Yes, you can open a Chase checking account entirely online
Chase lets you open most of their checking accounts from your computer or phone without visiting a branch. The process takes about 10 minutes, and you'll have an account number the same day. You won't be able to deposit cash or get a debit card when ready, but you can start using the account for direct deposits and transfers right away.
The catch is that Chase has specific requirements before they'll let you open an account online. You need to be at least 18 years old, have a valid government ID, and provide a Social Security number. You also need a way to verify your identity — usually a phone number or email address on file with the credit bureaus. If you don't meet these requirements, you'll need to open an account in person at a Chase branch instead.
Key Takeaways
- You can complete the entire online process in about 10 minutes using a computer or the Chase mobile app.
- Chase will ask for your Social Security number, date of birth, and a government-issued ID to verify who you are.
- Your account opens the same day, but you cannot deposit cash online — you'll need to use direct deposit, transfers from another bank, or visit a branch to add money.
- If Chase cannot verify your identity online, they will ask you to come to a branch in person to finish opening the account.
- Different Chase checking accounts have different monthly fees and minimum balance requirements, so compare them before you start.
What you'll need before you start
Gather these items before you open the Chase website or app. You'll need a valid government-issued ID — a driver's license, state ID card, or passport. Chase will ask you to enter the ID number and expiration date. You'll also need your Social Security number, date of birth, and current address.
Have a phone number and email address ready. Chase uses these to send you a code to verify your identity during the process. If you have a Chase account already, you can use the same phone number and email, but Chase may ask you additional security questions instead of sending a code.
If you plan to fund the account right away, have the routing and account number from another bank account ready. This lets you transfer money in during the process or when ready after. You won't be able to deposit cash online, so if you don't have another bank account to transfer from, plan to visit a Chase branch or use a Chase ATM once your account is open.
The steps to open an account online
Go to chase.com or open the Chase mobile app and look for "Open an account" or "New account." Chase will ask you to choose which type of checking account you want. The most common options are Chase Total Checking (which has a monthly fee unless you meet certain requirements) and Chase find Checking (designed for people with limited banking history). Read the fee and requirement details for each before you pick one.
Enter your personal information: full name, date of birth, Social Security number, and current address. Chase will ask whether you're a U.S. citizen and whether you have a Chase account already. Answer honestly — Chase checks these answers against government records and your credit history.
Chase will send a verification code to your phone or email. Enter the code to prove you control that phone number or email address. If Chase cannot verify your identity this way, they'll ask you to visit a branch in person. This usually happens if your information doesn't match what's in the credit bureaus, or if you're opening an account for the first time and have no credit history.
Review the account terms and sign the agreement electronically. Chase will give you an account number when ready. You can log in to your account right away, but your debit card will arrive by mail in 7 to 10 business days.
How to fund your new account
You have three main ways to put money into your new Chase checking account. The fastest is a direct deposit from your employer or another source — the money usually arrives within one business day. If you have another bank account, you can transfer money from that account to your new Chase account using the other bank's website or app. Chase will provide you with your routing number and account number so you can set this up.
The third option is to visit a Chase branch or ATM in person and deposit cash or a check. You can do this as soon as your account is open, even before your debit card arrives. Bring your ID and your new Chase account number (which you'll have when ready after opening the account online).
Do not send cash by mail. Chase will not accept it, and you risk losing the money.
What happens if Chase cannot verify you online
If Chase's online verification fails, they'll tell you during the process. You'll see a message saying you need to visit a branch to finish opening the account. This is not a rejection — it just means Chase needs to see your ID in person.
Find your nearest Chase branch using the branch locator on chase.com. Bring your government-issued ID and the information you entered during the online process. A Chase employee will verify your identity, complete the account opening, and you'll walk out with a temporary debit card or a card number you can use when ready. Your permanent card will arrive by mail.
This in-person step usually takes 10 to 15 minutes. You do not need an appointment at most Chase branches, but you can schedule one online if you prefer.
Monthly fees and minimum balance requirements
Chase Total Checking has a $12 monthly fee, but you can waive it by meeting one of these requirements: keep a $500 minimum balance, set up a direct deposit of at least $500 per month, or maintain a linked Chase savings account with a $300 balance. If you do none of these, you'll pay $12 every month.
Chase find Checking has no monthly fee and no minimum balance requirement. It's designed for people opening their first bank account or rebuilding their banking history. The tradeoff is that it comes with a lower daily ATM withdrawal limit and fewer features than Total Checking.
Chase also offers Chase Premier Plus Checking and other accounts aimed at customers with higher balances. Compare the fee structures and features on chase.com before you open an account, because you cannot change your account type online after opening — you'd need to call Chase or visit a branch.
Your debit card and online access
Your debit card will arrive by mail 7 to 10 business days after you open the account. You can start using your account online or in the Chase mobile app when ready, even before the card arrives. You can pay bills, transfer money, and check your balance right away.
If you need to withdraw cash before your debit card arrives, visit any Chase ATM and use your account number and a temporary PIN. Chase will send you the PIN by text or email after your account opens. You can also visit a Chase branch and withdraw cash over the counter with your ID.
Set up your online login and mobile app password during the account opening process. Chase will ask you to create a username and password. Write these down somewhere safe — you'll need them to log in to your account and see your balance.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to open a Chase checking account online?
The process itself takes about 10 minutes. Your account opens the same day, and you can log in when ready. Your debit card arrives by mail in 7 to 10 business days. If Chase needs to verify your identity in person, add 1 to 3 days for a branch visit.
Can I open a Chase account if I don't have a Social Security number?
No. Chase requires a Social Security number or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) to open any account. If you have an ITIN, you can use that instead. You'll need to visit a branch in person to open an account with an ITIN.
What if I don't have another bank account to transfer money from?
You can deposit cash at any Chase branch or ATM once your account is open. You can also set up a direct deposit from your employer. If you're waiting for your debit card to arrive, visit a branch with your ID and account number to withdraw cash.
Can I open a joint checking account with someone else online?
No. Joint accounts require both account holders to verify their identity in person at a Chase branch. One person can open an individual account online, and then you can add a joint owner later by visiting a branch together.
What if I'm under 18?
You cannot open an account online by yourself. You'll need to visit a Chase branch with a parent or guardian. They can open a custodial account, which gives them control over the account until you turn 18 or 21, depending on your state and the account type.