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. You can open an account in person at a branch, online through Chase's website, or by phone. The process takes about 10 to 15 minutes in a branch and roughly the same time online, though online accounts may take a day or two to fully activate.
The initial deposit amount depends on the account type. Chase's basic checking account (Chase Total Checking) requires a minimum opening deposit, which varies but is typically $25 or more. Some accounts have no minimum. You can fund the account with a debit card, transfer from another bank, or cash if you're opening in person.
Chase will run a background check through ChexSystems, a banking history database. This check looks for unpaid overdrafts, fraud, or closed accounts in bad standing at other banks. If you have a history of bounced checks or account closures, Chase may deny your application or require you to wait a set period before reapplying.
Key Takeaways
- You need a photo ID, Social Security number, and an opening deposit to start a Chase checking account.
- Chase runs a ChexSystems check that reviews your banking history at other institutions, and a negative history can result in denial.
- Opening online takes the same time as in person but may require an extra day for full activation.
- Different Chase checking accounts have different monthly fees, minimum balances, and perks—compare them before you choose.
- If Chase denies you, you can request a copy of your ChexSystems report and dispute any errors on it.
Opening an account online through Chase.com
Go to Chase.com and select "Open an Account" from the homepage. You'll be asked to choose your account type—Chase Total Checking is the most common option for everyday banking. Enter your personal information: full name, date of birth, Social Security number, address, phone number, and email.
Chase will verify your identity by asking security questions based on your credit history. Answer these accurately; if you can't answer them, the online process will pause and you'll be directed to open the account in person or by phone instead. Once verified, you'll set up login credentials and choose a username and password.
Next, you'll fund the account. You can transfer money from another bank account (you'll need the routing and account numbers), use a debit card, or link an external account. The transfer typically takes one to two business days. Your account number and routing number will be provided immediately, but you won't receive a debit card for five to seven business days.
Opening an account in person at a Chase branch
Bring your photo ID, Social Security number, and the money for your opening deposit. Walk into any Chase branch during business hours and tell a representative you want to open a checking account. They'll ask the same questions as the online process but can complete it faster because they verify your ID in real time.
In-person opening is useful if you want to deposit cash immediately, need a debit card the same day (some branches can issue a temporary card), or had trouble with the online verification process. The representative will review account options with you and explain monthly fees and minimum balance requirements.
You'll sign documents and receive your account number and routing number on the spot. Your debit card will arrive by mail in five to seven business days, though some branches offer a temporary card you can use immediately.
Opening an account by phone
Call Chase customer service at 1-800-935-9935 and say you want to open a checking account. A representative will walk you through the same verification process as online: personal information, security questions, and identity confirmation. This route works well if you prefer speaking to someone but can't visit a branch.
You'll need to fund the account by transferring money from another bank or using a debit card over the phone. The representative will provide your account number and routing number immediately. Your debit card will arrive by mail in five to seven business days.
Chase checking account types and their costs
Chase Total Checking is the standard option for most people. It has a monthly maintenance fee (typically $12) that is waived if you maintain a minimum daily balance, set up direct deposit, or use Chase's mobile app and online banking. There is no minimum opening deposit required for this account.
Chase Premier Plus Checking is designed for customers who want higher interest rates and more perks. It requires a higher minimum balance and has a higher monthly fee, but waives fees for customers who meet balance or deposit requirements.
Chase Student Checking has no monthly fee and no minimum balance for customers under 25. It converts to Chase Total Checking when you turn 25 or graduate, whichever comes first.
All Chase checking accounts include online and mobile banking, bill pay, access to over 4,700 Chase ATMs nationwide, and fraud protection. Overdraft fees apply if you spend more than your balance; Chase charges a fee per overdraft transaction.
What happens if Chase denies your application
Chase will send you a letter explaining the reason for denial. Common reasons include a negative ChexSystems report, unpaid overdrafts at another bank, or fraud flags. The letter will include information about how to contact ChexSystems and request a copy of your report.
You can dispute errors on your ChexSystems report by contacting ChexSystems directly. If the report contains incorrect information—such as an overdraft you already paid or an account you didn't open—you can file a dispute and ask ChexSystems to correct it. This process takes 30 to 45 days.
After a denial, you can reapply to Chase after a waiting period, which varies. Some customers are told to wait 30 days; others may need to wait longer depending on the reason for denial. Ask the denial letter what the waiting period is for your situation.
If you can't open an account at Chase, consider banks that don't use ChexSystems or that have second-chance checking programs. Some credit unions and online banks have more lenient approval policies.
After your account opens: next steps
Once your account is active, set up direct deposit if your employer offers it. This waives the monthly maintenance fee on Chase Total Checking and gets your paycheck into your account faster than a check deposit. You can provide your employer with your account number and routing number, which Chase will give you immediately.
Order checks if you need them. You can order through Chase's website, by phone, or in person at a branch. Checks typically arrive in five to seven business days. Many people no longer use checks, but they're useful for rent, bills, or situations where digital payment isn't an option.
Download the Chase mobile app to monitor your account, deposit checks by photo, transfer money, and pay bills. The app also shows your account balance in real time and alerts you to large transactions or low balances.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I open a Chase account if I'm not a U.S. citizen?
Yes, but you need a valid government-issued photo ID and an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) instead of a Social Security number if you don't have one. Bring both documents to a branch or call 1-800-935-9935 to open by phone. Some branches are more experienced with ITIN accounts than others, so call ahead to confirm.
How long does it take to receive my debit card?
Standard delivery takes five to seven business days. Some branches offer a temporary card you can use immediately if you open in person. You can also request expedited shipping for a fee, which typically delivers the card in two to three business days.
What if I have a negative ChexSystems report from years ago?
ChexSystems reports stay on file for five years. If your negative history is older than that, it should no longer appear. If it's still showing up, contact ChexSystems to dispute it. If it's recent, you may need to wait until the five-year period passes or find a bank with a second-chance checking program.
Can I open multiple Chase checking accounts?
Yes, you can open more than one account, but Chase limits the number of accounts you can open in a certain time period. If you want multiple accounts for different purposes, ask a Chase representative about their policy on multiple accounts.
What's the difference between a checking account and a savings account?
A checking account is for frequent deposits and withdrawals—paying bills, getting cash, and everyday spending. A savings account earns interest and is meant for money you're setting aside. Chase offers both, and you can open them at the same time.