Yes, you can open most Chase accounts online in minutes

Chase lets you open a checking or savings account entirely online without visiting a branch. The process takes about 10 minutes, and you can start using your account the same day. You'll need a Social Security number, a valid ID, a current address, and an initial deposit (which varies by account type).

Not every Chase account is available online. Money Market accounts and some specialty products require a branch visit or a phone call to open. But the most common accounts—Chase Total Checking, Chase Savings, and Chase Premier Plus Checking—can all be opened from your computer or phone.

Key Takeaways

  • Chase checking and savings accounts open online in about 10 minutes with a Social Security number, valid ID, proof of address, and an initial deposit.
  • You can fund your new account immediately with a debit card, transfer from another bank, or wire transfer, and use it the same day.
  • Chase will perform a soft credit check and verify your identity through their system; you do not need to visit a branch.
  • Some account types, including Money Market accounts and certain business accounts, require a phone call or branch visit to open.
  • If you already have a Chase account, opening a second one online is faster because Chase already has your information on file.

What you need before you start

Gather these documents before you begin the online application: a valid government-issued ID (driver's license, passport, or state ID), your Social Security number, your current address, and proof of that address if it is different from what is on your ID. Chase will ask for a phone number and email address too.

You will also need an initial deposit. The amount depends on the account type. Chase Total Checking requires a $0 minimum to open but has a monthly fee unless you meet certain conditions (like setting up direct deposit). Chase Savings requires $0 to open. Premier Plus Checking requires $25. If you do not have funds available right now, you can link a debit card or bank account and transfer money during the application.

The step-by-step process to open an account online

Go to Chase.com and click the link to open a new account. You will be asked to choose which type of account you want—checking, savings, or both. Select the specific product (for example, Chase Total Checking or Chase Savings).

Enter your personal information: full name, date of birth, Social Security number, phone number, email, and current address. Chase will verify your identity using this information and may ask security questions based on your credit history. This is a soft check and does not affect your credit score.

Choose how you want to fund the account. You can link an existing bank account and transfer money, use a debit card, or wire funds. If you choose a transfer or debit card, the money usually arrives within one to three business days, but you can use the account immediately even if the deposit has not cleared yet.

Review the account terms and fee schedule, then sign the agreement electronically. Chase will send you a confirmation email with your account number and routing number. Your debit card will arrive by mail within 7 to 10 business days.

When Chase will not let you open an account online

Chase Money Market accounts must be opened by phone or in a branch. If you want to open a business account, a trust account, or an account for a minor under 18, you will need to call Chase or visit a branch in person. Some states also have restrictions on which account types can be opened online.

If you fail Chase's identity verification during the online process, you will be asked to visit a branch with your ID and proof of address. This usually happens if your information does not match what is in their system or if there is a flag for fraud prevention. Visiting a branch to complete the process typically takes 15 to 30 minutes.

What happens after you open the account

Your account is active immediately, and you can use it to receive direct deposits, set up bill pay, or transfer money to other accounts right away. Your debit card arrives in the mail within 7 to 10 business days. Until it arrives, you can use your account number and routing number to receive transfers or set up automatic payments.

Chase will send you a welcome packet with your temporary card number (if you requested one), account statements, and information about their mobile app. Download the Chase mobile app to check your balance, deposit checks by photo, and manage your account from your phone.

Identity verification and fraud checks

During the online application, Chase performs a soft credit check and verifies your identity using information from credit bureaus and public records. This check does not lower your credit score. Chase may also ask you security questions based on your credit history—for example, "Which of these addresses have you lived at?"—to confirm you are who you say you are.

If Chase cannot verify your identity online, they will ask you to visit a branch with your ID and proof of address. Bring a recent utility bill, lease, or mortgage statement as proof of address. The branch can usually complete the verification in one visit.

Funding your account and getting your debit card

You can fund your account during the application using a debit card, a transfer from another bank account, or a wire transfer. Debit card funding is instant. Bank transfers usually take one to three business days. Wire transfers arrive the same day if sent before 2 p.m. ET on a business day.

Your physical debit card arrives by mail within 7 to 10 business days. You can request a temporary card number during the application process to use online or in stores before the physical card arrives. Some Chase accounts also come with a digital wallet option so you can add your card to Apple Pay or Google Pay immediately.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need to visit a Chase branch to open an account?

No. Most Chase checking and savings accounts open entirely online. You only need to visit a branch if Chase cannot verify your identity online or if you are opening a Money Market account or business account.

How long does it take to open a Chase account online?

The application takes about 10 minutes. Your account is active immediately after you complete it. Your physical debit card arrives within 7 to 10 business days, but you can use your account number and routing number to receive deposits before the card arrives.

What if I do not have an initial deposit right now?

You can open the account and fund it later. Chase Total Checking and Chase Savings both allow you to open with $0. You can transfer money in anytime after you open the account. Some accounts have monthly fees if you do not meet deposit or direct deposit requirements, so check the fee schedule for your account type.

Can I open a second Chase account online if I already have one?

Yes. The process is faster because Chase already has your information on file. You can open a second checking or savings account in just a few minutes. Some customers open multiple accounts to separate spending, savings, and emergency funds.

What if the online application says I need to visit a branch?

This usually means Chase could not verify your identity using their online system. Bring your government-issued ID and a recent utility bill or lease to a Chase branch. A representative can verify your identity in person and complete the account opening, usually within 15 to 30 minutes.