What you need to open a Chase account

Chase lets you open a checking or savings account online, by phone, or in a branch. You will need a government-issued photo ID, your Social Security number, and an initial deposit (the amount varies by account type). Most people can complete the process in 10 to 15 minutes online.

Chase offers several account types: Chase Total Checking, Chase Sapphire Checking, Chase Premier Plus Checking, and Chase Savings. Each has different monthly fees, minimum balance requirements, and benefits. The account you choose depends on how much you plan to keep on deposit and which features matter to you.

If you do not have a Social Security number, you can open an account with an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) at most Chase branches, though online opening may not be available. You will need to bring additional documentation in person.

Key Takeaways

  • You can open a Chase account online, by phone, or in a branch with a photo ID, Social Security number, and an opening deposit.
  • Chase checking accounts range from no-fee options to premium accounts with monthly fees and higher balance requirements.
  • Online account opening takes 10 to 15 minutes and you can start using your account the same day.
  • If you have a negative banking history, Chase may decline you, but you can reapply after 12 months or ask about second-chance banking options.

Opening an account online

Go to chase.com and select "Open an account" from the homepage. You will choose your account type, enter your personal information (name, address, date of birth, Social Security number), and verify your identity. Chase will ask for a phone number and email address to send confirmation and set up online banking access.

You will then choose your opening deposit amount and funding method. Most people link a bank account and transfer money, or use a debit card. Chase will show you the account number and routing number immediately after approval, and you can start using your account right away—including setting up direct deposit or receiving transfers.

If Chase cannot verify your identity online, you will be asked to visit a branch in person with your ID. This usually happens if your credit file is thin or if the information you entered does not match what Chase's systems find.

Opening an account in a Chase branch

Walk into any Chase branch with your photo ID, Social Security number, and opening deposit. A banker will walk you through the account options, help you choose the right one, and complete the paperwork. The whole process takes 15 to 30 minutes.

Opening in a branch is useful if you want to ask questions about account features, if you do not have online banking set up yet, or if you prefer to hand over cash as your opening deposit. You will leave with a debit card order (it arrives in 7 to 10 business days) and immediate access to your account online.

Opening an account by phone

Call Chase at 1-800-935-9935 to open an account over the phone. A representative will verify your identity, walk you through account options, and collect your information. You will still need to provide your photo ID and Social Security number, and you will need to fund the account by transferring money from another bank or using a debit card.

Phone opening is slower than online—it can take 20 to 30 minutes—but it may be helpful if you have questions or if you prefer speaking to a person. After the call, you will receive a confirmation email with your account details and can log in to online banking immediately.

Account types and their costs

Chase Total Checking has no monthly fee and no minimum balance requirement. You get a debit card, online banking, and mobile app access. This is the most common choice for people who want a basic checking account without fees.

Chase Sapphire Checking has a $12 monthly fee (waived if you keep $500 or more in the account or set up a direct deposit of at least $500 per month). It includes higher ATM reimbursements and other perks aimed at people who travel or use out-of-network ATMs frequently.

Chase Premier Plus Checking requires a $25,000 minimum balance or $10,000 in a linked savings account to avoid a $25 monthly fee. It is designed for people with larger deposits who want premium customer service and higher interest rates on linked savings.

Chase Savings earns interest on your balance. The interest rate changes based on market conditions and your account balance. There is no monthly fee and no minimum balance, though you can only make six withdrawals per month before fees apply.

What happens if Chase denies you

Chase uses ChexSystems, a banking history database, to check whether you have unpaid overdrafts, fraud, or other problems at previous banks. If you have a negative history, Chase may decline your application. You can request a copy of your ChexSystems report for free at chexsystems.com to see what they found.

If you are denied, you can reapply after 12 months. In the meantime, some Chase branches offer Chase Second Chance Checking, which is designed for people with banking problems. It has a $25 monthly fee and a $500 opening deposit, but it does not require a ChexSystems check. Ask a banker at your local branch whether this option is available.

You can also dispute inaccurate information on your ChexSystems report. If the report contains errors—like overdrafts you already paid or fraud you did not commit—contact ChexSystems to file a dispute. Correcting your report may allow you to reapply sooner.

Setting up direct deposit and online banking

After your account opens, log in to chase.com or the Chase mobile app with your username and password. You can set up direct deposit by giving your employer your account number and routing number (both appear in your account details). Direct deposit usually takes one to two pay periods to activate.

In online banking, you can transfer money between your Chase accounts, pay bills, send money to other people, and set up alerts for low balances or large transactions. The Chase mobile app offers the same features plus mobile check deposit, which lets you photograph a check and deposit it without visiting a branch.

If you need help, Chase offers phone support 24/7 at 1-800-935-9935, or you can visit a branch. Most questions about online banking can be answered through the help section on chase.com.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much do I need to open a Chase account?

Chase Total Checking and Chase Savings have no minimum opening deposit—you can open with $0. Other accounts require $25 or more. Most people transfer $100 to $500 as their opening deposit, but the exact amount is your choice.

Can I open a Chase account if I am under 18?

Chase offers accounts for minors, but you must have a parent or guardian co-sign. You will both need to visit a branch in person with photo IDs. The adult becomes a joint owner of the account and can monitor activity.

How long does it take to receive my debit card?

Debit cards arrive in 7 to 10 business days. You can use your account for transfers and bill pay immediately, but you will need to wait for the physical card to withdraw cash at an ATM or make in-person purchases. Chase offers expedited card delivery at some branches for an extra fee.

What if I do not have a Social Security number?

You can open an account with an ITIN at a Chase branch in person. Bring your ITIN documentation, photo ID, and opening deposit. Online opening is not available for ITIN holders at most branches, so you will need to visit in person.

Can I change my account type after opening?

Yes. Log into online banking or call 1-800-935-9935 to switch to a different account type. If you switch from a fee account to a no-fee account, the change takes effect immediately. If you switch to a fee account, the fee begins the following month.