You can open a Chase savings account directly in the Chase mobile app in about 10 minutes
The Chase app lets you start a savings account without visiting a branch or calling. You'll need your Social Security number, a valid ID, proof of address, and an initial deposit method. The app walks you through identity verification, account setup, and funding in one session. Once approved, your account is active and you can transfer money into it immediately.
The process works the same whether you're an existing Chase customer or opening your first account with them. If you already bank with Chase, the app recognizes your login and moves faster. New customers go through the same verification steps but may see a slightly longer review period before the account fully activates.
Key Takeaways
- Download the Chase mobile app and tap "Open an Account" from the home screen to begin; you do not need a Chase account already.
- Have your Social Security number, a government-issued ID, and a recent utility bill or lease ready before you start.
- The app verifies your identity by checking your ID against your face in real time, then confirms your address electronically.
- Fund your new account immediately by linking a debit card or bank account, or transfer money from an existing Chase account if you have one.
- Your savings account is usually active within minutes, though Chase may hold it for review for up to one business day.
What you need before you open the app
Gather these documents and information before you start. You'll need your Social Security number, which Chase verifies against government records. Have a government-issued photo ID ready—a driver's license, passport, or state ID card. The app will ask you to photograph both sides and take a live photo of your face to match it against the ID.
You also need proof of your current address. Chase accepts a recent utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, or bank statement with your name and address. The document must be dated within the last 90 days. If you don't have one, a recent tax return or government notice with your address works as well.
Finally, have a funding method ready. This can be a debit card, another bank account you own, or an existing Chase account. You don't need to fund the account immediately—you can do it after approval—but having the information on hand speeds up the process.
Step-by-step: opening the account in the app
Step 1: Start in the app. Open the Chase mobile app and log in if you have an account, or tap "Don't have an account? Enroll now" if you're new. On the home screen, look for "Open an Account" or "Open a Savings Account." Tap it.
Step 2: Choose your account type. Chase offers several savings products—a basic savings account, a high-yield savings account, and money market accounts. The app shows the current interest rate and monthly fee (if any) for each. Select the one you want and tap "Continue."
Step 3: Verify your identity. The app asks for your Social Security number, date of birth, and contact information. Enter these carefully—errors can slow approval. Next, the app requests your government ID. Photograph the front and back clearly in good lighting. Then take a live selfie. Chase uses facial recognition to match your photo to your ID. This usually takes 10 to 30 seconds.
Step 4: Confirm your address. Enter your current address. Chase verifies it electronically against public records. If the verification succeeds instantly, you move forward. If it doesn't, the app may ask you to upload a utility bill or lease as proof. This step usually completes within seconds to a few minutes.
Step 5: Fund the account. Choose how to deposit money. You can link a debit card, enter another bank account's routing and account numbers, or transfer from an existing Chase account. Enter the amount you want to deposit. Chase requires a minimum opening deposit—check the app for the current amount, as it varies by account type. Confirm the transaction.
Step 6: Review and submit. The app shows a summary of your new account details, the deposit amount, and the terms. Read through it, then tap "Submit" or "Open Account." You'll receive a confirmation number on screen and via email.
What happens after you submit
Your account is usually active within minutes. You can see it in the app, transfer money to it, and set up automatic deposits right away. Your debit card or linked account funding processes according to your bank's timeline—typically one to three business days for transfers between banks, and same-day for Chase-to-Chase transfers.
Chase may place your account under review for up to one business day, especially if you're a new customer or if the verification process flagged something for manual review. During this time, your account exists but may have temporary restrictions on withdrawals or transfers. You'll receive an email if this happens. The hold is usually lifted by the next business day.
If Chase denies your application, you'll receive an email explaining why. Common reasons include identity verification failure, address mismatch, or a ChexSystems report issue. You can contact Chase customer service to ask about reapplying or to dispute information in your ChexSystems file.
Troubleshooting common problems during setup
Your ID photo doesn't match. Make sure you're in good lighting, your face is fully visible, and you're holding the ID at a slight angle so Chase can see both your face and the ID clearly. Remove sunglasses and hats. If the app rejects your photo multiple times, try again later or visit a branch to open the account in person.
Your address won't verify. Chase checks your address against utility companies, the postal service, and credit bureaus. If you recently moved, the records may not have updated yet. Upload a utility bill, lease, or recent bank statement as proof. Make sure the document shows your full current address and is dated within 90 days.
Your Social Security number doesn't match. This usually means a typo. Double-check the number and try again. If Chase still rejects it, there may be a discrepancy in government records. Contact Chase customer service or visit a branch—they can investigate and may ask you to provide additional documentation.
The app crashes or times out during setup. Close the app completely and restart it. Your progress is usually saved, and you can pick up where you left off. If the app continues to crash, try opening an account on a computer at chase.com instead, or visit a branch.
Funding your account after it opens
If you didn't fund your account during setup, you can do it anytime after approval. Open the Chase app, go to your new savings account, and tap "Add Money" or "Deposit." You can link a debit card, another bank account, or transfer from another Chase account you own.
Transfers from another bank account take one to three business days to appear in your savings account. Chase-to-Chase transfers are usually instant or complete by the next business day. Debit card deposits may take one to two business days. Once the money arrives, it's yours to keep or move.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need an existing Chase account to open a savings account in the app?
No. The app lets you open a savings account even if you've never banked with Chase. You'll go through identity verification and address confirmation, then fund the account with a debit card or another bank account. If you already have a Chase checking account, the process is faster because the app recognizes you.
What's the minimum deposit to open a Chase savings account?
The minimum opening deposit varies by account type and changes periodically. Check the app when you're setting up your account—it shows the current minimum before you submit. Some Chase savings accounts have no minimum; others require $25 or more. You can deposit more than the minimum if you want.
How long does it take for my account to be fully active?
Most accounts are active within minutes of approval. You can see your account in the app and start moving money right away. Chase may place new accounts under review for up to one business day, during which withdrawals or transfers might be restricted. You'll receive an email if this happens. The review is usually complete by the next business day.
Can I open multiple savings accounts through the app?
Yes. Once your first account is open and active, you can open additional savings accounts in the app. Go to the home screen, tap "Open an Account," and follow the same process. You won't need to re-verify your identity for each new account if you're already a verified Chase customer.
What if the app says my identity verification failed?
This usually means your ID photo, face photo, or personal information didn't match Chase's records. Check for typos in your Social Security number and date of birth. Retake your ID and face photos in good lighting with your face fully visible. If verification fails again, contact Chase customer service or visit a branch to open the account in person.