Opening a Chase Business Checking Account Online: What You Can and Cannot Do

You can start a Chase business checking account online, but you will hit a step that requires a phone call or in-person visit

Chase allows you to begin the account setup process entirely online through their website or mobile app. You can fill out your business information, review account features, and see which accounts match your business type. However, Chase requires a phone verification call before the account opens—you cannot complete the entire process without speaking to someone. This call typically happens within 24 hours of your online submission and takes about 10 minutes.

The phone call is not optional. Chase uses it to verify your identity, confirm your business details, and discuss your account needs. After the call, your account usually opens within one to two business days. If you prefer to avoid the phone call entirely, you can open an account in person at a Chase branch instead, though this takes longer overall.

Key Takeaways

You can complete the initial process online, but Chase will call you to verify your identity and business information before opening the account.
The verification call typically happens within 24 hours and is required—there is no way to skip it.
After the phone call, your account usually opens within one to two business days.
You will need your Social Security Number or EIN, business formation documents, and a government-issued ID to complete the process.
If you do not want a phone call, opening in person at a Chase branch is the alternative, though it takes longer.

What documents you need before you start online

Gather these items before you begin the online process. Chase will ask for them during the process or during your verification call. Having them ready speeds things up and prevents you from having to restart.

You will need your Social Security Number or Employer Identification Number (EIN). If your business is a sole proprietorship, you typically use your SSN. If you have an LLC, S-corp, C-corp, or partnership, you use your EIN. You will also need proof of your business structure—this means the formation documents filed with your state, such as Articles of Organization for an LLC or Articles of Incorporation for a corporation. A copy of your business license or DBA (Doing Business As) certificate works if you have not yet filed formal formation documents. Finally, bring a government-issued photo ID such as a driver's license or passport. Chase will ask to see this during the phone call.

How the online process actually works

Start at Chase.com or in the Chase mobile app and look for the business checking section. You will see a list of business account types—Chase offers several, including Chase Business Basic Checking, Chase Business Complete Checking, and others depending on your business size and transaction volume. Select the account that fits your needs and click to begin the process.

The online form asks for your business name, business address, type of business structure, and the names and Social Security Numbers of all owners with 20% or more ownership stake. You will also enter your personal information, including your address and phone number. Chase will ask whether you want online banking, a debit card, and merchant services. Answer honestly about your expected monthly deposits and transaction volume—this helps Chase route you to the right account type and can affect any introductory offers.

Once you submit the process, Chase sends you a confirmation email. Within 24 hours, a Chase representative will call the phone number you provided. This is the verification call. Have your government ID and business documents nearby when you answer. The representative will confirm your identity, ask follow-up questions about your business, and discuss your account setup. After the call ends, your account opens within one to two business days.

What happens during the verification call

The Chase representative will ask you to confirm the information you entered online—your name, business name, business address, and ownership structure. They will verify your identity by asking for details from your government ID. They may ask what your business does, how long it has been operating, and what you expect your monthly transaction volume to be. These questions help Chase assess risk and may support the account matches your actual business needs.

The representative may also ask about the source of your initial deposit. If you are depositing a large amount, Chase may ask where the money comes from to comply with anti-money-laundering rules. Answer straightforwardly—this is routine. The call usually takes 10 to 15 minutes. If Chase needs additional documents, such as a copy of your business license or formation documents, the representative will tell you how to submit them. You can email, fax, or mail them depending on what Chase offers.

Timeline from process to usable account

The process typically takes three to five business days from the moment you submit your online process to the moment you can use your account. Here is the realistic breakdown: you explore online (takes 15 to 20 minutes), Chase calls within 24 hours (takes 10 to 15 minutes), and your account opens within one to two business days after the call. If Chase requests additional documents during the call, add two to three business days for review after you submit them.

Your debit card arrives separately by mail, usually within 7 to 10 business days. You can use online banking and make transfers before the card arrives. If you need the card faster, ask the representative during the verification call whether Chase offers expedited card delivery—some branches can issue a card in-person the same day, though this requires a visit.

What disqualifies you or slows things down

Chase may delay or deny your process if you have a history of fraud, unpaid debts to Chase, or negative banking records reported to ChexSystems (a banking history report system). If you have been flagged in ChexSystems, Chase will likely tell you during the verification call. You can request your ChexSystems report for free at www.chexsystems.com to see what is on file before you explore.

Incomplete or mismatched information also causes delays. If the name on your business formation documents does not match the name you entered in the process, Chase will ask you to clarify or resubmit documents. If you list an owner but do not provide their Social Security Number, the process stalls. If your business address is a UPS box or virtual office, Chase may ask for additional documentation to verify the address is legitimate.

Certain business types face extra scrutiny. If your business operates in high-risk industries—such as money services, cannabis, or adult entertainment—Chase may request additional documentation or decline the account. During the verification call, be honest about what your business does. Misrepresenting your business type is grounds for account closure later.

Alternatives if you cannot or do not want to do it online

If you prefer not to do the online process, you can open an account entirely in person at a Chase branch. Bring your government ID, business formation documents, and Social Security Number or EIN. A banker will fill out the process with you, verify your identity on the spot, and open the account the same day. You can order a debit card when ready and sometimes receive a temporary card to use right away. The downside is that this takes longer in the moment—plan for 30 to 45 minutes—and you have to travel to a branch.

If you already have a personal Chase account, you can also call Chase directly at the number on the back of your debit card and ask to speak with a business banker. They can walk you through the process over the phone, though this still requires the same verification steps and documents as the online route.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need an EIN to open a Chase business checking account online?

No. If your business is a sole proprietorship, you can use your Social Security Number instead. You only need an EIN if your business is structured as an LLC, S-corp, C-corp, or partnership. You can obtain an EIN for free from the IRS website (irs.gov) in minutes if you do not have one yet.

What if Chase calls and I miss the verification call?

Chase will leave a voicemail with a callback number. Call them back within 24 hours. If you do not respond, your process may be closed and you will have to reapply. Keep your phone nearby for the 24 hours after you submit your online process.

Can I use my business account when ready after the verification call?

You can use online banking and make transfers as soon as your account opens, which is usually within one to two business days after the call. Your physical debit card arrives by mail in 7 to 10 business days. If you need a card sooner, ask during the verification call whether your local branch can issue one in-person.

What if I do not have formal business formation documents yet?

Chase will accept a business license, DBA certificate, or other proof of business registration. If you have none of these, you may need to open the account in person at a branch so a banker can review your situation and determine what documents are acceptable.

Does Chase charge a fee to open a business checking account online?

Chase does not charge an account opening fee. However, most business checking accounts have a monthly maintenance fee unless you meet certain balance or deposit requirements. The fee varies by account type—typically $10 to $20 per month. Ask the representative during your verification call what the fee is for your specific account and what you need to do to waive it.

This guide is for general information only and is not medical, financial, legal, or other professional advice. For decisions specific to your situation, consult a qualified professional. See our Editorial Policy.