What Chase requires before you can open an account
Chase requires a government-issued photo ID, your Social Security number, and an initial deposit to open a checking or savings account. The ID can be a driver's license, passport, state ID card, or military ID. You'll also need to provide your date of birth and current address. If you're opening an account online or by phone, Chase will verify your identity electronically; if you're opening in a branch, bring the physical ID with you.
The initial deposit amount depends on the account type. Chase checking accounts typically require $25 to $100 to open, while savings accounts may require $25 to $300. Some accounts have no minimum deposit requirement. Chase will tell you the exact amount when you start the process, and you can fund the account with a debit card, transfer from another bank, or cash if you're in a branch.
If you don't have a Social Security number, you can open an account using an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) instead, though not all account types are available with an ITIN. Chase will ask for additional documentation in this case—typically a passport or consular ID plus proof of address like a utility bill or lease.
Key Takeaways
- You need a government photo ID, Social Security number, date of birth, and current address to open any Chase account.
- Most Chase checking accounts require an initial deposit between $25 and $100; savings accounts typically require $25 to $300.
- You can open an account online, by phone, or in a Chase branch; online and phone applications verify your ID electronically.
- If you don't have a Social Security number, you can use an ITIN, but Chase will request additional identity documents.
- Chase will perform a ChexSystems check, which reviews your banking history; a negative history may prevent you from opening an account.
Opening an account online versus in a branch
Opening online is faster and requires no trip to a branch. You'll enter your personal information, upload a photo of your ID, and answer security questions. Chase verifies your identity in real time, and if approved, you can fund the account immediately and start using it within one business day. Most people receive a debit card within 7 to 10 business days.
Opening in a branch takes longer but lets you ask questions and handle everything in person. Bring your ID and the initial deposit (cash or a debit card). A banker will complete the application, verify your identity on the spot, and you can leave with a temporary debit card or ATM card the same day. Your permanent card arrives by mail in 7 to 10 business days.
Opening by phone is also an option. Call Chase at 1-800-935-9935 and a representative will walk you through the application. You'll need to verify your identity by answering security questions based on your credit history. Funding happens the same way as online—by debit card or transfer from another bank.
What Chase checks before approving your account
Chase runs a ChexSystems report, which is a banking history database. This report shows whether you've had accounts closed due to overdrafts, fraud, or other issues at any bank. If you have a negative history—such as unpaid overdrafts, repeated NSF (non-sufficient funds) fees, or fraud—Chase may deny your application or require you to pay outstanding balances first.
Chase also checks your identity against government databases to prevent fraud and comply with federal anti-money-laundering rules. This is standard at all banks. If your name, address, or Social Security number doesn't match government records, Chase will ask you to clarify or provide additional documents.
Chase does not run a credit check to open a checking or savings account. Your credit score does not affect whether you can open a basic deposit account. However, if you later want to open a credit card or take out a loan, Chase will pull your credit report at that time.
If you have a history of banking problems
If you've been denied a bank account before or have unpaid overdrafts, you may still open a Chase account, but you'll need to address the past issue first. If you owe money to another bank for overdrafts or fees, contact that bank and pay the balance. Once paid, ask for written confirmation that the account is settled. Bring this confirmation when you apply to Chase.
If you were previously closed out of a Chase account due to overdrafts or fraud, you can reapply after a waiting period. Chase's policy varies, but typically you must wait 12 months before reapplying. Contact Chase directly at 1-800-935-9935 to ask about your specific situation and whether you're may be able to access now.
Some people with banking problems turn to second-chance banking accounts, which have higher fees but fewer restrictions. Chase does not offer a second-chance account, but other banks do. If Chase denies you, ask whether you can reapply later, or explore accounts at banks that specialize in second-chance banking.
Documents to bring or upload
| Document | Why Chase needs it | Acceptable forms |
|---|---|---|
| Photo ID | Verify your identity | Driver's license, passport, state ID, military ID |
| Social Security number | Tax reporting and fraud prevention | Your SSN or ITIN if you don't have an SSN |
| Proof of address | Confirm current residence | Utility bill, lease, mortgage statement, or government mail dated within 90 days |
| Initial deposit | Fund the account | Debit card, transfer from another bank, or cash (in branch only) |
What happens after you open your account
Once approved, your account is active immediately online. You can log in, set up bill pay, transfer money, and use mobile deposit right away. Your debit card arrives by mail in 7 to 10 business days. Until it arrives, you can withdraw cash at any Chase ATM using your temporary card or by visiting a branch.
Chase will send you account statements and disclosures by mail or email, depending on your preference. You can change this in your online settings. Your account comes with online banking, a mobile app, and access to Chase's network of branches and ATMs nationwide.
If you opened with a low initial deposit, Chase may require you to maintain a minimum balance to avoid monthly fees. Check your account agreement for the specific balance requirement. Most Chase checking accounts waive the monthly fee if you maintain a $500 minimum balance or set up direct deposit.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I open a Chase account without a Social Security number?
Yes, you can use an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) instead. Chase will ask for additional documents to verify your identity, such as a passport, consular ID, and proof of address. Not all account types are available with an ITIN, so call 1-800-935-9935 to confirm which accounts you can open.
How long does it take to open a Chase account?
Online applications are approved in minutes if your identity verifies immediately. In-branch applications take 15 to 30 minutes. Your debit card arrives by mail in 7 to 10 business days. You can use your account the same day it's opened, even before your physical card arrives.
What if Chase denies my application?
Chase will tell you the reason—usually a negative ChexSystems report or unpaid overdrafts at another bank. If it's unpaid overdrafts, pay the balance and reapply. If you were closed out of a Chase account, wait the required period (typically 12 months) before reapplying. Call 1-800-935-9935 to discuss your options.
Do I need a minimum deposit to open a Chase account?
Most Chase checking and savings accounts require $25 to $300 to open. Some accounts have no minimum. Chase will show you the requirement before you complete the application. You can fund the account with a debit card, transfer from another bank, or cash if you're opening in a branch.
Can I open a Chase account if I'm not a U.S. citizen?
Yes. You need a valid government-issued photo ID (passport or consular ID), an ITIN or Social Security number, and proof of your current U.S. address. Chase verifies your identity against government databases, so bring documents that match the name and address on your ID.