Opening a checking account online has never been easier! Thanks to fast applications and user-friendly websites, opening a new bank account can take just a couple of minutes. Save yourself a trip to the bank and open a new checking account online today. 

Forget about heading out to your local branch and filling out pages of paper. With online banking, you can open up your new checking account online in just a few minutes! Not only is online banking convenient, but many online banks also offer highly competitive rates and generous sign-up bonuses! Keep reading to learn how to open a new checking account online today. 

Consider Your Banking Needs

The first step in opening a new checking account online is to find the best online checking account for your needs. Before beginning your research, some important questions to ask yourself are:

• What is your new account's purpose?
• How do you intend to use your new account? 
• Do you want to open an account with a bank or credit union?
• Do you want an overdraft option?
• Are you willing to pay fees?
• Will it be a single or joint account?

Determining the answer to these questions can help you narrow down your online checking account options—and streamline the process of opening your new account. No matter what type of account you want, it's important to ensure that the ones you consider are FDIC insured. The Federal Deposit Insurance Corp makes sure that your money is protected in the event of bank failures. If you opt for an account at a credit union, your funds should be protected by the National Credit Union Administration. 

Find the Best Online Checking Account

Many banks and financial institutions offer sign-up bonuses for new account customers. A simple search online can help you find the best checking account for your needs — with a sign-up bonus!

Here are just a few cash bonuses banks are offering new checking customers in 2022:

• Up to $300 bonus offer with SoFi Checking - New customers who open a SoFi Checking account and make direct deposits of $5000 or more within 30 days, can earn a $300 bonus.
• Up to $1500 bonus offer with Citi Checking - Open a Citi checking account and make a minimum deposit of $200,000 within 20 days and maintain that balance for 60 days to earn a $1500 bonus.
• $200 bonus offer with Chase Open Checking - Open a Chase Total Checking account online through the promotional page and receive an offer coupon. To be eligible for the bonus, you must make a qualifying direct deposit within 90 days, and your account must remain open for six months.
• Up to $150 bonus offer with Axos Rewards Checking - New customers who apply for an Axos Rewards Checking account online and make direct deposits of at least $1,500 within one calendar can earn a $150 bonus. To be eligible, customers must apply via the offer page and use the promo code: MAY150.

Have Your Personal Documents and Information At Hand

To open up a new bank online, you'll need certain documentation. This documentation is also required for any person who you will be adding as a joint account owner. For a quick and straightforward application, make sure you have the following to hand:

• A note of your personal details such as name, date of birth, address, and preferred contact information. 
• Your social security number
• Government-issued ID such as a valid driver's license
• Routing and account numbers for an existing bank account or debit card information (if your new account requires an initial deposit)

Before you apply for an online checking account, you should ensure that you have a secure home internet connection. In some instances, you may also be required to fax or email copies of your documents, such as a copy of your driver's license, to help verify your identity. In addition, if you cannot create an electronic sign, you may be required to sign and mail in a signature card for verification. 

Fund Your New Online Checking Account

When you open a new online checking account, you're typically required to make an initial deposit. This is especially true if your new account offers a sign-up bonus. The easiest way to make a deposit is to transfer funds from an existing account. Be sure to confirm the minimum balance of your new account before initiating any transfer. 

Online checking accounts are a convenient and hassle-free way to access your money and take care of your financial obligations. If you're thinking about opening up a new checking account, start your search online today.