What you need to open a Chase account

You can open a Chase checking or savings account online, by phone, or in a branch. Most people start online because it takes 10 to 15 minutes and you can fund the account immediately. You will need a valid government ID (driver's license, passport, or state ID), your Social Security number, and an initial deposit—usually $25 for savings accounts, though some checking accounts have no minimum.

Chase will ask for your name, date of birth, address, phone number, and email. They will also ask whether you want a debit card and how you plan to deposit money. If you are opening an account for a minor, a parent or guardian must be present or complete the application, and the account will be linked to an adult account.

If you do not have a Social Security number, you can open an account with an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) at most Chase branches, though online signup will not accept it. Bring your ITIN documentation and a second form of ID to the branch.

Key Takeaways

  • You need a valid ID, Social Security number or ITIN, and an opening deposit to start a Chase account online or in a branch.
  • Online signup takes 10 to 15 minutes and lets you fund the account right away; in-branch signup takes longer but lets you ask questions in person.
  • Chase offers different account types with different fees and minimum balances, so compare them before you choose.
  • Your debit card arrives in 7 to 10 business days; you can use your account number to make transfers before the card shows up.
  • Chase requires you to verify your identity by phone or email within a few days of opening; if you do not, the account may be frozen.

Opening an account online

Go to chase.com and click "Open an Account" at the top of the page. Choose the account type you want—Chase Total Checking, Chase Savings, or another product. You will be asked to enter your personal information, Social Security number, and current address. Chase will run a soft credit check and check ChexSystems (a banking history database) to see if you have had problems with other banks.

Next, you will choose how to fund the account. You can transfer money from another bank account using routing and account numbers, deposit a check by photo, or wait to deposit cash in a branch. If you transfer from another bank, the money usually arrives in one to three business days. Chase will send you a confirmation email with your account number and routing number.

After you submit your application, Chase may ask you to verify your identity by phone or email within 24 to 72 hours. Answer the call or click the link in the email—if you do not, your account will be frozen until you do. Once verified, your account is active and you can start using it.

Opening an account in a Chase branch

Bring your ID, Social Security number, and opening deposit to any Chase branch. A banker will walk you through the application on a tablet or computer. This usually takes 20 to 30 minutes because the banker can answer questions and help you choose the right account for your needs.

You can deposit cash or a check on the spot, and your account will be active immediately. Your debit card will be ordered during the appointment and arrive in 7 to 10 business days. If you need a card faster, some branches can issue a temporary card number that works online right away.

In-branch signup is useful if you are new to banking, do not have online access, or want to ask about account features before you commit. It is also the only option if you are opening an account with an ITIN instead of a Social Security number.

Choosing the right Chase account type

Chase offers several checking and savings accounts with different fees and features. Chase Total Checking has no monthly fee if you maintain a $500 minimum balance or set up direct deposit. If your balance drops below $500, you pay $12 a month. Chase Savings earns interest (the rate changes with the market) and has no monthly fee if you keep $300 in the account; below that, you pay $5 a month.

Chase Premier Plus Checking requires a higher opening deposit ($25,000) but waives fees and offers higher interest rates. Chase Secure Banking is designed for people with limited banking history or past problems with ChexSystems; it has a $25 monthly fee but no minimum balance and can help you rebuild your banking record.

Compare the accounts on chase.com or ask a banker which one fits your situation. If you are unsure, Total Checking is the most common choice because the $500 minimum is easy to meet and there is no monthly fee if you use direct deposit.

Setting up direct deposit and transfers

Direct deposit moves money from your employer straight into your Chase account without you having to do anything. To set it up, give your employer your Chase account number and routing number (1010 for most Chase accounts, though it varies by region). Your employer will need to update their payroll system, which usually takes one to two pay cycles.

You can also set up transfers between your Chase account and other banks. Log into chase.com, go to "Transfers," and add an external account by entering the bank's routing number and your account number there. Chase will deposit two small test amounts (usually under $1) to verify the account is yours. Once verified, you can transfer money back and forth; transfers usually take one to three business days.

If you need money faster, Chase offers Chase QuickPay (peer-to-peer transfers to other Chase customers, usually instant) and Zelle (transfers to people at other banks, usually within minutes to a few hours). Both are free and built into the Chase mobile app.

Activating your debit card and setting up online banking

Your debit card arrives in 7 to 10 business days. When it shows up, you must activate it before you can use it. Call the number on the back of the card or log into chase.com and follow the activation prompt. You will be asked to verify your identity and set a PIN (personal identification number) for ATM withdrawals.

Set up online banking at the same time. Go to chase.com, click "Sign In," and select "Enroll" if you do not have a username yet. Create a username and password, then set up two-factor authentication (Chase will text or email you a code each time you log in from a new device). This protects your account if someone steals your password.

Once you are logged in, you can see your balance, transfer money, pay bills, deposit checks by photo, and set up alerts (for example, a text when your balance drops below $100). The Chase mobile app has the same features and works offline for viewing your balance.

What happens if your account is denied or frozen

Chase may deny your application if ChexSystems shows you owe money to another bank, have unpaid overdrafts, or have a history of fraud. If this happens, you will receive a letter explaining the reason. You can dispute the information on your ChexSystems report by going to chexsystems.com and filing a dispute online.

Your account may also be frozen if you do not verify your identity within the required timeframe, if Chase suspects fraud, or if there is a legal hold (for example, from a court or the IRS). If this happens, call Chase at the number on your account statement or visit a branch. A banker can tell you what is needed to unfreeze it.

If you are denied because of ChexSystems, Chase Secure Banking may still be available to you. This account is designed for people with banking problems and can help you rebuild your record over time.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take to open a Chase account?

Online signup takes 10 to 15 minutes, and your account is usually active within 24 hours. In-branch signup takes 20 to 30 minutes, and your account is active immediately. Your debit card arrives in 7 to 10 business days, but you can use your account number to make transfers or pay bills before the card shows up.

Can I open a Chase account without a Social Security number?

Yes, if you have an ITIN (Individual Taxpayer Identification Number). You must open the account in a branch, not online. Bring your ITIN documentation and a second form of ID. Chase will verify your identity the same way as for a Social Security number.

What is the minimum opening deposit for a Chase account?

Most Chase checking and savings accounts require $25 to open. Chase Premier Plus Checking requires $25,000. Some accounts have no opening deposit requirement but charge a monthly fee if your balance falls below a certain amount.

What should I do if I forget my online banking password?

Go to chase.com, click "Sign In," and select "Forgot Username or Password." Chase will send you a link by email to reset it. If you do not have access to your email, call Chase at the number on your account statement and a banker can help you regain access.

Can I open a joint account with someone else?

Yes. Both people must be present in a branch with valid ID and Social Security numbers, or you can open it online if you are both applying together. Both account holders can access the account, make transfers, and see the balance. Either person can close the account or remove the other person.