You can open most Chase accounts online in about 10 minutes using a computer or the Chase mobile app

Chase lets you open a checking or savings account from home without visiting a branch. The process is straightforward: you provide personal information, verify your identity, fund the account, and you're done. Most accounts are active the same day or within one business day.

The exact steps depend on which account type you want and whether Chase recognizes you as an existing customer. If you already have a Chase credit card or mortgage, the process is faster because Chase already has your identity verified. New customers go through an additional verification step.

Key Takeaways

  • You need a valid government ID, Social Security number, and an initial deposit (amount varies by account type) to open an account online.
  • Chase verifies your identity during signup using information from credit bureaus and public records, which takes a few minutes.
  • New customers may be asked to verify their identity through a video call or by uploading a photo of their ID.
  • Your account number and routing number are available immediately after approval, so you can set up direct deposit the same day.
  • Some account types have monthly fees that are waived if you meet balance or deposit requirements.

What you need before you start

Gather these items before opening your browser: a valid government-issued ID (driver's license, passport, or state ID), your Social Security number, and a way to make an initial deposit. Chase requires a minimum opening deposit that varies by account type—checking accounts typically start at $0 to $25, while savings accounts may require $0 to $300. Check the specific account details on Chase's website to confirm the current minimum for the account you want.

You also need access to a phone number and email address that you can verify during signup. Chase will send a code to one or both of these to confirm they belong to you. Have your phone or email app open and ready when you start the application.

Step-by-step: opening the account online

Go to chase.com and look for the "Open an Account" button, usually near the top of the page. Select the account type you want—Chase Total Checking, Chase Savings, or another product. Click "Open Online" and you'll be taken to the application.

Enter your personal information: full name, date of birth, address, phone number, and email. Chase will ask whether you're a new customer or already have a Chase account. If you're new, you'll move to identity verification. If you already bank with Chase, the process skips ahead and asks you to log in with your existing credentials.

For identity verification, Chase uses information from credit bureaus and public records to confirm who you are. This usually takes seconds. If Chase can't verify you automatically, you'll be asked to upload a photo of your ID or complete a video call with a Chase representative. Video verification typically happens within a few minutes and requires you to show your ID and answer a few security questions on camera.

Once verified, you'll choose how to fund the account. You can link an external bank account and transfer money, use a debit card, or wire funds. If you link an external account, Chase will send two small deposits to that account within a few business days—you'll need to confirm the amounts to prove you own the account. After funding, your account is open and ready to use.

What happens after you submit your application

Chase sends a confirmation email within minutes. Your account number and routing number appear in the app or online banking immediately, even if your debit card hasn't arrived yet. This means you can set up direct deposit, receive ACH transfers, or make bill payments right away.

Your physical debit card ships within 7 to 10 business days. Until it arrives, you can use your account number to receive deposits or pay bills, and you can use a temporary digital card in the Chase app for online purchases and contactless payments at stores.

If you chose to link an external bank account for funding, watch for two small deposits (usually under $1 each) to appear in that account within 3 to 5 business days. Log back into your Chase account and confirm those amounts to complete the link. This step is required before you can transfer money between the accounts.

Monthly fees and how to avoid them

Most Chase checking accounts have a $12 monthly service fee, but it's waived if you meet one of these conditions: maintain a $500 minimum daily balance, set up direct deposit of at least $500 per month, or link the account to a Chase credit card and make at least one purchase per month. Savings accounts typically have no monthly fee but may have limits on how many withdrawals you can make per month.

Review the fee schedule for your specific account type on Chase's website before opening. Fee structures change occasionally, and different account tiers have different requirements. If you're opening an account primarily to receive direct deposit, confirm that your employer's deposits will count toward the waiver requirement.

Troubleshooting common problems during signup

If Chase can't verify your identity automatically, you'll see a message asking you to upload an ID or schedule a video call. This usually means your information doesn't match what's in the credit bureaus exactly—a middle initial difference or an old address can trigger this. Have your ID ready and follow the prompts. Video calls are scheduled immediately and typically take 2 to 3 minutes.

If your application is declined, Chase sends an email explaining why. Common reasons include an existing account under your name, a history of unpaid bank fees, or a ChexSystems report (a banking history report similar to a credit report). You can dispute information in ChexSystems or contact Chase directly to understand the decline. Some declines are temporary and you can reapply after 30 days.

If you're having trouble linking an external bank account, double-check the account number and routing number. A single digit wrong will cause the link to fail. If the account is very new (less than 30 days old), some banks won't allow external links yet—wait a few days and try again.

Moving money into your new account

Once your account is open, you have several ways to add funds. Direct deposit from your employer is the fastest and most reliable—provide your new Chase account number and routing number to your payroll department, and deposits arrive on payday. ACH transfer from another bank account takes 1 to 3 business days. Wire transfer arrives the same day if sent before 2 p.m. ET on a business day, but usually costs $15 to $20. Mobile check deposit lets you photograph a check and deposit it through the Chase app—funds are available within 1 to 2 business days.

If you're moving money from another bank, don't close that account immediately. Wait until you've confirmed that direct deposit and automatic payments are working with your new Chase account. Some employers take a pay period or two to process payroll changes, and you may have recurring bills still pulling from the old account.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I open a Chase account if I don't have a credit card or existing Chase account?

Yes. New customers can open accounts online, but Chase will verify your identity using public records and credit bureau information. If automatic verification fails, you'll upload an ID photo or do a quick video call. The process takes a few extra minutes but works for most people.

What's the difference between Chase Total Checking and other checking accounts?

Chase offers several checking accounts with different features and fee structures. Total Checking is the most common and has a $12 monthly fee waived with direct deposit or a $500 balance. Premier Plus Checking has higher balance requirements but includes perks like higher interest rates and ATM fee reimbursement. Compare the options on Chase's website to find the best fit for how you bank.

Can I open an account on my phone?

Yes. The Chase mobile app has an "Open an Account" option that works the same way as the website. The process is identical—you'll provide your information, verify your identity, and fund the account. Some people find it easier on a phone because the app can auto-fill information from your device.

How long does it take to get my debit card?

Physical debit cards ship within 7 to 10 business days. You can use a temporary digital card in the Chase app for online purchases and contactless payments at stores immediately after your account opens. If you need a card faster, some Chase branches can issue a temporary card in person.

What if I want to open a joint account?

Joint accounts require both account holders to be present during the application. One person starts the application online, and at the identity verification step, the second person must verify their own identity. Both people will need a valid ID and Social Security number. Chase will send separate confirmation emails to both account holders.