Documents and information Chase requires before you can open an account
Chase requires a government-issued photo ID, your Social Security number, and proof of your current address to open a checking or savings account. The photo ID can be a driver's license, passport, state ID card, or tribal ID. Proof of address is typically a utility bill, lease, mortgage statement, or bank statement dated within the last 60 days—Chase will accept a digital copy.
You'll also need to bring or have ready the initial deposit amount. Chase does not require a minimum opening deposit for most checking accounts, but some accounts have a minimum balance requirement to avoid monthly fees. If you're opening an account online, you can fund it immediately with a debit card, transfer from another bank, or wire transfer. If you're opening in a branch, you can deposit cash or a check.
If you don't have a Social Security number, Chase offers accounts for non-U.S. citizens using an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) instead. You'll still need the photo ID and proof of address.
Key Takeaways
- Bring a government-issued photo ID, your Social Security number, and a recent utility bill or bank statement showing your current address.
- Chase does not require a minimum deposit to open most checking accounts, but some account types have minimum balance requirements to avoid fees.
- You can open an account online in minutes or visit a branch in person; both routes require the same documents.
- If you don't have a Social Security number, you can use an ITIN and still open an account with the same ID and address proof.
Opening an account online versus in a Chase branch
Opening online is faster and requires no trip to a branch. You'll upload a photo of your ID, enter your Social Security number and address, and fund the account with a debit card or transfer from another bank. Chase will verify your identity and typically approve the account within minutes. You can start using your account the same day, though checks and transfers may take one to three business days to clear.
Opening in a branch takes longer but lets you ask questions and handle everything face-to-face. A banker will verify your documents, take your initial deposit, and set up your account on the spot. You'll leave with a debit card if you request one, though it may take five to seven business days to arrive by mail. If you need a card immediately, some branches can issue a temporary card or expedite delivery.
Both routes require the same documents. Choose online if you want speed and convenience; choose a branch if you prefer to speak with someone or need a card the same day.
What happens after you submit your information
Chase runs a background check using ChexSystems, a banking history database that tracks closed accounts, overdrafts, and fraud. This check typically takes a few minutes. If you've had problems with a previous bank account—unpaid overdrafts, suspected fraud, or repeated NSF (non-sufficient funds) fees—Chase may deny your application or require you to pay outstanding balances before opening an account.
You'll also be checked against the Office of the Comptroller of the Currency (OCC) database for any history of banking fraud or abuse. If you pass both checks, your account opens immediately online or within the business day in a branch.
If Chase denies your application, they will send you a letter explaining the reason and telling you how to dispute the decision if you believe the information is wrong. You have the right to request a copy of your ChexSystems report and correct any errors before reapplying.
Debit card and online banking setup
Your debit card will arrive by mail within five to seven business days after opening your account. If you opened in a branch, ask whether they can issue a temporary card or expedite the physical card. While you wait, you can use your account number and routing number to set up direct deposit or bill pay through Chase's website or mobile app.
Chase's online banking and mobile app are available immediately after your account opens. You'll create a username and password, and Chase will send you a one-time code to verify your phone number. From there, you can transfer money between accounts, pay bills, deposit checks by photo, and monitor your balance in real time.
If you want to use your debit card before it arrives, you can request a temporary card number through the app or call Chase customer service to ask about expedited delivery options.
Account types and which one to choose
Chase offers several checking and savings accounts with different features and fee structures. Chase Total Checking has no monthly fee and no minimum balance requirement. Chase Sapphire Checking requires a $500 minimum balance to avoid a $12 monthly fee but offers higher interest rates and travel benefits. Chase Savings has no monthly fee and no minimum balance, but earns a lower interest rate than money market accounts.
If you're opening your first account, Total Checking is the simplest option because there are no fees or balance requirements. If you plan to keep a larger balance and want higher interest earnings, Sapphire Checking or a money market account may be worth the monthly fee.
You can open multiple accounts at the same time—for example, a checking account for daily spending and a savings account for emergency funds. Each account will have its own account number and debit card (if applicable).
What to do if you've been denied or have a ChexSystems problem
If Chase denies your application because of ChexSystems, you have the right to request a free copy of your report within 30 days. You can dispute any errors directly with ChexSystems by mail or online. Common errors include accounts listed under the wrong name, closed accounts still showing as open, or overdrafts that were actually paid.
If you have legitimate banking problems on your record—unpaid overdrafts or fraud—you may need to pay those balances or wait a certain amount of time before reapplying. Some banks offer second-chance checking accounts for people with ChexSystems issues, though Chase does not. You can try reapplying to Chase after six months to a year, depending on the reason for the denial.
Contact ChexSystems at 1-800-428-9623 or visit chexsystems.com to request your report and dispute errors.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I open a Chase account without a Social Security number?
Yes. If you're a non-U.S. citizen or don't have an SSN, you can use an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) instead. You'll still need a government-issued photo ID and proof of your current address. Some Chase branches have staff trained to handle ITIN accounts, so call ahead to confirm your local branch can process one.
What if I don't have a recent utility bill for proof of address?
Chase accepts several forms of address proof: a lease or rental agreement, mortgage statement, bank statement, credit card statement, or government mail (like a tax return or voter registration card). Any document dated within the last 60 days showing your name and current address will work. If you've recently moved, a lease signed within the last 60 days is usually the fastest option.
How long does it take to receive my debit card?
Standard delivery takes five to seven business days. If you opened in a branch, ask whether they can issue a temporary card number or expedite shipping. Some branches can print a temporary card on the spot. If you opened online, you can request expedited delivery through the app or by calling Chase, though this may have an additional fee.
Can I open an account if I'm under 18?
Chase requires an account holder to be at least 18 years old. If you're under 18, a parent or guardian can open a Chase First Banking account in your name, which they control until you turn 18. You'll need the same documents as an adult account, plus the parent's or guardian's ID and Social Security number.
What if Chase says I have a ChexSystems problem I don't remember?
Request your free ChexSystems report and review it carefully. Errors are common—closed accounts listed as open, accounts under a slightly different name spelling, or overdrafts from years ago. You can dispute any error in writing or online. If the information is correct but old, ask Chase whether you can reapply after a certain waiting period, or look for a second-chance banking program at another bank.