You can open most Chase accounts online without visiting a branch, using just your Social Security number, ID, and a funding source

Chase lets you open a checking or savings account from your computer or phone in about 15 minutes. You'll need a valid government ID (driver's license, passport, or state ID), your Social Security number, and either a debit card or bank account to fund the new account with at least $25. The process is straightforward: you answer personal questions, choose your account type, verify your identity, and fund it—all without stepping into a branch.

Not every account type is available online. Money Market accounts and some specialty products require a phone call or branch visit. If you're opening your first Chase account ever, the process is the same. If you already bank with Chase, it's even faster because the system recognizes you.

Key Takeaways

  • You need a valid government ID, Social Security number, and $25 to fund the account before you start.
  • The online application takes about 15 minutes and you'll get instant approval for most checking and savings accounts.
  • You can fund your new account immediately with a debit card, another bank account, or a wire transfer.
  • Chase will send you a debit card by mail within 7 to 10 business days; you can use your account online right away.
  • Some account types like Money Market accounts are not available online and require a phone call to open.

What you need before you start

Gather these items before you open the browser: a valid government-issued ID (driver's license, passport, state ID, or military ID), your Social Security number, and a way to fund the account. Chase requires a minimum opening deposit of $25 for most accounts. You can fund it with a debit card, a checking or savings account at another bank, or a wire transfer.

Have your ID handy because Chase will ask you to verify it during the application. If you're using a debit card to fund the account, have that card number ready. If you're transferring from another bank account, you'll need the routing number and account number from that bank.

The step-by-step process on Chase.com

Go to Chase.com and click "Open an Account" at the top of the page. You'll see options for checking, savings, and other products. Select the account type you want—most people choose Chase Total Checking or Chase Savings—and click "Open Now."

The application asks for your name, date of birth, Social Security number, address, phone number, and email. Answer honestly and completely; Chase verifies this information against credit bureaus and government records. You'll also answer questions about your employment and income, though these don't disqualify you from opening an account.

Next, Chase asks you to verify your identity. If you have a Chase account already, this step is automatic. If you're new to Chase, you'll upload a photo of your ID or answer security questions based on your credit history. The system usually approves you within seconds.

Finally, you'll choose how to fund the account. Pick "Debit Card," "Bank Account," or "Wire Transfer." If you use a debit card or bank account, the money moves immediately. Wire transfers take one to two business days. Once you fund it, your account is open and you can log in right away.

When you'll get your debit card and routing number

Chase mails your physical debit card within 7 to 10 business days. You don't need to wait for it to use your account. Log into Chase.com or the Chase mobile app immediately after opening the account, and you can transfer money, set up bill pay, and receive direct deposits using your new routing number and account number.

Your routing number appears in the account details section of the app or website. If you need it before the card arrives, you can find it there or call Chase at the number on your welcome email. Some employers and billers need the routing number to set up direct deposit, so don't wait for the card to provide it.

Account types available online

Chase offers several checking and savings accounts online. Chase Total Checking is the most common; it has no monthly fee if you maintain a $500 minimum balance or set up direct deposit. Chase Savings has a variable interest rate and no monthly fee. Chase Premier Plus Checking requires a higher balance but offers better interest rates and waived fees on certain services.

Money Market accounts, CDs, and some specialty products are not available through the online application. If you want one of those, call Chase at 1-800-935-9935 after you open your checking account, or visit a branch. You can also open a second account online once your first account is active.

What happens if your application is denied

Chase rarely denies applications for new accounts. The most common reason for denial is a negative banking history—specifically, unpaid overdrafts or fraud reported to ChexSystems, a banking verification system. If Chase denies you, they'll send an email explaining why and directing you to contact them.

You can call Chase at 1-800-935-9935 to ask why you were denied and whether you can reapply. Some denials are temporary; if you had an overdraft that you've since paid, reapplying after 30 days sometimes succeeds. If ChexSystems is the issue, you can request your report at www.chexsystems.com and dispute errors.

Funding your account and setting up direct deposit

After you open the account, you can add money in several ways. The fastest is a debit card transfer, which posts immediately. A transfer from another bank account takes one to three business days. A wire transfer takes one to two business days and may have a fee depending on where it's coming from.

To set up direct deposit, log into your Chase account and find your routing number and account number in the account details. Give these to your employer's payroll department or to whoever sends you regular payments. Direct deposit usually starts within one or two pay cycles. You can also transfer money from another bank using the Chase mobile app or website by selecting "Transfer Money" and entering the other bank's details.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I open a Chase account if I don't have a Social Security number?

No. Chase requires a valid Social Security number or ITIN (Individual Taxpayer Identification Number) to open any account. If you have an ITIN, you can use it in place of a Social Security number during the application.

What if I don't have a government ID?

You'll need a valid government-issued ID to open an account online. If you don't have one, visit a Chase branch in person with whatever ID you do have—a passport, military ID, or state ID all work. A branch representative can sometimes open an account with alternative documents.

How long does it take to get approved?

Most applications are approved within seconds. If Chase needs to verify your identity manually, approval can take up to 24 hours. You'll receive an email confirming approval, and your account is usable immediately even if your debit card hasn't arrived yet.

Can I open a joint account online?

No. Joint accounts require both account holders to be present, either in person at a branch or on a phone call with a Chase representative. You can open an individual account online, then add a joint owner later by visiting a branch or calling Chase.

What's the difference between the accounts Chase offers online?

Chase Total Checking has no monthly fee with direct deposit or a $500 balance. Chase Savings earns interest and has no monthly fee. Chase Premier Plus Checking requires a higher balance but offers better rates and fee waivers. Choose based on how much you plan to keep in the account and whether you want interest.