Yes, you can open a Chase business checking account entirely online
Chase lets you start a business checking account from your computer or phone without visiting a branch. The process takes about 15 to 20 minutes, and you'll have an account number the same day. You'll need your Social Security number or EIN (Employer Identification Number), a valid ID, and basic information about your business.
The online path is faster than going to a branch, but Chase does verify your identity during signup. If something doesn't match their records, they may ask you to come in person or provide additional documents. Most people complete the whole process without that extra step.
Key Takeaways
- You can open a Chase business checking account online using a computer or mobile app, and you'll receive an account number when ready.
- You'll need your Social Security number or EIN, a government-issued ID, and your business's legal name and address to start.
- Chase verifies your identity during signup, which usually takes a few minutes, but may occasionally require you to visit a branch or submit documents.
- Monthly fees vary by account type, and some accounts waive fees if you maintain a minimum balance or set up direct deposit.
- Your debit card and checks arrive by mail within 7 to 10 business days after your account opens.
What you need before you start
Gather these items before opening your account. You'll need a government-issued photo ID (driver's license, passport, or state ID card), your Social Security number or EIN, and your business's legal name exactly as it appears on your formation documents. Have your business address and phone number ready too.
If your business is a sole proprietorship, Chase uses your personal Social Security number. If you've formed an LLC, S-corp, or C-corp, you'll need your EIN instead. You can get an EIN from the IRS website for free, and it takes about 15 minutes to receive one online.
You'll also need to decide which Chase business checking account type fits your needs. Chase offers several versions with different fee structures and features — some waive monthly fees if you keep a certain balance, others if you set up direct deposit. Review the current options on Chase's website before you start, since the offerings change.
The step-by-step process
Go to Chase.com and select "Open an account" from the business banking section. Choose "Business Checking" and then select the account type you want. Chase will ask you to enter your email address and create a password — this becomes your online banking login.
Next, you'll enter your business information: legal business name, business type (sole proprietorship, LLC, corporation, etc.), and your business address. Then you'll provide your personal information: full name, date of birth, Social Security number or EIN, and a phone number.
Chase will ask you to verify your identity by uploading a photo of your ID. Take a clear photo of the front and back of your driver's license, passport, or state ID. The upload usually takes less than a minute. Chase's system checks your photo against your ID automatically.
After identity verification, you'll review the account terms and sign the account agreement electronically. Once you submit, Chase assigns you an account number when ready. You can log into online banking right away, though your account won't be fully active for transfers until the next business day.
What happens if Chase needs more information
Sometimes Chase's identity verification system flags your process for manual review. This happens when information doesn't match their records exactly — a middle initial difference, an address that recently changed, or a name variation. When this occurs, Chase sends you an email or calls the phone number you provided.
They may ask you to upload additional documents, such as a business license, articles of incorporation, or an IRS letter confirming your EIN. You can upload these through your online account or email them to the address Chase provides. This step usually adds 1 to 3 business days to the process.
In rare cases, Chase asks you to visit a branch in person with your ID and business documents. This happens most often with newer businesses or when the business address doesn't match standard records. If this is required, Chase will tell you which branch to visit and what to bring.
When your account is ready to use
Your account number appears when ready after you complete the online signup. You can log into Chase online banking and mobile app right away to see your account details. However, you cannot make transfers or deposits until the next business day — Chase holds new accounts for one business day as a security measure.
Your debit card and checks arrive by mail within 7 to 10 business days. If you need to deposit money before your card arrives, you can use mobile check deposit through the Chase app or visit a Chase branch to deposit cash or checks at a teller.
Some Chase business accounts come with a temporary debit card number you can use online when ready while you wait for the physical card. Check your account details or call the number on your welcome email to see if yours includes this feature.
Monthly fees and ways to avoid them
Chase business checking accounts have monthly maintenance fees that vary by account type. The fee is usually between $10 and $15 per month, though some accounts charge nothing. Chase waives the fee if you meet one of these conditions: maintain a minimum daily balance (often $1,500 to $2,500), set up direct deposit, or maintain a certain number of transactions per month.
Review the fee schedule for the specific account you chose before you open it. The information appears on Chase's website under each account type. If you don't meet the waiver conditions, you'll see the fee charged on your statement each month.
Some business owners open a Chase savings account at the same time to meet balance requirements across both accounts combined. Ask Chase whether balances in linked accounts count toward the minimum.
After your account opens: next steps
Once your account is active, set up online bill pay if you plan to pay vendors or contractors electronically. You can do this through Chase online banking — it's free and takes a few minutes to add payees.
If you have employees, you can set up payroll through Chase or use a third-party payroll service that connects to your Chase account. Chase also offers merchant services if you want to accept credit card payments from customers.
read the Chase mobile app to your phone so you can check your balance, deposit checks by photo, and transfer money on the go. The app is free and syncs with your online banking login.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I open a Chase business checking account if I don't have an EIN yet?
Yes. If you're a sole proprietor, Chase uses your Social Security number instead. If you've formed an LLC or corporation but haven't received your EIN yet, you can request one from the IRS online and receive it within 15 minutes, then use it during signup. You can also call Chase after opening your account to update your EIN once you receive it.
What if I'm opening an account for a business that's not yet registered with the state?
Chase may ask for proof that your business exists, such as a business license, DBA (Doing Business As) certificate, or articles of incorporation. If you haven't registered yet, you can still open the account, but Chase may request documentation during verification. Contact your state's Secretary of State office to learn how to register your business name before you explore.
Do I need to visit a branch at all, or is it completely online?
Most people complete the entire process online without visiting a branch. Chase only asks you to come in person if their identity verification system cannot confirm your information electronically. If that happens, they'll contact you and tell you which branch to visit and what documents to bring.
How long does it take to get my debit card and checks?
Debit cards and checks arrive by mail within 7 to 10 business days after your account opens. You can deposit money and make transfers before they arrive using mobile check deposit or by visiting a Chase branch. Some accounts include a temporary debit card number for online purchases while you wait.
Can I transfer money from my personal Chase account to my new business account right away?
You can set up the transfer when ready after opening your account, but it won't process until the next business day. Chase holds all new accounts for one business day before allowing transfers as a security measure. After that, transfers between your personal and business accounts are when ready.