You can open most Chase checking and savings accounts online in about 10 minutes, but you need a Social Security number, valid ID, and a funding source ready before you start.
Chase lets you open accounts through their website or mobile app without visiting a branch. The process is straightforward: you'll enter personal information, verify your identity, choose your account type, and fund it. Most accounts are ready to use the same day, though some verification steps can take longer depending on what information Chase needs from you.
The speed depends on which account you choose and whether Chase can verify you instantly. If you have an existing Chase account or a recent credit history with them, the process moves faster. If you're new to Chase or if their system flags something for manual review, you may wait 24 to 48 hours before the account is fully active.
Key Takeaways
- You need a valid government-issued ID, Social Security number, and initial deposit (usually $25 to $100, depending on account type) to open an account online.
- Chase offers different checking and savings accounts with different features and fees; choose the one that matches how you plan to use it before you start.
- The online process takes 10 to 15 minutes, but identity verification can add 24 to 48 hours if Chase needs to review your information manually.
- You can fund your new account immediately using a debit card, or link an external bank account and transfer money later.
- If you're under 18, you'll need a parent or guardian to open the account with you, either online or at a branch.
What you need before you start
Gather these items before you open the app or website: a valid government-issued photo ID (driver's license, passport, or state ID), your Social Security number, your date of birth, and your current address. Chase will ask for all of these during the identity verification step.
You'll also need a way to fund the account. You can use a debit card to make an initial deposit right away, or you can link an external bank account and transfer money later. If you use a debit card, have the card number, expiration date, and CVV ready. If you plan to link a bank account instead, you'll need your routing number and account number from that bank.
Check which Chase account you want before you start. Chase offers Chase Total Checking, Chase Sapphire Checking, Chase Premier Plus Checking, and several savings accounts. Each has different monthly fees (or no fee if you meet certain conditions), different interest rates, and different perks. Spend two minutes on Chase's website comparing them so you know which one fits your needs.
The step-by-step process
Go to chase.com or open the Chase mobile app. Look for "Open an account" or "Sign up" — it's usually at the top of the page or in the menu. Choose whether you want a checking account, savings account, or both.
Enter your personal information: full name, date of birth, Social Security number, email address, phone number, and current address. Chase will use this to search for you in their system and verify your identity. If you've banked with Chase before, they may recognize you and skip some steps.
Chase will ask you to verify your identity. If you're a new customer or if their system can't instantly verify you, they may ask you to take a photo of your ID using your phone's camera. This usually takes a few minutes. If Chase can verify you instantly (because you have an existing account or recent credit history with them), you'll move forward immediately.
Choose your account and review the terms. You'll see the monthly fee (if any), the minimum balance requirements, and the interest rate. Confirm your choices and move to funding.
Fund your account. If you use a debit card, enter the card number, expiration date, and CVV. The deposit usually posts within minutes. If you link an external bank account instead, Chase will ask for your routing number and account number, and the transfer takes one to three business days.
Review and submit. Chase will show you a summary of your new account. Check that everything is correct, then submit. You'll receive a confirmation email with your account number and routing number.
When your account is ready to use
If Chase verifies you instantly, your account is usually active within minutes. You can log in, see your balance, and start using it right away. Your debit card will arrive by mail in 7 to 10 business days, but you can use your account number to set up direct deposit or bill pay before the card arrives.
If Chase needs to review your information manually, the account may take 24 to 48 hours to become fully active. You'll receive an email when it's ready. During this time, you can still log in and see your account, but you may not be able to make transfers or use bill pay until the review is complete.
Once your account is active, you can set up direct deposit using your employer's payroll system, transfer money from another bank, or deposit checks using the Chase mobile app's mobile check deposit feature.
What happens if verification takes longer
Chase may ask for additional information if something in your application doesn't match their records or if they need to confirm your identity more thoroughly. They'll send you an email or call you with instructions. Common reasons include a name mismatch, an address that doesn't match public records, or a Social Security number that doesn't match your other information.
If Chase asks for more information, respond as quickly as you can. They may ask you to upload a photo of your ID, provide a recent utility bill or lease to confirm your address, or answer security questions about your credit history. This process usually takes 24 to 48 hours once you provide the information.
In rare cases, Chase may decline to open an account if they can't verify your identity or if you have a history of fraud or unpaid accounts. If this happens, Chase will send you a letter explaining why. You can contact Chase customer service to ask if there's anything you can do to resolve it.
Account types and what they cost
Chase offers several checking and savings accounts, each with different fees and features. The table below shows the main options and what you need to do to avoid paying a monthly fee.
| Account Type | Monthly Fee | Minimum to Avoid Fee | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Chase Total Checking | $12 (waived with conditions) | $500 direct deposit, $1,500 balance, or linked savings account | Basic checking with low barriers to waiving the fee |
| Chase Sapphire Checking | $25 (waived with conditions) | $20,000 balance or $10,000 balance plus linked savings | Higher-balance customers who want premium features |
| Chase Premier Plus Checking | $25 (waived with conditions) | $15,000 balance or $10,000 balance plus linked savings | Customers who want higher interest rates and premium support |
| Chase Savings | $5 (waived with conditions) | $300 balance or linked checking account | Saving money with interest |
Fees vary and change over time, so check Chase's website for the current terms before you open an account. Most people can avoid monthly fees by meeting one of the conditions listed above — usually a direct deposit or a minimum balance.
If you're under 18
Chase does not allow minors to open accounts online by themselves. You'll need a parent or guardian to open a Chase First Banking account with you, either at a branch or by phone. The parent or guardian must be present and provide their own ID and Social Security number.
Chase First Banking is designed for teenagers and has no monthly fee. It comes with a debit card and lets you set spending limits and monitor activity through the Chase app. Once you turn 18, you can convert it to a standard checking account or open a new one on your own.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I open a Chase account if I don't have a Social Security number?
No. Chase requires a Social Security number or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) to open an account. If you have an ITIN, you can use that instead. If you don't have either, you'll need to obtain one before you can open an account.
What if I don't have a government-issued ID?
Chase requires a valid government-issued photo ID to open an account online. If you don't have one, you can visit a Chase branch in person with alternative documents like a passport, state ID, or tribal ID. A branch representative can help you determine what documents they'll accept.
How long does it take to receive my debit card?
Chase typically mails debit cards within 7 to 10 business days. You can use your account and set up direct deposit before the card arrives. If you need a card faster, you can visit a Chase branch and request an expedited card or a temporary card to use immediately.
Can I open multiple Chase accounts at the same time?
Yes. You can open a checking account and a savings account in the same session, or open multiple accounts of the same type if you have a specific reason (like separate accounts for different purposes). Chase may ask why you're opening multiple accounts, but there's no rule against it.
What if Chase denies my account?
Chase will send you a letter explaining why they declined. Common reasons include identity verification failure, a history of fraud or unpaid accounts, or a ChexSystems report (a banking history report similar to a credit report). You can contact Chase to ask if there's anything you can do, or you can dispute the information in your ChexSystems report if it's inaccurate.