Yes, you can open most Chase accounts online without visiting a branch
Chase lets you open a checking or savings account entirely online through their website or mobile app. You do not need to go to a physical branch, though some account types require a visit or a phone call to complete the process. The whole online process typically takes 10 to 15 minutes if your information is ready.
What you will need: a valid government ID (driver's license or passport), your Social Security number, a current email address, and a phone number. You will also need to fund the account with an opening deposit—the amount varies by account type, but many Chase checking accounts have no minimum opening deposit requirement.
Chase will run a background check through ChexSystems, a banking history database. If you have been flagged in ChexSystems for unpaid overdrafts or fraud at another bank, Chase may deny your application or require you to visit a branch in person.
Key Takeaways
- Most Chase checking and savings accounts open online in 10 to 15 minutes with an ID, Social Security number, and email address.
- Chase checks ChexSystems, a banking history database, and may deny your application if you have unpaid overdrafts or fraud flags from other banks.
- Some account types, such as business accounts or accounts for people under 18, require a branch visit or phone call to finish opening.
- Your opening deposit amount depends on the account type; many Chase checking accounts have no minimum deposit requirement.
- Once your account is open, you can use Chase's website or app to transfer money, pay bills, and manage your account immediately.
What happens during the online application
You start on Chase's website or in their mobile app by selecting the account type you want—checking, savings, or money market. Chase will ask you to enter your personal information: full name, date of birth, address, phone number, email, and Social Security number. They will also ask about your employment status and annual income, though these are not requirements to open the account.
Next, you upload or photograph your ID. Chase's system reads the ID automatically and pulls your name and address from it. You will review the information for accuracy and correct anything that does not match your records. Chase then asks you to create a username and password for online banking.
At the end of the application, you choose your opening deposit method. You can link an external bank account and transfer money from there, use a debit card, or wire funds. Chase will show you the account number and routing number so you can set up direct deposit right away if you want to.
When Chase will ask you to visit a branch or call instead
Chase requires a branch visit or phone verification for certain situations. If you are under 18, you must open the account with a parent or guardian at a branch in person. If you are opening a business account, a sole proprietorship account, or a trust account, you will need to call Chase or visit a branch with documentation of your business structure.
If your ChexSystems check comes back with a flag—usually for unpaid overdrafts, fraud, or a closed account with a negative balance—Chase may require you to call their verification team or visit a branch to explain. Some flags result in an automatic denial, but others can be resolved with a phone call.
If you cannot verify your identity through the online ID upload (for example, if your ID is damaged or the photo is unclear), Chase will ask you to call or visit a branch instead.
How long it takes from application to using your account
Once you submit your online application, Chase usually approves it within minutes to a few hours. You will receive a confirmation email with your account number and routing number. You can begin using your account for transfers and bill pay as soon as approval comes through, even if your debit card has not arrived yet.
Your physical debit card ships separately and typically arrives within 7 to 10 business days. You can request a rush card at no extra cost, which arrives in 2 to 3 business days. Until your card arrives, you can use your account number and routing number to set up direct deposit, or you can use a temporary digital card in the Chase app to make purchases online or at stores that accept contactless payments.
If you need to deposit checks, you can use Chase's mobile app to photograph and deposit them as soon as your account is open. You do not need to wait for your debit card.
What to do if your application is denied
Chase will send you a denial letter by email or mail within a few days if they reject your application. The letter will state the reason—usually a ChexSystems flag, a mismatch in your identity information, or an existing negative balance at another bank that Chase can see.
If the denial is due to a ChexSystems flag, you can dispute the information through ChexSystems directly. You have the right to request a copy of your ChexSystems report and challenge anything that is inaccurate. This process takes 30 to 60 days. Once the dispute is resolved, you can reapply to Chase.
If the denial is due to identity verification issues, call Chase at the number on your denial letter. They can walk you through uploading a clearer ID photo or scheduling a branch visit to verify in person. Some denials can be overturned with a phone call.
Opening a Chase account if you have had banking problems before
If you have been denied by Chase or another bank because of ChexSystems, you have options. First, request your ChexSystems report at annualcreditreport.com or directly from ChexSystems. Review it for errors—mistakes happen, and you can dispute them for free.
If the flag is accurate (for example, you did owe overdraft fees), you can try calling Chase's verification team and explaining what happened. Some applicants are approved after speaking to a representative, especially if the issue was years ago or if you have since resolved the debt.
If Chase continues to deny you, consider opening an account at a bank that does not use ChexSystems or that has a second-chance banking program. Some regional banks and credit unions have more lenient policies. Once you have maintained a clean account elsewhere for 6 to 12 months, you can reapply to Chase.
Setting up direct deposit and transfers after you open your account
Once your account is open, you can set up direct deposit immediately using your account number and routing number. Give this information to your employer's payroll department, and your paycheck will deposit automatically on payday. Direct deposit typically posts one business day before the official payday.
You can also link external bank accounts to transfer money in and out. Chase allows you to link accounts from other banks and transfer funds, though the first transfer may take 1 to 2 business days for verification. After that, transfers usually post within one business day.
If you need to deposit cash, you can do so at any Chase ATM or branch. Chase has thousands of ATMs nationwide, and deposits at ATMs typically post the same day if made before 9 p.m. local time.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a minimum opening deposit to open a Chase account online?
Most Chase checking accounts have no minimum opening deposit requirement. Some savings accounts and money market accounts may require $25 or more. Check the specific account details before you apply to see what deposit is required for the account type you want.
What if I do not have a government ID?
Chase requires a valid government-issued ID to open an account online. If you do not have a driver's license or passport, you will need to visit a branch in person with an alternative form of ID, such as a state ID card or tribal ID. Call Chase to ask what documents they will accept.
Can I open a joint account online with Chase?
You can start the application online, but Chase requires both account holders to verify their identity. The second person will need to complete their own verification step, which may happen online or by phone depending on their situation. Both people must provide their Social Security number and ID.
How long does it take for my debit card to arrive after I open my account?
Standard debit cards arrive within 7 to 10 business days. You can request expedited shipping for 2 to 3 business days at no cost. You can use a temporary digital card in the Chase app to make purchases online or in stores while you wait for the physical card.
What if my online application times out or I lose my connection?
Chase saves your progress, so you can log back in and resume where you left off. If you cannot find your incomplete application, call Chase customer service and they can help you restart or complete it over the phone.