You can open most Chase accounts online, but not all of them, and the process depends on which account type you want
Chase lets you open a checking or savings account entirely online through their website or mobile app. You will not need to visit a branch. The whole process usually takes 10 to 15 minutes, and you can start using your account the same day. However, some account types—like certain business accounts, trust accounts, or accounts for minors—require a visit to a physical branch or a phone call with a banker.
The online path works fastest if you have a Social Security number, a valid government ID, and a current address. Chase will verify your identity using information they already have on file or by asking security questions. If you are opening your first Chase account, the process is straightforward. If you already bank with Chase, opening a second account online is even faster.
Key Takeaways
- Chase checking and savings accounts can be opened online in about 10 to 15 minutes using their website or mobile app.
- You will need a Social Security number, valid government ID, and current address to open an account online.
- Business accounts, trust accounts, and accounts for minors under 18 cannot be opened online and require a branch visit or phone appointment.
- If you have an existing Chase account, opening a second account online is faster because Chase already has your identity information on file.
- Your account is usually active the same day, but it may take one to two business days for your debit card to arrive by mail.
What you need before you start
Gather these items before you begin the online process. You will need your Social Security number, a valid government-issued ID (driver's license, passport, or state ID card), and your current address. Chase will also ask for a phone number and email address. Have these ready so you do not have to stop midway through.
If you are opening your first Chase account, the process takes longer because Chase has no prior information about you. They will ask more verification questions. If you already have a Chase account, you can skip some of these steps. Chase will use the identity information they already verified when you opened your first account.
The online account opening process, step by step
Start at Chase.com or open the Chase mobile app. Look for the option to open a new account—it is usually labeled "Open an Account" or "New Account" near the top of the page. Select the account type you want: checking, savings, or both. Chase offers several checking options (like Chase Total Checking or Chase Premier Plus Checking) and savings options (like Chase Savings or Chase Premier Savings). Read the features and fees for each before you choose.
Enter your personal information: name, date of birth, Social Security number, address, phone number, and email. Chase will then verify your identity. If you are a new customer, they will ask security questions based on your credit history or other records they can access. If you already bank with Chase, this step is usually faster. Once verification is complete, you will choose a username and password, set up online banking access, and review the account terms.
At the end, you will see a confirmation screen with your new account number. Your account is now open and you can use it when ready for transfers, bill pay, and direct deposit. Your physical debit card will arrive by mail within one to two business days. You can request a rush card delivery in some cases, but this may have a fee.
Account types that require a branch visit or phone call
Chase does not allow online opening for business accounts, even if you are a sole proprietor. You will need to visit a branch or schedule a phone appointment with a business banker. Bring your business license, tax ID, and personal ID. The banker will verify your business information and set up your account over the phone or in person.
Accounts for minors under 18 also cannot be opened online. A parent or legal guardian must visit a branch in person with the minor's birth certificate or passport and their own ID. Some Chase branches offer teen checking accounts with parental controls, but these require a branch visit.
Trust accounts and accounts for non-U.S. residents also fall outside the online process. If you need one of these account types, call Chase at 1-800-935-9935 to schedule an appointment or visit your nearest branch.
How long it takes from start to usable account
The online process itself takes 10 to 15 minutes. Identity verification happens in real time during that same session. Once you submit your process and pass verification, your account opens when ready—you can log in and use it the same day.
Your debit card ships by mail and usually arrives within one to two business days, depending on your location. Until it arrives, you can still use your account for transfers, bill pay, and direct deposit. You can also request a temporary digital card through the Chase app, which you can use for online purchases or contactless payments right away.
What happens if verification fails
If Chase cannot verify your identity online, you will see a message telling you to visit a branch or call their verification team. This happens occasionally when someone has limited credit history, a recent address change, or a name mismatch in their records. It does not mean you cannot open an account—it just means you need to do it in person or by phone instead.
Call Chase at 1-800-935-9935 and explain that your online process was not verified. They can often complete the process over the phone by asking additional security questions or by having you visit a branch with your ID. Bring your government ID and Social Security card (or a tax return showing your SSN) to the branch if you go in person.
Fees and minimum balances
Chase checking and savings accounts have no minimum opening deposit. However, some account types have monthly maintenance fees if you do not meet certain conditions. For example, Chase Total Checking has a $12 monthly fee unless you maintain a $500 minimum balance, set up direct deposit, or meet other requirements. Chase Savings has a $5 monthly fee unless you maintain a $300 minimum balance or link it to a may have access to checking account.
Read the fee schedule for the specific account type you choose before you open it. Chase publishes these on their website. If you do not want to pay a monthly fee, look for accounts with no monthly maintenance fee or accounts where the fee is waived if you maintain a low balance or set up direct deposit.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I open a Chase account online if I do not have a Social Security number?
No. Chase requires a Social Security number to open an account online. If you are a non-U.S. resident or do not have an SSN, you will need to visit a branch in person. Bring your passport and any other government ID you have. A banker can discuss other options with you.
What if I do not have a government ID?
You will need a valid government-issued ID to open an account online. If you do not have one, visit a Chase branch in person. Bring any ID you do have—a passport, state ID, or tribal ID—and a banker can help you complete the process.
Can I open a joint account online with another person?
No. Joint accounts require both account holders to be present or to complete separate verification steps. You will need to visit a branch together or call Chase to set up a joint account. Both people will need to provide their Social Security number and ID.
How do I use my account before my debit card arrives?
You can use your account when ready through online banking and bill pay. You can also request a temporary digital card through the Chase mobile app, which works for online shopping and contactless payments at stores. Your physical debit card will arrive by mail within one to two business days.
What if I want to open a business account?
Business accounts cannot be opened online. Visit a Chase branch or call 1-800-935-9935 to schedule an appointment with a business banker. Bring your business license, tax ID, and personal ID. The process takes longer than opening a personal account because the banker needs to verify your business information.