Considering opening a new checking account? It's a big step, and choosing the right bank can make a real difference in how you manage your daily finances. If you've been considering Truist, you're in the right place! This comprehensive guide will walk you through every step of opening a Truist checking account, whether you prefer the convenience of online banking or the personal touch of an in-branch visit.
Your Journey to a Truist Checking Account: A Step-by-Step Guide
Ready to take control of your finances with a new Truist checking account? Let's dive in!
Step 1: Are You Ready for a Truist Checking Account?
Before you even think about forms or documents, let's confirm if a Truist checking account is the right fit for you. Ask yourself:
- Why do I need a new checking account? Is it for daily spending, direct deposits, bill payments, or perhaps something more specific?
- What features are most important to me? Do you prioritize low fees, ATM access, mobile banking, or specific benefits like overdraft protection or interest earnings?
- Do I meet the basic eligibility requirements? Generally, to open a checking account in the US, you need to be at least 18 years old, a U.S. citizen or resident alien, and have a Social Security Number (SSN) or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN).
Truist offers various checking accounts, with the Truist One Checking being a popular choice, known for its focus on avoiding overdraft fees. Understanding your needs will help you choose the best account type for you.
Step 2: Choosing Your Path: Online or In-Branch?
Truist provides two convenient ways to open a checking account: online or in person at a branch. Each has its advantages:
- Online Application:
- Pros: Convenience and speed. You can apply from anywhere, anytime, usually within 15 minutes. Ideal for those comfortable with digital processes.
- Cons: You'll need to wait a few days for your debit card and checks to arrive by mail.
- In-Branch Application:
- Pros: Personalized assistance. You can speak directly with a banking representative, ask questions, and get immediate help with any concerns. You might even walk out with a temporary debit card.
- Cons: Requires a trip to a physical location during business hours.
Decide which method suits your preference and schedule. For this guide, we'll cover both!
Step 3: Gathering Your Essential Documents and Information
Regardless of how you apply, you'll need to have certain information and documents ready. Having these prepared before you start will make the process much smoother.
3.1 Personal Information You'll Need:
- Full Legal Name: As it appears on your government-issued ID.
- Date of Birth: To confirm you meet the age requirement.
- Social Security Number (SSN) or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN): This is a federal requirement for identification.
- Current Residential Address: And potentially your address history for the past two years.
- Contact Information: Phone number and email address.
- Employment and Income Information: This helps the bank understand your financial profile.
3.2 Required Documents:
- Government-Issued Photo Identification: This is crucial for verifying your identity. Acceptable forms typically include:
- Driver's License
- State-Issued ID Card
- U.S. Passport
- U.S. Military ID
- Tribal ID (check with Truist for acceptance)
- Proof of Address: Even if your ID has your address, sometimes an additional document is required to verify your current residence. Examples include:
- Recent Utility Bill (electricity, water, gas, internet)
- Lease Agreement or Mortgage Statement
- Current Credit Card Statement
- Cell Phone Bill
- Initial Deposit Funds: Truist One Checking typically requires a minimum opening deposit of $50. Have this amount ready, whether in cash, check, or funds from another account for transfer.
Pro Tip: If you're applying with a joint owner, they will also need to provide their full name, last 4 digits of their SSN, and email address.
Step 4: The Application Process – Online Walkthrough
If you've opted for the convenience of online application, here's how to proceed:
4.1 Navigating to the Truist Website:
- Go to the official Truist website: truist.com.
- Look for a section related to "Open an Account" or "Checking Accounts." You'll often find prominent buttons or links for this.
4.2 Selecting Your Checking Account:
- Browse the available checking account options. The Truist One Checking account is a popular choice, offering no overdraft fees and various ways to waive the monthly maintenance fee.
- Click "Open Account" or "Apply Now" next to your chosen account.
4.3 Filling Out the Online Application Form:
- The online application will guide you through a series of screens. Take your time and accurately input all the required information.
- Personal Details: Enter your name, date of birth, SSN, and contact information.
- Address History: Provide your current address and any previous addresses as requested.
- Employment & Income: Fill in details about your employment status and income.
- Security Questions: You may be asked to set up security questions for future account access.
- Review and Consent: Carefully review all the information you've entered. You'll need to read and agree to the terms and conditions, privacy policy, and other disclosures. Make sure you understand the fees associated with the account, especially the monthly maintenance fee and how to waive it.
4.4 Funding Your New Account:
- During the online application, you'll be prompted to make your initial deposit. You can typically do this by:
- Transferring funds from an existing Truist account.
- Transferring funds from an external bank account. (This might require linking the external account, which could involve micro-deposits for verification).
- Using a debit card from another financial institution.
4.5 Submitting Your Application:
- Once all sections are complete and you've reviewed everything, click "Submit."
- You'll likely receive an immediate confirmation that your application has been received. Keep a record of any confirmation numbers.
4.6 What Happens Next Online:
- Truist will review your application. This usually happens quickly.
- You may receive an email confirmation with details about your new account.
- Your debit card and checks will be mailed to your address, typically arriving within 7-10 business days.
- You can often begin setting up online and mobile banking immediately after approval, even before your physical card arrives.
Step 5: The Application Process – In-Branch Walkthrough
If you prefer a face-to-face experience, here's how to open your Truist checking account at a branch:
5.1 Finding a Truist Branch:
- Visit
truist.com/locations - Consider using the Truist Branch Scheduler to book an appointment in advance, which can save you waiting time.
5.2 What to Bring to the Branch:
- All your required documents: Your government-issued photo ID, proof of address, and your Social Security card/ITIN.
- Your initial deposit funds: Cash, check, or information for an electronic transfer.
5.3 At the Branch:
- Inform the greeter or a bank representative that you'd like to open a new checking account.
- A banking specialist will sit down with you to discuss your banking needs and help you choose the most suitable checking account. Don't hesitate to ask questions about features, fees, and benefits, especially concerning the Truist One Checking account's Balance Buffer or overdraft protection options.
- Provide your documents for verification. The specialist will make copies.
- You'll complete and sign the necessary application forms.
- Make your initial deposit.
5.4 Receiving Your Debit Card:
- In many cases, when opening an account in-branch, you might receive a temporary debit card on the spot, allowing you to start making purchases immediately. Your personalized card will be mailed to you later.
Step 6: Setting Up Your New Account for Success
Congratulations! You've officially opened your Truist checking account. Now, let's get it fully operational.
6.1 Activating Your Debit Card:
- Once your physical debit card arrives (or if you receive a temporary one), follow the instructions to activate it. This usually involves a phone call or an activation through the Truist online banking portal.
6.2 Enrolling in Online and Mobile Banking:
- This is crucial for convenient account management.
- Download the Truist Mobile App from your device's app store.
- Go to truist.com and look for "Enroll in Online Banking" or "First-time sign in."
- You'll typically need your new account number or debit card number to register.
- Create a User ID and password.
- Set up biometric sign-in (Face ID/fingerprint) on your mobile app for quick and secure access.
6.3 Setting Up Direct Deposit (Optional, but Recommended):
- If you receive a paycheck, setting up direct deposit is highly recommended. It often helps waive monthly maintenance fees for certain accounts like Truist One Checking ($500 or more in total qualifying direct deposits per statement cycle).
- You'll need your Truist routing number and account number. You can find these on your checks, within your online banking portal, or by asking a Truist representative.
- Provide this information to your employer's HR or payroll department.
6.4 Linking External Accounts (If Applicable):
- If you have accounts at other financial institutions, you can link them within Truist online or mobile banking for easy transfers.
6.5 Setting Up Bill Pay and Alerts:
- Utilize Truist's online bill pay service to schedule recurring payments for your bills.
- Set up alerts for low balances, large transactions, or direct deposit notifications to stay on top of your finances.
Step 7: Managing Your Truist Checking Account
Now that your account is open and set up, here's how to make the most of it:
7.1 Understanding Fees and Waivers:
- Monthly Maintenance Fee: Be aware of your account's monthly maintenance fee (for Truist One Checking, it's typically $12) and actively work to waive it. Common waiver methods for Truist One Checking include:
- Making $500 or more in total qualifying direct deposits per statement cycle.
- Maintaining a total combined ledger balance of $500 or more across all eligible Truist personal deposit and investment accounts.
- Having a personal Truist credit card, mortgage, or consumer loan.
- Having a linked Small Business Checking Account.
- Being a student.
- Being under the age of 25 or age 62 and older.
- Other Fees: Familiarize yourself with potential fees such as ATM fees (Truist One Checking offers various levels of non-Truist ATM fee waivers based on your balance level), returned item fees, or stop payment fees.
7.2 Utilizing Digital Tools:
- Truist Mobile App: Deposit checks remotely, transfer money, pay bills, and manage your debit card.
- Online Banking: Access detailed transaction history, statements, and financial planning tools.
7.3 Monitoring Your Balance and Transactions:
- Regularly check your account balance to avoid overdrafts. Truist One Checking offers a Balance Buffer for eligible clients, allowing you to overdraw your account up to $100 without a fee.
By following these steps, you'll be well on your way to effectively managing your finances with your new Truist checking account!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Here are 10 common questions about opening a Truist checking account, along with quick answers:
How to check my eligibility for a Truist checking account?
Generally, you need to be at least 18 years old, a U.S. citizen or resident alien, and have a valid Social Security Number (SSN) or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN). You can also check specific account requirements on the Truist website.
How to apply for a Truist checking account online?
Visit truist.com, select "Open an Account," choose your desired checking account (e.g., Truist One Checking), and follow the prompts to fill out the online application form with your personal and financial information.
How to find a Truist branch near me?
Go to
How to make the initial deposit for a Truist checking account?
You can typically make the initial deposit online by transferring from another Truist or external account, or by using a debit card. In-branch, you can deposit cash, a check, or transfer funds. The minimum opening deposit for Truist One Checking is $50.
How to activate my Truist debit card?
Once you receive your debit card, follow the activation instructions provided with the card, which usually involve a phone call to an automated system or activation through your Truist online banking portal.
How to set up online banking for my new Truist account?
Download the Truist Mobile App or visit truist.com and look for "Enroll in Online Banking." You'll need your account number or debit card number to register and create your User ID and password.
How to avoid monthly maintenance fees on a Truist checking account?
For Truist One Checking, you can waive the $12 monthly fee by making $500 or more in qualifying direct deposits, maintaining a $500 combined ledger balance across eligible Truist accounts, having a personal Truist credit card/loan, having a linked Small Business Checking Account, or being a student/under 25/over 62.
How to set up direct deposit with Truist?
Obtain your Truist routing number and account number (from checks, online banking, or a branch). Provide this information to your employer's payroll department to set up direct deposit.
How to add a joint owner to my Truist checking account?
After opening your individual account, you can typically add a joint owner by providing their full name, last 4 digits of their SSN, and email address, either online or at a Truist branch.
How to contact Truist customer service for new accounts?
You can call Truist customer service at 844-4TRUIST (844-487-8478) for general account information, including new accounts. You can also find contact information for specific services on
