To open a bank account in the US, the documents required are the social security number, driving license, passport if you are a foreigner and cash deposit of minimum between 25 and 100 dollars. Policies and facilities vary from bank to bank.

Before opening an account, select a bank that has a reputation for stability and is insured by the federal deposit insurance corporation or the federal savings and loan insurance corporation. Besides, see the convenience -- availability of the bank branches, disability access and services, etc. Many top banks have branches everywhere in the country. But some small banks offer personalized services and lower fees.

You should know the interest the bank pays on the balance, what are the electronic services and you think you will use them, other check clearing policies, various fees like account charges and fees for checks, other useful services such as link-up with savings, charge cards, financial counseling.

There are various types of bank accounts one can open, you have to decide as per your need which type of account you want to open. Checking accounts will allow you to write checks against your account, up to the balance available. If the check is written for an amount, which is more than your balance in the account then the check, would bounce. Bouncing a check in US is considered to be an embarrassment. Banks also charge a fee for bouncing a check.

In case of Savings banks, some banks facilitate these accounts with no fees. Some banks pay interest also. You will have to shop around among the smaller banks to find these accounts.

Some major banks in the US are Bank of America, Citibank, The Chase Manhattan Bank, First Union National Bank Carolina, Wells Fargo Bank, HSBC Bank, Bank Boston, The Bank of New York, Bank One and US Bank.