Yes, you can open most Chase accounts online without visiting a branch
Chase lets you open a checking or savings account entirely online using their website or mobile app. You will not need to go to a physical branch, though some account types have restrictions. The whole process usually takes 10 to 15 minutes if you have the right documents ready.
What you need depends on which account you want. For a basic checking or savings account, Chase will ask for your Social Security number, date of birth, current address, and a government-issued ID. If you are opening an account for a minor or want certain premium accounts, the process works differently — those are covered in later sections.
Key Takeaways
- Chase checking and savings accounts can be opened online through their website or app in about 10 to 15 minutes.
- You will need a Social Security number, government ID, current address, and date of birth to start the process.
- Some accounts, like those for minors or certain premium checking products, require a parent or guardian to open them or may need a branch visit.
- Chase will verify your identity during the online process, which may include answering security questions about your financial history.
- Your account can be funded when ready after opening, either by linking an existing bank account or transferring money from another source.
What documents and information you need before you start
Gather these items before you begin the online process. You will need a valid government-issued ID — a driver's license, passport, or state ID card. Chase will ask you to provide the number and take a photo of it during the online process.
You will also need your Social Security number, full legal name, date of birth, and current mailing address. If you have moved recently, use the address where you live now, not a previous one. Have a phone number and email address ready as well — Chase uses these to contact you and to set up online banking access.
If you are opening an account with an existing Chase customer, you may be able to use their information to speed up verification. If you are new to Chase entirely, the process takes a bit longer because the bank has to verify who you are from scratch.
The step-by-step process on Chase's website or app
Start by going to Chase.com or opening the Chase mobile app. Look for a button that says "Open an Account" or "New Customer" — it is usually on the home page. You will be asked to choose which type of account you want: checking, savings, or both.
Next, Chase will ask for your personal information: name, date of birth, Social Security number, and address. Enter this exactly as it appears on your government ID. After that, you will upload a photo of your ID or provide the ID number. Chase uses this to verify you are who you say you are.
The bank will then ask security questions to confirm your identity — these are usually based on your credit history or past financial accounts. Answer them as accurately as you can. Once Chase verifies your answers, you will review the account terms, agree to them, and choose a username and password for online banking.
At the end, you will see a confirmation screen with your new account number. This happens when ready, and your account is now open. You can start using it right away, though you will need to fund it before you can withdraw money or use a debit card.
Accounts you can and cannot open online
Chase checking and savings accounts can be opened online. This includes their basic checking account, premium checking accounts like Chase Premier Plus, and regular savings accounts. You can also open a money market account online in most cases.
Some accounts have limits. If you want to open a joint account with someone else, both people need to go through the online process separately, though you can link them afterward. If you are opening an account for a minor (someone under 18), a parent or guardian must open it — the minor cannot do it alone online.
Certain specialty accounts, like business checking or accounts tied to investment products, may require a branch visit or a phone call with a banker. If you are unsure whether your account type can be opened online, Chase's website will tell you during the selection step — it will either let you proceed or direct you to call or visit a branch.
How to fund your new account right after opening it
Once your account is open, you can add money to it when ready. The easiest way is to link an existing bank account from another bank and transfer money electronically. Chase will ask for your routing number and account number from that other bank, then send two small deposits (usually under $1 each) to verify the account is yours. You confirm the amounts, and the link is complete.
If you do not have another bank account to link, you can deposit a check by taking a photo of it through the Chase app. You can also visit a Chase branch in person and deposit cash or a check directly. Some employers also let you set up direct deposit to your new Chase account — you would give your employer your new Chase account and routing number.
There is no minimum deposit required to open most Chase accounts online, but you will need to fund it before you can use it. If you open an account and do not fund it within a certain period, Chase may close it automatically — check the account terms for the specific timeframe.
What happens if Chase cannot verify your identity online
Sometimes the online verification process does not work smoothly. This can happen if your credit history is limited, if you have recently moved, or if there is a mismatch between the information you provide and what Chase finds in their records. If this happens, you will see a message during the process telling you that you need to visit a branch or call Chase to finish opening the account.
If you get this message, you have two options. You can call Chase at the number provided and speak with someone who can verify you over the phone. Or you can visit a Chase branch near you with your ID and complete the process in person. Either way, it usually takes just a few minutes once you are in contact with someone.
This does not mean you have been rejected — it just means Chase needs to confirm your identity in a different way. Having your ID ready and being prepared to answer questions about your address and financial history will speed things up.
Fees and account requirements to know about
Chase does not charge a fee to open an account online. However, some accounts have monthly maintenance fees if you do not meet certain requirements. For example, some checking accounts waive the fee if you keep a minimum balance or set up direct deposit.
Read the account terms before you finish the process — Chase will show you these terms and ask you to agree to them. The terms will list any monthly fees, what you need to do to avoid them, and what services are included. If you do not want to pay a fee, choose an account type that has no monthly fee or that waives the fee easily.
Once your account is open, you can change your mind and switch to a different account type. You do not have to close the account and start over — you can straightforward convert it to a different product through online banking or by calling Chase.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to open a Chase account online?
The process itself takes 10 to 15 minutes if you have your documents ready. Your account opens when ready after you finish. However, if Chase needs to verify your identity through additional steps, it may take a few hours or up to one business day before you can fully use the account.
Can I open a Chase account 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 branch in person and speak with a banker about your options. Some banks have programs for people without a Social Security number, though Chase's policies vary by location.
What if I do not have a government ID?
You will need a government-issued ID to open an account online. If you do not have one, you can visit a Chase branch with alternative documents like a passport, state ID, or military ID. A banker can help you figure out what documents will work.
Can I open a joint account with someone else online?
Both people can open accounts online separately and then link them, but you cannot create a single joint account through the online process. You will need to visit a branch or call Chase to set up a true joint account where both names appear on the same account.
What if I already have a Chase account and want to open another one?
You can open additional accounts online using your existing Chase login. Chase will recognize you as a current customer and the verification process will be faster. You can manage all your accounts through one online banking login.