Yes, you can open a checking account at Chase, but the process and requirements depend on which account type you choose and how you explore
Chase offers several checking account options for different situations. You can open an account in person at a branch, online through their website, or by phone. The main accounts are Chase Total Checking (their standard option), Chase Premier Plus Checking (for customers with higher balances), and Chase find Checking (designed for people with banking history issues). Each has different minimum balance requirements, monthly fees, and features.
The fastest route is usually online if you have a Social Security number, a valid ID, and a way to verify your identity. In-person applications at a branch take longer but let you ask questions and handle everything face-to-face. Phone applications are also available but less common than the other two methods.
Key Takeaways
- Chase Total Checking requires no minimum opening deposit and charges a $12 monthly fee that you can waive by setting up direct deposit or maintaining a $500 balance.
- You will need a valid government ID, your Social Security number, and proof of address to open an account, whether you explore online, by phone, or in person.
- Online applications typically take 5 to 10 minutes and you can start using your account the same day, though your debit card arrives by mail in 7 to 10 business days.
- Chase find Checking exists for people who have had banking problems in the past and may be easier to open than their standard accounts.
- If you do not have a Social Security number, you can explore in person at a branch with an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) instead.
What you need before you explore
Have your Social Security number ready. Chase requires this for all checking accounts. If you do not have one, you can use an ITIN, but you will need to explore in person at a branch rather than online.
Bring a valid government-issued ID — a driver's license, passport, or state ID card. Chase will scan or photograph it during the process process. If you are explore online, you will photograph it yourself using your phone or computer.
You will also need proof of your current address. A recent utility bill, lease agreement, or bank statement works. If you are explore online, you can upload a photo of the document. If you are explore in person, bring the physical copy.
Opening an account online
Go to Chase.com and select "Open an Account" from the homepage. You will answer questions about your personal information, employment status, and the type of account you want. The whole process takes about 5 to 10 minutes.
Chase will ask you to verify your identity by taking a photo of your ID with your phone or computer. You may also be asked security questions based on your credit history. Once you pass verification, your account opens when ready and you can log in to see your account number and routing number.
Your debit card arrives by mail in 7 to 10 business days. You can use your account number and routing number to set up direct deposit or transfers before the card arrives. Some ATMs let you withdraw cash using just your account number and ID.
Opening an account in person at a branch
Find your nearest Chase branch using their branch locator on Chase.com. Walk in during business hours — you do not need an appointment, though calling ahead can reduce wait time during busy periods.
Bring your ID, Social Security number or ITIN, and proof of address. A Chase representative will walk you through the account options, answer questions about fees and features, and complete the process on their computer. The whole visit usually takes 15 to 30 minutes.
Your account opens on the spot. You can receive a temporary debit card at the branch or wait for one to arrive by mail. You can also start using your account number and routing number when ready for direct deposit or transfers.
Opening an account by phone
Call Chase at 1-800-935-9935 to open a checking account over the phone. A representative will walk you through the process and answer your questions. You will need to provide the same information as you would online or in person: your ID details, Social Security number, and address.
Phone applications take longer than online ones — usually 20 to 30 minutes — because the representative has to enter all your information manually. Your account opens when the call ends, and your debit card arrives by mail within 7 to 10 business days.
Monthly fees and how to avoid them
Chase Total Checking charges $12 per month, but you can waive the fee in two ways: set up direct deposit of any amount, or keep a $500 minimum daily balance. If you do neither, the $12 fee appears on your statement each month.
Chase Premier Plus Checking has a $25 monthly fee and requires a $15,000 minimum balance to waive it. This account is designed for customers with larger balances and offers higher interest rates and additional perks.
Chase find Checking has no monthly fee. This account is for people who have had overdrafts, negative balances, or other banking issues in the past. It does not offer overdraft protection, so transactions will be declined if you do not have enough money in your account.
What happens if Chase denies your process
Chase uses ChexSystems, a banking history report, to decide whether to open your account. If you have unpaid overdrafts, a history of fraud, or too many closed accounts, Chase may deny your process. You can request a copy of your ChexSystems report to see what information they have about you.
If you are denied, Chase find Checking is often available to you even if the standard account is not. You can also wait six months to a year and reapply, especially if you have resolved any outstanding issues like unpaid overdrafts.
Some credit unions and online banks have lower barriers to entry if you cannot open a Chase account. However, Chase accounts offer branch access and ATM networks that smaller institutions do not.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a minimum deposit to open a Chase checking account?
No. Chase Total Checking requires no minimum opening deposit. You can open the account with $0 and deposit money later. Premier Plus Checking also requires no minimum to open, but you need to maintain a $15,000 balance to waive the monthly fee.
How long does it take to get my debit card?
If you explore online or by phone, your debit card arrives by mail in 7 to 10 business days. If you explore in person at a branch, you can request a temporary card on the spot, though some branches may not have them available. Your permanent card still arrives by mail.
Can I use my account before my debit card arrives?
Yes. Your account number and routing number are available when ready after you open the account, so you can set up direct deposit, receive transfers, or pay bills right away. You can also withdraw cash at Chase ATMs using your account number and ID.
What if I have had banking problems before?
Chase find Checking is designed for people with past banking issues. It has no monthly fee and no overdraft protection, which means transactions decline if you do not have enough money. You may find it easier to open than Chase Total Checking if you have a negative banking history.
Can I open an account if I do not have a Social Security number?
Yes, but you must explore in person at a Chase branch with an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) instead. You will still need a valid ID and proof of address. Online and phone applications require a Social Security number.