What Chase asks for when you open a checking account

Chase requires a government-issued photo ID, your Social Security number, and proof of your current address to open a checking account. You will also need to bring a small initial deposit—usually $25 or more, depending on the account type. The exact requirements depend on which Chase checking account you choose and whether you open it in person, online, or by phone.

Most people can complete the process in one visit to a branch or in about 10 minutes online. If you do not have all the documents ready, the branch can tell you what is missing before you leave, so you do not make a second trip.

Key Takeaways

  • You must bring a valid government-issued photo ID (driver's license, passport, or state ID card) and your Social Security number to open any Chase checking account.
  • Chase requires proof of your current address, which can be a utility bill, lease, mortgage statement, or bank statement dated within the last 60 days.
  • An initial deposit of at least $25 is required for most Chase checking accounts, though some accounts have higher minimums.
  • You can open an account online without visiting a branch, but you will still need to provide the same documents and information remotely.
  • If you are under 18, a parent or guardian must open the account with you and provide their own ID and Social Security number.

Government-issued photo ID and Social Security number

Chase will not open an account without a valid photo ID issued by a government agency. Acceptable forms include a driver's license, state ID card, U.S. passport, or passport card. The ID must not be expired, though Chase may accept an ID that expired recently—call your local branch to confirm if yours is borderline.

Your Social Security number is required for all adult accounts. Chase uses it to verify your identity and to check your banking history through ChexSystems, a system that tracks account closures and fraud. If you do not have a Social Security number, you cannot open a standard checking account at Chase, though you may be able to open an account with an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) if you are a non-citizen. Ask a Chase representative about ITIN accounts at your branch.

Proof of current address

Chase needs to confirm where you live. Acceptable documents include a utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, or bank statement from another institution. The document must show your name and current address and be dated within the last 60 days. A cell phone bill typically does not work, even if it shows your address.

If you do not have a recent document in your name, bring what you have and ask the branch what alternatives they accept. Some branches will accept a letter from an employer or government agency that shows your address, though this varies by location. If you are opening an account online, you will upload a photo of the document or provide the information and Chase will verify it.

Initial deposit amount

Most Chase checking accounts require an opening deposit of $25 or more. Some accounts, like Chase Total Checking, have a $25 minimum. Others, like Chase Premier Plus Checking, may require $500 or more to avoid monthly fees. The amount depends on which account you choose.

You can deposit cash, a check, or transfer money from another bank account. If you are opening the account online, you will typically transfer money from an existing bank account to fund it. If you open in person at a branch, you can hand the teller cash or a check.

Opening an account online versus in person

Chase allows you to open most checking accounts online through their website or mobile app without visiting a branch. The online process takes about 10 minutes and requires you to provide the same information: ID, Social Security number, address, and initial deposit. You will photograph your ID and upload proof of address, or enter the information manually for Chase to verify.

Opening in person at a branch takes longer but gives you a chance to ask questions and confirm everything is correct before you leave. A branch representative can also help you choose the right account type and explain the fees. If you run into any issues during the online process, you can always visit a branch to complete the account opening in person.

Special situations: minors, joint accounts, and non-citizens

If you are under 18, a parent or legal guardian must open the account with you. Both of you will need to provide photo ID and Social Security numbers. Some Chase branches have accounts designed for minors that allow parents to monitor spending and set limits.

If you want to open a joint account with another person, both account holders must be present (in person or online) and provide their own ID, Social Security number, and proof of address. Non-citizens can open accounts with an ITIN instead of a Social Security number, but availability varies by branch—call ahead to confirm. If you are opening an account as a non-resident alien, bring your passport and visa or other immigration documentation.

What happens after you submit your documents

If you open an account in person, Chase will verify your information on the spot and your account is usually active the same day. You will receive a debit card in the mail within 7 to 10 business days, though you can use your account to transfer money or set up direct deposit immediately.

If you open online, Chase will send you a confirmation email and your account is typically active within one business day. Your debit card arrives by mail in the same timeframe. You can begin using your account for transfers and bill pay before the card arrives.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

Not with a standard account. However, if you are a non-citizen, you may be able to open an account using an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN). Contact your local Chase branch to ask about ITIN account options, as availability varies.

What if my address proof is older than 60 days?

Bring it anyway and ask the branch representative if they will accept it. Some branches have flexibility, especially if the document is only slightly older. You can also bring a second document that is more recent, such as a recent bank statement from another bank or a utility bill.

Do I need to bring the initial deposit in cash?

No. You can deposit cash, a check, or transfer money from another bank account. If you are opening online, you will transfer from an existing account. If you open in person, you can hand the teller cash or a check, or arrange a transfer.

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

Online accounts take about 10 minutes to set up, and your account is usually active within one business day. In-person accounts take 15 to 30 minutes at the branch, and your account is typically active the same day. Your debit card arrives by mail in 7 to 10 business days either way.

Can someone open a Chase account on my behalf?

No. You must be present in person or complete the online process yourself. The only exception is for minors, where a parent or guardian must open the account with them. Power of attorney does not allow someone else to open an account in your name.