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. The deposit amount depends on the account type — some checking accounts need $25, while others require $100 or more. You can open an account online, by phone, or in person at a Chase branch.
Before you start, decide which account type fits your needs. Chase offers basic checking, premium checking with rewards, savings accounts, and money market accounts. Each has different monthly fees, minimum balances, and features. The account you choose determines what documents you'll need and what happens after you fund it.
You'll also need a mailing address and a phone number. If you're opening an account online, Chase will verify your identity using information from your credit report and other databases — this is standard practice and takes a few minutes. If you open in person, bring your ID and Social Security card.
Key Takeaways
- You need a government photo ID, Social Security number, and initial deposit to open any Chase account.
- Online account opening takes about 10 minutes and you can start using your account the same day for most transactions.
- In-person opening at a Chase branch lets you deposit cash immediately and ask questions about account features.
- Chase will run a background check using ChexSystems, which may decline you if you have unpaid overdrafts or fraud history at other banks.
- Your debit card arrives by mail in 7 to 10 business days; you can request expedited delivery in some branches.
Opening an account online
Go to Chase.com and select "Open an Account." You'll choose your account type, enter your personal information, and verify your identity. Chase uses automated verification that checks your Social Security number, address, and date of birth against databases. This usually takes a few minutes, though sometimes Chase flags an account for manual review, which can add a day or two.
After verification, you'll set up online banking login credentials and choose how to fund the account. You can transfer money from another bank account, deposit a check using mobile deposit once your account is active, or visit a branch to deposit cash. Most people fund online accounts by transfer from an existing bank account — this takes one to two business days to show up.
Once your account is open, you can use it for bill pay, transfers, and direct deposit immediately. Your debit card ships separately and arrives in 7 to 10 business days. If you need the card faster, some Chase branches can issue a temporary card or expedite shipping for a fee.
Opening an account in person at a Chase branch
Walk into any Chase branch with your government photo ID, Social Security card, and the initial deposit amount in cash or check form. A banker will verify your information, run the ChexSystems background check, and open your account on the spot. The whole process takes 15 to 30 minutes.
In-person opening has one major advantage: you can deposit cash immediately and walk out with a temporary debit card or card number that works right away. You'll still receive a permanent card by mail, but you won't have to wait. If you have questions about account features, overdraft protection, or savings goals, a banker can walk you through options in real time.
If you're opening an account for a minor, you'll need to be the parent or legal guardian and bring both your ID and the child's birth certificate or Social Security card. Chase offers teen checking accounts with parental controls and no monthly fees.
What happens if Chase declines your application
Chase uses ChexSystems, a banking history database, to screen new accounts. If you have unpaid overdrafts, fraud disputes, or multiple closed accounts due to negative balances at other banks, Chase may decline you. You'll receive a letter explaining the reason and instructions on how to dispute the information if it's wrong.
If you're declined, you can request a copy of your ChexSystems report for free. Go to ChexSystems.com and follow the dispute process if any information is inaccurate. You can also reapply to Chase after 30 to 90 days if you've resolved the underlying issue — for example, by paying off an overdraft at another bank.
Some people who can't open a standard account at Chase may be able to open a second-chance checking account at another bank, build a clean banking history for six months to a year, and then reapply to Chase. This is slower but often works.
Funding your new account
Your initial deposit can come from a transfer, a check, or cash. If you transfer from another bank, the money usually arrives in one to two business days. If you deposit a check using the Chase mobile app, it takes one to three business days to clear. Cash deposits at a branch are available immediately.
After your account is open, you can set up direct deposit from your employer, transfer money from other accounts, or deposit checks remotely using the mobile app. Chase also offers mobile check deposit, which lets you photograph the front and back of a check and submit it without visiting a branch.
If you're moving money from another bank to Chase, make sure you know your routing number and account number at the other bank. Chase will ask for these during the transfer setup. You can find this information on a check, in your online banking portal, or by calling the other bank.
Monthly fees and how to avoid them
Chase checking accounts have monthly maintenance fees ranging from $0 to $15, depending on the account type. You can waive most fees by maintaining a minimum balance (usually $500 to $1,500), setting up direct deposit, or keeping a linked savings account with a certain balance.
Chase's most basic account, the Chase Total Checking, has a $12 monthly fee but waives it if you maintain a $500 minimum balance, set up direct deposit, or keep a linked savings account with $300. If you don't meet any of these, you'll pay the fee every month.
Read the account disclosure document before you open — it lists all fees, minimum balances, and waiver options. This document is available on Chase.com and at branches. If you're unsure whether you can meet the balance requirement, choose an account with a lower minimum or ask a banker about fee waivers based on your situation.
Using your account after opening
Once your account is open and funded, you can use it for everyday banking. Set up bill pay through Chase's website or app to pay companies directly from your account. Link external accounts to transfer money in and out. Use your debit card at ATMs and stores, or set up direct deposit so your paycheck goes straight in.
Chase offers 24/7 customer service by phone, through the mobile app, or in person at branches. If you have questions about your account, overdraft protection, or fraud, contact them immediately. Chase covers unauthorized transactions under federal law, so if your card is stolen or your account is compromised, report it right away.
Your account comes with online banking and a mobile app. Both let you check your balance, transfer money, pay bills, and deposit checks. Set up login credentials and two-factor authentication to keep your account secure.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to open a Chase account?
Online accounts open in about 10 minutes if verification is automatic. In-person accounts take 15 to 30 minutes. Some applications go to manual review, which can add one to two business days. You can use your account for most transactions the same day it opens, but your debit card arrives by mail in 7 to 10 business days.
Do I need a minimum balance to open a Chase account?
You need an initial deposit to open the account, which ranges from $25 to $100 depending on the account type. This is not the same as a minimum balance requirement. After opening, some accounts require you to maintain a certain balance to waive monthly fees, but you can keep a $0 balance if you're willing to pay the fee.
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 standard Chase account. Some banks offer accounts for people without a Social Security number, but Chase does not.
Can I open a Chase account if I'm not a U.S. citizen?
Yes, if you have a valid government-issued photo ID and a Social Security number or ITIN. Chase does not require citizenship. You'll need a U.S. mailing address and phone number. Some non-citizens use an ITIN instead of a Social Security number, which Chase accepts.
What happens if I close my Chase account right after opening it?
You can close your account anytime. If you close within 90 days, Chase may flag you in ChexSystems as a "early account closure," which can make it harder to open accounts at other banks. Banks see this as a sign of fraud risk. If you need to close, wait at least 90 days if possible, or contact Chase to explain the reason.