You can open a Chase student account online, but you'll need a parent or guardian to co-own it if you're under 18

Chase offers student checking accounts that you can start online through their website or mobile app. The process takes about 10 to 15 minutes. However, the rules depend on your age: if you're 18 or older, you can open an account by yourself. If you're under 18, a parent or guardian must be present during the online process and will become a co-owner of the account.

The account itself is free — there's no monthly fee, and Chase doesn't charge for basic services like debit cards or online transfers. You do need to fund the account with an initial deposit, though the amount varies depending on which Chase student product you choose.

Key Takeaways

  • If you're 18 or older, you can open a Chase student checking account entirely online without anyone else present.
  • If you're under 18, a parent or guardian must be with you during the online sign-up and will co-own the account.
  • You'll need a valid government ID, a Social Security number, and an initial deposit to complete the account opening.
  • The account has no monthly maintenance fee and includes a debit card, online banking, and mobile app access.
  • Chase student accounts are designed for people under 25, though some features may change once you turn 25.

What you need before you start the online process

Gather these items before you begin: a valid government-issued ID (a driver's license, state ID card, or passport), your Social Security number, and information about how you'll fund the account. You'll also need an email address and a phone number where Chase can reach you.

If you're under 18, the parent or guardian co-owning the account will need their own ID and Social Security number as well. They should have these ready before you both sit down to complete the process together.

You'll also need to decide how much money you want to deposit to open the account. Chase doesn't set a minimum opening deposit for student accounts, but you do need to put something in. Many people deposit $25 to $100 to start.

The actual steps to open the account online

Go to Chase.com and look for the student checking account option, or read the Chase mobile app and select "Open an Account." The site will ask you basic questions: your name, date of birth, address, and Social Security number. Answer honestly and completely — Chase will verify this information against their records.

Next, you'll choose a username and password for online banking, set up security questions, and decide whether you want paperless statements (most student account holders choose this). Chase will then show you the account terms and ask you to review them before you proceed.

At the end, you'll fund the account. Chase accepts transfers from another bank account you own, a debit card, or a credit card. If you're using a debit card or credit card, the funds appear in your new account within one business day. If you're transferring from another bank account, it may take two to three business days.

Once your account is open, your debit card will arrive by mail within 7 to 10 business days. You can use your account for online transfers and bill pay right away, even while you're waiting for the physical card.

What happens if you're under 18

If you're under 18, Chase requires a parent or guardian to co-own the account. This means both of you will have access to the account online and through the app, and both of you can see all transactions. The parent or guardian is legally responsible for the account until you turn 18.

During the online sign-up, you and your parent or guardian will need to be in front of the same device together. Chase will ask the adult to verify their identity using their own ID and Social Security number. Once the account is open, either of you can log in and manage it.

When you turn 18, you can request to remove the co-owner and take full control of the account yourself. You'll do this through online banking or by calling Chase customer service. Some students keep the co-owner relationship even after turning 18 if they want a parent to monitor spending or help with budgeting.

What the Chase student account includes

The account comes with a debit card, online banking through Chase.com, and the Chase mobile app. You can check your balance, transfer money between accounts, pay bills, and deposit checks using your phone's camera (mobile check deposit). There are no fees for these services.

You also get access to Chase's ATM network, which includes over 16,000 ATMs nationwide. Withdrawals at Chase ATMs are free. Withdrawals at other banks' ATMs may charge a fee, depending on the ATM operator.

The account includes fraud protection: if someone uses your debit card without permission, Chase will investigate and typically refund the money while they look into it. You're also protected if your online banking password is compromised.

When your account changes after you turn 25

Chase student accounts are designed for people under 25. Once you turn 25, Chase will convert your account to a standard Chase checking account. The conversion is automatic — you don't have to do anything.

The standard account may have different features or fees than the student account. Chase will notify you before the conversion happens, usually a few months in advance. At that point, you can review the new terms and decide whether you want to keep the account or switch to a different Chase product.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a parent's permission if I'm 18 or older?

No. If you're 18 or older, you can open a Chase student account entirely on your own without anyone else's involvement. You'll just need your own ID, Social Security number, and initial deposit.

What if I don't have a Social Security number?

Chase requires a Social Security number to open any bank account. If you don't have one, you'll need to explore for one through the Social Security Administration before you can open a Chase account. This process takes several weeks.

Can I open the account on my phone?

Yes. The Chase mobile app lets you open a student account from your phone. The process is the same as opening it on a computer — you'll answer questions, verify your identity, and fund the account. If you're under 18, your parent or guardian will need to use the same phone or device with you to complete their part.

What if Chase denies my process?

Chase may deny an account process if there's a problem with your identity verification, if you have a negative banking history (like unpaid overdrafts at another bank), or if there's a discrepancy in the information you provided. If this happens, Chase will send you a letter explaining why. You can call Chase to ask questions or reapply later.

Can I use the account right away, or do I have to wait for the debit card?

You can use the account when ready for online transfers, bill pay, and mobile check deposit. You'll have to wait for your physical debit card to arrive (usually 7 to 10 business days) before you can swipe it in stores or withdraw cash from an ATM.