Documents and information 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 specific documents and minimum deposit amount depend on which account type you choose and whether you open it online, by phone, or in a branch. You will also need a valid mailing address and a phone number.
If you do not have a Social Security number, Chase will not open an account for you. If you are opening an account for someone under 18, a parent or legal guardian must be present or complete the application with you, and that adult will need their own ID and Social Security number.
Chase does not accept temporary IDs, expired IDs, or IDs from outside the United States for most account types. If your ID is expired, you will need to renew it first. If you are a non-U.S. citizen with a valid visa, you may be able to open an account with a passport and visa, but policies vary by branch — call ahead to confirm.
Key Takeaways
- You must bring a government-issued photo ID, provide your Social Security number, and make an initial deposit; minimum deposits range from $0 to $25 depending on the account type.
- Chase requires a current mailing address and a phone number, and will verify both before the account opens.
- If you open an account online, you can complete most of the process from home, but Chase may ask you to verify your identity by video call or by visiting a branch.
- Accounts opened in a branch typically process the same day; online accounts may take one to three business days to activate.
- If you have a history of overdrafts or fraud with another bank, Chase may deny your application or place restrictions on your new account.
What to bring if you open an account in a Chase branch
Bring your government-issued photo ID (driver's license, state ID, or passport), your Social Security number written down or memorized, and a debit card or checkbook from another bank if you want to make an initial deposit by transfer. You do not need to bring cash, but you can if you prefer. Chase will not accept a photo of your ID — you must show the physical document.
If you are opening a joint account with another person, both account holders must be present in the branch with their own IDs and Social Security numbers. If you are opening an account for a minor, bring the minor's birth certificate or Social Security card along with your ID.
Bring proof of your current address if your ID does not show your current mailing address. A recent utility bill, lease, or mortgage statement works. If you moved recently and have not updated your ID, this step is required.
Opening an account online and what happens next
To open an account online, go to Chase.com, select the account type you want, and enter your name, Social Security number, date of birth, phone number, and current address. You will upload a photo of your ID or answer security questions to verify your identity. Chase may ask you to verify your identity by video call with a representative, which takes about five minutes.
After you submit your application, 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 one to three business days. You can begin using your account as soon as the app shows it as active, even if your debit card has not arrived yet.
If Chase cannot verify your identity online, you will receive a message asking you to visit a branch or call 1-800-935-9935 to complete the process. This usually happens if your address does not match Chase's records or if there is a discrepancy in the information you provided.
Minimum deposit amounts by account type
| Account Type | Minimum Deposit | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Chase Total Checking | $0 | No minimum deposit required to open; no monthly fee if you maintain a $500 balance or set up direct deposit. |
| Chase Sapphire Checking | $0 | No minimum deposit required; higher monthly fee ($25) unless you meet balance or direct deposit requirements. |
| Chase Savings Account | $0 | No minimum deposit required to open; earns interest on your balance. |
| Chase Money Market Account | $25 | Minimum deposit of $25 required; higher interest rate than savings account. |
What happens if Chase denies your application
Chase may deny your application if you have unpaid overdrafts or fraud charges from another bank, if your Social Security number does not match government records, or if you appear on ChexSystems — a banking history report that tracks closed accounts and disputes. You can request a copy of your ChexSystems report for free at www.chexsystems.com.
If your application is denied, Chase will send you a letter explaining the reason. If the reason is related to ChexSystems, you can dispute inaccurate information directly with ChexSystems. If the reason is unpaid overdrafts, you may be able to reapply after you pay the overdraft to the other bank.
Some people who are denied by Chase are able to open accounts at other banks with lower verification requirements, such as online-only banks or credit unions. These accounts may have different fee structures and features, but they function the same way for receiving direct deposits and paying bills.
Verifying your identity and preventing fraud
Chase uses multiple methods to verify your identity: matching your ID photo to your face, confirming your Social Security number against government records, and checking your address against utility companies' databases. If you open an account online, Chase may call the phone number you provided to confirm it is active and belongs to you.
After your account opens, Chase monitors your account for unusual activity. If you make a large deposit or transfer shortly after opening, Chase may place a temporary hold on the funds while they verify the source. This is standard practice and does not mean your account is frozen or flagged for fraud.
If you are opening an account to receive a direct deposit from your employer, have your employer's name and your account number ready. Direct deposits typically arrive within one to two business days of the payroll date, though some employers process payroll on different schedules.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I open a Chase account without a Social Security number?
No. Chase requires a Social Security number to open any personal account. If you are a non-U.S. citizen without a Social Security number, you may be able to open an account using an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) at some branches, but this varies by location — call your local branch to ask.
How long does it take to open a Chase account?
In a branch, your account opens the same day and you can use it immediately. Online, it takes one to three business days for your account to become active. If Chase asks you to verify your identity by video call, the process takes about five minutes, and your account activates within one business day after that.
What if my address does not match my ID?
Bring a recent utility bill, lease, or mortgage statement showing your current address. Chase will accept this as proof of your current mailing address. If you are opening an account online and your address does not match their records, you may need to visit a branch or complete a video verification call.
Can I open a joint account with someone who does not have a Social Security number?
No. Both account holders must have Social Security numbers. If one person has an ITIN instead, you may be able to open a joint account at some branches, but you will need to call ahead to confirm that location offers this option.
Do I need to make a deposit when I open my account?
Most Chase checking and savings accounts have no minimum deposit requirement to open. However, you will need to fund the account with at least $1 to activate it. You can transfer this from another bank account or deposit cash in a branch.