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 in many cases. You'll need a valid government ID, a Social Security number, and a way to fund your account — either a debit card, another bank account, or a wire transfer.
Not every Chase account type is available online. Money Market accounts and some specialty products require a branch visit or a phone call to open. If you're looking for a standard checking or savings account, the online route works. If you want something else, Chase's website will tell you during the signup process whether that particular account can be opened online.
Key Takeaways
- You need a valid government ID, Social Security number, and initial funding source before you start the online application.
- Chase verifies your identity during signup using information from credit bureaus and public records, which takes a few minutes.
- Your account number and routing number appear immediately after approval, so you can set up direct deposit or transfers right away.
- If Chase cannot verify your identity online, you'll be asked to visit a branch or upload documents to complete the process.
- Accounts opened online are subject to the same monthly fees and minimum balance requirements as branch accounts.
What you need before you start
Gather these items before opening your browser: a valid government-issued ID (driver's license, passport, or state ID card), your Social Security number, and your current address. Chase will ask for all three during the application.
You also need a way to fund your new account. Chase accepts debit cards from other banks, checking or savings accounts at other institutions (via ACH transfer), or wire transfers. You don't have to fund it immediately — some accounts let you open them with zero dollars and add money later — but Chase may ask you to do so during signup. Check the specific account terms on Chase's website to see what the minimum opening deposit is, if any.
If you're applying for a business account, the process is different and typically requires a branch visit or phone call. The online process described here applies to personal checking and savings accounts only.
The online signup process, step by step
Start at Chase.com and select the account type you want — usually "Checking" or "Savings." You'll enter your name, date of birth, address, phone number, and email. Chase will ask for your Social Security number at this stage.
Next comes identity verification. Chase uses information from credit bureaus and public records to confirm who you are. This usually takes a few minutes. You may be asked security questions based on your credit history — things like "Which of these addresses have you lived at?" or "Which car have you owned?" Answer based on your actual history, not guesses.
If Chase verifies you automatically, you'll move to the funding step. Enter your debit card number or link another bank account. If you're using a debit card, the charge posts immediately. If you're linking another bank account, the transfer takes one to three business days. After funding, your account opens and you receive your account number and routing number on screen.
If Chase cannot verify you online, you'll see a message saying identity verification is incomplete. At that point, you can either visit a Chase branch in person or upload a photo of your ID and other documents through the app or website. Document uploads typically get reviewed within one business day.
When Chase asks you to visit a branch instead
Chase's online system relies on matching your information against credit bureau records and public databases. If you're new to credit, have recently moved, or have a name that doesn't match records exactly, the automated verification may fail. This doesn't mean you can't open an account — it means you'll need to do it in person or by uploading documents.
Some account types — particularly Money Market accounts and certain promotional checking products — are only available through a branch or phone application. Chase's website will tell you this before you finish the online form. If you see that message, you can call Chase at the number on their website or visit a local branch to open that account instead.
If you're under 18, you cannot open an account online. A parent or guardian must visit a branch with you to set up a teen checking account.
What happens after your account opens
Your account number and routing number appear on screen immediately after approval. Write these down or take a screenshot — you'll need them to set up direct deposit with your employer or to receive transfers from other people. You can also log into your Chase account online or through the mobile app right away to see your balance and transaction history.
Your debit card arrives by mail within 7 to 10 business days. Until it arrives, you can use your account number to receive transfers or set up bill pay through Chase's website. You cannot make purchases in stores or online until the physical card arrives, unless you add your account to a digital wallet like Apple Pay or Google Pay (which Chase allows as soon as your account opens).
If you funded your account with a debit card, that money is available immediately. If you linked another bank account, the transfer takes one to three business days to complete. Your account is active and usable during that time, but the balance won't reflect the transfer until it clears.
Fees and minimum balance requirements
Chase's checking and savings accounts have monthly maintenance fees unless you meet certain conditions. For most Chase checking accounts, you can waive the fee by maintaining a minimum daily balance (usually $500 to $1,500, depending on the account type) or by setting up direct deposit. Savings accounts typically waive fees if you keep a higher minimum balance.
These rules apply whether you open your account online or in a branch. Read the account terms on Chase's website before you finish your application so you know what fee structure applies to the account you're opening. If you don't meet the waiver conditions, Chase charges the monthly fee automatically.
Chase also charges fees for overdrafts, out-of-network ATM use, and certain services like wire transfers or stop payments. These fees are the same across all Chase accounts and are not specific to online openings.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take for my debit card to arrive after I open my account online?
Chase typically mails your debit card within 7 to 10 business days of account opening. You can use your account number for transfers and bill pay immediately, but you'll need the physical card to make purchases in stores. Some Chase branches can issue a temporary card in person if you visit within a few days of opening your account online.
Can I open a Chase account online if I don't have a credit history?
Yes, but Chase may not be able to verify your identity automatically. If the online verification fails, you can upload a photo of your government ID and proof of address through the Chase app or website. This typically gets reviewed within one business day, and your account will open once verified.
What if I want to open a joint account online?
Chase does not allow joint account opening online. One account holder must visit a branch or call Chase to add a joint owner. You can open a personal account online first, then visit a branch to convert it to a joint account or open a new joint account with the other person present.
Do I have to fund my account immediately when I open it online?
It depends on the account type. Most Chase checking and savings accounts allow you to open with zero dollars and fund them later. During signup, Chase will tell you if the account you're opening requires an opening deposit. If it does, you must fund it before the account opens.
Can I open a Chase business account online?
No. Chase business accounts must be opened in person at a branch or over the phone. You'll need your business tax ID, business license, and personal identification for the owner or authorized representative. Contact Chase directly or visit a local branch to start a business account application.