What you need before you start

Chase requires a government-issued photo ID, your Social Security number, and a way to verify your address before you can open an account. You'll also need an initial deposit — the amount varies by account type, but many Chase checking accounts have no minimum. You can open an account online, on the Chase mobile app, or in person at a branch.

The process takes about 10 to 15 minutes online or on the app. If you open in a branch, bring your ID and Social Security card or a document with your SSN on it. Chase will ask for your current address and a phone number where they can reach you.

If you don't have a Social Security number, Chase offers accounts for non-U.S. residents using an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) instead, though availability varies by state. Call 1-800-935-9935 to confirm whether your state offers this option.

Key Takeaways

  • You need a government photo ID, Social Security number, and proof of address to open any Chase account.
  • Most Chase checking accounts have no minimum deposit requirement, but savings accounts and money market accounts do.
  • Opening online or through the mobile app takes 10 to 15 minutes and funds the account when ready.
  • Chase will verify your identity by checking your credit report and cross-referencing your personal information against their database.
  • If you're denied, you can ask why and may be able to reopen an account after 90 days.

Opening an account online or through the Chase app

Go to chase.com or open the Chase mobile app and select "Open an account." You'll choose the account type — checking, savings, money market, or a combination. Chase will ask for your full name, date of birth, Social Security number, and current address.

Next, you'll verify your identity. Chase checks your credit report and compares the information you entered against their database. This takes a few minutes. If everything matches, you'll see a confirmation screen with your new account number and routing number.

You can then set up a username and password to access your account online. If you opened through the app, you're already logged in. Your debit card will arrive in 7 to 10 business days. You can use your account number and routing number to set up direct deposit or transfers before the card arrives.

Opening an account in a Chase branch

Walk into any Chase branch with your photo ID and ask to open an account. A banker will walk you through the same questions asked online: name, date of birth, Social Security number, and address. Bring a utility bill, lease, or mortgage statement if you have one — Chase may ask to see proof of your address, though they can also mail a verification letter if you don't have it with you.

The banker will run the same identity verification check. If you pass, they'll print your new account number and routing number on the spot. You can make your initial deposit at the teller window right then. Your debit card will be ordered and arrive in 7 to 10 business days, or you can request an expedited card for a fee.

Ask the banker for a temporary debit card number if you need to use your account when ready — some branches can issue this on the same day, though it's not may provide at every location.

What happens if Chase denies you

Chase uses ChexSystems, a banking history database, to check whether you've had problems with previous accounts. If you've had an account closed for overdrafts, fraud, or other issues, Chase may deny you. You'll receive a letter explaining the reason.

You can dispute the information in ChexSystems by contacting them directly at 1-800-428-9623 or through their website. If the information is wrong, ChexSystems will correct it and notify Chase. If the information is correct, you can reopen a Chase account after 90 days have passed since the denial.

Some people denied by Chase open accounts at banks with less strict policies first — like online banks or credit unions — and then move to Chase after their ChexSystems record improves.

Initial deposit and funding your account

Most Chase checking accounts have no minimum deposit. Savings accounts typically require $25 to $300 depending on the account type. Money market accounts usually require $2,500 or more. You can fund your account with a debit card, transfer from another bank account, or cash at a branch.

If you transfer from another bank, the money usually arrives in 1 to 3 business days. If you deposit cash at a branch, it posts when ready. If you use a debit card online, the charge appears on your card statement within one business day, but the funds may take 3 to 5 business days to settle in your Chase account.

You don't have to make a deposit on the day you open the account. You can open the account and fund it later, as long as you do so within a reasonable time frame — Chase doesn't specify an exact important date, but waiting months may trigger account closure.

Setting up online and mobile banking

Once your account is open, you'll receive a username and password. Log into chase.com or the Chase mobile app using these credentials. You can then set up bill pay, transfers between accounts, and alerts for low balances or large transactions.

Chase offers two-factor authentication for security — you can choose to receive a code by text or through the mobile app each time you log in from a new device. This is optional but recommended. You can also set up a fingerprint or face ID login on the mobile app.

If you set up direct deposit, provide your employer with your account number and routing number. Direct deposits typically post on the same day they're sent, or one business day later depending on your employer's timing.

Account types and what they cost

Chase offers several checking and savings account types, each with different features and fees. Chase Total Checking has no monthly fee if you maintain a $500 minimum balance or set up direct deposit. Chase Premier Checking requires a higher balance but offers higher interest rates and waived fees at other banks' ATMs.

Chase savings accounts earn interest, but the rate is low — typically 0.01% APY or less. Chase Money Market accounts offer slightly higher rates in exchange for a larger minimum balance and limits on how often you can withdraw.

All Chase accounts include access to over 4,700 Chase ATMs nationwide and 16,000 ATMs through the MoneyPass network. If you use an out-of-network ATM, Chase charges $2.50 per transaction, and the other bank may charge an additional fee.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I open a Chase account if I have bad credit?

Chase doesn't use your credit score to decide whether to open an account. They check ChexSystems, which tracks banking history, not credit history. Bad credit won't disqualify you, but a history of overdrafts, fraud, or closed accounts will.

How long does it take to get my debit card?

Standard delivery takes 7 to 10 business days. Some branches offer expedited cards for a fee, usually $15 to $25, which arrive in 2 to 3 business days. You can use your account number and routing number to set up transfers or direct deposit before the card arrives.

What if I don't have a Social Security number?

Chase accepts an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) for non-U.S. residents in some states. Call 1-800-935-9935 to confirm whether your state offers this option. You'll still need a government photo ID and proof of address.

Can I open an account for someone else?

No. The person opening the account must be present and provide their own ID and Social Security number. Parents can open custodial accounts for minors, but the minor's name and SSN must be on the account.

What's the difference between Chase checking and savings accounts?

Checking accounts are for frequent deposits and withdrawals — you get a debit card and can write checks. Savings accounts earn interest but limit how often you can withdraw. Most people use checking for everyday spending and savings for money they want to keep separate.