Having a bank account has many benefits, including access to direct deposit and FDIC insurance. To open a bank account, you usually need at least identification and proof of address. However, some bank accounts may have additional requirements. Let’s take a closer look at these requirements, along with other things you might need.

Opening a bank account is often a simple process. If you have all the necessary documents, you can visit a bank branch or website and open an account in minutes. But you should have everything ready before opening your account to avoid any hiccups.

When you open your account, you must provide basic information such as your name, date of birth, and address. You will then need to provide documentation to support the information you provide.

Here are the things you may need to open a bank account:

Bring a valid government-issued photo ID, such as a driver’s license, state ID, or passport. If you have one, you should also know your Social Security number or Individual Tax Identification Number (ITIN). A handful of banks may allow you to open an account without an SSN or ITIN, but it’s usually required.

Read more: Can non-US citizens open a bank account?

Bring documentation that proves you live at the address you provided when filling out the account applications. This can be physical mail with your address, such as a bank statement or utility bill. Other acceptable documents may include a recent pay stub or mortgage or lease documents.

Read more: How to open a bank account without a physical address

Some (but not all) banks require you to fund your account with a minimum deposit. These minimum deposit requirements vary by bank and account type. You might be asked to open an account with as little as $50 or as much as several thousand dollars.

Before starting your application, check the minimum opening deposit requirements and make sure you can meet them. You should also find out if there is a minimum balance you need to maintain to avoid monthly fees.

Read more: What is the typical minimum balance for an online savings account?

Banks often have additional requirements to open an account, such as being 18 years old and a legal resident of the United States.

Here are some of the most common requirements for opening a bank account. This list is not necessarily exhaustive, but in most cases it will cover all your bases. If you plan to visit a branch to open an account, consider calling ahead and asking what documentation you need.

Read more: How to open a bank account if you are under 18

The requirements for opening a joint bank account are generally the same as for an individual account. The main difference is that you have two account owners instead of one, so you’ll need the names, birth dates, addresses, and Social Security numbers of both owners. You also need ID and proof of address for both account owners. Of course, you can probably use the same proof of address for both account owners if they live in the same household.

Read more: What is a joint bank account and how does it work?

In general, the requirements for opening a bank account are the same whether you open it online or in person. For example, you must provide basic information, such as your name, address, and Social Security number, regardless of how you open the account. In any case, the bank must verify your information first. However, there may be slight variations in the process.

When opening an account in person, you can give your photo ID to the teller, and they can make a photocopy. Similarly, if your account requires an opening deposit, you can give cash to the teller at the bank.

On the other hand, when opening an account online, you may need to submit a photo of your ID and make a wire transfer or write a check if your account requires an opening deposit.

As you can see, the process is similar regardless of how you open your account. However, these differences can be a slight barrier to opening an online account, especially for those who are not tech-savvy. Fortunately, opening an account at a branch is still an option for those who have a branch nearby.