You can open a Chase savings account online in about 10 minutes using their website or mobile app
Go to chase.com, click "Open an Account," and select the savings account product you want. Chase will ask for your Social Security number, date of birth, address, and initial funding method. You'll need a valid government ID to verify your identity — Chase uses a third-party verification service that may ask you to take a photo of your ID or answer security questions. Once verified, your account opens immediately and you can start using it the same day.
The entire process happens on your phone or computer. You don't visit a branch unless you choose to. Chase offers several savings account types online, each with different interest rates and minimum balance requirements, so the specific account you open depends on which product you select during signup.
Key Takeaways
- You need a Social Security number, valid government ID, current address, and a way to fund the account (debit card, bank transfer, or external account).
- Chase verifies your identity through a third-party service that may ask you to photograph your ID or answer security questions based on your credit history.
- Your account opens immediately after verification and you can deposit money and start earning interest the same day.
- Chase offers multiple savings account types online with different interest rates and minimum balance requirements — compare them before you choose.
What you need before you start
Have your Social Security number, date of birth, and current address ready. Chase will verify these against public records. You'll also need a valid government-issued ID — a driver's license, passport, or state ID card. Chase does not accept expired IDs.
Prepare a funding source to deposit your initial money. You can use a debit card, transfer from another bank account, or wire funds. If you're transferring from another bank, have that account number and routing number available. Chase does not require a minimum opening deposit for most savings accounts, but some account types may have minimum balance requirements to earn interest or avoid fees.
The step-by-step signup process
Start at chase.com or open the Chase mobile app. Look for "Open an Account" or "New Accounts" — the link location varies slightly between the website and app. Select "Savings Account" from the product menu. Chase will show you the savings account options available in your state; read the interest rate, minimum balance requirement, and monthly fee for each before you choose.
Enter your personal information: full name, date of birth, Social Security number, and current address. Chase asks whether you're a U.S. citizen and whether you have an existing Chase account. Answer accurately — Chase cross-checks this information against government databases and your credit report.
Chase then sends you to a third-party identity verification service. This step confirms you are who you say you are. The service may ask you to photograph both sides of your government ID using your phone camera, or it may ask security questions based on your credit history (like "Which of these addresses have you lived at?" or "Which car have you owned?"). Answer these questions based on your actual history. If verification fails, Chase will tell you why and may ask you to visit a branch in person or call their phone line.
Once verified, choose how to fund your account. Enter your debit card number, or link an external bank account by providing its routing number and account number. If you're linking an external account, Chase may deposit two small test amounts (usually under $1 each) and ask you to confirm them — this proves you control that account. After funding, your savings account is active.
What happens after your account opens
Your account number and routing number appear in the app or on the website immediately. You can set up direct deposit, transfer money in, or receive transfers from other people right away. If you funded the account during signup, that money is available to use or leave to earn interest.
Chase sends you a debit card in the mail within 7 to 10 business days if you opened a checking account, but savings accounts do not come with debit cards. You access your savings account through the app, website, or by visiting a branch. You can move money between your Chase accounts instantly using the app or website.
Identity verification problems and what to do
If the third-party verification service cannot confirm your identity, Chase will show you an error message. Common reasons include a mismatch between the name on your ID and the name you entered, an address that doesn't match public records, or a Social Security number that doesn't match government files. Do not create a new account and try again — this can trigger fraud alerts.
Instead, call Chase at the number shown on the error screen. A representative can review your information, ask follow-up questions, and either approve your account manually or tell you what documents to bring to a branch. If you recently moved, your address may not have updated in government databases yet; bringing a utility bill or lease to a Chase branch can resolve this. If your ID is expired, you'll need to visit a branch with a valid ID.
Choosing between Chase savings account types
Chase offers different savings accounts with different interest rates and requirements. The specific products available depend on your state and whether you already have a Chase account. Compare the annual percentage yield (APY), minimum balance to earn that rate, and any monthly maintenance fees before you choose.
Some Chase savings accounts have no minimum balance and no monthly fee. Others require you to maintain a certain balance to earn the advertised interest rate or to avoid a monthly charge. If you plan to keep a small balance, pick an account with no minimum requirement. If you're depositing a larger amount, a higher-yield account with a minimum balance requirement may earn you more interest over time.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I open a Chase savings account if I don't have a Social Security number?
No. Chase requires a Social Security number to open any account. If you have an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) instead, you may be able to open an account at some Chase branches in person, but online signup requires an SSN. Call Chase or visit a branch to ask about ITIN options.
How long does it take for money I transfer to show up?
If you fund your account with a debit card during signup, the money appears within one business day. If you link an external bank account and transfer money, it typically takes one to three business days depending on your bank. Transfers between your own Chase accounts are instant.
What if I already have a Chase checking account?
You can open a savings account online using the same process. Chase may recognize your existing account and skip some verification steps, or it may ask you to verify your identity again. Either way, the process is the same — go to chase.com, select "Open an Account," and choose a savings product.
Do I need to visit a Chase branch to open a savings account?
No. The entire process happens online. You only need to visit a branch if identity verification fails online, or if you prefer to open an account in person instead of using the website or app.
Can I change my mind after I open the account?
Yes. You can close the account anytime through the app or website, or by calling Chase. If you have a balance, Chase will send you a check or transfer the money to another account you specify. There is no penalty for closing a savings account.