Yes, you can open most Chase accounts entirely online
Chase lets you open a checking or savings account from your computer or phone without visiting a branch. The process takes about 10 minutes, and you'll have an account number and routing number the same day. You fund the account by transferring money from another bank, or by depositing a check through the mobile app once your account is active.
Not every Chase product is available online. Money market accounts, CDs, and some specialty accounts require a branch visit or a phone call. But the two accounts most people want — Chase Total Checking and Chase Savings — both open online.
The main catch is that Chase verifies your identity during signup. If you're new to Chase or if their system can't confirm who you are, they may ask you to visit a branch or call to finish the process. This usually means a phone call with a representative, not a trip to the bank.
Key Takeaways
- Chase checking and savings accounts open online in about 10 minutes, and you get an account number when ready.
- You'll need a Social Security number, a government ID, and a current address to start the process.
- Chase verifies your identity during signup; if verification fails, they'll ask you to call or visit a branch to complete the account.
- You can fund the account by transferring money from another bank or by depositing a check through the Chase mobile app after set up.
- Some Chase products like CDs and money market accounts do not open online and require a branch visit or phone call.
What you need before you start
Have these items ready when you open the account: your Social Security number, a government-issued ID (driver's license, passport, or state ID), your current address, and a phone number. Chase also asks for your employment status and annual income, though you can skip those fields if you prefer not to answer.
If you're opening the account to transfer money from another bank, have that bank's routing number and your account number handy. You don't need to have another account to open a Chase account, but most people fund it that way rather than going to a branch with cash.
You'll also need to choose a username and password for online banking, and set up a PIN for the debit card. Chase will mail the debit card to your address; it usually arrives within 7 to 10 business days.
The online signup process, step by step
Go to chase.com and click "Open an Account" or "Sign Up" — the link is usually at the top of the page. Select the account type you want: checking or savings. Chase will ask you to enter your email address, then confirm it by clicking a link they send you.
Next, enter your personal information: full name, date of birth, Social Security number, current address, and phone number. Chase asks whether you're a U.S. citizen and whether you have a Chase account already. Answer honestly; these questions affect how Chase verifies your identity.
Then comes identity verification. Chase compares the information you entered against their records and against credit bureaus. If they can confirm who you are, you'll see a confirmation screen with your new account number and routing number. If verification fails, Chase will tell you to call 1-800-935-9935 or visit a branch to complete the process.
After verification, you'll set your online banking username and password, choose a debit card PIN, and review the account terms. You're done. Your account is open and ready to receive transfers.
When Chase asks you to call or visit a branch
Chase's identity verification system sometimes can't confirm who you are on the first try. This happens more often if you're new to the U.S., have a thin credit history, or if your name or address has changed recently. When this happens, Chase will show you a message saying verification couldn't be completed and will direct you to call or visit a branch.
If you call, a Chase representative will ask you the same questions again — name, address, Social Security number, date of birth — and may ask for additional details like your mother's maiden name or the last four digits of a previous address. This call usually takes 5 to 10 minutes. Once they confirm your identity, your account is fully activated.
If you visit a branch instead, bring your government ID and proof of address (a utility bill, lease, or bank statement). The representative will verify your information in person and set up the account on the spot. You can also ask them to order your debit card at the branch, which sometimes arrives faster than mail.
How to fund your new account
The fastest way to fund your account is an electronic transfer from another bank. During or right after signup, Chase will ask if you want to link another account. Enter that bank's routing number and your account number there, and Chase will send two small deposits (usually under $1 each) to verify the account. Once you confirm those amounts, you can transfer money back and forth.
If you don't have another bank account or prefer not to link one, you can deposit a check through the Chase mobile app once your debit card arrives. Take a photo of the front and back of the check, and Chase will deposit it within one to two business days. You can also deposit cash or a check at any Chase branch.
There's no minimum deposit required to open the account, but Chase checking accounts have a monthly fee ($12 for Chase Total Checking) unless you meet one of the fee waivers — usually a direct deposit of at least $500 per month, or a minimum balance of $1,500.
Account types available online
Chase Total Checking and Chase Savings both open online. Chase Total Checking is a standard checking account with no monthly fee if you have a direct deposit or maintain a $1,500 balance. Chase Savings is a basic savings account with interest; the rate changes based on market conditions and your balance.
Chase also offers Chase Premier Plus Checking and Chase Premier Savings for customers with higher balances, and both open online. These accounts have higher interest rates and waived fees if you maintain a minimum balance, usually $25,000 or more.
Money market accounts, CDs, and specialty accounts like Chase Sapphire Banking do not open online. If you want one of those, you'll need to call Chase or visit a branch. The same applies to business accounts — those require a branch visit or a call to a business banking representative.
What happens after your account opens
Your account is active when ready after verification, and you can start transferring money the same day. Your debit card will arrive by mail within 7 to 10 business days. Until it arrives, you can use your account number and routing number to set up direct deposits or transfers, or you can withdraw cash at any Chase ATM using your temporary digital card in the Chase app.
Once your debit card arrives, set up it in the app or by calling the number on the back. You can then use it at merchants, ATMs, and online. Chase will also send you a welcome packet with your account agreement and disclosures; read it to understand the fees, interest rates, and terms that explore to your account.
If you opened a checking account, set up direct deposit as soon as possible. Most employers can do this in a few minutes if you give them your account number and routing number. Direct deposit waives the monthly fee and often qualifies you for higher interest rates on linked savings accounts.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to open a Chase account online?
The signup process itself takes about 10 minutes. If Chase can verify your identity when ready, your account is active the same day. If they need to verify you by phone, that call usually happens within 24 hours, and your account is active after the call.
Do I need a minimum deposit to open a Chase account online?
No. You can open the account with zero dollars. However, Chase checking accounts charge a $12 monthly fee unless you have a direct deposit of at least $500 per month or maintain a $1,500 balance. Savings accounts have no monthly fee.
Can I open a Chase business account online?
No. Business accounts require a phone call or a branch visit. Call Chase business banking at 1-800-955-9060 to start the process. You'll need your business tax ID, business address, and information about the business owners.
What if I don't have a Social Security number?
Chase requires a Social Security number or ITIN (Individual Taxpayer Identification Number) to open an account. If you have an ITIN, you can use that instead. If you don't have either, you'll need to visit a branch and speak with a representative about your options.
Can I open a Chase account if I'm not a U.S. citizen?
Yes, but Chase may ask additional questions during verification. You'll need a valid government ID and a U.S. address. If you're on a visa, have your visa number ready. If verification fails online, call Chase at 1-800-935-9935 to complete the process over the phone.