How to Open a Checking Account

When you open a personal checking account, you gain convenient money management from a trusted financial institution.

To open a checking account, simply follow these four steps: 

1. Determine your needs
   
2. Compare checking accounts 
3. Gather your documents 
4. Apply online or in person 

Determine your needs. 

To get the most value out of your checking account, determine what your money management needs are. For example, would you prefer to be able to handle all your banking tasks online, or have access to a nearby branch? Would you like a basic account free from monthly fees, or the option to take advantage of complementary services? Do you need a checkbook, or do you pay all your expenses using a debit card or online bill pay? No matter what your needs are, there’s likely a checking account that fits your lifestyle perfectly. 

Compare checking accounts. 

Compare checking accounts to identify which one best aligns with your individual needs and financial goals. When deciding between banks and different types of account offerings, be sure to take note of any fees they may charge, minimum balance requirements, overdraft policies and availability and proximity of branches and ATMs. 

Gather your documents. 

Make sure you have your social security number and you may need a government issued ID handy. You’ll need these to securely open an account in your name. Minors may be able to open a checking account with their parent or legal guardian as a co-owner. 

Apply online or in person. 

If you apply for a checking account online, simply select your desired account on the bank’s website and complete the signup prompts. That’s it—now you can access convenient online banking tools from just about anywhere!

If you choose to open a checking account in person, go to a branch and ask the branch representative to guide you through the process. Depending on what type of account you open, you may also need to bring an opening deposit so you can have a positive account balance and immediately begin making transactions. 

When you switch bank accounts, expect to provide your current bank account and routing number so you can transfer funds from the account. Another option would be to write a check to yourself from your old account and deposit it into your new account.

What Do I Need to Open a Checking Account?

• Less than ten minutes
• Social security number and you may need a government issued ID handy
• To be at least 18 years old
• To be a U.S. citizen or resident alien (non-resident aliens can open accounts at the branch)
• Depending on the type of account, you may need an opening deposit 

Checking Account Benefits 

Online Banking 

Manage your checking, savings, CD, money market, mortgage, loan and credit card accounts from just about anywhere with modern online banking tools. 

Mobile Banking 

Download your bank’s mobile app at no additional cost to view balances, make mobile check deposits, transfer funds, pay bills and manage your account from the palm of your hand. 

Dedicated Relationship Bankers 

Expect personalized service, efficient transactions and guidance tailored to your financial goals. No busy sales people. Available when you need us.

ATM Network 

Make cash withdrawals or deposits at over 1,000 ATMs. 

Bank with Confidence 

Leverage security alerts—which send email, text or app notifications for balance updates and warnings about account activity—to monitor your funds.   

Overdraft Protection

Chose from several overdraft protection plans for flexibility in case funds are not readily available in your checking account. 

FAQs: 

What is an online checking account? 

An online checking account is a secure account that you can access through the web or your smart phone. It offers the ability to check your balances, complete transactions, make mobile check deposits, transfer funds and manage your account from just about anywhere. M&T Bank offers checking accounts that have the capability of online banking in addition to mobile and in-person.

Can you open a checking account online? 

You can open a checking account online in less than ten minutes.

How do you open a checking account? 

First, compare checking accounts to determine which one best aligns with your individual needs and financial goals. Then, complete the application.

How long does it take to open a checking account? 

You can open an account in-branch or you can open a checking account online in less than ten minutes. 

What documents do I need to open a checking account? 

To open a checking account, you’ll need to present your social security number and you may need a government issued ID handy. 

A Bank You Can Count On

We know you count on your personal checking and savings accounts to meet your everyday banking needs. With M&T, you can count on so much more. Discover how we go beyond the basics to meet all your banking needs in the branch and online, now and in the future. Learn more