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How to open a U.S. bank account as a non-permanent resident.
If you’re new to the U.S., having a domestic bank account can make your financial life simpler and more secure. Here’s key information on how to open a SoFi Checking and Savings account as a non-resident, including eligibility requirements, what you’ll need, and the steps to follow.
Open an account
What you need to get started.
To open an online bank account as a non-permanent resident, you’ll need to provide identification, a tax identification number, and proof of a U.S. address. You’ll also need to be 18 years old or older and provide an email address and phone number.
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Photo ID
You’ll need to provide an official, government-issued photo identification document to prove your name and birth date. Eligible documents include an unexpired passport, driver’s license with photo, U.S. Employment Authorization Card with photo, and student ID with photo.
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Proof of Address
You may also need to show proof of your U.S. address. For this, you can use a government-issued photo ID, current utility bill (electricity, water, internet, etc.) with your name and address, an employer paycheck or pay stub, or a copy of your lease agreement.
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Identification Number
SoFi Checking and Savings accounts pay interest, which is taxable. To comply with tax-reporting requirements, you’ll need to provide a Social Security number (SSN) or an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN). If you’re not a U.S. citizen, you can apply for an ITIN through the International Revenue Service (IRS).
Apply for a U.S. bank account in 3 steps:
At this time, SoFi offers individual and joint SoFi Checking and Savings accounts (trust and business accounts are not currently available).
Here, you’ll learn the three basic steps needed to open a U.S. bank account for non-residents.
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Gather the required documents
Before you begin your application, you’ll want to make sure you have all of the documents required to open an account, including a valid photo ID, proof of address, and an SSN or ITIN. You’ll also need to have the name and contact details for your U.S. employer.
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Open the account online
You can apply for a non-resident bank account with SoFi online. You’ll enter your personal information, citizenship status, and SSN or ITIN. You’ll also need to select your employment status, employer details, and upload the required documents.
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Make a deposit
Once approved, you can deposit funds into your new checking account via online transfer or wire. You can also make cash deposits at participating retailers using your SoFi debit card (some retailers may charge a fee).
Open an account
Supporting family abroad just got easier.
Sending money back home shouldn’t be a hassle. SoFi Checking and Savings offers a fast, low-cost way to send funds to 30+ countries including Mexico, India, and Brazil.1 Handle your international transfers and daily banking all within the same SoFi app.
Learn more
Benefits of opening a U.S. bank account.
While it’s possible to function in the U.S. with a foreign bank account, having access to a U.S. bank account comes with a number of advantages.
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FAQs
Yes, a non-citizen can open a bank account in the U.S. provided they have the proper documentation. To open a SoFi Checking and Savings account as a non-citizen, you will need a valid photo ID and an SSN or ITIN, which you’ll enter along with other personal details.
Currently, you cannot open a SoFi Checking and Savings account without a physical U.S. address.
Yes, it’s possible to open a U.S. bank account without a Social Security number (SSN). If you don’t have an SSN, you can open a SoFi Checking and Savings account with an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) instead. To get an ITIN, you usually need to fill out a form with the Internal Revenue Service (IRS).
At SoFi, domestic but not international wire transfers are available for sending and receiving funds. Within the United States, you can also complete a bank transfer in the app. Or you might write or deposit a check or use a bill pay option.
SoFi > Personal Banking > Non-Permanent Resident Bank Account
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