You can open most Chase checking and savings accounts entirely online, but not all account types
Chase lets you open a checking account, savings account, or money market account from your computer or phone without visiting a branch. The process takes about 10 minutes. You provide your Social Security number, date of birth, address, and employment information, and Chase checks your identity against public records. If you pass that check, your account opens when ready and you can start using it the same day.
Some Chase products cannot be opened online. Chase Private Client accounts, which come with dedicated bankers and higher minimums, require a phone call or branch visit. Chase Business accounts also require a branch visit or phone appointment, though you can start the process online. If you want a Chase credit card, that is a separate process that happens online but is not a bank account.
The online account opening works only if you are a U.S. citizen or permanent resident with a valid Social Security number and a U.S. address. If you do not meet those requirements, you will need to visit a branch.
Key Takeaways
- Chase checking, savings, and money market accounts open online in about 10 minutes with no branch visit required.
- Your account is active the same day you open it, and you can deposit money and set up transfers when ready.
- Chase verifies your identity using your Social Security number and public records, not a credit check.
- Business accounts and Chase Private Client accounts cannot be opened online and require a phone call or branch appointment.
- You need a U.S. address, valid Social Security number, and citizenship or permanent residency to open an account online.
What information Chase asks for during online signup
When you start the process, Chase asks for your full name, date of birth, Social Security number, and current address. You will also provide your phone number and email address. Chase uses these details to verify your identity against public records — this is not a credit check and does not affect your credit score.
Next, Chase asks about your employment status and annual income. You do not need to provide a pay stub or tax return; you just enter the information. Chase also asks whether you want direct deposit set up, though you can add it later. If you already have a Chase account, the process is faster because Chase already has some of your information on file.
At the end, you choose your account type (checking or savings), set a PIN for your debit card, and agree to Chase's terms. You will receive a confirmation email with your account number and routing number within minutes.
When your account is ready to use
Your Chase account is active when ready after you complete the online process. You can log into Chase's website or mobile app right away and see your account number and routing number. You can set up transfers from another bank, receive direct deposits, and use mobile check deposit that same day.
Your physical debit card arrives by mail in 7 to 10 business days. Until it arrives, you can use your account number and routing number to receive transfers, or you can request a temporary digital card through the Chase app to use for online purchases and contactless payments at stores.
If you need cash before your debit card arrives, you can visit any Chase branch and withdraw from your new account using your ID and account number.
Identity verification and what happens if it fails
Chase's identity verification system checks your name, date of birth, address, and Social Security number against public records maintained by third-party verification services. Most people pass this check when ready. If you do, your account opens and you see confirmation on screen.
If the system cannot verify your identity — which can happen if your name is very common, if you recently moved, or if there is a mismatch in public records — Chase will ask you to verify yourself a different way. You may be asked to provide a photo ID, answer security questions about your past addresses or accounts, or call Chase to complete verification by phone. This process usually takes a few hours to a day.
In rare cases, if Chase cannot verify your identity online, you will be told to visit a branch in person with a government-issued ID. This is not common, but it can happen if there is a significant discrepancy in your information.
Minimum deposit and account fees
Chase does not require a minimum deposit to open a checking or savings account online. You can open an account with zero dollars and deposit money whenever you want. However, some Chase checking accounts have monthly maintenance fees unless you meet certain conditions — such as maintaining a minimum balance, setting up direct deposit, or having a linked Chase credit card.
Chase's basic checking account (Chase Total Checking) has a $12 monthly fee, but the fee is waived if you maintain a $500 minimum balance, set up direct deposit, or link a Chase credit card. Chase savings accounts have no monthly fee. Money market accounts have higher minimum balance requirements and higher fees if you fall below them.
You can see the exact fee structure for each account type before you finish the process, so you know what you are signing up for.
How to start the process on Chase's website
Go to chase.com and look for the "Open an Account" button, usually in the top navigation or on the homepage. You can also search for "open a checking account" or "open a savings account" on Chase's site. Click through to the account type you want.
The process walks you through each step in order: personal information, identity verification, account details, and confirmation. You can do this on a computer or the Chase mobile app. You do not need to be a current Chase customer to start.
Have your Social Security number, current address, and phone number ready before you begin. The whole process takes 10 to 15 minutes. If you get interrupted, you can usually return to the process later using the same email address, though some banks do not save incomplete applications for more than a few days.
What to do if you cannot open an account online
If you do not have a Social Security number, are not a U.S. citizen or permanent resident, or do not have a U.S. address, you will need to visit a Chase branch or call Chase to open an account. Chase does offer accounts for non-citizens with an ITIN (Individual Taxpayer Identification Number) instead of a Social Security number, but these must be opened in person or by phone.
If you want a business account, you will need to call Chase or visit a branch. Business accounts require additional documentation, such as an EIN (Employer Identification Number), articles of incorporation, or a business license. Chase can start the process over the phone and may be able to complete it online, but the initial conversation must happen with a representative.
To find a Chase branch near you, use the branch locator on chase.com. You can also call Chase at 1-800-935-9935 to ask about opening an account by phone.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need an existing Chase account to open a new one online?
No. You can open your first Chase account entirely online. If you already have a Chase account, the process is slightly faster because Chase already has some of your information, but it is not required.
Can I choose my account number or routing number?
No. Chase assigns both automatically. Your routing number depends on which state your account is opened in, and your account number is generated by Chase's system. You cannot request a specific number.
What if I do not have a Social Security number?
You can open a Chase account with an ITIN (Individual Taxpayer Identification Number) if you are a non-citizen, but you must do this in person at a branch or over the phone. You will need to bring a passport or other government-issued ID and proof of your ITIN.
Can I open a joint account online?
No. Joint accounts require both account holders to be present or to complete separate verification steps. You will need to visit a branch or call Chase to set up a joint account. One person can open an account online and add a joint owner later, but the initial opening must be done by one person.
How long does it take to receive my debit card?
Physical debit cards arrive in 7 to 10 business days. You can request a temporary digital card through the Chase app to use when ready for online shopping and contactless payments at stores while you wait for the physical card.