This website uses cookies to improve your experience. We'll assume you're ok with this, but you can opt-out if you wish. Read More
Opening US Bank account for US citizen while abroad
I am an American citizen with a social security number, but I’m currently living abroad and am not planning on visiting any time soon, and I don’t have any state-issued ID. Is there a bank that will allow me to open up an account online without proving a residential address in the US? I have relatives in the US that I can use their address to receive bank-related mail.
I know this is similar to Can I open a US bank account even if I don't live in the country?, but not exactly the same.
I opened a Discover Bank account (same company that provides Discover credit card) before I left the US. And it was all online. I did not have to meet anyone in person.
Also PRO TIP: Use Skype to make 1-800 phone calls on Wifi for free while abroad! You can call and talk to your bank for free.
You will have two problems, in my experience:
The best way to solve this problem is to open your account on your next trip to the US and get statements mailed to your relatives; that shouldn’t be a problem to do with a passport.
You should be able to get a state-issued ID from the same place that offers drivers’ licenses pretty quickly (see here for New York State)
Since you said you’re not planning a trip to the US, it may be trickier. There is one American bank I know of which has a service for expatriates that has an office in Tel Aviv (Citibank) and they might be able to help you open an account.