Yes, you can open most Chase bank accounts entirely online
Chase lets you open a checking or savings account from your computer or phone without visiting a branch. The whole process usually takes 10 to 15 minutes. You will need a Social Security number, a valid government ID, and a way to fund the account — either a debit card, another bank account, or a transfer code from an existing Chase account.
Not every Chase account type is available online. Some specialty accounts or accounts tied to specific products (like investment accounts) may require a branch visit or a phone call. But the most common accounts — Chase Total Checking, Chase Savings, and Chase Money Market — can all be opened on Chase.com or through the Chase mobile app.
Key Takeaways
- You can open a Chase checking or savings account online using Chase.com or the mobile app, and the process takes about 10 to 15 minutes.
- You will need a Social Security number, a valid government ID (driver's license, passport, or state ID), and proof of identity verification through Chase's system.
- You must fund the account during signup with a debit card, another bank account, or a transfer code, and most accounts require a minimum opening deposit.
- Chase will verify your identity by asking questions about your financial history or by sending a code to your phone or email.
- If you are denied or cannot complete the process online, you can visit a Chase branch in person or call customer service to explore other options.
What you need before you start
Gather these items before you begin the online signup process. You will need your Social Security number, a valid government-issued ID (a driver's license, passport, or state ID card), and your current address. Chase will also ask for a phone number and email address.
You will need a way to fund the account. This can be a debit card from another bank, a checking or savings account at another bank (you will provide the account and routing numbers), or a transfer code if you already have a Chase account. Some accounts require a minimum opening deposit — for example, Chase Total Checking has no minimum, but some savings products do. Check the specific account details on Chase.com before you start.
The steps to open an account online
Go to Chase.com or open the Chase mobile app and look for the option to open a new account. You will be asked to choose the type of account you want — checking, savings, or money market. Select the account that fits your needs.
Enter your personal information: name, date of birth, Social Security number, address, phone number, and email. Chase will then verify your identity. This usually happens in one of two ways. Chase may ask you security questions about your financial history (like past addresses or previous accounts), or it may send a verification code to your phone or email that you enter to confirm it is really you.
Next, you will fund the account. Choose whether you want to link a debit card, another bank account, or use a transfer code. If you use a debit card, enter the card number and expiration date. If you use another bank account, enter the routing number and account number. Enter the amount you want to deposit to open the account.
Review the account terms and disclosures, then sign electronically. Chase will confirm your new account number and show you how to set up online banking and the mobile app. Your account is usually active when ready, though it may take a few business days for your funding transfer to complete.
Identity verification and why Chase asks so many questions
Chase uses identity verification to prevent fraud and to meet federal banking rules. When you open an account, Chase is required by law to confirm you are who you say you are. This is called Know Your Customer (KYC) compliance, and every bank does it.
If Chase cannot verify your identity automatically through its system, it will ask you security questions based on public records — things like addresses you have lived at, previous loans, or credit inquiries. Answer these honestly and as accurately as you can. If you get one or two wrong, you may be asked to verify your identity another way, such as uploading a photo of your ID or calling customer service.
In rare cases, Chase may ask you to visit a branch in person with your ID to complete the account opening. This usually happens if there is a mismatch in your information or if Chase cannot verify you through its standard process.
What happens if your online process does not go through
If Chase denies your account or you cannot complete the process online, you have other options. You can visit a Chase branch in person with your ID and ask to open an account there. A banker can sometimes complete the process on the spot or help you figure out what information needs to be corrected.
You can also call Chase customer service at the number on Chase.com and ask about opening an account by phone. A representative can walk you through the process and may be able to help if there is a problem with your online process. Be ready to provide the same information you would enter online.
If you have had banking problems in the past — such as unpaid overdrafts, fraud, or accounts closed by the bank — Chase may review your history before opening a new account. This does not always mean you will be denied, but it may take longer or require a branch visit.
Funding your new account and getting your debit card
The deposit you make during signup will usually appear in your account within one to three business days, depending on how you funded it. If you used a debit card, the transfer is often faster. If you linked another bank account, it may take longer because the banks have to coordinate.
Your debit card will arrive by mail within 7 to 10 business days. You can use your account for transfers and bill payments before the card arrives, but you will not be able to make purchases or withdraw cash at an ATM until you have the physical card. Some Chase accounts let you request a temporary digital card number through the mobile app while you wait for the physical card.
Setting up online banking and the mobile app
Once your account is open, you can log into Chase.com or the Chase mobile app using your username and password. You set these up during the account opening process. From there, you can check your balance, transfer money, pay bills, deposit checks by taking a photo, and manage your account settings.
The Chase mobile app is available for iPhone and Android. Many people find it easier to use than the website for everyday tasks like checking your balance or sending money to another account. You can also set up alerts to notify you when your balance drops below a certain amount or when a large transaction occurs.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to open a Chase account online?
The signup process usually takes 10 to 15 minutes. Your account is typically active when ready, though your funding transfer may take one to three business days to appear. Your debit card will arrive by mail within 7 to 10 business days.
Do I need a minimum deposit to open a Chase account online?
It depends on the account type. Chase Total Checking has no minimum opening deposit. Some savings and money market accounts do require a minimum. Check the specific account details on Chase.com before you start the process.
What if I do not have a Social Security number?
Chase requires a Social Security number or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) to open an account. If you do not have either, you will need to visit a Chase branch in person to discuss other options with a banker.
Can I open a joint account online with someone else?
Chase allows joint accounts, but the process for adding a joint owner may require a branch visit or additional steps. Start the online process, and if you want to add a joint owner, Chase will tell you whether you can complete it online or need to visit a branch.
What if Chase asks me to upload my ID?
If Chase cannot verify your identity through its standard questions, it may ask you to upload a photo of your government ID. Take a clear photo of the front and back of your ID, make sure all text is readable, and upload it through the link Chase provides. This usually takes a few minutes to verify.