What you need to open a Chase checking account

Chase requires a government-issued photo ID, your Social Security number, and an initial deposit to open a checking account. The deposit amount varies by account type — some accounts need $25, others $100 or more. You can open an account in person at a Chase branch, online through their website, or by phone.

Before you start, decide which account type fits your situation. Chase offers several: Chase Total Checking (the most common), Chase Premier Plus Checking (requires higher balances), and Chase Secure Checking (for people building or rebuilding credit). Each has different monthly fees, minimum balance requirements, and perks.

You'll also need a mailing address and a phone number. If you're opening online or by phone, Chase will verify your identity using information from credit bureaus — they may ask you security questions about your financial history. Have your ID and Social Security card ready before you begin.

Key Takeaways

  • You need a government photo ID, Social Security number, and an initial deposit ranging from $25 to $100 depending on the account type.
  • Chase offers three main checking account types with different fee structures and balance requirements — Total Checking is the standard option for most people.
  • You can open an account in a branch, online at chase.com, or by calling 1-800-935-9935, and the process typically takes 10 to 15 minutes.
  • If you open online or by phone, Chase verifies your identity using credit bureau data and may ask security questions about your financial history.

Opening an account in a Chase branch

Walk into any Chase branch with your ID, Social Security card, and initial deposit. A banker will ask which account type you want, verify your information, and set up your account on the spot. The whole process usually takes 15 to 20 minutes. You'll leave with a temporary debit card and online banking access — your permanent card arrives by mail in 7 to 10 business days.

Bring a checkbook order form if you want checks, though you can order them online later at no extra cost. If you don't have cash for the deposit, you can transfer money from another bank account during the appointment, or the banker can help you set up a transfer after the account opens.

Opening an account online

Go to chase.com and select "Open an Account." You'll enter your personal information, Social Security number, and ID details. Chase will ask security questions to verify your identity — these pull from credit bureau records and may ask about past addresses, previous credit accounts, or loan history. Answer honestly; if you get three questions wrong, the online process stops and you'll need to visit a branch or call instead.

After verification, you'll choose your account type and make your initial deposit using a debit card or bank transfer. If you use a debit card, the charge posts immediately. If you transfer from another bank, it may take one to three business days. Once approved, you can use your account right away through the Chase mobile app or website, even before your physical debit card arrives.

Opening an account by phone

Call Chase at 1-800-935-9935 and ask to open a checking account. A representative will walk you through the same verification process as the online route — they'll ask for your ID information and Social Security number, then verify your identity with security questions. The call takes about 20 minutes.

You'll need to provide your initial deposit information: either a debit card number or routing and account number from another bank. If you use a debit card, the charge posts the same day. If you transfer from another bank, allow one to three business days. After approval, you can access your account immediately through the app or website.

What happens if you don't pass identity verification

If Chase's security questions don't match your credit history — or if you don't have a credit history — the online and phone processes will fail. This happens most often to people who are new to the United States, have never borrowed money, or have moved frequently. When this occurs, you must visit a Chase branch in person with your ID and Social Security card. The banker can verify you face-to-face and open the account on the spot.

Bring your original ID and Social Security card, not copies. If your ID is from outside the United States, bring your passport and a secondary ID if you have one. The branch banker has more flexibility than the automated system and can open accounts for people the online process rejected.

Monthly fees and how to avoid them

Chase Total Checking charges $12 per month, but the fee is waived if you maintain a $500 minimum daily balance or set up direct deposit of any amount. Most people avoid the fee through direct deposit — even a small paycheck counts. If you don't have direct deposit, keeping $500 in the account at all times is the other route.

Chase Premier Plus Checking charges $25 per month and requires a $15,000 minimum daily balance or $25,000 in combined Chase accounts. This account is designed for people with substantial savings or multiple Chase products. Chase Secure Checking has no monthly fee and no minimum balance, but it doesn't come with overdraft protection and requires a $25 initial deposit.

Review your account type after you open it. If you're not hitting the minimum balance or setting up direct deposit, you're paying fees you don't need to pay. You can switch to a different Chase account type anytime by calling or visiting a branch.

Using your account after it opens

Your temporary debit card works immediately for online purchases and ATM withdrawals. Your permanent card arrives in 7 to 10 business days. Set up online banking through the Chase website or mobile app — you'll need to create a username and password. Your first login may require additional verification through a code sent to your phone or email.

Once you're logged in, you can transfer money to other banks, set up bill pay, deposit checks using mobile check deposit, and monitor your balance. Direct deposit setup takes a few minutes — you'll need your Chase routing number (004014093 for most accounts) and your new account number, which you can find in the app or online portal.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I open a Chase checking account if I have a ChexSystems record?

Chase uses ChexSystems to check your banking history. If you have a record of unpaid overdrafts, fraud, or other issues, Chase may deny your application. If this happens, ask Chase for the specific reason in writing. You can dispute errors with ChexSystems directly, or consider Chase Secure Checking, which has less stringent requirements.

What if I don't have a Social Security number?

Chase requires a Social Security number or ITIN (Individual Taxpayer Identification Number) to open an account. If you have an ITIN, you can use it in place of a Social Security number. Visit a branch with your ID and ITIN documentation to open an account.

How long does it take to get my debit card?

Your temporary card works immediately after opening. Your permanent card arrives by mail in 7 to 10 business days. If you need a card faster, visit a Chase branch and ask for expedited delivery — some branches can issue a card on the spot.

Can I open a joint checking account with someone else?

Yes. Both people need to be present with valid ID and Social Security numbers. You can open a joint account in a branch or online if both people complete the verification process. Each person gets their own debit card and full access to the account.

What's the difference between Chase Total Checking and Chase Secure Checking?

Chase Total Checking charges $12 monthly (waived with direct deposit or $500 balance) and includes overdraft protection. Chase Secure Checking has no monthly fee and no minimum balance, but doesn't offer overdraft protection and is designed for people rebuilding credit. Choose Secure Checking if you want to avoid fees; choose Total Checking if you want overdraft coverage.