You can open a Chase checking or savings account online in about 10 minutes, or visit a branch in person with an ID and initial deposit
Chase offers two main routes: online through their website or mobile app, or at a physical branch. The online path is faster and requires a Social Security number, valid ID, and an initial deposit (usually $25 minimum for savings, though checking minimums vary by account type). In-person opens take longer but let you ask questions and sometimes waive fees for new customers.
Both routes put money in your account the same day or next business day. You'll choose between checking, savings, or money market accounts depending on what you need — checking for everyday spending, savings for money you want to keep separate, money market for higher interest if you maintain a larger balance.
Key Takeaways
- Online account opening takes 10 minutes and requires your Social Security number, a valid ID, and proof of address; you can fund it immediately with a debit card or bank transfer.
- In-person opens at a Chase branch require the same documents plus a physical initial deposit, and a banker can explain account features and current promotions before you commit.
- Chase checking accounts have no monthly fee if you maintain a minimum balance or set up direct deposit; savings accounts typically require $25 to open.
- You'll receive a debit card within 7 to 10 business days for online opens, or immediately at a branch if you open in person.
- Chase offers different account tiers — basic, premium, and wealth management — each with different fees, interest rates, and minimum balances.
Opening an account online through Chase.com or the mobile app
Start at chase.com or download the Chase mobile app. Tap "Open an account" and select the account type you want — most people start with Chase Total Checking or Chase Savings. You'll be asked for your legal name, date of birth, Social Security number, address, phone number, and email.
Chase will verify your identity using information from credit bureaus and public records. This takes seconds to a few minutes. If you pass, you'll choose how to fund the account: link an existing bank account for an ACH transfer, use a debit card, or wire money. The minimum opening deposit is usually $25 for savings; checking minimums depend on the account tier.
Once funded, your account is live. You can use it immediately for transfers and bill pay. Your debit card ships within 7 to 10 business days. If you need cash before the card arrives, you can withdraw from any Chase ATM using your account number and ID, or visit a branch.
Opening an account in person at a Chase branch
Bring a government-issued ID (driver's license, passport, or state ID), your Social Security number, and proof of current address (utility bill, lease, or recent bank statement dated within the last 60 days). Have your initial deposit ready — cash, a check, or a debit card to fund it.
A banker will walk you through the account options, explain fees and interest rates, and answer questions about Chase services like credit cards, loans, or investment accounts. They'll complete the paperwork, verify your identity on the spot, and process your deposit. Your account opens immediately and you can use it the same day.
If you open in person, you may receive your debit card on the spot or within a few days, depending on the branch. Ask the banker about current promotions — Chase sometimes offers cash bonuses for new checking accounts if you meet deposit or direct deposit requirements within a set timeframe.
What documents and information you need
| Document or Info | Why Chase needs it | Online or in person? |
|---|---|---|
| Government-issued ID | Verify you are who you say you are | Both |
| Social Security number | Check credit history and prevent fraud | Both |
| Proof of address | Confirm where you live (utility bill, lease, or bank statement from last 60 days) | In person; online may ask for verification |
| Initial deposit | Fund the account (minimum usually $25) | Both |
| Phone number and email | Contact you and set up online banking | Online |
Understanding Chase checking account types and fees
Chase Total Checking is the most common option. It has no monthly fee if you keep a $500 minimum balance, set up direct deposit, or maintain an average daily balance of $1,500. If none of those apply, the fee is $12 per month. You get unlimited debit card transactions, no ATM fees at Chase machines, and access to mobile check deposit.
Chase Premier Plus Checking requires a higher minimum balance (usually $15,000) but offers higher interest, priority customer service, and fee waivers on certain services. Chase Student Checking has no monthly fee and no minimum balance if you are under 24 and a student; it converts to Total Checking after you turn 24 or graduate.
Overdraft fees apply if you spend more than your balance. Chase charges $34 per overdraft transaction, up to three times per day. You can opt out of overdraft coverage to prevent charges, though transactions will then be declined.
Setting up online banking and your first login
After your account opens, you'll receive a username and temporary password by email or SMS. Log in at chase.com or the mobile app using those credentials. Chase will ask you to set a permanent password and create security questions. Enable two-factor authentication — Chase will send a code to your phone or email when you log in from a new device.
Once logged in, you can set up bill pay, transfer money between accounts, deposit checks by photo, and view your balance and transaction history. You can also add external bank accounts for transfers, though Chase will verify them by sending two small deposits (usually $0.01 and $0.02) that you'll need to confirm.
If you set up direct deposit, provide your employer with your Chase routing number (usually 021000021 for most regions, though some branches use different numbers — check your account details) and your account number. Direct deposit typically posts within one to two business days of your employer sending it.
What happens after you open your account
Your debit card arrives within 7 to 10 business days for online opens. You'll activate it by calling the number on the card or through the mobile app before you can use it. If you opened in person, ask whether the card is ready immediately or will ship.
Chase will send you a welcome packet with your account number, routing number, and information about online banking, bill pay, and mobile deposit. Read the fee schedule and deposit agreement so you understand when fees apply and what protections cover your account.
You can start using your account for transfers, bill pay, and ATM withdrawals immediately, even before your debit card arrives. If you need a second debit card for a family member or backup, you can order one through online banking or ask at a branch.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I open a Chase account if I have been denied before or have a banking history issue?
Chase uses ChexSystems, a banking history report, to screen new accounts. If you have unpaid overdrafts, fraud disputes, or closed accounts with negative balances, Chase may deny you. You can request your ChexSystems report for free at chexsystems.com. If denied, ask Chase why and consider a second-chance checking account at another bank while you resolve the issue.
Do I need a minimum balance to keep my account open?
No minimum balance is required to keep the account open. However, Chase Total Checking charges $12 per month unless you maintain a $500 minimum balance, set up direct deposit, or keep an average daily balance of $1,500. If you cannot meet these, the monthly fee will apply.
How long does it take to receive my debit card?
Online opens typically receive the card within 7 to 10 business days. In-person opens may receive it the same day or within a few days. You can use your account for transfers and bill pay before the card arrives. If you need cash urgently, visit a Chase branch with your ID and account number to withdraw.
What if I want to close my account later?
You can close your account online through banking settings, by calling Chase customer service, or by visiting a branch. Make sure your balance is zero and all pending transactions have cleared. Chase will send you a confirmation and final statement. There is no penalty for closing.
Can I open multiple Chase accounts at the same time?
Yes. You can open a checking and savings account together, or multiple accounts of the same type if you want separate accounts for different purposes. Each account has its own number and can be managed separately through online banking.