You can change most Chase checking account types online through your account settings, but the path depends on which account you have and which one you want
Chase lets you switch between most of its checking account types—Total Checking, Premier Plus Checking, find Checking—using the Chase mobile app or website. The process takes a few minutes and doesn't require a phone call or a branch visit. However, not every combination of accounts allows an online switch. If you're moving to or from a student checking account, or if Chase flags your account for review, you'll need to call or visit a branch instead.
The change takes effect when ready in most cases, though any pending transactions will still process under your old account's terms. Your account number stays the same, and your debit card remains active.
Key Takeaways
- Most Chase checking account changes happen online through the app or website under Account Settings, and take effect the same day.
- Student checking accounts and some other specialty accounts require a phone call to 1-800-935-9935 or a branch visit to change.
- Your account number and debit card do not change when you switch account types.
- Pending transactions continue to process under your old account's rules, even after you switch.
- If Chase detects unusual activity or holds on your account, you may be blocked from changing online and will need to call or visit in person.
How to change your account type through the Chase app
Open the Chase mobile app and sign in. Tap the account you want to change, then look for the menu icon (three horizontal lines) in the top right corner. Select "Account Settings" or "Manage Account"—the exact label varies by app version.
Scroll down to find "Change Account Type" or "Account Type." Tap it. Chase will show you which account types are available to you based on your current account and account history. Select the account type you want to switch to, review the summary of features and fees, and confirm. You'll see a confirmation message when ready, and the change is live.
If you don't see a "Change Account Type" option, your account may not be may be able to access for an online switch. This usually means you have a student account, a specialty account, or a hold or flag on your account that requires manual review.
How to change your account type on Chase.com
Log into Chase.com on a computer or mobile browser. Click on the checking account you want to change. Look for "Account Settings" or "Manage This Account" in the menu on the left side or under a settings icon.
Find "Change Account Type" and click it. Chase will display the account types available to you. Select the one you want, review the details, and click "Confirm." The change is when ready.
If the option does not appear, try the mobile app instead—sometimes the website version lags behind the app. If it's still not there, contact Chase at 1-800-935-9935 or visit a branch.
Account types you cannot change online
Student checking accounts require a phone call or branch visit to change. You must be a student to hold one, and Chase verifies this manually before allowing a switch. Call 1-800-935-9935 and have your ID ready.
find Checking accounts—designed for people with banking history issues—also typically require a call. Chase may need to review your account before allowing a change.
If your account has a hold, freeze, or fraud flag, Chase will block the online change option. You'll need to resolve the issue first, either by calling or visiting a branch. The hold usually lifts within a few business days once the issue is cleared.
What happens to pending transactions and fees
Any transaction that was submitted before you changed your account type will process under your old account's rules. If you switched from Total Checking (which has no monthly fee) to Premier Plus Checking (which does), a transaction pending at the time of the switch won't trigger the new fee—but your next statement cycle will include the Premier Plus fee.
If you're switching to avoid a monthly fee, make sure you meet the new account's requirements before the next statement closes. For example, if you switch to Total Checking, you need to set up direct deposit or maintain a $500 minimum balance to avoid the $12 monthly fee. If you don't meet either requirement by the time your statement closes, you'll be charged.
When you need to call or visit a branch instead
Contact Chase at 1-800-935-9935 if the online option doesn't appear in your app or on the website. Have your account number and ID ready. A representative can tell you when ready whether your account is may be able to access for a change and, if not, why.
You can also visit any Chase branch in person. Bring a photo ID and your debit card. A banker can change your account type on the spot, and you'll have a record of the change in writing.
Wait times for phone support vary, but calling early in the morning (before 10 a.m. ET) or on a weekday usually means shorter hold times. Branches are typically less busy mid-week and mid-morning.
What stays the same after you switch
Your account number does not change. All your existing transfers, bill pay setups, and automatic payments continue to work without interruption. Your debit card remains active and usable when ready.
Your online banking login and password do not change. Your transaction history and statements remain accessible. If you have linked accounts at other banks, those links stay active.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I change my account type if I have a negative balance?
No. You must bring your account to a positive balance first. If you owe Chase money, they will not allow the change until the debt is paid. Pay the balance online or at a branch, wait for the payment to process (usually one business day), then try changing your account type again.
Does changing my account type affect my credit score?
No. Switching between checking account types is an internal account change and does not appear on your credit report. It has no impact on your credit score.
What if I change my mind right after switching?
You can switch back to your old account type using the same online process. There is no waiting period or penalty for changing account types multiple times. However, if you switch to avoid a fee and then switch back, you may still owe the fee for the period you held the account.
Will my direct deposit still work after I change accounts?
Yes. Your account number stays the same, so your employer's direct deposit will continue to deposit into your account without any action needed on your part. No notification to your employer is required.
Can I change my account type if I have pending disputes or chargebacks?
Usually yes, but Chase may block the change if the dispute is recent or if your account is under review. If you cannot change online, call 1-800-935-9935 to ask whether the pending dispute is preventing the change. If it is, you may need to wait for the dispute to resolve first.