Chase requires you to be at least 18 years old to open a checking account in your own name

If you are 18 or older, you can walk into a Chase branch or open an account online without a parent or guardian. You will need a valid government-issued ID (like a driver's license or passport) and a Social Security number. Chase will also ask for an initial deposit, though the amount varies by account type.

If you are under 18, you cannot open an account by yourself. Instead, a parent or legal guardian must open a Chase First Banking account with you, which is designed for minors. This account lets you learn to manage money while a parent maintains control and oversight.

Chase also offers a Chase find Banking account for people who have had banking problems in the past or are new to the banking system. This account has different rules than standard checking, but the age requirement is still 18.

Key Takeaways

  • You must be 18 years old to open a Chase checking account on your own with just your ID and Social Security number.
  • If you are under 18, a parent or guardian can open a Chase First Banking account with you as a joint account holder.
  • Chase First Banking lets minors use a debit card and learn banking skills while a parent monitors the account.
  • You will need a valid government ID and Social Security number to open any Chase account, whether you are 18 or opening a youth account with a parent.

What you need to bring or provide to open an account at 18

Have your government-issued photo ID ready — a driver's license, state ID card, or passport all work. Chase will scan or photograph it as part of their identity verification process. You will also need your Social Security number, which Chase uses to check your banking history and run a background check through ChexSystems (a banking record system, not a credit report).

Bring an initial deposit. The minimum varies depending on which checking account you choose — some accounts have no minimum, while others require $25 or more. You can deposit cash, a check, or transfer money from another bank account if you already have one.

If you are opening the account online instead of in a branch, you will still need the same ID and Social Security number. Chase will ask you to verify your identity by answering security questions or confirming recent transactions on accounts linked to your Social Security number.

Chase First Banking for people under 18

A parent or legal guardian opens this account jointly with you. The parent is the primary account holder and can see all transactions, set spending limits, and manage the account. You get a debit card and online access, so you can practice using banking tools while your parent oversees the account.

Chase First Banking has no monthly fee and no minimum balance requirement. The parent can set daily spending limits on the debit card, which helps teach money management without risk. The account converts to a standard Chase checking account when you turn 18, though you and your parent can decide together whether to keep it joint or make it yours alone.

To open Chase First Banking, the parent needs their own valid ID, Social Security number, and an initial deposit. Both the parent and the minor must be present in the branch, or the parent can open it online if Chase's system allows it in your state.

What happens if you do not have a Social Security number

Chase requires a Social Security number to open any account. If you are a non-citizen or do not yet have one, you cannot open a Chase checking account under current policy. Some banks offer accounts for people without a Social Security number using an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN), but Chase does not.

If you are working toward getting a Social Security number, you can explore through the Social Security Administration. The process takes a few weeks. Once you have the number, you can return to Chase and open an account.

Opening an account online versus in a branch

Opening online is faster — you can complete the process in 10 to 15 minutes from home. Chase will verify your identity using information from your credit file or by asking security questions. Your account opens when ready, and you can use it right away, though your debit card arrives by mail in 7 to 10 business days.

Opening in a branch takes longer (30 to 45 minutes) but gives you a chance to ask questions and get help if something is unclear. You can get a temporary debit card on the spot in some branches, so you do not have to wait for the card to arrive by mail. A branch representative can also explain the different account types and help you choose the right one for your situation.

Different Chase checking accounts and their requirements

Chase offers several checking accounts, and all require you to be 18 (or under 18 with a parent for First Banking). The most common is Chase Total Checking, which has no monthly fee if you keep a minimum balance or set up direct deposit. Chase find Banking is for people rebuilding their banking history — it has a monthly fee but no credit check.

Each account comes with a debit card, online banking, and mobile app access. The differences are mainly in fees, minimum balance requirements, and whether you get interest on your balance. When you open your account, the banker or online form will walk you through which account fits your needs.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I open a Chase account if I am 17?

No, you must be 18 to open a standard checking account. If you are 17, ask a parent or guardian to open a Chase First Banking account with you. You will have full debit card access and can manage money while they supervise.

Do I need a credit card to open a checking account?

No. A checking account and a credit card are separate products. You do not need a credit card to open a checking account, and Chase will not check your credit score when you open one.

What if I do not have a driver's license or passport?

A state ID card works just as well as a driver's license. If you do not have any government photo ID, you can get a state ID card from your local Department of Motor Vehicles. Bring your birth certificate and Social Security card to explore.

Can I open a Chase account with just my parents' information?

No, you cannot open an account using only your parent's name and ID. If you are under 18, your parent must open First Banking with you as a joint holder. If you are 18 or older, you open the account in your own name.

How long does it take to open a Chase checking account?

Online accounts open in minutes, though your debit card arrives by mail in about a week. In-branch accounts take 30 to 45 minutes, and you may get a temporary card the same day. You can use your account for transfers and bill pay when ready, even before your physical card arrives.