What you need to open a Chase account
Chase requires a government-issued photo ID, your Social Security number, and an initial deposit to open most checking or savings accounts. You can open an account online, on the phone, or in a branch. The process takes about 10 to 15 minutes if you do it online, and the account is usually active the same day or within one business day.
The initial deposit amount depends on the account type. Chase checking accounts typically require $25 to $100 to open, though some accounts have no minimum. Savings accounts usually need $25 to $300. If you don't have the minimum on hand, you can fund the account after opening it, but Chase may close the account if it stays below the minimum for too long.
You'll also need a valid mailing address and a phone number. Chase will ask for your employment information, but you don't need to be employed to open an account. If you're under 18, a parent or guardian must open the account with you or co-sign.
Key Takeaways
- You need a government-issued photo ID, Social Security number, and initial deposit ranging from $25 to $300 depending on account type.
- Opening online takes 10 to 15 minutes and the account is usually active the same day.
- Chase offers multiple account types with different fees and features, so compare them before you choose.
- If you have a history of overdrafts or closed accounts, Chase may deny you or require a ChexSystems review.
Opening an account online
Go to chase.com and select "Open an Account" from the homepage. Choose the account type you want—checking, savings, or money market. Chase will walk you through entering your personal information: name, date of birth, address, phone number, email, and Social Security number.
Next, you'll upload or photograph your ID. Chase accepts driver's licenses, passports, and state ID cards. The photo must be clear and show your full face and the ID details. If the upload fails, you can complete the account opening in a branch or by phone instead.
You'll then set up online banking credentials—a username and password—and choose how you want to receive statements (email or paper). Finally, you'll make your initial deposit using a debit card, bank transfer, or wire transfer. If you use a debit card, the funds appear in your new Chase account within one to two business days. If you transfer from another bank account, it takes three to five business days.
After you submit everything, Chase reviews your information. You'll receive a confirmation email with your account number and routing number. Your debit card arrives by mail within 7 to 10 business days, though you can use your account number to set up direct deposit or transfers before the card arrives.
Opening an account in a Chase branch
Bring your photo ID, Social Security number, and initial deposit to any Chase branch during business hours. A banker will ask you the same questions as the online form and will verify your ID in person. This route is useful if you want to ask questions about account features or if you had trouble with the online process.
In-branch opening takes 15 to 30 minutes. You'll leave with a temporary debit card or a card number you can use immediately, and your permanent card arrives by mail within 7 to 10 business days. If you bring cash for your deposit, it posts to your account the same day. If you bring a check, it may take one to three business days to clear.
Opening an account by phone
Call Chase at 1-800-935-9935 to open an account over the phone. A representative will collect your personal information and verify your identity by asking security questions based on your credit history. You'll need to provide your Social Security number and have your ID ready.
Phone opening takes 15 to 20 minutes. You'll fund the account by providing a debit card number or bank account information for a transfer. Chase will mail you a debit card and account documents. This method is slower than online opening because you can't receive your account number immediately, but it works if you prefer speaking to someone or if you don't have a smartphone to upload your ID photo.
Account types and what they cost
Chase offers several checking and savings accounts, each with different monthly fees and features. Chase Total Checking has a $12 monthly fee but waives it if you maintain a $500 minimum balance, set up direct deposit, or link a Chase savings account. Chase Sapphire Checking has no monthly fee and no minimum balance requirement, but it's designed for customers who also have a Chase credit card or investment account.
Chase Savings has a $5 monthly fee waived if you keep $300 in the account or set up automatic transfers of $25 or more per month. Chase Money Market requires a $25,000 minimum balance and pays interest that varies with the market rate. Interest rates on savings accounts change frequently, so check chase.com for current rates before you open.
All Chase accounts include online banking, mobile app access, and the ability to deposit checks by photograph. Overdraft fees are $35 per transaction, though Chase allows one free overdraft reversal per year if you ask within 24 hours.
What happens if Chase denies you
Chase uses ChexSystems, a banking history database, to screen new account applicants. If you have a record of unpaid overdrafts, closed accounts due to fraud, or repeated NSF (non-sufficient funds) fees, Chase may deny your application. You'll receive a letter explaining the reason.
If you're denied, you have the right to request a free copy of your ChexSystems report within 30 days. Go to chexsystems.com or call 1-800-428-9623 to dispute any errors. If the report is accurate, you can reapply after 12 months, or you can open an account at a bank that doesn't use ChexSystems, such as some credit unions or online banks.
If you have recent overdrafts but no closed accounts, you may still be approved for a basic checking account with a lower initial deposit or a limited feature set. Call 1-800-935-9935 and ask about second-chance checking options.
Moving money into your new account
Once your account is open, you can fund it by direct deposit, bank transfer, wire transfer, or in-person cash deposit at a Chase branch. Direct deposit is the fastest and most reliable method—your employer or government agency deposits your paycheck or benefits directly into your Chase account, usually within one business day of the pay date.
To set up direct deposit, give your employer or benefits administrator your Chase account number and routing number (1010000000 for most Chase accounts, though this varies by region). You can find both numbers on your checks or in the Chase mobile app.
Bank transfers from another bank take three to five business days. Use Chase's online banking portal or mobile app to link your other account and initiate a transfer. Wire transfers arrive within one business day but cost $15 to $20 and are best used for large amounts or urgent transfers. Cash deposits at a Chase branch post the same day if you deposit before 2 p.m. local time.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I open a Chase account without a Social Security number?
No. Chase requires a Social Security number or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) to open any account. If you don't have either, you cannot open a Chase account. Some credit unions and online banks accept accounts without a Social Security number, so those may be alternatives.
What if I don't have a government-issued photo ID?
You can open an account in a Chase branch using a passport, state ID, or driver's license. If you don't have any of these, call 1-800-935-9935 and ask about alternative verification methods. Chase may ask additional security questions or require a notarized document, but this varies by location.
How long does it take to receive my debit card?
Your debit card arrives by mail within 7 to 10 business days. You can use your account number and routing number to set up direct deposit or transfers before the card arrives. If you need a card faster, visit a Chase branch and ask about expedited card delivery or a temporary card number.
Can I open multiple Chase accounts?
Yes. You can open multiple checking and savings accounts at Chase. However, each account counts toward your deposit insurance limit of $250,000 per account type at FDIC-insured banks. If you have more than $250,000 in one account type, the excess is not insured.
What happens if I don't meet the minimum balance requirement?
Chase charges a monthly fee if your balance falls below the minimum. For example, Chase Total Checking charges $12 per month if your balance drops below $500. You can avoid the fee by maintaining the minimum, setting up direct deposit, or linking a Chase savings account. If fees pile up, contact Chase and ask about a fee reversal or switching to an account with no minimum.