Yes, you can open a joint checking account online at Chase, but you'll need both account holders present and verified during the process

Chase allows you to start a joint checking account entirely online through their website or mobile app. Both people on the account must be present at the same time to complete the setup — you cannot open it alone and add someone later. The process takes about 15 minutes if you have the required documents ready, and the account is usually active within one business day.

The catch is that Chase requires real-time verification of both account holders. This means you'll answer security questions, provide a government-issued ID, and in some cases allow Chase to check your credit report. If either person fails verification, the account won't open and you'll need to try again or visit a branch in person.

Key Takeaways

  • Both account holders must be present online at the same time and complete identity verification before the account opens.
  • You'll need a government-issued ID (driver's license, passport, or state ID) for each person and a Social Security number.
  • Chase checks ChexSystems (a banking history database) and may check your credit report, which can affect your credit score slightly.
  • If either person has a closed Chase account or negative banking history, the process may be denied even if you meet other requirements.
  • The account becomes active within one business day, and you can set up direct deposit and transfers when ready after approval.

What you need before you start

Gather these items for both account holders before you begin: a valid government-issued photo ID (driver's license, passport, or state ID card), a Social Security number, and a current mailing address. Chase will verify the address you provide against public records, so make sure it matches what's on file with the post office or your state ID.

You'll also need to decide on the account type. Chase offers several joint checking options — the most common are Chase Total Checking (which has a monthly fee waived if you meet deposit or direct deposit requirements) and Chase find Banking (designed for people with banking history issues). The features and fees differ, so review both before you start the process.

The step-by-step online process

Go to Chase.com or open the Chase Mobile app and select "Open an Account." Choose "Checking" and then "Joint Account." You'll be asked to enter the primary account holder's information first — name, date of birth, address, phone number, and Social Security number. Chase will then ask you to verify your identity by answering security questions based on your credit history.

Next, the second account holder logs in or is added to the session. They'll go through the same identity verification process. This is where the process often stalls — if Chase cannot verify the second person's identity through its automated system, you'll be asked to upload a photo of their ID or call a verification specialist. Once both people are verified, you'll review the account agreement, choose your account type, and set an initial deposit amount (Chase requires a minimum opening deposit, which varies by account type but is typically $25).

After you submit, Chase sends a confirmation email to both account holders. The account is usually active within one business day. You can check the status by logging into your Chase account online.

What happens if verification fails

If Chase's automated system cannot verify either account holder, you'll receive a message asking you to upload a government-issued ID photo or call Chase at the number provided. Do not ignore this — the process will not move forward without it. You have 30 days to complete verification before Chase closes the process.

If either person has been flagged in ChexSystems (a database of banking problems like unpaid overdrafts or fraud), Chase may deny the process outright. You can request a copy of your ChexSystems report for free at www.chexsystems.com and dispute any errors before reapplying. If the denial is final, you can visit a Chase branch in person and speak to a banker about alternative account options.

Fees and minimum balance requirements

Chase Total Checking charges a $12 monthly service fee, but it's waived if you maintain a $500 minimum daily balance, set up direct deposit, or have a Chase credit card with an active balance. Chase find Banking has no monthly fee but comes with a debit card that has daily spending limits and no overdraft protection.

Both accounts allow unlimited debit card transactions and check writing. Neither account earns interest on the balance. If you fall below the minimum balance or fail to meet the fee waiver requirements, the monthly fee applies to both account holders — it's not split.

After the account opens: what's next

Once the account is active, both account holders can log in separately using their own usernames and passwords. You can set up direct deposit, transfer money from another bank, and order checks when ready. Chase typically mails debit cards within 5 to 7 business days; you can request expedited shipping for a fee.

Both account holders have full access to the account and can withdraw, transfer, or close it without the other person's permission. If you want to restrict one person's access or set spending limits, you'll need to visit a Chase branch in person — these controls are not available online.

Alternatives if online opening doesn't work

If the online process fails or you prefer to speak with someone, visit a Chase branch with both account holders present. Bring government-issued IDs and Social Security numbers. A banker can open the account on the spot, and you'll walk out with temporary debit cards. This route takes about 30 minutes and avoids the automated verification step, though the account still won't be fully active until the next business day.

If you don't have a Chase branch nearby, you can call Chase at 1-800-935-9935 and ask to open a joint account by phone. A representative will walk you through the same verification process as the online process, and both account holders must be on the call.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can we open a joint account if one of us doesn't have a Social Security number?

No. Chase requires a Social Security number for both account holders. If one person has an ITIN (Individual Taxpayer Identification Number) instead, you'll need to visit a branch in person and speak to a manager — some branches can work around this, but it's not may provide.

What if one person is not a U.S. citizen?

Chase can open a joint account for non-citizens if they have a valid passport, visa, and Social Security number or ITIN. The online process may flag non-U.S. addresses, so visiting a branch is often faster. Bring the passport and visa with you.

Can we open the account if one person is under 18?

No. Both account holders must be at least 18 years old. If you want an account for a minor, Chase offers custodial accounts where a parent or guardian controls the account until the child turns 18.

How long does it take to get debit cards?

Chase mails debit cards within 5 to 7 business days. You can use the account and transfer money before the cards arrive. If you need a card faster, visit a branch and ask for a temporary card, which you can use when ready.

What if we want to remove one person from the account later?

You'll need to visit a Chase branch in person. Call 1-800-935-9935 first to ask what documents you need. Generally, both account holders must be present, or the remaining account holder must bring a notarized letter from the other person authorizing the removal.