Yes, you can open a Chase savings account entirely online

Chase lets you open most of their savings accounts through their website or mobile app without visiting a branch. You will need a valid government ID, a Social Security number, and a way to fund the account — either a debit card or bank account information. The whole process usually takes 10 to 15 minutes, and your account can be active the same day.

The account types available online vary slightly by state. Chase offers their basic savings account (called Chase Savings) online in all 50 states, but some specialty accounts like Chase Premier Savings may have different rules depending on where you live. Before you start, check Chase's website to confirm which accounts are available in your state.

Key Takeaways

  • You need a valid government ID, Social Security number, and either a debit card or existing bank account to open a Chase savings account online.
  • The online process takes about 10 to 15 minutes and your account can be active the same day you complete it.
  • Chase offers their basic savings account online in all states, but some specialty accounts are only available in certain states.
  • You can fund your new account when ready using a debit card or by transferring money from another bank account.
  • If you already have a Chase checking account, opening a linked savings account online is faster because Chase already has your information on file.

What you need before you start

Gather these items before you begin the online process. You will need a valid government-issued ID — a driver's license, passport, or state ID card. Chase will ask you to verify information from it, so have it nearby. You will also need your Social Security number, which Chase uses to check your identity and run a background check.

Finally, you need a way to fund the account. This can be a debit card (Visa, Mastercard, or Discover) or the routing and account number from an existing bank account at another bank. If you already have a Chase checking account, you can transfer money between your own accounts instead. You do not need to fund the account when ready — Chase allows you to open it with a zero balance and add money later.

The step-by-step online process

Start by going to Chase.com or opening the Chase mobile app. Look for the option to open a new account — this is usually on the homepage or in a menu labeled "Open an Account" or "Products." Select "Savings Account" from the list of account types. Chase will show you which savings products are available in your state and explain the features and fees for each one.

Next, enter your personal information: full name, date of birth, address, phone number, and email. Chase will ask for your Social Security number and will run a background check as part of the verification process. You will then verify your identity by answering security questions or uploading a photo of your ID. Some applications ask you to take a photo of your driver's license with your phone camera.

After verification, you will choose how to fund the account. If you use a debit card, enter the card number and the amount you want to deposit. If you transfer from another bank account, enter the routing number and account number. Chase will confirm the funding method and show you a summary of your new account details. Review everything, agree to the terms, and submit. Your account number will appear on screen when ready, though it may take a few minutes to show up in your online banking dashboard.

How long it takes and when you can use the account

Your account is usually active within minutes of completing the process. You can log in to Chase online banking and see your new savings account right away. However, the time it takes for your initial deposit to actually appear in the account depends on how you funded it.

If you funded the account with a debit card, the money typically shows up within one to two business days. If you transferred money from another bank account, it usually takes three to five business days because of how the banking system processes transfers between different banks. During this time, your account exists and is ready to use, but the balance will show as zero until the deposit arrives.

What happens if you already have a Chase account

If you already have a Chase checking account or another Chase product, opening a savings account online is faster. Chase already has your identity information on file, so you will not need to re-verify your ID or Social Security number. You can often open the account in just a few minutes by logging into your existing Chase online banking account and selecting the option to add a new account.

You can also link your new savings account to your existing checking account when ready, which makes it straightforward to transfer money between them. Many people do this to move money from checking to savings without having to go through an external transfer process.

Fees and minimum balance requirements

Chase Savings has no monthly maintenance fee, which means you will not be charged just for having the account open. However, Chase does charge fees for certain actions: if you exceed six withdrawals or transfers per month, each withdrawal over that limit costs $10. This rule applies to most savings accounts at most banks and is a federal regulation, not a Chase-specific rule.

There is no minimum balance required to open a Chase Savings account online, and no minimum balance to keep the account open. You can open it with zero dollars and add money whenever you want. However, Chase does pay interest on the money in your savings account — the rate changes based on market conditions, so check Chase.com for the current rate before you open the account.

What to do if the online process is declined

If your online process is declined, Chase will usually tell you why. Common reasons include a mismatch between the information you entered and what is in the banking system, a problem with your identity verification, or a flag in your banking history. If this happens, you have a few options.

First, try the process again and double-check that all information — especially your name, address, and date of birth — matches your government ID exactly. Typos are a common reason for decline. If you try again and are declined a second time, contact Chase customer service by phone or visit a local Chase branch. A representative can sometimes override a decline or help you understand what went wrong. You can also ask whether opening the account in person at a branch is an option if the online process continues to have problems.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need to be a U.S. citizen to open a Chase savings account online?

You do not need to be a U.S. citizen, but you do need a valid Social Security number or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN). If you have an ITIN, you may be able to open an account, but Chase's online system sometimes requires a Social Security number specifically. Call Chase at 1-800-935-9935 to ask whether your ITIN will work before you start the process.

Can I open a Chase savings account online if I have had banking problems in the past?

Chase checks your banking history using ChexSystems, a system that tracks closed accounts and overdrafts. If you have unpaid overdrafts or accounts closed due to fraud, Chase may decline your process. However, many banks will still open accounts for people with banking history issues. If Chase declines you, ask whether you can reapply after a certain period or visit a branch to discuss your options.

What if I want to open an account but do not have a debit card?

You can fund your account using your bank account information instead of a debit card. You will need the routing number and account number from your existing bank account. If you do not have either a debit card or another bank account, you can open the account with a zero balance and add money in person at a Chase branch or through a transfer later.

Can I open a joint savings account with someone else online?

Chase does not allow you to open a joint account entirely online if the other person is not already a Chase customer. One person can open the account online, and then the second person can be added later in person at a branch or sometimes through the Chase app. Contact Chase to confirm the current process for adding a joint owner to an existing account.

How do I know if my state allows online account opening?

Chase Savings is available online in all 50 states. However, some specialty savings products may not be available in your state. When you start the online process, Chase will show you which accounts are available where you live. If you do not see the account you want, you can call Chase or visit a branch to ask about opening it in person.