Guide: How to Open a Checking Account

A checking account is your gateway to managing money with ease in today’s fast-paced world. Without one, you might miss out on everyday conveniences like direct deposit for paychecks, a safe place to store your funds, easy access to cash at ATMs or nearby financial centers, the convenience of debit cards, a historical log of your transactions, and more.

But how do you get a checking account?

Opening a checking account is easier than you might expect, and we’re here to guide you every step of the way. Even if you’re worried about past banking challenges, our Hancock Whitney professionals are ready to help you find the right banking solution. And if you’ve never had a checking account before, you’re in the perfect spot to start.

Let’s walk through the process of opening an account.

What You’ll Need to Open a Checking Account

To open a checking account, you’ll first need to gather some documentation. Most of the required documentation is necessary to verify your identity and home address. Here’s what you’ll need to have ready:

• Government-Issued Photo ID: This will generally need to be a US passport, US military ID, state-issued drivers license, or state-issued ID.
• Social Security Number (SSN) or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN): You’ll need your taxpayer identification number. If you’re a US citizen, you’ll need your SSN. Non-US citizens will need an ITIN.
• Proof of Address: Essentially, you need documentation that proves you live at your address and can accept mail there. Common examples are utility bills or a copy of your rental lease or mortgage statement.
• Initial Deposit: Some accounts require a minimum deposit to open. You’ll want cash or a check made out to you in the proper amount, all ready to deposit into the account.

Note that if you’re opening a joint checking account, both account holders will need to provide these documents.
Also, if you’re a minor under the age of 18, a parent or guardian will need to be listed on the account, as well.

Choosing a Checking Account

Once you have everything you need to apply for a checking account, it’s time to select the account you want to open. Most banks and credit unions have more than one type of checking account available, all with different features and benefits.
Here’s what to consider when making your choice:

• Amount of opening deposit
• Monthly fees or services charges, and whether they can be waived
• Overdraft consideration options
• If the account charges non-sufficient funds (NSF) fees
• Option to link a savings account to prevent overdrafts
• Fraud monitoring and other security features
• Access to ATMs
• Interest-earning potential (often available with premium accounts)

For example, at Hancock Whitney, we offer three checking accounts designed to match your needs, each packed with benefits to make banking easier and more rewarding:

• Assure Checking is perfect for beginners. This account is simple and stress-free with no overdraft or NSF fees. Plus, monthly service charges are waived if the primary account holder is under 18, making it ideal for young account holders.
• Freestyle Checking is our most popular checking account. It provides opt-in overdraft consideration and monthly service charges are waived with normal banking activity. It’s designed for convenience and flexibility, so you can bank on your terms.
• Priority Checking is our premium, interest-bearing account with exclusive perks like rebated ATM fees and enhanced customer service, giving you more value and control over your finances.

All Hancock Whitney checking accounts offer robust fraud monitoring, security features, and full access to our extensive ATM network, so you can bank with confidence wherever you are.

Setting Up Your Checking Account

Once your account is open, it’s time to make it work for you. Setting up your checking account is quick and puts you in control of your finances. It’s often best to start with online banking for easy access:

• On a computer: Visit the Hancock Whitney website to register for online banking and manage your account from anywhere.
• On a mobile device: Download the Hancock Whitney app and register your account to check balances, transfer funds, or pay bills on the go.

Other ways to get the most out of your new checking account include:

• Set up your mobile wallet: Link your debit card for fast, secure payments at stores or online.
• Connect to P2P apps: Add your account or debit card to peer-to-peer payment apps like Zelle for easy money transfers to friends or family.
• Arrange direct deposit: Work with your employer to have your paychecks automatically deposited, so your money is ready to use on payday—no extra steps needed.

The Right Checking Account for You

Ready to take charge of your finances with a Hancock Whitney checking account? The fastest way to get started is to apply online. Prefer a personal touch? Visit one of our financial centers or contact a Hancock Whitney professional to discuss your options.

With Hancock Whitney, you’re not just opening a checking account—you’re gaining peace of mind, flexibility, and tools to make your financial life easier. Let’s get started today!