What you need to open a Chase account

Chase requires a government-issued photo ID, your Social Security number, and an initial deposit to open most accounts. You can open an account online, by phone, or in a branch. The process takes about 10 to 15 minutes online, or longer if you go in person because the banker will verify your information and answer questions.

You'll need to choose between a checking account, savings account, or both. Chase's most common checking account is the Chase Total Checking, which has no monthly fee if you set up direct deposit or keep a $500 minimum balance. Their basic savings account is Chase Savings, which earns interest but has a monthly fee waived if you maintain a $300 minimum balance or link it to a may have access to checking account.

The initial deposit can be as small as $25 for most accounts, though some premium accounts require more. You can fund the account with a debit card, transfer from another bank, or cash if you open it in a branch.

Key Takeaways

  • You need a government photo ID, Social Security number, and at least $25 to open a Chase account online or in a branch.
  • Chase Total Checking has no monthly fee if you set up direct deposit or keep a $500 minimum balance; Chase Savings waives its fee at $300 minimum or when linked to a checking account.
  • Online account opening takes 10 to 15 minutes and you can fund it immediately with a debit card or transfer from another bank.
  • If you open in a branch, bring your ID and Social Security number; the banker will verify everything and you can leave with a debit card the same day.

Opening an account online

Go to chase.com and click "Open an Account" or "Sign Up" at the top of the page. You'll answer questions about what type of account you want, your personal information, and your employment status. Chase will ask for your Social Security number, date of birth, address, and phone number.

Next, you'll verify your identity. Chase may ask you to upload a photo of your ID or answer security questions based on your credit history. This step usually takes a few minutes. Once verified, you'll choose your initial deposit method: debit card, ACH transfer from another bank, or wire transfer.

After you submit, Chase will confirm your account is open and give you an account number. Your debit card will arrive by mail in 7 to 10 business days. You can use your account number to set up direct deposit or transfers before the card arrives.

Opening an account in a Chase branch

Find your nearest Chase branch using the branch locator on chase.com. Bring your government photo ID and Social Security number. You don't need an appointment, but you may wait 15 to 30 minutes depending on how busy the branch is.

Tell the banker you want to open a checking or savings account. They'll walk you through the same questions as the online process and verify your ID in person. You'll sign documents and choose your initial deposit method. If you bring cash or a debit card, the deposit posts immediately.

The banker will give you a temporary debit card or a card number you can use right away. Your permanent debit card will arrive by mail in 7 to 10 business days. You can start using your account the same day.

What happens after you open the account

Chase will send you a welcome packet by mail with your account details, debit card, and information about online banking. You should set up your online login and mobile app as soon as you receive your account number. This lets you check your balance, transfer money, and pay bills before your debit card arrives.

If you want to avoid monthly fees, set up direct deposit or maintain your minimum balance. Direct deposit is the easiest route: ask your employer's payroll department for Chase's routing number (it's 021000021 for most Chase accounts) and your new account number, then provide those to them.

You can also link your Chase account to other banks you use. This lets you transfer money between accounts and set up automatic bill payments. Chase's bill pay service is free and lets you schedule payments to almost any business or person.

Choosing between account types

Chase Total Checking is designed for everyday use. It has no monthly fee if you set up direct deposit, maintain a $500 balance, or link a Chase savings account. It includes unlimited debit card transactions, online bill pay, and mobile check deposit. There's no limit on how many times you can withdraw money.

Chase Savings is a basic savings account that earns interest. The rate changes based on the Federal Reserve's decisions and varies by account type. It has a $300 minimum balance to waive the monthly fee, or you can link it to a Chase checking account. You can make up to six withdrawals per month without penalty; after that, Chase charges a fee per withdrawal.

If you want higher interest, Chase also offers money market accounts and CDs (certificates of deposit). These require larger minimum balances and lock your money away for a set time, but they pay more interest. For most people starting out, Total Checking plus a regular Savings account is the right combination.

Documents and information you'll need

Have your government-issued photo ID ready—a driver's license, passport, or state ID card all work. Chase will not accept expired IDs. You'll also need your Social Security number; Chase uses this to check your credit history and verify your identity.

If you're opening the account online, have a debit card from another bank ready if you want to fund it immediately. If you're opening in a branch, you can bring cash, a debit card, or arrange a transfer from another bank. You'll also need your current address and phone number.

If you're self-employed or own a business, Chase may ask for additional information about your income. Bring a recent tax return or business license if you have one, though it's not always required for a personal account.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I open a Chase account if I have bad credit?

Yes. Chase does not use your credit score to decide whether to open a personal checking or savings account. They may check your banking history through ChexSystems, which tracks closed accounts and fraud, but a low credit score alone will not stop you from opening an account.

How long does it take to get my debit card?

Your permanent debit card arrives by mail in 7 to 10 business days. If you open in a branch, the banker may give you a temporary card number you can use immediately for online purchases. If you open online, you can request expedited shipping for a fee, usually $10 to $15.

What 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, you cannot open a personal account at Chase. Some banks offer accounts for people without an SSN, but Chase does not.

Can I open a joint account with someone else?

Yes. Both people need to be present in the branch or complete the online process together. Both will need to provide ID and Social Security numbers. Joint account holders have equal access to the money and both are responsible for any overdrafts or fees.

Is there a fee to close my Chase account?

No. Chase does not charge a fee to close a checking or savings account. However, if you close the account within 90 days of opening it, Chase may report it to ChexSystems, which could affect your ability to open accounts at other banks. If you need to close it, call Chase or visit a branch.