To open a US bank account you must have a Social Security Number (SSN) or an Employer Identification Number (EIN) for business accounts. You will also need documentation showing a current US address, preferably a picture I.D. (such as a drivers license).

Obtaining a US bank account as a non-resident, or without an SSN, is difficult. It is advisable to plan ahead for this and make sure you have enough funds available before establishing a US bank account. A UK (or other foreign) debit or credit card will be accepted in most businesses, and ATM cards can be used to withdraw money in US dollars; check with your bank ahead of time, however, so you are aware of any foreign transaction fees you may incur.

Because Florida is a major tourist destination, most shops and businesses and restaurants will accept debit and credit cards. Personal checks are still widely used by Americans, but some businesses will not accept out-of-state checks or traveler's checks. Some of the smaller Mom and Pop shops in the more rural areas of the state may only accept cash.

There are hundreds, if not thousands, of banks to choose from in Florida. Some of the big nationwide banks, such as Bank of America, Citibank, Wachovia, and Wells Fargo Bank, have branches in Florida. There are also a wide variety of regional banks in Florida.

Following are some of Florida's major banks:

Bank of Florida
Click here for branch locations.

The Bank of Miami

Coral Gables
121 Alhambra Plaza
Coral Gables, FL 33134
(305) 854-8800

Doral
8630 NW 25 Street
Miami, FL 33122
(305) 459-2100

Medley-West
10505 NW 112 Avenue
Miami, FL 33178
(305) 459-2020

BankAtlantic
Click here for branch locations.

CenterState Bank
Click here for branch locations.

Peninsula Bank
Click here for branch locations.

SunTrust
Click here for branch locations.

TransAtlantic Bank
Click here for branch locations.

Online accounts have become increasingly popular within the past few years. Online accounts eliminate much of the paperwork involved in regular accounts; this savings often means better interest rates. Popular online banks include HSBC, ING Direct, and Citibank.

Banking hours are usually from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Monday through Friday. Some branches may stay open until 6:00 p.m. on Fridays or open from 8:00 a.m. to noon on Saturdays.

For more information about banking in America, please refer to the Currency, Banking and Credit section of the USA Country Guide.