What you need to open a Chase account

Chase offers several account types—checking, savings, money market, and CDs—and the steps to open one are mostly the same. You will need a valid government-issued ID (driver's license, passport, or state ID), your Social Security number, and an initial deposit. You can open an account online, on the phone, or in a branch, and the process takes about 10 to 15 minutes if you have your documents ready.

Chase requires a minimum opening deposit that varies by account type. For most checking accounts, this is $0 to $25, though some premium accounts ask for $500 or more. You can fund the account with a debit card, transfer from another bank, or cash at a branch. If you do not have a Social Security number, Chase will not open an account for you online, but you can visit a branch to discuss other options.

Before you start, decide whether you want a basic checking account, a rewards checking account, or a savings account. Chase's website lists the features and monthly fees for each. Some accounts waive the monthly fee if you keep a minimum balance or set up direct deposit.

Key Takeaways

  • You need a valid ID, Social Security number, and an opening deposit to open a Chase account online or by phone.
  • Chase accounts can be opened in about 10 to 15 minutes if you have your documents and payment method ready.
  • Monthly fees vary by account type and can be waived if you meet balance or direct deposit requirements.
  • You can fund your new account with a debit card, transfer from another bank, or cash at a branch.
  • If you do not have a Social Security number, visit a Chase branch in person to explore your options.

Opening an account online

Go to chase.com and click "Open an Account" or "Sign Up" at the top of the page. Select the account type you want—checking, savings, or money market. Chase will ask for your name, date of birth, address, phone number, email, and Social Security number. Have your ID ready to verify this information.

Next, choose your opening deposit method. You can link a debit card from another bank and transfer money, or provide your bank account number and routing number for an ACH transfer. If you use a debit card, the transfer usually posts within one business day. If you use ACH, it may take two to three business days.

After you fund the account, Chase will send you a confirmation email. Your account number and routing number will appear in your email or in the Chase mobile app within a few hours. You can start using your account right away for transfers and bill pay, but your debit card will arrive by mail in 7 to 10 business days.

Opening an account by phone or in a branch

Call Chase at 1-800-935-9935 to open an account over the phone. A representative will walk you through the same questions as the online process and can answer questions about account features and fees. You will still need to provide your ID and Social Security number, and you will need a way to fund the account—either a debit card or bank account information.

If you prefer to open an account in person, visit your nearest Chase branch with your ID, Social Security number, and opening deposit. Bring a debit card or checkbook from another bank if you want to fund the account that way, or bring cash. A banker will complete the paperwork and you can walk out with your account number the same day. Your debit card will still arrive by mail.

Opening in a branch is useful if you have questions about which account fits your needs, if you do not have a debit card or another bank account to link, or if you want to deposit cash immediately. Some branches have longer wait times on weekday afternoons and Saturdays, so call ahead or go early in the day.

What happens after you open your account

Your Chase account is active as soon as you complete the application and fund it. You can log into chase.com or the Chase mobile app using your Social Security number and a password you create. Your account number and routing number appear in the app or online banking portal within a few hours.

Your debit card arrives by mail in 7 to 10 business days. When it arrives, you will need to activate it by calling the number on the back of the card or using the Chase app. Until then, you can use your account for transfers, bill pay, and ATM withdrawals at any Chase branch.

If you set up direct deposit during the application, your employer can start depositing your paycheck to your new account once you provide them with your routing number and account number. Chase will waive the monthly maintenance fee on most checking accounts if you have direct deposit of at least $500 per month.

Monthly fees and how to avoid them

Chase checking accounts charge a monthly maintenance fee of $12 to $15, depending on the account type. However, you can waive the fee by meeting one of these conditions: setting up direct deposit of at least $500 per month, keeping a minimum balance (usually $500 to $1,500), or maintaining a linked savings account with a minimum balance.

Savings accounts and money market accounts also charge monthly fees, typically $5 to $25. These are waived if you keep a minimum balance, which ranges from $300 to $2,500 depending on the account. Chase's website shows the exact fee and waiver requirements for each account before you open it.

If you do not meet the waiver requirements, the monthly fee will be deducted from your account automatically. You can change your account type or add direct deposit later to waive the fee going forward.

Linking accounts and setting up transfers

Once your Chase account is open, you can link it to other bank accounts you own for transfers. Log into chase.com or the Chase app, go to "Transfer Money," and select "Link an Account." Chase will ask for the routing number and account number of the other bank. You will need to verify the account by confirming two small deposits Chase sends to that account, which usually takes one to two business days.

After the account is verified, you can transfer money between your Chase account and the linked account. Transfers between Chase accounts are instant. Transfers to other banks take one to three business days, depending on whether you use standard transfer or expedited transfer. Expedited transfers cost $10 to $15 and post the same day or next business day.

You can also set up bill pay through your Chase account to send money directly to companies and people. Bill pay is free and takes three to five business days for the payment to reach the recipient.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I open a Chase account without going to a branch?

Yes. You can open most Chase accounts online or by phone if you have a valid ID, Social Security number, and a way to fund the account. The only exception is if you do not have a Social Security number—in that case, you must visit a branch in person.

How long does it take to get my debit card?

Your debit card arrives by mail in 7 to 10 business days. You can use your account for transfers and ATM withdrawals at Chase branches before the card arrives. If you need a card faster, ask a banker in a Chase branch whether they can issue a temporary card or expedited card.

What if I do not have a minimum opening deposit?

Most Chase checking accounts require $0 to $25 to open. If you do not have that amount, you can open the account with $0 and deposit money later, or visit a branch and ask whether they can waive the opening deposit. Some branches may work with you depending on your situation.

Can I open a joint account with someone else?

Yes. Both people will need to provide their ID and Social Security number. You can open a joint account online if both people are present, or in a branch. Each person on the account can access the money and make withdrawals.

What if I already have a Chase account and want to open another one?

You can open a second account online or in a branch using the same process. Chase allows you to have multiple accounts. Each account will have its own account number and debit card, and you can transfer money between them instantly.