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'll need a Social Security number, a valid ID, and a funding source (debit card, another bank account, or wire transfer) to get your free guide.

Not every account type is available online. Chase business accounts, some specialty savings products, and accounts for people under 18 typically require a branch visit or phone call. If you're looking at those options, Chase's website will tell you during the signup process that you need to complete the account in person or by phone.

Key Takeaways

  • Chase checking and savings accounts can be opened online in about 10 minutes using a computer or the Chase mobile app.
  • You'll need a valid government ID, Social Security number, and a way to fund the account (debit card, existing bank account, or wire transfer).
  • Your account number and routing number appear when ready after you finish, so you can start using the account the same day.
  • Business accounts, accounts for minors, and some specialty products require a phone call or branch visit to complete.
  • Chase will check your banking history through ChexSystems; a prior account closure or fraud flag may prevent you from opening an account online.

What you need before you start

Gather these items before you begin the online signup: a valid government-issued ID (driver's license, passport, or state ID), your Social Security number, and your date of birth. Chase will verify your identity using this information.

You'll also need a way to fund the account. Chase accepts debit cards, existing bank accounts (for transfers), or wire transfers. If you're funding with a debit card, have that card number and expiration date ready. If you're transferring from another bank, you'll need the routing number and account number of that bank.

Have your current address ready. Chase will ask for it during signup, and it must match the address on your ID or a recent utility bill or bank statement.

The actual steps to open an account online

Go to Chase.com and look for the "Open an Account" button, usually near the top of the page. You'll be asked which account type you want: checking, savings, or both. Choose the specific product (Chase Total Checking, Chase Savings, etc.) and click through to the process.

Enter your personal information: name, date of birth, Social Security number, address, phone number, and email. Chase will verify your identity by asking questions based on your credit history. Answer these correctly—they're designed to confirm you are who you say you are, not to determine whether you'll be approved.

Choose how you want to fund the account. If you're using a debit card, enter the card number and expiration date. If you're transferring from another bank, enter that bank's routing number and your account number there. Chase will verify the transfer by depositing a small amount (usually under $1) and asking you to confirm it within a few days.

Review the account terms and disclosures, then submit. You'll see your account number, routing number, and a confirmation email within minutes. You can log into your Chase account online or through the app when ready.

What happens if Chase says no

Chase checks your banking history through ChexSystems, a system that tracks closed accounts, overdrafts, and fraud. If you have a record of unpaid overdrafts, multiple accounts closed for cause, or fraud flags, Chase may deny your process online.

If your process is denied, Chase will send you a letter explaining why and telling you how to dispute the information if it's wrong. You can contact ChexSystems directly to see what's in your file and request corrections. Some people reapply after 6 to 12 months if the issue was a one-time overdraft or closed account.

If you were denied and want to try anyway, call Chase at 1-800-935-9935 and ask about opening an account by phone with a representative. Some applicants who were denied online can complete an account over the phone, though this is not may provide.

When you'll need to visit a branch or call instead

Chase business accounts cannot be opened online. You'll need to visit a branch or call the business banking line at 1-800-955-9060 to set up a business checking or savings account. You'll need your business tax ID (EIN) or Social Security number if you're a sole proprietor, plus business formation documents.

If you're under 18, you cannot open an account online. A parent or guardian must be present at a branch, or you can call to discuss options. Chase also requires a branch visit or phone call for accounts opened by someone with power of attorney on behalf of another person.

Some specialty accounts—like Chase Sapphire Reserve (a premium credit card product) or certain investment accounts—are not available through the standard online signup. The website will tell you during the process if your chosen product requires a phone call or branch visit.

How long until you can actually use the account

Your account is usable when ready after you finish the online signup. You'll receive a debit card in the mail within 7 to 10 business days. Until it arrives, you can transfer money out of the account, set up direct deposit, and pay bills online through Chase's bill pay system.

If you need to deposit checks before your debit card arrives, you can use the Chase mobile app's mobile check deposit feature. Take a photo of the front and back of the check, and it will be deposited into your account. Funds typically appear within one business day.

If you funded the account with a transfer from another bank, that transfer may take 1 to 3 business days to complete, depending on the other bank. Chase will show the transfer as pending until it clears.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I open a Chase account online if I have bad credit?

Chase does not check your credit score to open a checking or savings account. They check ChexSystems, which tracks banking history, not credit history. Bad credit will not prevent you from opening an account, but a history of unpaid overdrafts or fraud may.

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 online. If you have an ITIN but no SSN, you may be able to open an account by calling 1-800-935-9935 or visiting a branch with your ITIN and valid ID.

Do I have to keep a minimum balance in a Chase checking account?

Chase Total Checking has no minimum balance requirement. Some other Chase checking products do require a minimum; the website will show the requirement for each account type before you finish signing up. Savings accounts typically have a $0 minimum as well.

Can I open multiple Chase accounts at the same time online?

You can open a checking and savings account in the same session. If you want to open more than two accounts, or if you want to open a second checking account, you may need to call Chase or visit a branch, as the online system may limit the number of accounts you can open at once.

What if the identity verification questions are wrong or I don't recognize them?

If the questions don't match your history or seem inaccurate, answer as best you can based on what you remember. If you fail verification, the process will be denied, but you can call 1-800-935-9935 and explain the issue. A representative may be able to verify your identity by other means and complete the account by phone.