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 provide your personal information, verify your identity, and fund the account—all through their website or mobile app. The account is usually active within minutes, though it can take up to one business day for some account types.
The process is straightforward if you have what Chase needs: 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). If you don't have those things, or if Chase's identity verification system flags your process, you'll need to visit a branch or call to complete the account opening.
Key Takeaways
- Chase checking and savings accounts can be opened online using their website or mobile app, with the account active the same day or within one business day.
- You'll need a valid government-issued ID, your Social Security number, and a way to fund the account before you start.
- Chase's identity verification system may ask follow-up questions or request additional documents if it cannot confirm your identity automatically.
- Some account types, like certain business accounts or accounts for people under 18, require a branch visit or phone call to complete.
- Once your account is open, you can order a debit card online, set up direct deposit, and begin using the account when ready.
What you need before you start
Gather these items before opening your account online. You'll need a valid government-issued ID—a driver's license, passport, or state ID card. Chase will ask for your ID number and the expiration date. The ID must be current or expired no more than five years ago.
You also need your Social Security number and a current mailing address. Chase uses these to verify your identity and check for fraud. Have a phone number ready as well—Chase may text or call you during the verification process.
Finally, you need a way to fund your initial deposit. You can link a debit card from another bank, provide checking or savings account details from another institution, or arrange a wire transfer. Chase doesn't require a minimum opening deposit for most personal checking accounts, but some account types do.
The steps to open an account online
Start at Chase.com or open the Chase mobile app. Look for "Open an account" or "New account" and select the account type you want—checking, savings, or money market. Chase will ask you to choose between personal and business accounts at the start.
Enter your personal information: full name, date of birth, Social Security number, email address, and phone number. Then provide your current mailing address and driver's license or passport details. Chase will ask whether you're a U.S. citizen and whether you have an existing Chase account.
Next, Chase runs an identity verification check. If the system confirms your identity automatically, you'll move to the funding step. If Chase needs more information, it will ask follow-up questions about your address history, previous accounts, or other details. Answer these questions as accurately as possible—they're designed to prevent fraud, not to reject legitimate customers.
Once your identity is verified, you'll fund the account. Enter your debit card number or link another bank account. Chase will debit a small amount (usually $0.01 to $1.00) from that source to confirm it's valid, then credit it back. Your new Chase account is now open and ready to use.
When Chase asks for more information
Chase's automated system doesn't always verify your identity on the first try. If it can't confirm who you are, you'll see a message asking you to provide additional information or visit a branch. This happens most often if you're new to banking, have moved recently, or have a common name.
If Chase asks for more documents, you can usually upload them through your online process. Acceptable documents include a utility bill, lease agreement, or mortgage statement showing your current address. You can also take a photo of your ID with your phone and upload it directly.
If the online process stalls, you have two options: call Chase at 1-800-935-9935 to complete the account opening over the phone, or visit a Chase branch in person. A branch representative can verify your identity when ready and open the account while you wait.
Account types you can open online
Chase offers several personal account types online. Chase Total Checking is the most common option and has no monthly fee if you maintain a minimum balance or set up direct deposit. Chase Sapphire Checking is a premium option with higher balance requirements but additional benefits. Chase Savings and Chase Money Market accounts are also available online.
Business accounts, accounts for minors (under 18), and some specialty accounts require a branch visit or phone call. If you're opening an account for a business, you'll need an Employer Identification Number (EIN) or Social Security number for the business owner, plus business formation documents. For accounts for minors, a parent or guardian must be present.
If you're not sure whether your account type can be opened online, start the process process—Chase will tell you if you need to complete it in person or by phone.
What happens after your account opens
Your Chase account is active when ready, and you can use it right away. You'll receive a confirmation email with your account number and routing number. You can set up direct deposit, transfer money from another account, or receive funds via wire transfer.
Your debit card will arrive by mail within 7 to 10 business days. While you wait, you can order a temporary digital card through the Chase app to use for online purchases and contactless payments at stores. You can also withdraw cash at any Chase ATM using your account number and ID.
Log into your Chase account online or through the mobile app to check your balance, set up bill pay, and manage your account settings. You can also call Chase customer service at 1-800-935-9935 if you have questions about your new account.
Common reasons the online process doesn't work
The most common reason an online process stalls is that Chase's identity verification system can't confirm your information. This usually happens if your address doesn't match what's on file with credit bureaus, if you've moved recently, or if you have a very common name. Providing additional documents or calling Chase resolves this in most cases.
Some people are declined because Chase detects fraud risk—for example, if someone tries to open an account using stolen information. If this happens, Chase will explain the reason and tell you whether you can reapply. You can also visit a branch to discuss the decline in person.
Technical issues are rare but do happen. If your process times out or the website crashes, your information is usually saved. Log back in and continue where you left off. If you can't access your process after several attempts, call Chase customer service for help.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to open a Chase account online?
The process usually takes 10 to 15 minutes if your identity verifies automatically. Your account is active when ready, though it can take up to one business day for some account types. Your debit card arrives by mail within 7 to 10 business days, but you can use a digital card right away.
Do I need a minimum deposit to open a Chase account online?
Most Chase personal checking accounts have no minimum opening deposit. Some savings and money market accounts may require $25 or more. Check the account details before you start the process to see if a minimum applies to the account type you want.
What if I don't have a government ID?
You'll need to visit a Chase branch or call customer service to open an account without a government ID. A branch representative can verify your identity using other documents, such as a passport, tribal ID, or military ID. Call 1-800-935-9935 to discuss your options.
Can I open a joint account online?
Chase allows you to start a joint account process online, but both account holders must verify their identity. If one person's identity doesn't verify automatically, both may need to visit a branch or complete verification by phone to finish opening the account.
What if I already have a Chase account and want to open another one?
You can open additional accounts online using the same process. Log into your existing Chase account or start a new process. Chase will recognize you and may skip some verification steps, making the process faster.