What you need before you start

Chase offers several account types — checking, savings, money market, and CDs — and the account you open depends on what you want to do with your money. Before you begin, have a government-issued photo ID ready (driver's license, passport, or state ID), your Social Security number, and either a phone number or email address. If you're opening an account online, you'll also need a debit card or bank account from another institution to verify your identity, or you can complete the process in a branch.

Chase requires a minimum opening deposit that varies by account type. Some checking accounts have no minimum; others require $25 or more. Savings accounts typically start at $0 to $25. Money market accounts and CDs have higher minimums — often $2,500 or more. You can fund your new account by transferring money from another bank, depositing a check through mobile deposit once the account is open, or bringing cash or a check to a branch.

If you don't have a Social Security number, Chase can open accounts using an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN). If you've had banking problems in the past — unpaid overdrafts, fraud, or accounts closed by the bank — Chase may decline to open an account. You can check your banking history through ChexSystems, a system banks use to track account closures and disputes.

Key Takeaways

  • You need a government photo ID, Social Security number or ITIN, and contact information to open any Chase account.
  • Opening online takes about 10 minutes if you have another bank account to verify your identity; opening in a branch takes longer but requires no prior account.
  • Minimum opening deposits range from $0 to $2,500 depending on the account type you choose.
  • Chase checks your banking history through ChexSystems, and a record of unpaid overdrafts or fraud may result in denial.
  • You can fund your account immediately through transfer, check deposit, or cash deposit at a branch.

Opening an account online

Go to chase.com and select "Open an account" from the homepage. Choose the account type you want — most people start with a checking account. You'll enter your name, address, date of birth, Social Security number, phone number, and email. Chase will ask whether you're a U.S. citizen and whether you have an existing Chase account.

Next, you'll verify your identity. If you have a debit card or bank account at another institution, Chase can verify you instantly by confirming small deposits or by asking security questions tied to your credit history. If you don't have another account or prefer not to link one, you can choose to verify in a branch instead — the account opens online but you'll complete identity verification in person within 30 days.

Once verified, you'll choose your opening deposit method. You can transfer money from another bank account (this takes 1 to 3 business days), deposit a check by photo through the Chase mobile app (2 to 5 business days), or wait to deposit cash in a branch. Select your account settings — overdraft protection, alerts, and paperless statements — and review the account terms. Your account number appears on screen immediately, though your debit card arrives by mail in 7 to 10 business days.

Opening an account in a branch

Find your nearest Chase branch using the branch locator on chase.com. Bring your government photo ID, Social Security number, and the minimum opening deposit in cash or by check. You don't need to schedule an appointment, though wait times vary by location and time of day.

A Chase banker will ask the same questions as the online form — name, address, date of birth, citizenship, and whether you have an existing account. They'll verify your identity by scanning your ID and may ask security questions. They'll show you the account options and fees, then open the account and process your deposit. Your debit card is usually ordered on the spot and arrives in 7 to 10 business days; some branches can issue a temporary card you can use immediately.

The entire process takes 15 to 30 minutes depending on how busy the branch is and whether you have questions about account features. You'll receive your account number and initial paperwork before you leave.

Understanding Chase account types and fees

Chase's most common checking account is the Chase Total Checking, which has no monthly fee if you maintain a $500 minimum balance, set up direct deposit, or have a linked savings account with $300. If you don't meet these conditions, the fee is $12 per month. The account includes unlimited debit card transactions, check writing, and ATM access at Chase branches and surcharge-free ATMs nationwide.

Chase Savings accounts have no monthly fee and earn interest, though the rate changes based on market conditions. Chase Money Market accounts require higher minimum balances ($2,500 to $10,000 depending on the tier) and offer higher interest rates. CDs lock your money for a set term — 3 months to 5 years — and pay a fixed rate; you can't withdraw without penalty until the term ends.

All Chase accounts include fraud protection: if someone uses your debit card or account number without permission, you report it to Chase and they investigate. Your liability is typically $0 if you report within 60 days. Chase also offers overdraft protection — a linked savings account or credit line that covers overdrafts — though this comes with fees if the protection is used.

What happens after your account opens

Your account is active immediately, but your debit card arrives by mail in 7 to 10 business days. Until then, you can access your money through Chase ATMs, by visiting a branch, or by transferring to another account. You can set up bill pay and mobile transfers right away through the Chase mobile app or online banking.

When your debit card arrives, activate it through the app or by calling the number on the card. You can then use it at merchants, ATMs, and online. Chase sends you a welcome packet with your account agreement, fee schedule, and information about online banking and the mobile app.

Set up online banking by logging in with your Social Security number or account number and creating a password. Enable two-factor authentication — Chase will send a code to your phone or email when you log in from a new device — to protect your account. Review your account settings to turn on alerts for low balances, large transactions, or suspicious activity.

If Chase denies your account

Chase may deny your application if ChexSystems shows unpaid overdrafts, fraud, or repeated account closures. You have the right to know why. Call Chase at 1-800-935-9935 and ask for the reason. If it's a ChexSystems issue, you can dispute the record directly with ChexSystems by visiting chexsystems.com and filing a dispute.

If you were denied because of your banking history, some Chase branches may open a second-chance checking account with higher fees and lower limits. Ask the banker whether this option is available. Alternatively, you can apply again after 12 months if you've resolved the underlying issue — paid overdrafts, resolved fraud claims, or demonstrated responsible banking elsewhere.

If you don't have a Social Security number or ITIN, or if you're not a U.S. citizen, call Chase directly to discuss your options. Some branches can open accounts for non-citizens with a passport and ITIN, though policies vary by location.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I open a Chase account without a Social Security number?

Yes, if you have an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN). Call Chase at 1-800-935-9935 or visit a branch to discuss your situation. Some branches can open accounts with a passport and ITIN, though availability varies by location.

How long does it take to open an account online?

The application takes about 10 minutes if you have another bank account to verify your identity instantly. If you choose to verify in a branch instead, the online part takes 10 minutes, but you must complete identity verification in person within 30 days.

What if I don't have the minimum opening deposit right now?

Some Chase checking accounts have no minimum opening deposit. You can open the account with $0 and deposit money later. Savings accounts and money market accounts also have low or no minimums, though CDs require $2,500 or more.

Can I open multiple accounts at Chase?

Yes. You can open a checking account, savings account, and CD all at once or at different times. Each account has its own number and can be managed separately through online banking.

What should I do if I'm denied?

Ask Chase why you were denied — the reason is usually ChexSystems, unpaid overdrafts, or fraud. If it's a ChexSystems issue, you can dispute the record at chexsystems.com. If it's your banking history, ask whether a second-chance checking account is available, or apply again after 12 months if you've resolved the issue.