You can open most Chase checking and savings accounts online, but not all account types
Chase lets you open a checking account, savings account, or money market account entirely online using their website or mobile app. You do not need to visit a branch. The process takes about 10 to 15 minutes, and you can start using the account the same day in most cases.
However, some Chase products require a branch visit or phone call. Business accounts, certain high-yield savings products, and accounts tied to investment services cannot be opened online. If you need one of those, you will have to call Chase at 1-800-935-9935 or go to a branch in person.
The online process works the same whether you are a new customer or already have a Chase account. You will need an email address, a Social Security number or tax ID, a government-issued ID, and a way to fund the account (debit card, bank transfer, or wire).
Key Takeaways
- Chase checking, savings, and money market accounts open online in 10 to 15 minutes with no branch visit required.
- You need a Social Security number, government ID, email address, and a funding method (debit card or bank transfer) to complete the process.
- Business accounts and certain specialty savings products cannot be opened online and require a phone call or branch visit.
- Your account is usually active the same day, though some features like debit card ordering may take a few business days.
What you need before you start
Gather these items before you open your browser. Chase will ask for them in order and will not let you proceed without them.
You need a valid government-issued ID — a driver's license, passport, or state ID card. Chase scans it during the online process. You also need your Social Security number (or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number if you do not have an SSN). Chase uses this to run a background check and verify your identity.
Have an email address ready. Chase sends account confirmations, statements, and security alerts to this address. You can change it later, but you need one to start. Finally, you need a way to fund the account. Chase accepts debit cards, existing bank accounts (via ACH transfer), or wire transfers. The minimum opening deposit varies by account type — typically $0 to $25 for checking, though some accounts require more.
The step-by-step process on Chase's website
Go to chase.com and click "Open an Account" or use the Chase mobile app. Select the account type you want — checking, savings, or money market. Chase shows you the features, fees, and interest rates (if any) for each option before you commit.
Enter your personal information: name, date of birth, address, phone number, email, and Social Security number. Chase verifies your identity using this data. If you have moved recently or have a complex credit history, this step may take longer or require additional verification.
Next, Chase asks how you want to fund the account. If you use a debit card, enter the card number and expiration date. If you transfer from another bank, provide the routing number and account number. Chase will deposit a small amount (usually $0.01 to $1) into that account within one to two business days, then ask you to confirm the amount to prove you own the account. Wire transfers fund immediately but cost money to send.
Review the account agreement and deposit terms, then sign electronically. Chase sends a confirmation email within minutes. Your account number appears on screen immediately, and you can log in to your Chase account right away.
When your account is ready to use
Your checking or savings account is active for transfers and deposits the same day you open it. You can move money in and out, set up bill pay, and link external accounts immediately. However, some features have delays.
Your debit card ships separately and arrives in 7 to 10 business days. You can order a temporary digital card through the Chase app in some cases, which works with Apple Pay, Google Pay, or Samsung Pay right away. Checks take 5 to 7 business days to arrive if you order them during account setup.
If you funded the account with a transfer from another bank, that money may be on hold for one to two business days while Chase verifies the transfer. Deposits from your employer or other sources follow standard ACH timelines — usually one to two business days.
Account types you cannot open online
Chase business checking and savings accounts must be opened by phone or in a branch. Call the business banking line at 1-800-935-9935 or visit a Chase branch with your business license, EIN, and personal ID. The process takes longer because Chase verifies your business registration and tax status.
Some high-yield savings accounts and specialty products also require a phone call or branch visit. These are less common, but Chase's website will tell you during the account selection step if online opening is not available. If you see "Call to open" or "Visit a branch," you cannot complete it online.
If you want to open an account linked to investment services, brokerage accounts, or credit products, those require separate applications and cannot be bundled into the online bank account process.
What happens if verification fails
Chase may ask for additional information if their initial verification does not go through. This happens most often if you have recently moved, have a thin credit file, or share a name with someone else in their system. Chase will email you or call the phone number you provided.
If you cannot verify online, Chase will offer to complete the account opening over the phone with a representative. This usually takes 10 to 15 minutes and results in the same account. You will still need your ID and Social Security number available.
In rare cases, Chase may decline to open an account if they cannot verify your identity or if you have a history of fraud or unpaid accounts with them. If this happens, Chase will tell you the reason and may suggest visiting a branch to discuss options.
Funding your account after opening
Once your account is open, you can add money in several ways. ACH transfers from another bank take one to two business days and are free. Wire transfers arrive the same day but cost $15 to $20 to send (paid by the sender). Direct deposit from your employer or government benefits deposits automatically on the scheduled date.
You can also deposit checks using the Chase mobile app — photograph the front and back, and the money appears in your account within one to two business days. ATM deposits at any Chase ATM are available immediately if you have a debit card, though the card takes a week to arrive.
If you need money in your account before your debit card arrives, use a wire transfer or ACH from another account you own. Both are faster than waiting for the card.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to be a U.S. citizen to open a Chase account online?
No, but you need a Social Security number or ITIN. If you have a visa or work authorization, you can open an account. Chase may ask for additional documentation like a passport or visa copy. Call 1-800-935-9935 if you run into issues during online verification.
Can I open a Chase account if I have been denied before?
Maybe. Chase uses ChexSystems, a banking history database, to screen applicants. If you were denied for fraud or unpaid overdrafts, Chase may decline again. Call the number on your denial letter to ask if you can reapply or if a branch visit might help.
What if my funding transfer fails?
Chase will notify you by email or phone. You can try again with a different payment method — a debit card instead of a bank transfer, for example. If the problem persists, contact Chase customer service at 1-800-935-9935 to troubleshoot.
Can I open multiple Chase accounts online at the same time?
Yes. You can open a checking and savings account in one session, or open them separately on different days. Chase allows multiple accounts per person as long as they serve different purposes (one for bills, one for savings, for example).
How long does it take to receive my first statement?
Chase sends your first statement 30 to 40 days after account opening, depending on your statement cycle date. You can view transactions online immediately through your Chase account dashboard.