Yes, you can open most Chase accounts online in minutes

Chase lets you open a checking or savings account entirely through their website or mobile app without visiting a branch. The process takes about 10 minutes, and you can start using your account the same day in most cases. You will need a Social Security number, a valid government ID, and a funding source (debit card, bank account, or wire transfer).

Not every Chase account type is available online. Money Market accounts and some specialty products require a phone call or branch visit. If you are looking for a basic checking or savings account, the online route works. If you want something specific, check Chase's website first or call 1-800-935-9935 to confirm.

Key Takeaways

  • Chase checking and savings accounts can be opened online using a computer or phone, and you will receive a debit card within 7 to 10 business days.
  • You must provide your Social Security number, a valid ID (driver's license or passport), and proof of your current address during signup.
  • Your account is active immediately, but you cannot withdraw cash or use your debit card until Chase verifies your identity, which usually happens within one business day.
  • If you already have a Chase account, opening a second one online is faster because Chase already has your information on file.
  • Some account types, like Money Market accounts and CDs, require a phone call or branch visit and cannot be opened online.

What you need before you start

Gather these items before you begin the online signup. You will need a valid government-issued ID — a driver's license, passport, or state ID card. Chase will ask you to photograph both sides or verify it through their app. If you do not have a current ID, you will need to visit a branch or call Chase to complete the account opening by phone.

You also need your Social Security number and your current address. Chase will verify your address against public records, so use the address where you currently receive mail. If you moved recently and your ID does not match your current address, have a recent utility bill or lease handy — Chase may ask for it.

Finally, have a funding source ready. This can be a debit card, a checking or savings account at another bank, or a wire transfer. You do not have to fund the account immediately — Chase allows you to open an account with zero dollars — but you will need a way to add money if you want to use it right away.

The step-by-step process

Go to chase.com or open the Chase Mobile app and select "Open an Account." Choose the account type you want — checking, savings, or both. Chase will ask you to enter your email address, create a password, and confirm your phone number. This takes about two minutes.

Next, enter your personal information: full name, date of birth, Social Security number, and current address. Chase will run a soft credit check and verify your identity against public records. This step usually completes instantly, but if Chase cannot verify you automatically, they will ask you to upload a photo of your ID.

If you are opening a checking account, Chase will ask which debit card design you want and confirm your mailing address for the card. Your debit card will arrive within 7 to 10 business days. You can set up direct deposit and bill pay before the card arrives.

Finally, choose how you want to fund the account. You can link a debit card or bank account and transfer money, or you can skip this step and fund it later. Once you confirm everything, your account is open. Chase will send you a confirmation email with your account number and routing number.

When your account is active and when you can use it

Your account number and routing number are available immediately after you finish signup. You can use these to set up direct deposit or receive wire transfers right away. However, you cannot withdraw cash or make purchases with your debit card until Chase completes identity verification, which usually happens within one business day.

If you funded your account with a transfer from another bank, that money may take 1 to 3 business days to arrive, depending on whether you used an ACH transfer or a wire. ACH transfers are slower but free. Wires are faster but may cost $15 to $25.

Once your debit card arrives in the mail, activate it through the app or by calling the number on the back. You can use it immediately at Chase ATMs and anywhere Visa is accepted. If you need cash before the card arrives, you can visit a Chase branch and withdraw from your new account using your ID and account number.

Account types you can and cannot open online

Chase allows online signup for most checking and savings accounts, including Chase Total Checking, Chase Sapphire Checking, Chase Premier Plus Checking, and Chase Savings. These are the most common products, and the online process works smoothly for all of them.

You cannot open Money Market accounts, CDs (Certificates of Deposit), or IRA accounts online. If you want one of these, call Chase at 1-800-935-9935 or visit a branch. The phone process takes about 15 minutes, and a banker can answer questions about rates and terms before you commit.

Business accounts also require a phone call or branch visit. If you are opening an account for a sole proprietorship or LLC, Chase will need to verify your business information and may ask for an EIN or business license.

What happens if verification fails

If Chase cannot verify your identity automatically, they will send you an email asking you to upload a photo of your ID. Take a clear photo of both the front and back of your driver's license or passport and upload it through the link in the email. Chase usually reviews this within a few hours.

If your address does not match public records, Chase may ask you to upload a recent utility bill, lease, or mortgage statement as proof of residence. Use a document dated within the last 60 days. Upload it through the same email link.

In rare cases, Chase may ask you to visit a branch or call to complete verification by phone. This happens when their automated system cannot confirm your information. If this occurs, Chase will tell you which branch is nearest or provide a phone number to call. You will not lose your application — you are just completing the final step in person or over the phone.

Fees and minimum balance requirements

Chase checking and savings accounts have no monthly maintenance fee if you meet one of these conditions: maintain a minimum daily balance (usually $500 to $1,500, depending on the account), set up direct deposit, or keep a linked savings account with a minimum balance. If you do not meet any of these, Chase charges $12 per month for checking.

Savings accounts have no monthly fee regardless of balance. However, federal rules limit you to six withdrawals per month from a savings account. Transfers between your own accounts do not count, but withdrawals to outside accounts or cash withdrawals do.

Overdraft fees are $35 per transaction if you spend more than your balance. Chase offers overdraft protection, which links your checking account to a savings account or credit line and covers overdrafts automatically. This costs nothing if you use it, but you pay interest on the borrowed amount.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I open a Chase account online if I do not have a Social Security number?

No. Chase requires a Social Security number for all personal accounts. If you are a non-citizen without an SSN, you may be able to open an account using an ITIN (Individual Taxpayer Identification Number), but you will need to call Chase or visit a branch — this cannot be done online.

How long does it take to receive my debit card after opening an account online?

Chase typically mails debit cards within 7 to 10 business days. You can use your account number and routing number to receive direct deposits or wire transfers immediately. If you need cash urgently, visit a Chase branch with your ID and account number to withdraw from your new account.

Can I open a second Chase checking account online if I already have one?

Yes. Chase allows multiple accounts, and opening a second one online is faster because they already have your information. The process takes about 5 minutes. However, Chase may decline if you have a history of overdrafts or negative account closures.

What if I make a mistake during the online signup?

If you catch the error before submitting, go back and correct it. If you submitted the application with wrong information, contact Chase immediately at 1-800-935-9935. They can cancel the application and let you start over, or they may be able to correct minor errors like a misspelled name or wrong address.

Can I open a joint account online with someone else?

No. Joint accounts require both account holders to verify their identity, which Chase handles by phone or in branch. Call 1-800-935-9935 to start the process. Both people will need to provide their Social Security number and ID.