You can open a Chase savings account online in about 10 minutes using a computer or the Chase mobile app
Chase lets you start a savings account entirely online without visiting a branch. You'll need a valid government ID, your Social Security number, and a way to fund the account — either a debit card, another bank account, or a wire transfer. The whole process takes roughly 10 minutes, and your account opens immediately, though transfers from outside banks take 1 to 3 business days to show up.
The account is active the moment you finish, so you can begin depositing money right away. Chase will send you a debit card in the mail within 7 to 10 business days if you want one, though you don't need it to use the account online.
Key Takeaways
- You need a valid government ID, Social Security number, and an initial deposit method — either a debit card, linked bank account, or wire transfer details.
- The online application takes about 10 minutes and your account opens immediately, even though physical cards arrive in 7 to 10 business days.
- You can fund the account during signup using a debit card, or link an external bank account and transfer money afterward.
- Chase offers several savings account types with different interest rates and minimum balance requirements, so compare them before you start.
What you need before you start
Gather these items before opening your browser: a valid government-issued ID (driver's license, passport, or state ID), your Social Security number, and your date of birth. Chase will verify your identity using this information, and the process fails if any detail doesn't match their records exactly.
You'll also need a way to fund the account. The fastest option is a debit card from any U.S. bank — you can deposit money during signup. If you don't have a debit card handy, you can link an external bank account instead and transfer money after the account opens. Wire transfers are also an option if you're moving a large sum, though you'll need to contact Chase for wiring instructions after your account is set up.
Step-by-step: opening the account on a computer
Go to chase.com and click "Open an Account" or "Savings" in the top menu. Select the type of savings account you want — Chase offers the basic Savings Account, the High Yield Savings Account (which pays more interest), and the Chase Secure Savings Account (designed for people rebuilding credit). Each has different interest rates and minimum balance rules, so read the details for each before choosing.
Click "Open Online" next to your choice. Enter your personal information: full name, date of birth, Social Security number, email address, and phone number. Chase will ask for your current address and whether you're a U.S. citizen. Answer honestly — Chase verifies this information against government records.
Next, create your online login credentials: a username and password. Write these down somewhere safe. Chase will then ask you to verify your identity by answering security questions based on your credit history — questions like "Which of these addresses have you lived at?" or "Which lender issued your first auto loan?" Answer based on your actual history.
Once identity verification is complete, you'll choose how to fund the account. If you're using a debit card, enter the card number, expiration date, and CVV. If you're linking a bank account, enter your routing number and account number (you can find both on a check or in your bank's online portal). Confirm the amount you want to deposit — there's no minimum, though some account types require a minimum balance to earn interest.
Review the account terms and disclosures, then click to agree. Your account opens immediately. You'll see your account number and routing number on the confirmation screen — save these for future transfers.
Opening the account on the Chase mobile app
Download the Chase mobile app from the Apple App Store or Google Play Store. Open it and tap "Open an Account" or look for a "+" icon. Select "Savings Account" and choose which type you want. The process mirrors the online version: enter your personal information, answer security questions, verify your identity, and choose your funding method.
The mobile app works identically to the website, and your account opens the same way. Some people find the app easier because it can auto-fill information from your phone's contacts or saved data, but both routes take about the same time.
When your account is ready to use
Your savings account is active immediately after you finish the application. You can log in to chase.com or the app and see your account number, routing number, and current balance right away. Money you deposited using a debit card during signup appears within 1 to 3 business days.
If you linked an external bank account, you can transfer money to your new Chase account anytime, but the transfer takes 1 to 3 business days to complete. Chase will send you a debit card in the mail within 7 to 10 business days — you don't need to do anything to request it, and it arrives automatically. Until the card arrives, you can still access your money through online transfers, ATM withdrawals at Chase branches, or by requesting a wire transfer.
What happens if verification fails
If Chase can't verify your identity during the application, you'll see a message saying verification was unsuccessful. This usually means your personal information doesn't match what's in their system — a name spelling difference, an outdated address, or a Social Security number mismatch. Try again with information exactly as it appears on your government ID.
If it fails a second time, you'll need to visit a Chase branch in person with your ID and Social Security card. A banker can open the account for you on the spot and help troubleshoot why the online verification didn't work. Bring your ID, Social Security card, and proof of address (a utility bill or lease works). This takes about 15 minutes and your account opens the same day.
Comparing Chase savings account types
| Account Type | Minimum Balance to Earn Interest | Monthly Fee | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Chase Savings Account | $0 | $0 | Basic savings with no minimums |
| Chase High Yield Savings Account | $0 | $0 | Earning more interest on your balance |
| Chase Secure Savings Account | $300 (to open) | $0 | Building or rebuilding credit history |
Interest rates change frequently and vary based on market conditions, so check chase.com for current rates before you open. The High Yield Savings Account typically pays significantly more than the basic Savings Account, but compare the current rates to make sure. The Secure Savings Account is designed for people with limited or damaged credit — it reports to credit bureaus, so regular deposits and a positive balance can help rebuild your score.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I open a Chase savings account if I don't have a Social Security number?
No. Chase requires a valid Social Security number to open any account. If you're a non-citizen without an SSN, you may be able to open an account using an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN), but you'll need to visit a branch in person with your ITIN documentation and passport. Call Chase at 1-800-935-9935 to confirm whether your situation qualifies.
What if I don't have a debit card to fund the account during signup?
You can skip the debit card step and link an external bank account instead. Enter your routing and account number during signup, and you can transfer money after your account opens. The transfer takes 1 to 3 business days. Alternatively, visit a Chase branch and deposit cash or a check in person.
How long does it take to transfer money from another bank into my new Chase savings account?
Transfers from external banks take 1 to 3 business days. If you used a debit card to fund the account during signup, that deposit appears within 1 to 3 business days as well. Wire transfers are faster — usually same-day or next-day — but you'll need to contact Chase for wiring instructions after your account opens.
Do I need a Chase checking account to open a savings account?
No. You can open a savings account on its own without a checking account. However, Chase offers discounts on fees and higher interest rates if you link a checking account to your savings account, so it's worth considering if you're planning to use Chase for both.
Can I open a Chase savings account if I'm not a U.S. citizen?
Yes, but you'll need a valid government ID and a Social Security number or ITIN. The online application works the same way. If you have an ITIN instead of an SSN, you may need to visit a branch in person — call 1-800-935-9935 to confirm before you start the online application.