What you need to open a Chase account
You can open a Chase checking or savings account online, by phone, or in person at a branch. The fastest route is online — it takes about 10 minutes and you can start using the account the same day. You will need a valid government ID (driver's license, passport, or state ID), your Social Security number, and an initial deposit, which varies by account type.
Chase offers several account types: Chase Total Checking (no monthly fee if you meet one requirement), Chase Premier Plus Checking (higher balance requirement, more perks), and various savings accounts. Each has different minimum balance requirements and fee structures. Before you start, decide whether you want checking, savings, or both, because that determines which account to open.
If you already have a Chase account, opening a second one takes the same steps but happens faster because Chase already has your information on file. If you have had a Chase account closed in the past, you may not be able to open a new one — Chase uses ChexSystems, a banking history database, to screen applicants.
Key Takeaways
- You can open a Chase account online in about 10 minutes with a valid ID, Social Security number, and an initial deposit.
- Chase Total Checking requires no monthly fee if you maintain a $500 minimum balance or set up direct deposit.
- If you open online, your account is active immediately, but physical debit cards arrive by mail in 7 to 10 business days.
- Chase checks your banking history through ChexSystems, so a prior account closure or fraud report may block you from opening a new account.
Opening an account online
Go to chase.com and click "Open an Account" or "Sign Up." You will be asked to choose your account type and state of residence. Chase will then ask for your personal information: full name, date of birth, Social Security number, address, phone number, and email. Have your ID ready — you will need to verify it during the process.
Next, you will set up login credentials (username and password) and choose security questions. Chase will ask about your initial deposit amount and how you want to fund the account — you can link an external bank account and transfer money, or use a debit card. If you link an external account, the transfer takes 1 to 3 business days. If you use a debit card, the money appears in your Chase account immediately, but the charge may take a few days to show on your card statement.
Once you submit everything, Chase reviews your information in real time. Most people get instant approval and can log in and use their account right away through the Chase mobile app or website. Your physical debit card arrives by mail within 7 to 10 business days. You can request a rush card in some cases, but there may be a fee.
Opening an account at a Chase branch
Find your nearest Chase branch using the branch locator on chase.com. Bring your valid ID, Social Security number, and initial deposit (cash or a check). A banker will walk you through the account setup, which takes 15 to 30 minutes. You will fill out an application, provide your information, and choose your account type.
The advantage of opening in person is that you can ask questions and get a debit card on the spot in some cases, though this varies by branch. You will still need to set up online banking and a password before you leave. Your account is active immediately, and you can use it at any Chase ATM or branch right away.
Opening an account by phone
Call Chase at 1-800-935-9935 to open an account over the phone. A representative will guide you through the process and collect the same information as the online application. This route takes longer than online (20 to 30 minutes) and you will still need to verify your identity, usually by answering security questions based on your credit history.
After you complete the phone application, Chase will mail you a welcome packet with your account details and debit card. Your account is active immediately, but you cannot use the debit card until it arrives. You can access your account online or through the app as soon as the call ends.
Minimum balance requirements and monthly fees
Chase Total Checking has no monthly fee if you maintain a $500 minimum balance or set up direct deposit of any amount. If you do neither, the fee is $12 per month. Chase Premier Plus Checking requires a $25,000 minimum balance or $10,000 in linked Chase savings to avoid a $25 monthly fee. Chase Savings accounts have no monthly fee but pay interest that varies based on the current rate environment.
The minimum balance is the lowest amount your account can drop to without triggering a fee. If your balance falls below the requirement on any day of the month, you will be charged the fee. Direct deposit counts as long as you receive at least one deposit per month from your employer or a government benefit program.
What happens after you open your account
Once your account is open, you can use Chase's online banking, mobile app, and ATM network immediately. If you opened online or by phone, your debit card arrives in 7 to 10 business days. You can set up bill pay, transfer money between accounts, and deposit checks using mobile check deposit (through the app) right away.
Chase will send you a welcome packet by mail that includes your account number, routing number, and instructions for setting up direct deposit if your employer needs that information. If you need to make a large deposit or have questions about your account, visit a branch — bankers can help you set up automatic transfers, savings goals, or other features.
If you want to add a second person to your account (a joint account holder), you can do this online or at a branch. The other person will need to provide their ID and Social Security number. Joint accounts let both people access the money and make transactions, but both are responsible for any overdrafts or fees.
What to do if your application is denied
Chase may deny your application if you have a negative banking history (a prior account closure, fraud, or unpaid fees), if ChexSystems flags your record, or if you do not meet the identity verification requirements. If this happens, Chase will send you a letter explaining the reason.
You can request a copy of your ChexSystems report for free at chexsystems.com. If there is an error on your report, you can dispute it directly with ChexSystems. If your denial was due to a prior Chase account closure, contact Chase directly at 1-800-935-9935 to ask whether you can reopen an account or open a new one after a waiting period.
Some people who are denied at Chase open accounts at banks with less strict screening, such as online banks or credit unions, and build a clean banking history before trying Chase again.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I open a Chase account if I do not have a Social Security number?
No. Chase requires a Social Security number or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) to open any account. If you have an ITIN, you can open an account using that instead, but you will still need a valid ID and proof of address.
How much do I need to deposit to open an account?
Chase does not have a published minimum opening deposit, but most people deposit at least $25 to $100. You can open an account with $1 if you link an external bank account and transfer money. If you are opening in person, ask the banker what the branch requires.
Can I use a temporary ID or passport to open an account?
Yes. Chase accepts valid government-issued IDs including passports, state IDs, and driver's licenses. The ID must not be expired. If your ID does not have your current address, bring a recent utility bill or lease to verify where you live.
What if I want to open an account but I am under 18?
You can open a Chase student checking account if you are between 13 and 17, but you will need a parent or guardian to co-sign. The adult will be a joint account holder and can see all transactions. Once you turn 18, you can convert to a standard account or keep the student account.
How long does it take to receive my debit card?
Standard delivery takes 7 to 10 business days. Some branches offer rush delivery for a fee, which can arrive in 2 to 3 business days. You can use your account online and at ATMs immediately, even before your physical card arrives.