You cannot open a Chase joint account entirely online—one account holder must visit a branch in person

Chase requires at least one person on a joint account to complete the opening in a physical branch. You can start the process online, upload documents, and handle most of the paperwork remotely, but someone has to show up with a government ID to finish it. This is a compliance requirement, not a Chase preference—federal banking rules require in-person verification for new accounts.

The second account holder can remain remote throughout most of the process. They can sign documents electronically and provide information online, but Chase will still need to verify their identity before the account becomes active. Depending on the account type and your situation, that verification might happen by phone, through a video call, or during a later branch visit.

Key Takeaways

  • At least one account holder must visit a Chase branch in person with a government ID to open a joint account; the entire process cannot happen online.
  • You can begin the application online and upload documents before your branch visit, which speeds up the in-person appointment.
  • The second account holder can provide information and sign documents remotely, but Chase will verify their identity before activating the account.
  • Bring your Social Security number, proof of address, and initial deposit method to your branch appointment.
  • The account typically becomes active within one to three business days after the in-person verification is complete.

What you need to bring to the branch

Both account holders should bring a government-issued photo ID—a driver's license, passport, or state ID card. Chase will not open the account without this. You will also need your Social Security number for each person on the account, which you can provide verbally or on a form at the branch.

Bring proof of your current address: a utility bill, lease, mortgage statement, or bank statement dated within the last 60 days. If you have moved recently and your ID does not match your address, bring both the old and new proof. You will also need to decide how you want to fund the account—whether you are transferring money from another bank, depositing a check, or bringing cash.

Starting the application online before your visit

You can begin a Chase joint account application on their website or mobile app before going to the branch. This step is optional but saves time during your appointment. Fill in basic information for both account holders: names, dates of birth, addresses, and phone numbers.

Chase will ask which type of account you want—checking, savings, or money market. They will also ask about your banking history and whether you have an existing Chase account. Upload a photo of your ID and proof of address at this stage if the system prompts you. When you finish, you will receive a confirmation number. Bring this to your branch appointment, or have it ready on your phone.

What happens during the branch visit

The person visiting the branch will verify their identity by showing their government ID. The banker will confirm the information you provided online, answer questions about the account features, and discuss how the account will be managed—for example, whether both people need to sign checks or whether either person can withdraw funds alone.

This is the moment to ask about account permissions. On a joint account, both holders typically have equal access and can withdraw money or close the account without the other person's permission, unless you set up specific restrictions. Some couples or business partners choose to require both signatures for certain transactions; Chase can set this up, but it requires a separate agreement.

The banker will collect the second account holder's information if they are not present. You will need to provide their full name, date of birth, Social Security number, and current address. Chase will then contact that person to verify their identity—usually by phone, email, or a secure message through their online banking portal.

How Chase verifies the second account holder

After the branch visit, Chase will reach out to the second account holder within one to two business days. They may call the phone number on file, send a secure message through Chase's website, or ask them to complete identity verification through a video call. The second person will need to confirm their Social Security number, date of birth, and address.

If Chase cannot reach the second account holder by phone, they may send a verification link via email or text message. That person clicks the link and answers security questions or provides additional information. This process typically takes 24 to 48 hours. If verification stalls, Chase may require the second account holder to visit a branch as well.

Timeline from start to active account

If you start your application online and visit the branch the same day, the account can be active within one to three business days. The first account holder's verification happens at the branch, so that is immediate. The second account holder's verification usually completes within 24 to 48 hours after Chase contacts them.

Weekends and holidays extend this timeline. If you visit a branch on Friday afternoon, the second account holder's verification may not begin until Monday. If you start the application online but do not visit the branch for a week, the clock does not start until your in-person appointment.

What to do if you cannot visit a branch

If neither account holder can reach a Chase branch, you have limited options. Some Chase locations offer video banking appointments, where you can verify your identity on camera instead of in person. Call your nearest Chase branch or check their website to see if video appointments are available in your area.

If video banking is not available and you cannot visit a branch, you will need to wait until you can. Chase does not offer a fully remote account opening for joint accounts. If one account holder is out of the country or unable to travel, discuss this with a Chase banker—they may be able to arrange a video call or delay the second person's verification until they return.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can my spouse open the account without me if I give them power of attorney?

No. Chase requires both account holders to be verified, even if one person has legal authority to act on behalf of the other. Power of attorney does not substitute for the identity verification process. Both people must either visit the branch or complete Chase's remote verification.

What if the second account holder lives in a different state?

They do not need to visit a Chase branch in their state. Chase can verify them remotely by phone or video call after the first account holder completes the in-person opening. The account will be tied to whichever branch the first person visited, but both holders can access it from anywhere.

Do we both need to bring our Social Security cards?

No. Bring your government photo ID and know your Social Security number. Chase will not ask to see the card itself. If you do not have your number memorized, write it down before you go, or call Chase beforehand to confirm what information you need.

Can I open a joint account if one person does not have a Social Security number?

Chase requires a Social Security number or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) for each account holder. If someone does not have either, they cannot be added to the account. This is a federal requirement, not a Chase policy.

What if Chase denies the joint account application?

Chase may deny an account if there are fraud concerns, unpaid debts to Chase, or issues with ChexSystems (a banking history report). Ask the banker for the specific reason. You can dispute inaccurate information in ChexSystems through their website, or contact Chase directly to discuss the denial.