What you need to open a Chase savings account
You can open a Chase savings account online, by phone, or in person at a branch. Chase requires a government-issued photo ID, your Social Security number, and an initial deposit — usually $0 to $25 depending on the account type, though some accounts have no minimum. You'll also need a valid mailing address and either a phone number or email address.
If you're opening online, you can complete the entire process in about 10 minutes. Chase will verify your identity using information from credit bureaus and public records. If you open in a branch, bring your ID and be ready to sign documents. Over the phone, a Chase representative will walk you through the same steps.
Chase offers several savings account types with different features and deposit requirements. The most common are the Chase Savings Account (basic option with no monthly fee if you maintain a $300 minimum balance) and the Chase Premier Savings Account (higher interest rate, requires $10,000 minimum balance). Knowing which one fits your situation before you start saves time.
Key Takeaways
- You need a government photo ID, Social Security number, current address, and an initial deposit to open a Chase savings account.
- Online opening takes about 10 minutes and requires Chase to verify your identity through credit bureaus and public records.
- Chase offers multiple savings account types with different minimum balance requirements and interest rates.
- You can open an account online, by phone at 1-800-935-9935, or in person at any Chase branch.
- If you have an existing Chase checking account, opening a linked savings account is faster and requires less verification.
Opening online through Chase.com
Go to chase.com and select "Open an Account" from the top menu. Choose "Savings" and then pick the account type that matches your needs. Enter your email address and create a password, then provide your full name, date of birth, Social Security number, and current address.
Chase will ask for your phone number and verify it by sending a code via text or call. You'll then confirm your identity by answering security questions based on your credit history — Chase pulls this information automatically. This step usually takes 2 to 3 minutes. If Chase cannot verify you this way, you may be asked to upload a photo of your ID or visit a branch.
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 deposit cash at a Chase ATM. The account opens immediately, though it may take 1 to 2 business days for linked transfers to appear. You'll receive a debit card in the mail within 7 to 10 business days if you requested one.
Opening at a Chase branch
Bring your government-issued photo ID (driver's license, passport, or state ID card) and your Social Security number to any Chase branch. Tell the representative you want to open a savings account. They'll ask the same questions as the online process — name, address, date of birth, phone number — and verify your identity using your ID.
The representative will show you the account options and explain the differences in fees, minimum balances, and interest rates. You'll sign the account agreement and deposit your initial funds. You can deposit cash, a check, or transfer from another account right there. The account opens immediately, and you can start using it the same day.
Opening in person is useful if you prefer to ask questions face-to-face, if you want to deposit cash immediately, or if you've had trouble with online verification in the past. Find your nearest Chase branch at chase.com/locations or by calling 1-800-935-9935.
Opening by phone
Call Chase at 1-800-935-9935 and tell the representative you want to open a savings account. Have your ID, Social Security number, and current address ready. The representative will verify your identity by asking security questions, then walk you through the account options and terms.
You'll provide your phone number and email address for account notifications. The representative will explain how to fund the account — you can link an external bank account, use a debit card, or visit a branch to deposit cash. The account opens during the call, and you can begin using it immediately for transfers and deposits.
Phone opening works well if you prefer talking to a person or if you have questions about which account type to choose. Wait times vary by time of day; calling early morning or mid-week is usually faster.
If you already have a Chase checking account
If you're already a Chase customer, opening a linked savings account is simpler. Log into your Chase account online or through the mobile app, go to "Accounts," and select "Open an Account." Choose "Savings" and pick your account type. Since Chase already has your information on file, verification is faster — usually instant.
You can fund the new savings account by transferring money from your existing checking account. The transfer happens immediately, and the account is ready to use right away. You won't need to provide ID or Social Security number again because Chase already verified this when you opened your checking account.
This route is the fastest if you're an existing customer. The entire process takes 3 to 5 minutes online.
What happens after you open the account
Your account is active immediately, but some features may take a day or two to fully set up. If you linked an external bank account, Chase will deposit two small amounts (under $1 each) to that account within 1 to 2 business days. You'll need to verify those amounts in your Chase account to confirm you own the external account — this is a security step called microdeposit verification.
If you requested a debit card, it will arrive in 7 to 10 business days. You can use your account number and routing number to set up direct deposits or automatic transfers before the card arrives. Your account number and routing number appear in your account details online or in the mobile app.
Chase will send you a welcome packet by mail with your account agreement, disclosures, and other documents. Review these for details on fees, interest rates, and account rules. You can also view all this information in your online account settings.
Fees and minimum balance requirements
Chase Savings Account has no monthly maintenance fee if you keep a $300 minimum balance. If your balance drops below $300, you'll pay $5 per month. There's no fee for transfers between your Chase accounts, but external transfers may have limits depending on federal regulations.
Chase Premier Savings Account requires a $10,000 minimum balance and pays a higher interest rate. If your balance falls below $10,000, you'll pay $25 per month. Both accounts allow unlimited deposits and withdrawals, though federal rules may limit certain types of transfers.
Interest rates vary and change based on market conditions. Check chase.com for current rates on the account type you're considering. Rates are typically higher for Premier Savings accounts, but the $10,000 minimum may not make sense if you're just starting to save.
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 or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) to open any account. If you have an ITIN, you can use that instead. Bring your ITIN documentation to a branch or have it ready if you open online.
How long does it take for money to appear after I transfer it to my new savings account?
Transfers between your own Chase accounts appear immediately. Transfers from an external bank account take 1 to 2 business days. Cash deposits at a Chase ATM appear within 1 business day. Checks deposited in person or through mobile deposit take 1 to 2 business days to clear.
What if Chase denies my account opening?
Chase may deny an account if you have a history of overdrafts, fraud, or unpaid fees at another bank. If denied, ask Chase why — they're required to tell you. You can dispute inaccurate information or try opening a different account type. Some people reapply after 30 to 90 days if the issue was temporary.
Can I open a savings account for someone else or for a child?
You can open a joint savings account with another adult who is present and provides their own ID and Social Security number. For children under 18, you'll need to open a custodial account in person at a branch with the child present and their birth certificate or Social Security card.
Do I need to have direct deposit set up to open the account?
No. Direct deposit is optional. You can fund your account with an initial transfer, cash deposit, or check deposit. Direct deposit is useful for automatic savings but not required to open or use the account.