You can start a joint Chase checking account online, but Chase will not let you finish it that way

Chase allows you to begin opening a joint checking account through their website or mobile app, but at some point in the process you will need to visit a branch in person or complete a video call with a Chase representative. The online process collects your information and lets you choose the account type, but Chase requires identity verification and a signature from both account holders before the account becomes active. This is a compliance requirement, not a choice Chase made for convenience.

The exact point where you must switch to in-person or video depends on which account you choose and whether you are an existing Chase customer. If you are already a Chase customer, the process moves faster online. If neither of you banks with Chase, you will hit the verification step sooner.

Key Takeaways

  • You can fill out the joint account process online, but both account holders must verify their identity in person at a Chase branch or through a scheduled video call before the account opens.
  • If you are already a Chase customer, you may be able to complete more of the process online than someone opening their first account with Chase.
  • Chase requires a valid government-issued ID and a Social Security number from both people on the account.
  • The entire process from process to active account typically takes one to three business days once both people have completed verification.

What happens when you start the process online

Go to chase.com and select "Open an account" or use the Chase mobile app. You will be asked whether you want to open an account alone or with another person. Choose the joint account option. The process will ask for the primary account holder's name, address, date of birth, Social Security number, employment information, and initial deposit amount.

You will also enter the second account holder's name and basic information. Chase will run a soft credit check and check ChexSystems (a banking history database) to see if either of you has had problems with previous accounts. This check does not affect your credit score. At the end of the online process, Chase will tell you what the next step is—usually either scheduling a video call or visiting a branch.

In-person verification at a Chase branch

If you choose to verify in person, both account holders must go to the same Chase branch together. Bring a valid government-issued photo ID (driver's license, passport, or state ID) for each person. You will also need your Social Security number and the initial deposit—either a check, debit card, or cash.

A Chase representative will confirm your identity, review the account details you entered online, and have both of you sign the signature card. This usually takes 10 to 15 minutes. The account becomes active when ready, though it may take one business day for the account number to appear in your online banking profile.

Video verification as an alternative to visiting a branch

Chase offers video verification for people who cannot visit a branch. You schedule a call with a Chase representative through the app or website. During the call, the representative will ask you to show your government-issued ID to the camera, verify your Social Security number, and confirm the account details. Both account holders must be present on the video call.

Video calls are usually available within 24 hours of your request. Once verification is complete, Chase will send you a confirmation email and the account becomes active. You will receive debit cards in the mail within 7 to 10 business days.

What you need from both account holders before you start

Gather these items before either of you begins the online process. You will need a valid government-issued photo ID for each person—a driver's license, passport, or state ID. You will also need the Social Security number for both the primary and secondary account holder. Chase will not open a joint account without both Social Security numbers.

Decide on an initial deposit amount. Chase does not require a minimum deposit to open most checking accounts, but you do need to fund the account with at least $0.01 to set up it. You can deposit by check, debit card, or cash at a branch. Have the second account holder's current address ready, even if it is the same as the primary account holder's address.

Why Chase requires in-person or video verification

Federal banking regulations require that financial institutions verify the identity of anyone opening a new account. This is part of the Bank Secrecy Act and Know Your Customer (KYC) rules. Chase cannot legally complete an account opening without confirming that you are who you say you are and that you are not on any government watchlists. A video call or in-person visit is how Chase meets that requirement.

Joint accounts add another layer because Chase must verify both people. This protects you as well—it prevents someone from opening an account in your name without your knowledge or signature.

Timeline from process to active account

If you complete the online process and schedule a video call on the same day, you can have an active account within 24 hours. If you visit a branch in person, the account is usually active the same day. If you explore online but do not schedule verification for several days, the process may expire or Chase may ask you to reapply.

Once the account is active, you can use it when ready through online banking and mobile app transfers. Debit cards arrive by mail in 7 to 10 business days. If you need a card sooner, ask the Chase representative during verification whether rush delivery is available—some branches offer this for a fee.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can one person open the joint account online while the other verifies later?

No. Chase requires both account holders to complete identity verification before the account becomes active. One person cannot verify alone and then add the second person later. Both must go through the process together, either in person or on the same video call.

What if the second account holder lives in a different state?

Video verification is your best option. Both of you can complete the call from different locations. If you prefer in-person verification, you can visit any Chase branch together—it does not have to be in your home state, though you will need to coordinate the timing.

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

No, but the process is slightly faster if at least one of you already banks with Chase. If neither of you has a Chase account, you will still go through the same verification steps—the process just takes a bit longer to process because Chase is verifying two completely new customers.

What happens if one account holder cannot make it to the branch or video call?

The account cannot open without both people. If the second account holder is unavailable, you will need to reschedule the verification. Chase will not open a joint account with only one signature or one identity verification.

Can I change the account type after I start the online process?

Yes. During the online process, you can select from Chase's checking account options—usually a basic checking account, a premium account with higher interest, or an account with specific features. You can change your selection before you submit the process, or ask the Chase representative to change it during verification.