Yes, you can open a Chase savings account entirely online
Chase lets you open most of their savings accounts through their website or mobile app without visiting a branch. You'll need a valid government ID, a Social Security number, and an initial deposit (the amount varies by account type). The whole process takes about 10 to 15 minutes, and your account is usually active the same day or within one business day.
Not every Chase savings product is available online—some specialty accounts still require a branch visit—but the main options (Chase Savings, Chase Premier Savings, and Chase Sapphire Savings) can all be opened remotely. You'll fund the account by linking an existing bank account or using a debit card.
Key Takeaways
- You need a valid ID, Social Security number, and an initial deposit to open a Chase savings account online through their website or app.
- Most Chase savings accounts activate the same day or within one business day after you complete the online process.
- You can fund your new account by linking an existing bank account or providing a debit card number during setup.
- Chase may place a temporary hold on your account if they cannot verify your identity online, which requires a branch visit or phone call to resolve.
What you need before you start
Gather these items before opening your account: a valid government-issued ID (driver's license, passport, or state ID), your Social Security number, and proof of your current address. Chase will ask for your address during signup, but they typically verify it against existing records rather than asking you to upload a document.
You'll also need an initial deposit. The minimum varies by account type—some Chase savings accounts require $0 to open, while others ask for $25 or $300. Check the specific account's requirements on Chase's website before you start, because you cannot change your mind mid-application if the minimum is higher than what you planned to deposit.
If you're opening an account as a joint account (with another person), both account holders will need to complete the online process separately, and Chase will ask for both Social Security numbers and IDs.
Step-by-step: opening your account online
Go to Chase.com or open the Chase mobile app and select "Open an Account." Choose the savings account type you want—Chase Savings, Chase Premier Savings, or Chase Sapphire Savings are the most common options. Each has different interest rates and minimum balance requirements, so read the details for each before you pick.
Enter your personal information: full name, date of birth, Social Security number, address, phone number, and email. Chase will ask whether you're a current customer; if you are, they may skip some verification steps. Next, you'll provide your ID information and answer security questions to verify your identity.
Choose how to fund the account. You can link an existing bank account (you'll provide the routing and account numbers) or use a debit card. If you link a bank account, Chase may deposit and withdraw two small test amounts (usually under $1 each) to confirm the account is real—watch for these and verify the amounts when Chase asks you to confirm them.
Review the account terms and disclosures, then submit. You'll receive a confirmation email immediately. Your account number appears in the app or online banking portal within a few hours, though transfers from linked accounts may take one to two business days to process.
What happens if Chase cannot verify you online
If Chase's automated verification system flags your application—usually because your address, ID, or Social Security number doesn't match their records—they'll place a temporary hold on your account. You'll receive an email or phone call asking you to verify your identity in person or over the phone.
You can resolve this by calling Chase at the number in their message, visiting a branch with your ID, or uploading documents through your online banking portal if Chase offers that option. This process typically takes one to three business days. Until it's resolved, you cannot use the account, though your deposit is safe.
This happens most often if you've recently moved, changed your name, or if there's a typo in your Social Security number. Double-check your information before submitting to avoid this delay.
Funding your new account and first transfers
If you linked a bank account during signup, you can transfer money to your new Chase savings account immediately, though the money won't arrive until the next business day (or up to two business days if you linked an account at a different bank). You can also transfer money out of your Chase savings account to the linked account on the same timeline.
If you used a debit card to fund the account, that deposit posts within one business day. You cannot transfer money out using a debit card—you'll need to link a bank account or request a check if you want to move money out later.
Once your account is open, you can set up automatic transfers, add it to your Chase mobile app, and enable alerts for low balances or large withdrawals. You can also link additional bank accounts later through your online banking settings.
Account features and limits after opening
Chase savings accounts come with a debit card (though it's not required for savings accounts and some customers don't request one). You get online and mobile banking access, the ability to set up automatic transfers, and customer service by phone or through the app.
Federal law limits you to six withdrawals or transfers per month from a savings account (this includes transfers to other accounts, checks written against the savings account, and debit card withdrawals). If you exceed this limit, Chase may charge a fee or convert your account to a checking account. This limit does not apply to withdrawals made in person at a branch or ATM.
Interest rates on Chase savings accounts are typically lower than online-only banks, but rates change frequently. Check Chase's current rates on their website, as they vary by account type and your balance.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to open a Chase savings account online?
The application itself takes 10 to 15 minutes. Your account number appears in your online banking portal within a few hours, and you can start using the account the same day or next business day. Transfers from linked accounts take one to two business days to process.
Can I open a Chase savings account if I don't have a Social Security number?
No. Chase requires a Social Security number or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) to open any deposit account. If you have an ITIN, you may be able to open an account, but you'll need to visit a branch or call to confirm Chase accepts ITINs in your state.
What if I don't have an existing bank account to link?
You can fund your new Chase savings account with a debit card instead. Provide the card number, expiration date, and CVV during signup. The deposit posts within one business day. You can link a bank account later once you have one.
Do I need to be a Chase checking customer to open a savings account?
No. You can open a Chase savings account as a standalone account even if you don't have a Chase checking account. However, linking an existing Chase checking account during signup makes the process slightly faster because Chase already has your information on file.
Can I open a Chase savings account on my phone?
Yes. The Chase mobile app has the same account-opening feature as the website. The process is identical, and your account activates the same way. Make sure you have good internet connection and adequate time to complete the application without interruption.