Yes, you can open a Chase checking account entirely online
Chase lets you open most of its checking accounts through their website or mobile app without visiting a branch. The process takes about 10 minutes and requires a Social Security number, a valid ID, and a funding source (debit card, bank account, or wire transfer). You'll have access to your account and debit card within one to two business days, though the physical card arrives in 7 to 10 business days.
Not every Chase checking product is available online. Some specialty accounts or those requiring a minimum deposit above a certain threshold may require a branch visit or a phone call to complete. Before you start, check which account type you want — Chase offers several tiers with different monthly fees, minimum balances, and perks.
Key Takeaways
- You can open a Chase checking account online using their website or mobile app in about 10 minutes with a Social Security number, valid ID, and a way to fund the account.
- Your account becomes active within one to two business days, but your physical debit card takes 7 to 10 business days to arrive.
- Chase offers multiple checking account types online, including Chase Total Checking, Chase Premier Plus Checking, and Chase Sapphire Checking, each with different fees and requirements.
- You will need to verify your identity during signup, which may include answering security questions or confirming recent transactions on existing accounts.
- If you cannot complete the process online, you can call Chase at 1-800-935-9935 or visit a branch to finish your account setup.
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), your Social Security number, and a way to fund the account. Chase accepts funding from an existing bank account via ACH transfer, a debit card, or a wire transfer. You do not need to fund the account immediately — you can set it up and add money later, though some account types have minimum opening deposits.
Have your phone nearby. Chase will send a one-time code to your phone number during the signup process to verify your identity. If you do not have a phone number on file with Chase, you can use an email verification instead, but the phone route is faster.
The step-by-step process on Chase's website
Go to chase.com and click "Open an Account" or "Open Checking" in the top navigation. Select the checking account type you want — Chase Total Checking is the most common option for everyday banking. You will be asked to choose whether you want a standard account or one linked to an existing Chase account if you already have one.
Enter your personal information: full name, date of birth, Social Security number, address, phone number, and email. Chase will ask you to create a username and password for online banking. Next, you will verify your identity by answering security questions based on your credit history or confirming recent transactions on accounts in your name. This step usually takes two to three minutes.
Choose how you want to fund the account. If you link an existing bank account, Chase will make two small deposits (usually under $1 each) to that account within one to two business days, and you will confirm the amounts to verify ownership. If you use a debit card, the funding is instant. Once funding is complete, your account is active and you can use it immediately through Chase's app or website, even before your physical debit card arrives.
What happens after you submit your application
Chase sends a confirmation email within minutes. Your account number and routing number appear in the app or on the website right away, so you can set up direct deposit or transfers immediately. If your employer or another organization needs your account details, you have them.
Your physical debit card ships within 7 to 10 business days. You can request expedited shipping in some cases, but it costs extra. Until the card arrives, you can use your account number and routing number for transfers, or you can add your new Chase account to your mobile wallet (Apple Pay, Google Pay, Samsung Pay) to make contactless payments at stores.
If Chase needs more information to complete your account — for example, if the identity verification does not go through on the first try — they will email or call you. Respond within the timeframe they provide, usually 10 business days. If you do not respond, your account application may be denied and you will need to start over.
When you might need to call or visit a branch instead
Most people complete the online process without a hitch, but some situations require a phone call or branch visit. If you are opening an account as a business entity rather than an individual, you will need to call or visit. If you have a history of fraud or account closures with Chase, the system may flag your application and require manual review.
If you are under 18, you cannot open an account online — you need a parent or guardian to open a custodial account at a branch. If you do not have a Social Security number but have an ITIN (Individual Taxpayer Identification Number), call Chase at 1-800-935-9935 to discuss your options.
If your online application is denied, Chase will tell you why in writing. Common reasons include insufficient credit history, a closed account in your past, or an address that does not match their records. You can dispute the decision or ask to speak with someone at a branch about alternative account options.
Fees and minimum balance requirements
Chase Total Checking has a $12 monthly service fee, but it is waived if you maintain a minimum daily balance of $500 or set up a direct deposit of at least $500 per month. Chase Premier Plus Checking has a $25 monthly fee and requires a $15,000 minimum balance or $5,000 in linked Chase savings. Chase Sapphire Checking has a $25 monthly fee and requires a $20,000 minimum balance.
If you do not meet the minimum balance or direct deposit requirement, the monthly fee applies. There are no overdraft fees if you link a savings account or opt into overdraft protection, but standard overdraft fees apply if you do not. Review the fee schedule for your specific account type before you open it — Chase's website shows all fees clearly on the account details page.
How to check the status of your application
Log into your Chase account online or in the app. If your account is active, you will see your account number, routing number, and available balance. If your application is still being processed, you will see a status message saying "Account Opening in Progress" or similar language. This usually means Chase is verifying your identity or waiting for your funding source to clear.
If you do not see your account in the app or website after 24 hours, check your email for messages from Chase. They may have sent a request for more information or a notification that your application needs review. If you cannot find any updates, call Chase at 1-800-935-9935 and have your Social Security number and phone number ready.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to open a Chase checking account online?
The signup process itself takes about 10 minutes. Your account becomes active within one to two business days. Your physical debit card arrives in 7 to 10 business days, but you can use your account immediately through the app or website.
Can I open a Chase checking account if I have had accounts closed before?
It depends on why the account was closed. If you closed it yourself, there is usually no problem. If Chase closed it due to fraud, repeated overdrafts, or policy violations, your new application may be flagged for manual review or denied. Call 1-800-935-9935 to ask about your specific situation.
What if my online application is denied?
Chase will send you a written explanation. Common reasons include insufficient credit history, a closed account in your past, or an address mismatch. You can call to discuss the denial or visit a branch to see if you are may be able to access for a different account type.
Do I have to fund my account immediately when I open it online?
No. You can open the account and add money later. However, some account types have minimum opening deposits, so check the details for your chosen account before you start.
Can I use my new Chase account before my debit card arrives?
Yes. You can use your account number and routing number for direct deposit or transfers right away. You can also add your account to Apple Pay, Google Pay, or Samsung Pay to make contactless payments at stores while you wait for your physical card.