounts require a minimum opening deposit, which can range from $25 to several hundred dollars. Others let you open an account with no deposit.
• Funding method. Confirm whether the bank accepts ACH transfers, external bank transfers, or mobile check deposit to fund the new account.
• APY and fee structure. Compare savings APYs, checking interest rates, monthly maintenance fees, overdraft policies, and ATM fee reimbursement.
• Branch access. If you value in-person service, check whether the online bank has partner branches or a local branch network.

How Online Sign-Up Typically Works

The process is similar across most banks you can sign up for online. You start by selecting an account type on the bank's website or app, then provide personal details such as your name, address, Social Security number, and date of birth. The bank runs a identity verification check, which may include a soft credit inquiry or a ChexSystems report. Once approved, you fund the account through an external bank transfer, mobile check deposit, or wire transfer and receive your debit card or account details digitally. Most banks issue temporary account access immediately, with physical cards arriving by mail within five to ten business days.

Online Banks vs. Traditional Banks with Online Sign-Up

The distinction matters. Pure online banks do not operate physical branches at all, which usually translates to lower overhead and higher savings rates. Traditional banks that also offer online sign-up give you the flexibility to open accounts remotely while retaining access to branches and ATMs nationwide. If you prefer managing everything through an app and do not need in-person service, a neobank or online-only bank often provides a cleaner experience. If you want the safety net of a branch network, a national bank with online onboarding is a better fit.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I open a bank account online with no opening deposit?

Several banks allow you to open an account online without an immediate deposit, though you may need to fund it within a set period to keep the account active.

How long does online account approval take?

Many banks approve online applications instantly or within one business day. Delays can occur if identity verification requires additional documentation.

Is it safe to open a bank account online?

Yes, provided you apply through the bank's official website or app. All federally insured online banks use encryption and follow the same security protocols as traditional banks.