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Many banks require you to bring a US ID, social security number (SSN), and more to open an account.
However, there are banks that let you use alternative forms of ID to open an account if you’re not a US citizen.
Juntos Avanzamos designated credit unions provide services for immigrants and non-US citizens.
When you open a bank account, financial institutions require several forms of identification to verify your identity. Many banks and credit unions will ask for at least a government-issued ID, social security number, and home address. Some banks may have stricter documentation requirements.
If you’re not a US citizen, you may not have an SSN or the required IDs needed to open an account at many places. But you do have options. Below, you’ll find over 25 banks and credit unions throughout the US that accept documents such as foreign IDs if you’re not a US citizen.
See Insider’s best national banks>>
Banks and credit unions that accept alternative forms of ID
New accounts have monthly fee waived for the first 6 months
Multiple ways to waive monthly fee after the first 6 months
No excess withdrawal fee if your balance is at least $20,000, or if you’re a Preferred Rewards customer
Cons
Low APY
Compounds interest monthly, not daily
$100 opening deposit
$8 monthly service fee
$10 excess withdrawal fee
Highlights
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Access to over 3,900 branches and 15,000 ATMs
Earn slightly higher rates by becoming a Preferred Rewards customer and qualifying for the Gold, Platinum, or Platinum Honors tier
Earn cash back when you make a debit card or credit card purchase through the BankAmeriDeals® program; Cardholders will automatically be enrolled in the program when setting up online banking and a list of eligible offers and deals will be available through online banking
Waive $8 monthly service fee by maintaining $500 balance, OR linking to your Bank of America Advantage Relationship Banking® account, OR by becoming a Preferred Rewards customer
Waive monthly fee if you’re a student under age 25
Waive monthly fee if an account holder is under age 18
Interest compounded monthly and paid monthly
FDIC insured
Additional Reading
Read our review
Branch locations: Over 3,900 branches throughout the US
Alternative identification forms you can use: You need to have two forms of ID with photos. For your primary ID, you can use a Canadian Citizenship Certificate Card, Foreign passport, Mexican Consular ID, Dominican Republic Consular ID, Colombian Consular ID, or Guatemalan Consular ID.
For your secondary ID, you can use any of the primary IDs mentioned — or a credit card from a major financial institution or retail company, debit card from a financial institution, foreign driver’s license, Mexican Voter Registration Card, U.S. Department of State Diplomat ID, or U.S. issued employment ID.
Waive $5 monthly service fee by maintaining a $300 daily balance, OR setting up automatic savings options, OR be under age 24 and the primary account owner OR transferring $25 or more from a linked Wells Fargo checking account, or have 1 automatic transfer each business day within the fee period of $1 or more from a linked Wells Fargo checking account
Save As You Go® transfers $1 into your Way2Save Savings Account from checking each time you swipe your debit card
Interest compounded daily, paid monthly
FDIC insured
Branch locations: Over 4,900 branch locations throughout the US
Alternative identification forms you can use: You’ll need two forms of ID. Any of the following can be used: a permanent resident card, foreign visa, foreign passport, or Individual Taxpayer Identification (ITIN) number.
No fee overdraft protection transfers from a linked deposit account
$50 overdrawn Available Balance safety threshold and Overdraft Fee Forgiven program
May enroll in U.S. Bank Smart Rewards if you meet certain requirements
Cons
$6.95 monthly service fee
$2.50 out-of-network ATM fee
$36 overdraft fee
$12.50 overdraft protection transfer fee for transfers over $50 made from a linked credit account
Highlights
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Earn up to $1,000 when you open a new U.S. Bank Smartly® Checking account and a Standard Savings account and complete qualifying activities. Subject to certain terms and limitations. Offer valid through September 6, 2023. Member FDIC.
Applicant must reside in AZ, AR, CA, CO, ID, IL, IN, IA, KS, KY, MN, MO, MT, NE, NV, NM, NC, ND, OH, OR, SD, TN, UT, WA, WI, WY to be eligible for Checking account.
Additional Reading
Read our review
Branch locations: Over 2,000 locations throughout the US
Alternative identification forms you can use: U.S. Bank locations allow you to use a Mexican Matricula Consular as a primary ID to open a bank account.
On Santander Bank’s site. Santander Bank, FDIC Insured
Santander® Bank, N.A. Savings Account
Start saving
On Santander Bank’s site. Santander Bank, FDIC Insured
Details
Fees
$1
Annual Percentage Yield (APY)
0.03%
Minimum Deposit Amount
$25
Editor’s Rating
3.75/5
3.75 out of
5 Stars
Pros & Cons
Pros
Low $1 monthly service fee
Easy to waive monthly service fee
Cons
Low APY
$25 opening deposit
$3 out-of-network ATM fee
Highlights
More Information
Access to over 473 branches and 2,000 ATMs in the Northeast
Waive $1 monthly service fee by opening a Santander checking account or by maintaining a $100 balance in your savings account
Member FDIC
Branch locations: 473 branches in the Northeast
Alternative identification forms you can use: If you aren’t a US citizen, you’ll need to have an SSN, ITIN, passport number, permanent resident card, or government-issued ID. You’ll also need to bring with you three forms of ID.
For a primary ID, you can use a foreign passport, Mexican Matricula card, or Guatemalan Consular ID. For your secondary ID, you’ll need any two of the following: employee ID, vehicle registration, birth certificate, medical insurance card, university or school ID, lease agreement, deed, utility bill, debit or ATM card, credit card from a major financial institution, any Matricula ID, any Consular ID, or government visa. For any US IDs, you can view a checklist here.
Over 1,087 branches in 11 states in the Southeast and Midwest
Avoid the $5 monthly service fee by having a Fifth Third checking account (excluding Fifth Third Express Banking), OR maintaining at least $500 in your account monthly, OR enrolling in Fifth Third Military Banking
Interest compounded daily, deposited monthly
Member FDIC
Additional Reading
Read our review
Branch locations: 1,087 branches in 11 US states in the Southeast and Midwest
Alternative identification forms you can use: At Fifth Third Bank you can use a Mexican Matricula card as a form of identification.
Over 50,000 free ATMs through the KeyBank and Allpoint ATM networks
Avoid the $4 monthly service fee if you have a Key Bank checking account
Interest compounded daily, deposited monthly
Member FDIC
Additional Reading
Read our review
Branch and ATM locations: Over 1,000 branches in 16 US states
Alternative identification forms you can use: At KeyBank, you can use a foreign passport, Canadian driver’s license, Mexican driver’s license, Mexican Matricula card, or permanent resident card as your primary form of ID.
Only 3 withdrawals with a teller and 3 withdrawals at an ATM each month
No interest earned if your balance is under $100
Dividends only compound quarterly
$15 minimum balance, otherwise your account goes into overdraft
Highlights
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Black-owned credit union
You only need to pay a $10 membership fee to join Hope Credit Union
28 branches and ATMs in AL, AR, LA, MS, and TN
Use over 5,000 branches and 30,000 ATMs in the CO-OP Shared Branching Network
Must maintain $100 balance to earn interest; 0.25% APY on balances up to $100k, 0.10% APY on balances over $100k
Interest compounded quarterly
Federally insured by the NCUA
Additional Reading
Read our review
Branch and ATM locations: 28 branches in Alabama, Arkansas, Louisiana, Missouri, and Tennessee
Alternative identification forms you can use: As a Juntos Avanzamos designated credit union, you can open an account even if you don’t have a social security number. You’ll need to provide an ITIN number and home address to open an account.
Credit union that serves a Hispanic American community
5 branches in San Antonio, Texas, plus part of the CO-Op Shared network branches
You can join if you live, work, or go to school in Bexar County
Minimum of $5 needed in account to earn interest
Interest earned and deposited monthly
Federally insured by the NCUA
Additional Reading
Read our review
Branch locations: 5 branches in San Antonio, Texas
Alternative identification forms you can use: As a Juntos Avanzamos designated credit union, you can open an account even if you don’t have a social security number. You can use a permanent resident card or another government-issued ID.
See Insider’s River City Federal Credit Union Review>>
Minimum of $100 needed in your account to earn APY
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Hispanic American-owned credit union
7 branches in New Mexico (Santa Fe, Espanola, Mora, Taos)
You or a family member need to be a resident or work in Santa Fe, Rio Arriba, Taos, Torrance, San Miguel, Colfax, or Mora County to become a member
Must maintain $100 in your account to earn 0.10% APY
Interest compounded and deposited quarterly
Federally insured by the NCUA
Additional Reading
Read our review
Branch locations: 7 branches in New Mexico (Santa Fe, Espanola, Mora, Taos)
Alternative identification forms you can use: As a Juntos Avanzamos designated credit union, you can open an account even if you don’t have a social security number. You can use a permanent resident card or another government-issued ID.
See Insider’s Guadalupe Credit Union Review>>
1o. Tucoemas Credit Union
Tucoemas Federal Credit Union Regular Share Savings Account
3.5/5
Annual Percentage Yield (APY)
0.20%
Minimum Deposit Amount
$5
Start saving
Tucoemas Federal Credit Union Regular Share Savings Account
Tucoemas Federal Credit Union Regular Share Savings Account
Start saving
On Tucoemas Federal Credit Union’s website
Details
Annual Percentage Yield (APY)
0.20%
Minimum Deposit Amount
$5
Editor’s Rating
3.5/5
3.5 out of
5 Stars
Pros & Cons
Pros
$25 minimum opening deposit
No monthly service fees
Cons
Low APY
Need $250 in account to earn APY
Interest compounded monthly, not daily
Highlights
More Information
Credit union that serves a Hispanic American and Black community
5 branch locations in California (Visalia, Tulare, Porterville)
You need to be a resident, work in, or have family in Tulare County, California to join Tuceomas Federal Credit Union
Minimum $250 needed in account daily to earn APY
Interest compounded and deposited monthly
Federally insured by the NCUA
Branch and ATM locations: 5 branch locations in California (Visalia, Tulare, Porterville)
Alternative identification forms you can use: As a Juntos Avanzamos designated credit union, you can open an account even if you don’t have a social security number. You can use a permanent resident card, foreign passport, or Matricula Consular as a photo ID. Plus, you’ll need to provide an ITIN number and home address to open an account.
Need a minimum of $50 in your account daily to earn interest
Interest compounds monthly, not daily
Highlights
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Credit union that serves a Hispanic American, Native American, and Black community
3 branches in Miami, Florida, 1 branch in Puerto Rico
Use over 5,000 branches and 30,000 ATMs in the CO-OP Shared Branching Network
You only need to pay a $5 membership fee to join Hope Credit Union
Minimum of $50 needed in account daily to earn interest
Interest compounded and deposited monthly
Federally insured by the NCUA
Branch locations: 3 branches near Miami, Florida, 1 branch in Puerto Rico
Alternative identification forms you can use: As a Juntos Avanzamos designated credit union, you can open an account even if you don’t have a social security number. You can use a permanent resident card, foreign passport, or Matricula Consular as a photo ID. Plus, you’ll need to provide an ITIN number and home address to open an account.
12. North Jersey Federal Credit Union
North Jersey Federal Credit Union Share Savings Account
3.75/5
Annual Percentage Yield (APY)
0.01%
Minimum Deposit Amount
$50
Start saving
North Jersey Federal Credit Union Share Savings Account
North Jersey Federal Credit Union Share Savings Account
Start saving
On North Jersey Federal Credit Union’s website
Details
Annual Percentage Yield (APY)
0.01%
Minimum Deposit Amount
$50
Editor’s Rating
3.75/5
3.75 out of
5 Stars
Pros & Cons
Pros
$5 minimum opening deposit
Easy to waive the maintenance fee
Cons
Low APY
Must meet qualifications for membership
$5 maintenance fee per quarter if you don’t have at least $5 in your account
Interest compounded monthly, not daily
Highlights
More Information
Credit union that serves a Hispanic American, Asian American and Black community
3 branches in New Jersey (Totowa, Newark, Elmwood Park)
To become a member, you must live, work, or have family members who are a part of Bergen, Essex, Hudson, Middlesex, Morris, Passaic, and Union Counties
$5 monthly maintenance fee if the account doesn’t have a minimum of $5 per quarter
Interest compounded and deposited monthly
Federally insured by the NCUA
Branch and ATM locations: 3 branches in New Jersey (Totowa, Newark, Elmwood Park)
Alternative identification forms you can use: As a Juntos Avanzamos designated credit union, you can open an account even if you don’t have a social security number. You can use a permanent resident card, foreign passport, foreign driver’s license, or Matricula Consular as a photo ID. Plus, you’ll need to provide an ITIN number and proof of address.
Must have an average daily balance of at least $25 to earn APY
Interest compounded monthly, not daily
Low APY
Highlights
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Hispanic American-owned credit union
7 branches in New Mexico (Albuquerque, Rio Rancho)
To qualify for membership, you need to live, work, volunteer, or go to school in Bernalillo County of Sandoval County
Tiered interest rate: Earn 0.10% APY if you have $25 to $999.99 in your account; Earn 0.15% APY if you have $1,000 or more in your account
Interest compounded and deposited monthly
Federally insured by the NCUA
Branch and ATM locations: 7 branches in New Mexico (Albuquerque, Rio Rancho)
Alternative identification forms you can use: As a Juntos Avanzamos designated credit union, you can open an account even if you don’t have a social security number. You can provide an ITIN number and proof of address.
Credit union that serves a Hispanic American, Asian American, and Black community
3 branches in New York (Bushwick, Bedford-Stuyvesant)
To become a member, you need to work in or have a family member that lives in Bushwick or Bedford-Stuyvesant, and pay a $25 membership fee
Interest compounded and deposited monthly
Federally insured by the NCUA
Branch and ATM locations: 3 branches in New York (Brooklyn, Bushwick, Bedford-Stuyvesant)
Alternative identification forms you can use: As a Juntos Avanzamos designated credit union, you can open an account even if you don’t have a social security number. You can use a permanent resident card, foreign passport, or Matricula Consular as a photo ID. Plus, you’ll need to provide an ITIN number and proof of address.
15. Border Federal Credit Union
Border Federal Credit Union Regular Savings Account
3.5/5
Annual Percentage Yield (APY)
0.00% to 0.10%
Minimum Deposit Amount
$25
Fees
no monthly service fee
Start saving
Border Federal Credit Union Regular Savings Account
Border Federal Credit Union Regular Savings Account
Start saving
On Border Federal Credit Union’s website
Details
Fees
no monthly service fee
Annual Percentage Yield (APY)
0.00% to 0.10%
Minimum Deposit Amount
$25
Editor’s Rating
3.5/5
3.5 out of
5 Stars
Pros & Cons
Pros
$25 minimum opening deposit
No monthly service fee
Cons
$500 needed in account to earn APY
Low APY compared to online banks
Highlights
More Information
Hispanic American-led credit union
5 branches in Texas (Del Rio, Eagle Pass, Crystal City)
To be a member, you or a family member must work, live, or go to school in Crockett, Dimmit, Edwards, Frio, Kinney, LaSalle, Maverick, Real, Sutton, Terrell, Uvalde, Val Verde, or Zavala county
Must maintain a minimum daily balance of $500 to earn interest
Interest compounded daily, deposited monthly
Federally insured by the NCUA
Additional Reading
Read our review
Branch and ATM locations: 5 branches in Texas (Del Rio, Eagle Pass, Crystal City)
Alternative identification forms you can use: As a Juntos Avanzamos designated credit union, you can open an account even if you don’t have a social security number. You can use a permanent resident card or another government-issued ID.
See Insider’s Border Federal Credit Union Review>>
To become a member, you or a family member need to live in Borden County, Dawson County, Lynn County, Gaines County, or Garza County
Tiered interest rate: Earn 0.02% APY if you maintain up to $4,999.99 in your account; Earn up to 0.05% APY if you maintain $5,000 to $9,999.99 in your account; Earn 0.06% APY if you maintain $10,000 to $24,999.99 in your account; Earn 0.07% APY if you maintain $25,000 to $49,999.99 in your account; Earn 0.08% APY if you maintain $50,000 to $99,999.99 in your account; Earn 0.09% APy for $100,000 or more in your account
Interest compounded and deposited monthly
Federally insured by the NCUA
Branch and ATM locations: 2 branches in Texas ( Lamesa, Seminole)
Alternative identification forms you can use: As a Juntos Avanzamos designated credit union, you can use a permanent resident card, foreign passport, or Matricula Consular as a photo ID. Plus, you’ll need to provide an ITIN number and proof of address.
17. Coastal Community Federal Credit Union
Coastal Community Federal Credit Special Savings Account Union
3.75/5
Annual Percentage Yield (APY)
0.05%
Minimum Deposit Amount
$100
Start saving
Coastal Community Federal Credit Special Savings Account Union
On Coastal Community Federal Credit Union’s website
Coastal Community Federal Credit Special Savings Account Union
Start saving
On Coastal Community Federal Credit Union’s website
Details
Annual Percentage Yield (APY)
0.05%
Minimum Deposit Amount
$100
Editor’s Rating
3.75/5
3.75 out of
5 Stars
Pros & Cons
Pros
No monthly service fee
Cons
$100 minimum opening deposit
Interest compounded quarterly, not daily
Highlights
More Information
Credit union that serves a Hispanic American and Black community
1 main branch in Galveston, Texas
To become a member, you need to live in or work in Galveston County
Interest compounded and deposited quarterly
Federally insured by the NCUA
Branch and ATM locations: 1 main branch in Galveston, Texas
Alternative identification forms you can use: As a Juntos Avanzamos designated credit union, you can use a permanent resident card, foreign passport, or Matricula Consular as a photo ID. Plus, you’ll need to provide an ITIN number and proof of address.
Credit union that serves a Hispanic American and Asian American community
11 branches in El Paso, Texas and Las Cruces, New Mexico
To become a member, you or a family member need to live, work, or go to school in El Paso County or Dona Ana County; you’re also eligible if you are a military member at Fort Bliss
To earn interest, you need to have $100 in your account daily
Interest compounded daily, deposited monthly
Federally Insured by the NCUA
Branch and ATM locations: 11 branches in El Paso, Texas, and Las Cruces, New Mexico
Alternative identification forms you can use: As a Juntos Avanzamos designated credit union, you can use a permanent resident card, foreign passport, or Matricula Consular as a photo ID. Plus, you’ll need to provide an ITIN number and proof of address.
Only 4 free transactions per month, then $3 per transaction
Highlights
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Credit union that serves a Hispanic American community
27 locations in El Paso, Texas, and part of the CO-OP Shared network
To become a member, you or a family member need to work or live in El Paso County, Dona Ana County, or Hudspeth County
To earn APY, you need to maintain $100 in your account daily
Interest compounded and deposited quarterly
Federally insured by the NCUA
Additional Reading
Read our review
Branch locations: 27 locations in El Paso, Texas, and part of the Co-Op Shared network
Alternative identification forms you can use: As a Juntos Avanzamos designated credit union, you can open an account even if you don’t have a social security number. You can use a permanent resident card, foreign passport, or Matricula Consular as a photo ID. Plus, you’ll need to provide an ITIN number and proof of address.
See Insider’s GECU Review>>
20. Generations Federal Credit Union
Generations Federal Credit Union Share Savings Account
4/5
Annual Percentage Yield (APY)
0.10%
Minimum Deposit Amount
$5
Start saving
Generations Federal Credit Union Share Savings Account
Generations Federal Credit Union Share Savings Account
Start saving
On Generations Federal Credit Union’s website
Details
Annual Percentage Yield (APY)
0.10%
Minimum Deposit Amount
$5
Editor’s Rating
4/5
4 out of
5 Stars
Pros & Cons
Pros
$5 minimum opening deposit
No monthly service fees
Cons
Low APY compared to online banks
Interest compounded quarterly, not daily
Highlights
More Information
Credit union that serves an Asian American, Black, and Hispanic American community
6 branches in San Antonio, Texas and is part of the Co-Op Shared network
To become a member, you or a family member need to live or work in Atascosa, Bandera, Bexar, Comal, Guadalupe, Kendall, Medina, or Wilson County
Interest compounded and deposited quarterly
Federally insured by the NCUA
Branch and ATM locations: 6 branches in San Antonio, Texas and is part of the Co-Op Shared network
Alternative identification forms you can use: As a Juntos Avanzamos designated credit union, you can use a permanent resident card, foreign passport, or Matricula Consular as a photo ID. Plus, you’ll need to provide an ITIN number and proof of address.
Need a minimum of $250 in account daily to earn APY
Need a minimum of $25 in account daily to keep membership open
Low APY compared to online banks
Highlights
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Credit union that serves an Asian American, Black, and Hispanic American community
13 branches in Texas (Carrollton, Cedar Hill, Dallas, Irving, Houston, Mesquite, Garland, Spring) and part of the CO-Op Shared network
To become a member, you or a family member need to live in Dallas County, Houston County, or nearby the Carrollton branch; You are also eligible if your workplace is a Resource One Select Employee Group
Need to maintain $250 in your account daily to earn APY
Interest compounded daily, deposited quarterly
Federally insured by the NCUA
Branch and ATM locations: 13 branches in Texas (Carrollton, Cedar Hill, Dallas, Irving, Houston, Mesquite, Dallas, Garland, and Road Spring) and part of the CO-Op Shared network.
Alternative identification forms you can use: As a Juntos Avanzamos designated credit union, you can open an account even if you don’t have a social security number. You can use a permanent resident card, foreign passport, or Matricula Consular as a photo ID. Plus, you’ll need to provide an ITIN number and proof of address.
Need at least $100 in your account daily to earn APY
Highlights
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Credit union that serves a Native American and Hispanic American community
1 branch in McGregor, Texas
To become a member, you need to live or work in McGregor, Texas
Need at least $100 to earn APY
Interest compounded and deposited quarterly
Federally insured by the NCUA
Branch and ATM locations: 1 branch in McGregor, Texas
Alternative identification forms you can use: As a Juntos Avanzamos designated credit union, you can use a permanent resident card, foreign passport, or Matricula Consular as a photo ID. Plus, you’ll need to provide an ITIN number and proof of address.
Need to maintain at least $100 in your account daily to earn APY
Interest compounds monthly, not daily
Highlights
More Information
Credit union that serves a Hispanic American community
9 branches in Texas (Brownsville, Edinburg, Harlingen, McAllen, Mission, Pharr, San Benito, Weslaco)
Need to maintain at least $100 in your account daily to earn APY
To become a member, you need to live or work in the Rio Grande Valley
Interest compounded and deposited monthly
Federally insured by the NCUA
Additional Reading
Read our review
Branch and ATM locations: 9 branches in Texas (Brownsville, Edinburg, Harlingen, McAllen, Mission, Pharr, San Benito, Weslaco)
Alternative identification forms you can use: As a Juntos Avanzamos designated credit union, you can use a permanent resident card, foreign passport, or Matricula Consular as a photo ID. Plus, you’ll need to provide an ITIN number and proof of address.
See Insider’s Security First Credit Union Review>>
Competitive APY compared to brick-and-mortar banks
Cons
Interest compounded monthly, not daily
Need at least $5 to earn APY
Highlights
More Information
Credit union that serves a Hispanic American community
2 branches in San Antonio, Texas
To become a member, you need to live, work or go to school in Eastside San Antonio
Need at least $5 to earn APY
Interest compounded and deposited monthly
Federally insured by the NCUA
Branch and ATM locations: 2 branches in San Antonio, Texas
Alternative identification forms you can use: As a Juntos Avanzamos designated credit union, you can use a permanent resident card, foreign passport, or Matricula Consular as a photo ID. Plus, you’ll need to provide an ITIN number and proof of address.
Competitive APY compared to brick-and-mortar banks
Cons
Need $100 in your account daily to earn APY
Interest compounded quarterly, not daily
Highlights
More Information
Credit union that serves a Hispanic American community
3 branches in Texas (Odessa, Midland)
To become a member, you or a family member need to live or work in Midland County or Ector County
To earn APY, you need to maintain $100 in your account daily
Federally insured by the NCUA
Branch and ATM locations: 3 branches in Texas (Odessa, Midland)
Alternative identification forms you can use: As a Juntos Avanzamos designated credit union, you can use a permanent resident card, foreign passport, or Matricula Consular as a photo ID. Plus, you’ll need to provide an ITIN number and proof of address.
26. Star of Texas Credit Union
Star of Texas Credit Union Regular Savings Account
3.5/5
Annual Percentage Yield (APY)
0.15%
Minimum Deposit Amount
$10
Start saving
Star of Texas Credit Union Regular Savings Account
Star of Texas Credit Union Regular Savings Account
Start saving
On Star of Texas Credit Union’s website
Details
Annual Percentage Yield (APY)
0.15%
Minimum Deposit Amount
$10
Editor’s Rating
3.5/5
3.5 out of
5 Stars
Pros & Cons
Pros
$20 minimum opening deposit
No monthly service fees
Cons
Low APY
Need a minimum of $100 in your account daily to earn APY
Need a minimum of $10 in your account daily to continue membership
Interest compounded quarterly, not daily
Highlights
More Information
Credit union that serves a Black and Hispanic American community
2 branches in Austin, Texas
To become a member, you need to live or work in Travis County and open a savings account with a minimum opening deposit of $20
Interest compounded and deposited quarterly
Need at least $100 in account to earn APY
Need at least $10 in account to continue membership
Federally insured by the NCUA
Branch and ATM locations: 2 branches in Austin, Texas
Alternative identification forms you can use: As a Juntos Avanzamos designated credit union, you can open an account even if you don’t have a social security number. You can use a permanent resident card, foreign passport, or Matricula Consular as a photo ID. Plus, you’ll need to provide an ITIN number and proof of address if one of your IDs doesn’t include it.
Credit union that serves a Black and Hispanic American community
3 branches in Washington DC and part of the Co-Op Shared network
To avoid $2 monthly service fee, maintain at least $5 in your account daily
To become a member, you or a family member need to live or work in Adams Mortgan, Mt Pleasant or Columbia Heights; or have an employer that’s a Bank of DC Participant or part of a Select Employee Group
Interest compounded and deposited monthly
Federally insured by the NCUA
Branch and ATM locations: 3 branches in Washington DC and part of the Co-Op Shared network.
Alternative identification forms you can use: As a Juntos Avanzamos designated credit union, you can open an account even if you don’t have a social security number. You can use a permanent resident card, foreign passport, or Matricula Consular as a photo ID. Plus, you’ll need to provide an ITIN number and proof of address if one of your IDs doesn’t include it.
28. PAHO/WHO Credit Union
PAHO/WHO Federal Credit Union Regular Savings Account
3.75/5
Annual Percentage Yield (APY)
0.10%
Minimum Deposit Amount
$5
Start saving
PAHO/WHO Federal Credit Union Regular Savings Account
PAHO/WHO Federal Credit Union Regular Savings Account
Start saving
On PAHO/WHO Federal Credit Union’s website
Details
Annual Percentage Yield (APY)
0.10%
Minimum Deposit Amount
$5
Editor’s Rating
3.75/5
3.75 out of
5 Stars
Pros & Cons
Pros
$5 minimum opening deposit
No monthly service fee
Cons
Low APY
Need a minimum of $5 in your account daily to earn APY
Highlights
More Information
Black-owned credit union
1 branch in Washington DC
To become a member you or a family member must be one of the following: a Pan American Health Organization employee; a World Health Organization employee; a CORE Group member; an employee of a global health community partner organization; Georgetown University faculty or staff; or a MedStar Georgetown Unversity Hospital employee
Need $5 in account daily to earn interest
Interest compounded daily, deposited monthly
Federally insured by the NCUA
Branch and ATM locations: 1 branch in Washington DC
Alternative identification forms you can use: As a Juntos Avanzamos designated credit union, you can open an account even if you don’t have a social security number. You can use a permanent resident card, foreign passport, or Matricula Consular as a photo ID. You’ll also have to fill out a W-8BEN form.
Banking for people who aren’t US Citizens: FAQs
Can you open a bank account without a social security number?
Yes, financial institutions may allow you to use an individual taxpayer identification number (ITIN) to open an bank account.
How can a non-US Citizen open a bank account?
If you are not a US Citizen, look for financial institutions that will let you use a foreign ID or a consular ID as your primary form of identification. It may be helpful to visit your local consulate to see if it can tell you of any nearby financial institutions that provide services to immigrants or non-US citizens.
What can I use as an primary ID at a bank?
Different banking institutions have specific requirements on what they accept as a form of ID. Some financial institutions let you use a Matricula consular or foreign passport as a primary photo ID if you don’t have a US ID. If you want to get a consular ID, you can go to your local consulate and apply for one. Many Latin American countries offer consular IDs to their citizens if they are living abroad, and it’s issued regardless of citizenship status.
Methodology: How were these banks and credit unions selected?
We’ve included a mix of national banks and NCUA-designated minority depository institutions so that you can explore a variety of options and find a bank that is the best fit for you, depending on your needs or documentation.
We also wanted to provide a list of credit unions and banks that could help you regardless of where you live.
National banks mentioned on our list are also featured on our best banks guide. These banks tend to have larger branches and ATM networks, so you may be more likely to find one that’s closer to home.
As for our credit unions, we selected ones that received a Juntos Avanzamos designation. Juntos Avanzamos is an initiative that’s committed to helping Hispanic and immigrant consumers find suitable financial products. To become a Juntos Avanzamos designated credit union, one of the requirements is to be able to accept alternative ID forms if you don’t have a US ID.
What to know about Juntos Avanzamos designated credit unions
A Juntos Avanzamos designated credit union provides services for Hispanic and immigrant communities. To receive the designation, the institution has to fill out an application. Then it will be reviewed by the Selection Committee who will see whether the credit union aligns with the goals created by the initiative.
“We’re looking at a real commitment of the institution to serve this community,” said Pablo DeFilippi, executive vice president of the Inclusiv Network. “To get the designation, you need to make sure that your policies and your procedures are welcoming and would enable someone regardless of their immigration status to open an account and also access credit.”
The designation also looks at the number of bilingual and Hispanic staff and how it is involved with the local community.
While Juntos Avanzamos was created in 2005, the initiative has gone through some changes over the years. Originally the goal of the initiative was to educate Hispanic communities about different financial services available. However, the initiative now makes a greater effort to address systemic barriers in banking.
DeFilippi told Insider that one of the larger misconceptions that contributes to systemic barriers in banking is that Latinos need the same product.
“We don’t need one product — there’s not a Latino product, we need all the products,” DeFilippi said. “That’s why we talk about financial inclusion. We don’t believe that serving our community is a product-driven solution, it needs to be a holistic approach about how do we empower Latinos and immigrants to access the tools that everybody else has access to.”
What to know about US banking if you’re not a US citizen
Everyone should have access to fair banking tools and services regardless of their citizenship or immigration status. Though your options largely depend on where you live, it isn’t an impossible feat. You do have options, but you’ll have to search for them.
Juntos Avanzamos designated credit unions are available in certain states and have small branches because they serve primarily underserved and local communities. Some national banks offer more flexible ID requirements, however, processes or customer experiences may vary at branch locations.
DeFilippi advised remaining persistent while searching for financial products and services, even if you’re turned initially turned away.
“It takes courage to get out and approach a financial institution., but I think that is critical that we all do that,” said DeFilippi. “If someone says no to you, go someplace else.”
How to choose where to bank
Choosing where to bank will ultimately depend on your preferences. You may want to consider the following:
Location, branch, and ATM network: It’s important to know which banks are closest to your home. If you routinely travel, you may also want to look at which banks have a larger bank and ATM network.
Account options: Banks don’t all have the same account options. Some banks may have a variety of savings accounts, checking accounts, money market accounts, and certificates of deposit. Others won’t. You’ll need to figure out which accounts you want, then compare the features between different banking products.
Monthly fees, overdraft fees, out-of-network ATM fees: Some banks will impose additional fees on your account for maintenance or overdrawing. If you want to avoid fees, you’ll want to see if an institution lets you waive these fees or doesn’t charge any.
Bank trustworthiness and online customer reviews: To see whether a bank is the right fit for you, it’s best to get the perspective of others and hear their perspectives. Some banks have also gone through some recent controversies. If you want to read through some of our reviews, we will include this information.
Bilingual services and customer service availability: If you need services in another language, some banks will provide separate phone numbers or accessibility features in another language. If you also prioritize customer service, you’ll want an institution with 24/7 support or a variety of customer service features.
Involvement with the community: Some institutions attend or host local events in the community. Others may also set up scholarship programs for high school students or partner with local organizations.
What are the benefits of opening up a bank account or using a bank?
According to a FDIC study conducted in 2021, 9.3% of Latinos remained unbanked. Two of the main reasons cited for not having a bank account were that the individuals weren’t able to meet the minimum balance requirement to open a bank account, and that they didn’t trust banks.
Historically, Hispanic Americans have been affected by discriminatory lending practices that limited their opportunities for economic growth. However, these practices don’t apply to every financial institution, nor does it negate the important role banking plays in money management.
The FDIC and NCUA created programs for minority-owned depository institutions because these banks and credit unions provided services and products to underserved communities. Legislation such as the Community Reinvestment Act has also required banks and credit unions to provide services and products to these communities.
If you want to know whether a bank has gone through any public controversies involving specific communities or groups, our bank reviews will include such information to help you decide what your best options are.
DeFilippi also pointed out that many banking products and services are integral tools for managing personal finances. While some immigrant communities may be used to using cash as a primary way of managing money, the US requires different tools.
Bank accounts allow you to safely store your money in one place. When you bank with a financial institution that is FDIC or NCUA-insured, your account is protected for up to $250,000.
Having a credit card and managing it properly allows individuals to build a credit history and credit score to drive future purchases. Putting money in a bank account or investing allows people to accumulate interest, which may help with creating a way to save efficiently. If you want to begin your own business, business accounts or small business loans can serve as important stepping stones for getting there.
Sophia Acevedo, CEPF
Banking Reporter
Sophia Acevedo is a banking reporter at Insider. She covers bank reviews, banking guides, and banking and savings articles for Personal Finance Insider. She is also a Certified Educator in Personal Finance (CEPF). Sophia joined Insider in July 2021 and is an alumna of California State University Fullerton where she studied journalism and minored in political science. She is based in Los Angeles. You can reach out to her on Twitter at @sophieacvdo or email sacevedo@insider.com. Read more about how Personal Finance Insider chooses, rates, and covers financial products and services >> Below are links to some of her most popular stories:
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