Yes, you can open most Chase accounts online from start to finish

Chase lets you open a checking or savings account entirely online without visiting a branch. You'll need a valid government ID, a Social Security number, and a way to fund the account (a debit card, another bank account, or a wire transfer). The process takes about 10 to 15 minutes, and you can start using your account the same day in most cases.

Not every Chase product is available online. Some specialty accounts, business accounts, and accounts for people under 18 require a branch visit or a phone call. But the most common accounts — Chase Total Checking, Chase Savings, and Chase Premier Plus Checking — can all be opened on Chase.com or through the Chase mobile app.

Key Takeaways

  • You need a valid government ID, Social Security number, and a funding source to open a Chase account online.
  • Chase Total Checking and Chase Savings can be opened entirely online and are ready to use the same day.
  • The online process takes 10 to 15 minutes and happens on Chase.com or the Chase mobile app.
  • Some accounts, including business accounts and accounts for minors, still require a branch visit or phone call.
  • Chase will verify your identity by asking questions about your credit history or by checking your ID with a camera.

What you need before you start

Gather these items before you begin: a valid government-issued ID (driver's license, passport, or state ID), your Social Security number, and proof of your current address. Chase will ask for your address during signup, so have a recent utility bill, lease, or bank statement handy if you're not sure what you have on file.

You'll also need a way to fund your new account. Chase accepts transfers from another bank account, deposits from a debit card, or wire transfers. If you're opening an account with zero dollars, Chase may still let you do it, but you won't be able to use the account until you add money. Check the current rules on Chase.com before you start, since these policies change.

The step-by-step process on Chase.com

Go to Chase.com and look for the "Open an Account" button, usually near the top of the page. Click it and choose which type of account you want — checking, savings, or both. Chase will ask you to enter your email address and create a password for your online banking login.

Next, Chase will ask for your personal information: full name, date of birth, Social Security number, and current address. You'll also enter your phone number and confirm how you want to receive statements (online or by mail). After that, Chase moves to identity verification.

Chase verifies your identity in one of two ways. The first way is automatic: they ask you questions about your credit history that only you should know (like "which of these addresses have you lived at" or "which car loan did you have in 2019"). Answer correctly and you move forward. The second way, if the questions don't work, is to take a photo of your ID with your phone's camera. Chase scans it and confirms it matches the information you entered.

Once you're verified, you'll choose how much money to deposit and which funding method to use. If you're transferring from another bank, Chase will give you the option to link that account. If you're using a debit card, enter the card number and expiration date. After you confirm the deposit, your account is open and the money usually arrives within one business day.

What happens after you open your account

Your account number and routing number are available when ready in your online banking dashboard. You can set up direct deposit, transfer money, and pay bills right away. If you need a debit card, Chase will mail one to your address — this usually takes 7 to 10 business days.

Some features take longer to set up. For example, if you want to write checks, you'll need to order a checkbook, which also takes about a week. Mobile check deposit (taking a photo of a check to deposit it) is usually on within a few hours of account opening.

Accounts you cannot open online

Chase business accounts, including sole proprietor accounts, require a phone call or branch visit. You'll need to speak with a business banker who can verify your business structure and tax ID.

If you're under 18, you cannot open an account online by yourself. A parent or guardian must come to a branch with you and both of you must sign the paperwork. Chase offers accounts designed for minors, but the adult has to be present.

Some specialty accounts, like Chase Sapphire Banking (which requires a higher opening deposit), may have different online rules depending on your situation. Check Chase.com or call 1-800-935-9935 to confirm whether a specific account type can be opened online.

What to do if identity verification fails

If Chase's automatic questions don't verify you, or if your ID photo doesn't scan clearly, you have options. You can call Chase at 1-800-935-9935 and speak with someone who can verify you over the phone. Bring your ID and Social Security card nearby when you call.

You can also visit a Chase branch in person with your ID and open the account there. This is often faster than waiting for a phone representative, especially during busy hours. A branch employee can verify you when ready and your account will be ready to use the same day.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take to open a Chase account online?

The signup process itself takes 10 to 15 minutes. Identity verification is usually when ready if you answer the security questions correctly. If Chase needs to verify your ID with a photo, that takes a few extra minutes. Your account is active the same day, though transfers from another bank may take one business day to arrive.

Can I open a Chase account if I don't have a Social Security number?

Chase requires a Social Security number or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) to open an account. If you have an ITIN, you may be able to open an account, but you'll need to call Chase or visit a branch to confirm. Online signup requires a Social Security number.

What if I don't have a government ID?

Online signup requires a valid government-issued ID. If you don't have one, visit a Chase branch with whatever ID you do have — a passport, tribal ID, or military ID may work. A branch employee can help you figure out what documents you need and may be able to open the account for you.

Do I need an existing Chase account to open a new one online?

No. You can open your first Chase account entirely online. You don't need to be a current customer. However, if you already have a Chase account, the process is faster because Chase already has your information on file.

Can I open a joint account online with someone else?

Chase does not let you open a joint account online. One person opens the account, and the other person must visit a branch or call Chase to be added as a joint owner. Both people will need to verify their identity and sign the paperwork.