- 1). Determine the type of bank account you want to open and the bank where you want to open the account. Banks offer many different types of accounts, including checking, savings, money markets and certificates of deposit (CDs). If you do not have money to open the account, find an account that does not require an opening deposit or has recurring fees. You can do your research online or call local banks and speak to a new accounts representative.
- 2). Contact the bank you have selected and confirm that you can open an account without immediate funding. Go to the bank in person and speak with the new accounts desk. Tell the banking representative that you would like to open a new account. Fill out the necessary forms and present your driver's license or state-issued ID card and your Social Security card. You will generally be asked for your residence history for the last five years.
- 3). Go to the website for the bank and select the account type you would like to open. Click on the "Apply" then "Open Account" links. Enter the requested information to open your account. When asked how you would like to fund the account, select the option "Fund the account at a later date." Online applications will require identifying information and your previous address history for the past years. Additionally, you will have to enter your Social Security Number and information from your driver's license or state-issued ID card. Some banks require you to fax a photocopy of your ID after you complete the application.