How to get a bank account after divorce?

You may want to open a new bank account after a divorce for a number of reasons. You may want to separate your finances for tax purposes, or out of convenience. You may want to prevent your former spouse from having access to your accounts.

To open a new bank account, you will need to go to your local bank branch and provide proof of your identity such as a driver's license or passport, proof of your address such as a copy of a utility bill, and your Social Security number. Depending on the bank, you may also need additional documentation such as a copy of your divorce decree.

Once you have all the necessary documentation, the bank can open an account for you. You will also need to decide which type of account you want and what services you need. Some accounts may have certain fees or minimums, so make sure to ask about them before opening the account.

Tips for getting a new bank account

1. Research and compare different banks to find the right one for you.  If you also have a children that you are raising by yourself or a co-parent you may also need to get a custodian accounts for your children.
2. Consider factors such as minimum balance fees, overdraft fees, and other fees that the bank may charge.
3. Check the bank's online reviews to ensure you are getting a good banking experience.
4. Look for banks that offer online and mobile access, since this will make it easier to manage your account anywhere and anytime.
5.  Ensure that the bank provides the services and features that you need, such as convenient and free ATMs, friendly customer service, etc.
6. Check to see if the bank offers special perks such as cash back, rewards, and other incentives.
7. Determine the minimum amount you need to open an account.
8. Check if the fees can be waived if you meet certain criteria.
9. Consider banks or credit unions with less fees and competitive interest rates.
10. Ask if you need any special documentation to open an account and make sure to bring them with you when you visit the bank.
11. Prepare to bring your photo ID, Social Security number, and other documents as required by the bank.
12. Calculate how much you expect to deposit and withdraw from the account in a month.
13. Make sure to read the terms and conditions before signing any documentation.
14. Decide if you want online-only banking, or if you prefer visiting a physical branch.
15. Inquire about the bank's fraud policy to ensure that you're protected from unauthorized transactions.
16. Find out if the bank provides security measures such as multi-factor authentication.
17. Ask about any special banking services such as credit cards, online banking, mobile banking, and more.
18. Check if the bank offers discounts at local stores or restaurants.
19. Ask if the bank provides special services such as tax filing advice, loan advice, or other money management services.
20. Consider banks that offer special promotions such as free money when you open an account.
21. Check if the bank provides banking services such as investing and wealth management.
22. Ask if the bank offers any personal loans or credit cards.
23. Ask if the bank has branches or ATMs located near you.
24. Verify if the bank provides 24/7 customer service.
25. Determine how quickly deposits and withdrawals will be credited to your account.
26. Inquire about the bank's online banking options to ensure easy access to your account.
27. Look for banks that offer rewards or bonuses for loyal customers.
28. Ask if the bank provides debit cards with special features such as cashback rewards.
29. Research the bank's security measures and make sure sensitive data is encrypted and protected from theft.
30. Find out if the bank offers fraud protection services to ensure that your money is kept safe.
31. Ask about the bank's mobile banking options to check your balance on-the-go.
32. Determine if the bank offers free digital tools to help you manage your finances.
33. Ask if the bank provides investment advice or any other financial services.
34. Verify if the bank provides any special banking benefits such as free overdraft protection or free ATM transactions.
35. Compare the bank's fees to those charged by other banks.
36. Ask if the bank has any special discounts or offers for students or seniors.
37. Consider banks that provide cross-border banking options and if they charge fees.
38. Ask if the bank offers a tool to help calculate potential fees or charges.
39. Look for banks that offer discounts on international transactions.
40. Inquire about the bank's online customer service system and whether it is available for 24/7 assistance.
41. Research the bank's history and make sure it has a good reputation in the industry.
42. Ask if the bank offers any reward programs, such as interest on deposits.
43. Determine if the bank provides special services for businesses, such as online transfers and merchant services.
44. Find out if the bank offers mobile-friendly banking options such as payment apps.
45. Ask if the bank provides any web-based tools to help you manage your finances.
46. Look for banks that offer flexible and convenient banking solutions.
47. Ask if the bank has any promotional offers or discounts for young adults and new customers.
48. Ask about the bank's fees for international transactions.
49. Consider if the bank has any fee-free transfer or withdrawal options.
50. Ask if the bank provides tools and resources to help you save money and invest.
51. Determine if the bank provides mobile deposit services.
52. Ask if the bank has any special discounts or deals when you use their debit card.
53. Determine if the bank provides 24/7 customer service by phone or online chat.
54. Research the bank's customer service history to make sure customers have had positive experiences.
55. Find out if the bank has any bonus points or rewards for opening an account.
56. Ask about the bank's online banking suite and see if it meets your needs.
57. Ask if the bank has any special savings or checking account rates or perks.
58. Determine if the bank offers any competitive interest rates.
59. Ask if the bank offers any financial calculators to help with budgeting, borrowing, and investing.
60. Find out if the bank has any bonus offers or discounts for transferring your account from another bank.
61. Check to see if the bank offers bank-to-bank transfers.
62. Inquire about the bank's security measures and make sure it provides sufficient protection for online banking.
63. Ask about the bank's terms and conditions for opening a new account and make sure you understand them before signing any documents.
64. Determine if the bank offers any cash back offers on purchases made with their debit cards.
65. Research the bank's payment systems, such as direct deposit, to ensure convenient and timely account access.
66. Ask if the bank has any special services or features for students or young adults.
67. Ask if the bank offers any special ATM cards or debit cards with additional features.
68. Check if the bank provides any tools or services to help you manage your money and debt.
69. Ask if the bank offers any special discounts or promotions to new customers.
70. Find out if the bank has any fee-free transfer or withdrawal options or a no-fee policy.
71. Verify if the bank provides free or discounted copies of financial statements.
72. Ask if the bank offers any interest-bearing accounts or special rates for long-term deposits.
73. Consider the bank's reputation for customer service and make sure you can quickly access online support if needed.
74. Ask if the bank offers any special discounts for purchasing products from them.
75. Find out if the bank offers secure digital payment methods, such as Apple Pay or Google Pay.
76. See what type of customer service the bank provides and if it offers 24/7 support.
77. Ask if the bank offers any special marketing promotions or rewards programs.
78. Determine if the bank provides online banking tutorials and resources.
79. Ask if the bank has any special tools or services to help with debt management or credit building.
80. Ask if the bank provides any special offers or discounts for any affiliated businesses.
81. Check if the bank has any other international services, such as currency conversions or foreign currency accounts.
82. Ask if the bank provides ATM access or debit card access at partner locations.
83. Ask if the bank offers bill payment services.
84. Ask if the bank provides money management tools to help track and manage your spending.
85. Verify if the bank provides any special benefits or discounts for setting up direct deposit.
86. Ask if the bank has any bonus points or promotional offers for signing up for online banking.
87. Ask if the bank offers remote deposit options for cashing checks without having to visit a branch.
88. Determine if the bank has an extensive branch and ATM network in case you need to visit in person.
89. Ask about any restrictions on the types of transactions and accounts you can have with the bank.
90. Inquire about the banks overdraft protection policy and if there are any associated fees.
91. Ask about the bank's dispute resolution process in case something goes wrong.
92. Determine if the bank provides any tools or reports that can help you evaluate your financial health.
93. Check the customer service ratings and customer reviews to see how current customers feel about the bank.
94. Ask if the bank offers free student banking services.
95. Ask if the bank's ATM networks are part of a larger network, such as Allpoint or MoneyPass.
96. Verify if the bank's transaction fees are consistent across different types of transactions.
97. Ask if the bank offers any tools and resources to help you plan for retirement.
98. Compare the bank's fees to those of other online-only banks to get the best deal.
99. Make sure to keep records and copies of all documentation when opening a new account.
100. Do not open an account in the same bank where you and your ex had an account while married.  A bank employee may accidently give your ex an access to your account and funds within. 

Related:

How to get a credit card after divorce?

How to get a mortgage after divorce?

What to know about your bank account during divorce?

Things to know about money during a divorce

How to create a budget for college students?

Warning:  This post is neither financial, health, legal, or personal advice nor a substitute for the advice offered by a professional. These are serious matters, and the help of a professional is recommended as it can impact your future.