Your rights on opening a bank account

What are my rights?

Can I open a bank account even if I don't have any money to put into it?
  • Yes
  • No

Opening a bank account is a key step in taking control of your financial situation. There are many types of accounts out there; it’s worth taking the time to choose one that’s a good fit. Learn your rights and the steps to open a bank account.

What you should know

Open a bank account

Who can help

  • This information applies to British Columbia, Canada
  • Reviewed for legal accuracy in January 2021
  • Time to read: 7 minutes

Reviewed for legal accuracy by

Wendy Andersen, Digby Leigh & Co. and Robert Rogers, Hamilton Duncan

Wendy Andersen
Robert Rogers

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We are grateful to work on the unceded traditional territories of the xʷməθkʷəy̓əm (Musqueam), Sḵwx̱wú7mesh (Squamish) and səlilwətaɬ (Tsleil-Waututh) Nations, whose Peoples continue to live on and care for these lands.