You can open a Chase checking account online in about 10 minutes, or in a branch if you prefer to do it in person
Chase lets you start a checking account through their website, mobile app, or at a physical branch. The online route is fastest — you'll need a valid ID, Social Security number, and an initial deposit (which varies by account type). Most people complete the whole process without leaving home, and the account is usually ready to use the same day or within one business day.
If you go to a branch, a banker can walk you through the options and answer questions about which account fits your situation. Either way, you'll choose between a few different checking products, each with different monthly fees, minimum balances, and perks. The basic choice is whether you want to pay a monthly fee or meet a requirement to avoid one.
Key Takeaways
- Online account opening takes about 10 minutes and requires a valid ID, Social Security number, and an initial deposit amount that depends on which checking account you choose.
- Chase offers several checking accounts with different fee structures — some charge a monthly fee, others waive it if you maintain a minimum balance or set up direct deposit.
- You can fund your new account immediately with a debit card, bank transfer, or cash deposit at a Chase ATM or branch.
- Your account number and routing number are available as soon as the account opens, so you can set up bill pay or direct deposit right away.
What you need before you start
Gather these items before you open an account online or visit a branch: a valid government-issued ID (driver's license, passport, or state ID), your Social Security number, and the amount you want to deposit to start. Chase does not require a large opening deposit — the minimum varies by account type, but some accounts have no minimum at all.
You'll also need a way to fund the account. You can use a debit card, transfer money from another bank account, or deposit cash at a Chase branch or ATM. If you're opening online, you'll enter your funding method during the signup process.
Opening an account online or through the Chase app
Go to chase.com or open the Chase Mobile app and look for the option to open a new account. You'll be asked to choose which checking account you want — Chase offers several versions, including Chase Total Checking, Chase Sapphire Checking, and Chase Premier Plus Checking. Each has different fees and benefits, so read the descriptions to see which one matches your needs.
Next, you'll enter your personal information: name, address, date of birth, Social Security number, and employment status. Chase will ask about your income and whether you have other accounts with them. Answer honestly — this information helps Chase verify your identity and comply with banking regulations.
Then you'll choose your initial deposit method. You can link a debit card, enter another bank's account details for a transfer, or choose to deposit cash later at a branch. After you confirm everything, Chase will verify your identity — this usually happens instantly, though sometimes they may ask follow-up questions or request additional documents.
Once approved, your account opens immediately. You'll receive your account number and routing number right away, which you can use to set up direct deposit or bill pay. Your debit card will arrive in the mail within 7 to 10 business days, though you can use your account number to make online purchases or transfers before the card arrives.
Opening an account at a Chase branch
Walk into any Chase branch during business hours and tell a banker you want to open a checking account. Bring your ID and Social Security number. The banker will show you the different account options, explain the fees and benefits of each, and help you choose the right one for your situation.
You'll fill out an application (on paper or on a tablet), provide your personal information, and make your initial deposit. The banker can answer questions about features like overdraft protection, mobile banking, or bill pay. If you want to fund the account with cash, you can do it right there at the branch.
Your account usually opens the same day, and you'll walk out with a temporary debit card or a card number you can use immediately. Your permanent card will arrive in the mail within a week or so.
Understanding Chase checking account types and their fees
Chase Total Checking is the most common option. It charges a $12 monthly fee, but the fee is waived if you maintain a $500 minimum daily balance, set up direct deposit, or maintain a linked Chase savings account with a $500 balance. This account comes with online and mobile banking, bill pay, and access to Chase's ATM network.
Chase Sapphire Checking is designed for customers who want premium perks. It has a higher monthly fee and higher minimum balance requirement, but includes benefits like higher interest rates on linked savings accounts and priority customer service.
Chase Premier Plus Checking is for customers with larger balances and higher transaction volumes. It has the highest fee and highest minimum balance, but offers the most features and benefits.
If you want to avoid monthly fees entirely, look at whether you can meet the waiver requirements — direct deposit is the easiest way for most people. If you don't have direct deposit and can't maintain a minimum balance, you'll pay the monthly fee.
Funding your account and using it right away
You can fund your new Chase checking account in several ways. If you opened online, you may have already linked a debit card or another bank account during signup. If not, you can add funds after your account opens by transferring money from another bank (which usually takes 1 to 3 business days), depositing cash at a Chase branch or ATM, or using your debit card.
Your account number and routing number are available as soon as the account opens, so you can set up direct deposit with your employer or receive payments from others right away. You can also start using bill pay to send money to creditors or service providers. Your physical debit card will arrive within 7 to 10 business days, but you can make online purchases or ATM withdrawals using your account number before it arrives.
What happens after your account opens
Chase will send you a welcome packet in the mail with your debit card, PIN, and information about your account. You'll also receive login credentials for online banking if you didn't set them up during the signup process. Download the Chase Mobile app to check your balance, transfer money, deposit checks by taking a photo, and pay bills.
Set up any automatic payments or direct deposits you need. If your employer uses direct deposit, provide them with your new account number and routing number. If you have bills you want to pay automatically, set those up in Chase's bill pay system. Most of these features are free.
Review your account agreement and fee schedule so you understand what triggers the monthly fee and what waives it. If you opened an account with a monthly fee, confirm whether you meet the waiver requirements (direct deposit, minimum balance, or linked savings account) so you don't get charged.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to open a Chase checking account?
Online account opening usually takes 10 to 15 minutes, and your account is ready to use the same day or within one business day. Opening at a branch takes about 20 to 30 minutes, and your account opens immediately. Your debit card arrives in the mail within 7 to 10 business days.
What's the minimum deposit to open a Chase checking account?
The minimum opening deposit varies by account type. Some Chase checking accounts have no minimum deposit requirement, while others require $25 or more. Check the specific account details when you're choosing which account to open.
Can I open a Chase checking account if I don't have a Social Security number?
Chase requires a Social Security number or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) to open an account. If you don't have either, visit a branch to discuss other options or documentation that might work.
Do I need to have a Chase savings account to open checking?
No, you can open a Chase checking account on its own. However, linking a savings account can help you waive the monthly checking fee if you maintain a $500 balance in the savings account.
Can I use my account before my debit card arrives?
Yes. Your account number and routing number are available immediately, so you can set up direct deposit, receive transfers, pay bills online, and make purchases with your account number before your physical card arrives.