Can a bank refuse to let me open a checking account?
Banks may set their own requirements for opening a checking account so long as those requirements are consistent with the law.
If you believe a bank is wrongfully refusing to open an account, file a written complaint with the bank’s regulator. Information on how to determine your bank’s regulator is available on the Who Regulates My Bank page. If your bank is a national bank or federal savings association, file a written complaint with the Office of the Comptroller of the Currency (OCC) by contacting the OCC’s Customer Assistance Group.
Last Reviewed: October 2025
Please note: The terms "bank" and "banks" used in these answers generally refer to national banks, federal savings associations, and federal branches or agencies of foreign banking organizations that are regulated by the Office of the Comptroller of the Currency (OCC). Find out if the OCC regulates your bank. Information provided on HelpWithMyBank.gov should not be construed as legal advice or a legal opinion of the OCC.