Documents and information Chase requires before you 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. You'll also need an initial deposit — the amount varies by account type, but many Chase accounts have no minimum. Bring or have ready your driver's license, passport, or state ID card; your Social Security card or number; and a recent utility bill, lease, or bank statement showing your name and address.

If you're opening an account online or by phone, Chase will ask you to verify your identity through their system. This usually means answering security questions based on your credit history or confirming details from your Social Security record. In-person applications at a Chase branch are faster for identity verification because the banker can see your ID directly.

Non-U.S. citizens can open accounts with an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) instead of a Social Security number, though some account types may not be available. Bring your passport and ITIN documentation to a branch — this cannot be done online.

Key Takeaways

  • You need a government photo ID, Social Security number, and proof of current address; most Chase accounts have no minimum deposit requirement.
  • Opening in person at a branch is faster than online because Chase can verify your identity immediately with your physical ID.
  • If you don't have a Social Security number, an ITIN works for most account types, but you must apply in person at a branch.
  • Chase will ask security questions to verify your identity online or by phone, which takes longer than showing ID in a branch.
  • You can fund your new account with a transfer from another bank, a check deposit, or cash if you open in person.

Opening an account in person versus online

Opening at a Chase branch takes 15 to 30 minutes and is the fastest route if you have all your documents. The banker verifies your ID on the spot, takes your initial deposit, and your account is usually active the same day. You can start using your debit card immediately if you're opening a checking account, though the physical card arrives by mail in 7 to 10 business days.

Opening online takes longer because Chase must verify your identity through questions about your credit history or Social Security record. This process can take 24 to 48 hours. You'll need to fund the account by transferring money from another bank account in your name — you cannot deposit cash online. Your account is active once verification is complete, but you won't have a debit card until it arrives by mail.

Opening by phone with a Chase representative is similar to online: identity verification takes 24 to 48 hours, and you must fund the account by transfer. Phone applications are useful if you have questions during the process, but they take the same amount of time as the online method.

What counts as proof of address

Chase accepts a utility bill (electric, gas, water, internet), a lease or rental agreement, a recent bank or credit card statement, a mortgage statement, or a government document like a tax return or voter registration card. The document must show your name and current address and be dated within the last 60 days. A utility bill is the easiest option because it's current and clearly shows both your name and address.

If you've recently moved and don't have a document in your new name yet, bring what you have — a lease signed by you, a utility bill in your name even if it's from your old address, or a statement from another bank. Chase may ask for an explanation, but they often work with recent movers. If you have no documents, ask the branch whether they can use a second form of ID or a letter from your employer showing your address.

Initial deposit options and account minimums

Most Chase checking and savings accounts have no minimum deposit to open. You can open with $1 if you want, though in practice most people deposit at least $25 to $100. If you're opening in person, you can deposit cash, a check, or request a transfer from another bank account. If you're opening online or by phone, you can only transfer money from another bank account in your name.

Chase offers several account types with different features and fee structures. The Chase Total Checking account has no monthly fee if you maintain a $500 minimum balance or set up direct deposit. The Chase Savings account has no minimum but charges a monthly fee unless you maintain a $300 balance or link it to a checking account. Ask the banker or check Chase's website for the current terms on the specific account you want.

What happens after you open your account

Your account is active immediately if you open in person, or within 24 to 48 hours if you open online or by phone. You can log into your account through the Chase mobile app or website right away to see your balance and set up bill pay. Your debit card arrives by mail in 7 to 10 business days; you can request expedited shipping at some branches for a fee, or use your card number in the app to make purchases online before the physical card arrives.

If you set up direct deposit, your employer's payroll system will need your account number and routing number. Chase's routing number is 021000021 for most accounts, but confirm this with your employer or in the Chase app because some account types use different routing numbers. Direct deposit usually takes one to two pay cycles to start.

You'll receive a welcome packet by mail with your account agreement, fee schedule, and information about online banking. Read the fee schedule carefully — Chase charges overdraft fees, out-of-network ATM fees, and other charges depending on your account type and how you use it.

If you don't have a Social Security number

An Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) works for most Chase accounts. You must open the account in person at a branch with your passport and ITIN documentation. Chase cannot verify an ITIN online, so online and phone applications will be rejected if you don't have a Social Security number.

Some account types may not be available to ITIN holders — ask the banker which accounts you can open. Business accounts and certain investment products may have different requirements. If you're in the process of obtaining an ITIN, bring your application receipt (Form W-7) along with your passport; some branches will accept this as proof you've applied.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

Yes, with an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN). You must open in person at a branch with your passport and ITIN documentation. Online and phone applications require a Social Security number.

How long does it take to open a Chase account online?

Identity verification takes 24 to 48 hours. Your account is active once verification is complete, but your debit card arrives by mail in 7 to 10 business days. In-person applications are faster — usually 15 to 30 minutes and active the same day.

Do I need a minimum deposit to open a Chase account?

Most Chase checking and savings accounts have no minimum deposit. You can open with $1, though most people deposit at least $25 to $100. Some accounts charge a monthly fee unless you maintain a certain balance or set up direct deposit.

What if my address proof is older than 60 days?

Chase prefers documents dated within 60 days, but if you've recently moved or your documents are slightly older, bring what you have and explain the situation. The banker may ask for a second form of ID or a letter from your employer. Policies vary by branch.

Can I use my debit card before it arrives in the mail?

Yes. Once your account is open, you can use your card number in the Chase mobile app to make online purchases and add it to digital wallets like Apple Pay or Google Pay. The physical card arrives in 7 to 10 business days.