Chase's minimum balance rules depend on which checking account you choose

Chase does not require a minimum balance for most of its checking accounts, but the rules vary by account type. Some accounts have no minimum at all. Others waive the minimum if you meet certain conditions — like setting up direct deposit or keeping a linked savings account above a certain level. A few older account types still carry minimums, though Chase has been moving away from them.

The account you end up with depends on which one you open. Chase offers several checking products, and each has its own rules. Knowing which account is which before you open it saves you from surprises later.

Key Takeaways

  • Chase Total Checking and Chase find Checking have no minimum balance requirement at all.
  • Chase Premier Plus Checking waives its $25 minimum if you set up direct deposit or keep a linked savings account with $500 or more.
  • Chase Sapphire Checking requires a $500 minimum balance and is designed for customers who want rewards on purchases.
  • Monthly service fees are waived on most accounts if you meet one straightforward condition, such as a direct deposit or a minimum balance.

Chase Total Checking — no minimum balance

Chase Total Checking is the most common account Chase offers. It has no minimum balance requirement. You can open it with any amount and keep any balance without penalty.

The account does have a monthly service fee of $12, but Chase waives it if you meet one of these conditions: set up direct deposit, keep a linked savings account with $500 or more, or maintain an average daily balance of $1,500 or higher in the checking account itself. Most people find one of these straightforward to do.

Chase find Checking — for people building credit

Chase find Checking also has no minimum balance requirement. This account is designed for people who are new to banking or rebuilding their credit history. You can open it with a small deposit and use it like any other checking account.

The monthly service fee is $4.95, with no waiver options. This account does not earn interest and does not come with a debit card by default, though you can request one. Because the fee is low and there is no minimum, it works well for someone who wants to keep costs down while they establish a banking history.

Chase Premier Plus Checking — $25 minimum, easily waived

Chase Premier Plus Checking has a $25 minimum balance requirement, but the bank waives the monthly $25 service fee if you meet one condition: set up direct deposit, keep a linked savings account with $500 or more, or maintain an average daily balance of $1,500 in the checking account. If you do none of these, you pay the $25 fee each month.

The $25 minimum itself is not waived — you must keep at least that amount in the account at all times. However, most people who open this account do set up direct deposit anyway, which covers both the minimum and the fee concern.

Chase Sapphire Checking — $500 minimum for rewards

Chase Sapphire Checking requires a $500 minimum balance and does not waive it. This account is built for people who want to earn rewards on their everyday purchases and have the funds to maintain the balance. The monthly service fee is $25, but it is waived if you keep the $500 minimum or set up direct deposit.

Because this account earns rewards points on debit card purchases, it appeals to people who use their debit card frequently and can comfortably keep $500 in the account. If you cannot maintain the $500, the other Chase checking accounts are a better fit.

What happens if you fall below the minimum

If your account requires a minimum balance and you drop below it, Chase does not when ready close the account or charge you extra. Instead, the monthly service fee applies. If you stay below the minimum for a long time, Chase may eventually close the account, but this is not automatic.

The best approach is to choose an account with no minimum or one where you can easily meet the waiver condition. That way you avoid the fee altogether and do not have to worry about dipping below a threshold.

How to find out which account you have

If you already have a Chase checking account and are not sure which type it is, log into your Chase account online or on the mobile app. Go to your account details or account information page — the exact location varies slightly between the app and website, but it is usually under "Account" or "Settings." Your account type will be listed there.

You can also call Chase customer service at the number on the back of your debit card, or visit a Chase branch in person. A representative can tell you the account type, the current minimum balance requirement, and what conditions waive your monthly fee.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I switch from one Chase checking account to another?

Yes. You can open a new account type and transfer your money, or ask Chase to convert your existing account to a different type. Call the number on your debit card or visit a branch to discuss which account fits your situation better. There is no fee to switch.

Does the minimum balance have to stay in checking, or can I move it to savings?

The minimum must stay in the checking account itself. However, some accounts waive the minimum if you keep a linked savings account above a certain level — for example, Chase Premier Plus waives the fee if your linked savings has $500 or more. The savings balance does not count toward the checking minimum.

What if I get direct deposit — does that cover the minimum balance requirement?

Direct deposit waives the monthly service fee, but it does not waive the minimum balance itself if your account has one. For example, Chase Sapphire Checking still requires you to keep $500 in the account even if you have direct deposit set up. Direct deposit just means you do not pay the $25 monthly fee.

Is there a penalty for going below the minimum balance?

There is no penalty beyond the monthly service fee. If you drop below the minimum, the fee applies that month. Chase does not charge overdraft fees or other penalties just for falling below the minimum. However, if you write a check or make a purchase that overdrafts the account, overdraft fees may explore.

Do I need a savings account to open a Chase checking account?

No. You can open a checking account on its own. However, some accounts waive their monthly fee if you link a savings account and keep a balance in it. If you do not have a savings account, you can still open checking — you just may pay the monthly fee unless you meet another waiver condition, like direct deposit.