Banking Essentials - What documents did you need to open your first U.S. bank account?

To open a U.S. bank account, you typically need: a valid government-issued photo ID (like a passport), proof of your U.S. address (such as a utility bill or lease), and your Social Security Number (SSN) or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN). Choosing the right account depends on how you use your money: A checking account is best for daily spending and paying bills with a debit card. A savings account is for money you want to set aside safely. A high-yield savings account (HYSA) is similar to a savings account but earns more interest; it's an especially good idea to keep your emergency fund.