E*TRADE bank account (step 1)

You might heart about E*TRADE, it’s easy for you to get an account from this bank. Check the first step to open an account.

You can visit the bank now by going to: http://www.etrade.com. But don’t click to open your account just yet. Filling out the wrong form (even though it says Bank Account Opening form), will get your application denied. We’ll walk you through the right process in a minute. To open your account we will be using the services of E*Trade Securities, LLC. But first…

About E*TRADE Securities, LLC

E*TRADE Securities, LLC is a member of the SIPC. Even though they are a separate company they are affiliated with E*TRADE Bank – allowing you to have banking services.

Below is the welcome pack you will receive

STEP 1: Opening your account

Now the part you have been waiting for. How to actually open your account…

E*Trade offers two accounts and 2 different forms (this is where most people get tricked into thinking they can’t open an account).

The first account is a Checking Account. Non-US residents can’t open this account.

The second account is a brokerage account. It works just like a checking account. However, you also have the option to use it for investing (you don’t have to invest, you can just use it as a checking account).

This account is available to residents and non-US residents. This brokerage account allows you to write US checks, have a VISA Platinum debit card, and full Internet banking. You can also ACH (direct deposit) funds from PayPal, 2Checkout.com, or any other US bank. This is the account you will open.

As a non-US resident you will need to fill out the following forms:

• Bank account application (sample)
• EMEA Residents Form
• Asia Pacific Residents Form

* Please note it’s not necessary to fill in the last page of this form.

• W8BEN – Your withholding tax form (sample)

* You are required to include W8BEN form with your application form above.
We have included a sample application, to show you how to fill in the form.

Tax will not be withheld from your deposits. Tax is only withheld if you make a profit on an investment made through E*Trade.

Mail both forms along with a photocopy of your passport to the address below:

Steps to open E*Trade bank account:

1. Opening your account
2. Requesting your free check book
3. Initial Deposit & How to deposit your account online by PayPal
4. Requesting your Platinum VISA debit card