In the United States, having access to banking services is essential for managing finances, making purchases, and building credit. However, not everyone has a Social Security Number (SSN), which is typically required to open a bank account. For individuals without an SSN, such as non-resident immigrants, foreign investors, or dependents of U.S. taxpayers, an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) can serve as an alternative. But can an ITIN lead to a bank card in the U.S.? The answer is yes, but the process depends on the bank’s policies and the type of account you’re seeking.
What is an ITIN?
An ITIN is a tax processing number issued by the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) to individuals who are required to file taxes but do not qualify for an SSN. ITINs are formatted as nine-digit numbers, beginning with the number “9” (e.g., 9XX-XX-XXXX). While an ITIN is primarily used for tax purposes, some financial institutions accept it as a valid form of identification for opening bank accounts.
Can You Get a Bank Card with an ITIN?
Yes, many banks and credit unions in the U.S. allow individuals to open accounts using an ITIN instead of an SSN. Once you have a bank account, you can typically receive a debit card, which functions like any other bank card for purchases, ATM withdrawals, and online transactions. Some banks may also offer credit cards to ITIN holders, though these often require additional documentation or a credit history.
Banks That Accept ITIN for Account Opening
Several major U.S. banks and credit unions accept ITINs for account openings, including:
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Bank of America – Offers checking and savings accounts, as well as secured credit cards for ITIN holders.
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Wells Fargo – Provides basic banking services and some credit options for those with an ITIN.
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Chase – Allows ITIN holders to open accounts with proper identification.
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Citibank – Accepts ITINs for certain account types.
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Local Credit Unions – Many community credit unions are more flexible with ITIN-based accounts.
Requirements for Opening a Bank Account with an ITIN
While policies vary by bank, common requirements include:
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Valid ITIN (assigned by the IRS)
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Government-issued ID (passport, consular ID, or foreign driver’s license)
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Proof of U.S. address (utility bill, rental agreement, or bank statement)
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Minimum deposit (some banks require an initial deposit to open an account)
Can You Get a Credit Card with an ITIN?
Obtaining a credit card with an ITIN is possible but more challenging than getting a debit card. Since credit cards require a credit check, individuals without an SSN may need to:
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Apply for a secured credit card (requires a cash deposit as collateral).
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Build credit history with alternative credit-builder loans.
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Use fintech companies like Deserve or Tomocredit, which cater to immigrants and ITIN holders.
Some banks, like Bank of America, offer unsecured credit cards to ITIN holders with sufficient income and credit history.
Benefits of Having a Bank Card with an ITIN
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Convenience – A debit card allows cashless transactions, online shopping, and ATM access.
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Safety – Reduces the need to carry large amounts of cash.
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Credit Building – Some ITIN-based credit cards report to credit bureaus, helping establish a U.S. credit history.
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Direct Deposit – Enables receiving paychecks or government benefits electronically.
Challenges and Limitations
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Not All Banks Accept ITINs – Some institutions strictly require an SSN.
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Limited Credit Options – ITIN holders may have fewer credit card choices.
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Higher Fees – Some banks charge extra fees for non-resident accounts.
Conclusion
An ITIN can indeed lead to a bank card in the U.S., whether it’s a debit card linked to a checking account or a secured/unsecured credit card. While the process may require additional steps compared to having an SSN, many financial institutions accommodate ITIN holders. By researching bank policies, providing proper documentation, and starting with a secured credit option if needed, individuals with an ITIN can successfully access U.S. banking services and build financial stability.
If you have an ITIN and need a bank card, start by contacting banks that explicitly accept ITINs and compare their offerings to find the best fit for your financial needs.
