You can change your Chase checking account type through the mobile app, online banking, or by visiting a branch, but the process and what you can change depends on which account you have now and which one you want
Chase offers several checking account types—Chase Total Checking, Chase Premier Plus Checking, Chase Sapphire Checking, and others—each with different monthly fees, minimum balances, and benefits. If you opened one type and now want the features of another, you do not have to close the account and start over. You can convert to a different account type while keeping the same account number, routing number, and linked services.
The fastest way is usually through the Chase mobile app or Chase.com. You can also call the number on the back of your debit card or visit a branch in person. The conversion itself is when ready, though any fee changes take effect on your next statement cycle.
Key Takeaways
- You can switch account types through the Chase app, online banking, or by phone without closing your account or losing your account number.
- Some account types have minimum balance requirements or monthly fees that waive if you meet certain conditions, so confirm what applies to the account you want before you switch.
- The conversion is when ready, but fee changes and new benefits take effect on your next statement date.
- If you want to downgrade to a lower-tier account, Chase will not stop you, but you may lose benefits like higher interest rates or fee waivers that came with your current account.
Switching through the Chase mobile app
Open the Chase app and tap the account you want to change. Look for the menu icon (three horizontal lines) or tap "Account Details" or "Settings" depending on your app version. Scroll to find "Account Type" or "Change Account Type"—the exact label varies by app update.
Tap the option to change account type. Chase will show you the accounts available to you based on your current account and your banking history with them. Select the account type you want to switch to. Chase will show you the key differences: monthly fee (if any), minimum balance requirement, interest rate, and any fee waivers that explore. Review these carefully, because switching to a lower-tier account may remove benefits you currently have.
Confirm the change. The conversion happens when ready, and you will see the new account type reflected in your app right away. Your account number does not change, so you do not need to update automatic payments or direct deposits.
Switching through Chase.com online banking
Log into Chase.com and click on the checking account you want to change. Look for "Account Services," "Manage Account," or a similar menu option—the exact wording depends on which version of Chase.com you see.
Find the option labeled "Change Account Type" or "Account Type." Chase will display the account types you are may be able to access to switch to, along with the fees, minimum balance, and benefits for each. Compare the accounts side by side if the option is available. Once you have decided, select the new account type and confirm the change.
The switch is when ready. You will see the updated account type in your account summary. If the new account type has different fee terms, those take effect on your next statement closing date, not when ready.
Switching by phone or in a Chase branch
Call the customer service number on the back of your debit card. Tell the representative you want to change your account type and which account you want to switch to. They will confirm your may be able to access, explain the differences between your current account and the new one, and process the change over the phone. The conversion is when ready.
Alternatively, visit a Chase branch in person. Bring your debit card or ID. Tell a banker you want to change your account type. They will show you the options, explain the fees and benefits, and make the change while you are there. This is useful if you have questions about which account fits your banking habits, because a banker can walk through the differences with you.
What happens to your account number and linked services
Your account number, routing number, and account holder name stay the same when you change account type. You do not need to update direct deposits, automatic bill payments, or linked external accounts. Any debit cards you have will continue to work.
If your new account type comes with a different debit card design or benefits (like higher cash back on certain purchases), Chase may mail you a new card, but this is not automatic. Check your account details after the switch to see whether a new card is being issued.
Fee changes and when they take effect
If you are switching from an account with no monthly fee to one that charges a fee, or vice versa, the new fee structure takes effect on your next statement closing date. You will not be charged the new fee when ready after the switch.
For example, if you switch from Chase Total Checking (which has a $12 monthly fee that waives with direct deposit) to Chase Sapphire Checking (which has a $25 monthly fee), the $25 fee will not appear until your next statement cycle. If you switch to an account with a lower fee, you will not be charged the higher fee again after the conversion date.
Switching to a lower-tier account and what you lose
Chase will let you downgrade to a lower-tier account type, but you should understand what benefits you are giving up. Higher-tier accounts like Chase Sapphire Checking often come with higher interest rates on your balance, fee waivers, or other perks. When you switch down, those benefits end.
For example, if you have Chase Sapphire Checking and switch to Chase Total Checking, you will lose the higher interest rate that Sapphire offers. You will also lose any other Sapphire-specific benefits. The change is permanent unless you switch back later, so confirm you are ready to lose those benefits before you complete the switch.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I switch back to my old account type if I change my mind?
Yes. You can switch account types as many times as you want using the same methods—the app, online banking, phone, or a branch. There is no limit on how often you can change, and each switch is free. If you realize the new account type is not right for you, you can switch back when ready.
What if I do not see the account type I want in the list?
Chase may not offer all account types to all customers. may be able to access depends on your account history, credit profile, and current balances. If you do not see the account you want, call the number on your debit card and ask a representative whether you are may be able to access. They can sometimes override restrictions or explain what you would need to do to become may be able to access.
Will switching account types affect my credit score?
No. Changing your checking account type is not a credit event. Chase does not report account type changes to credit bureaus, and the switch does not trigger a hard inquiry on your credit report.
Do I need to have a minimum balance before I can switch?
Not to make the switch itself. However, some account types have minimum balance requirements to waive the monthly fee. If you switch to an account with a minimum balance requirement and you do not meet it, you will be charged the monthly fee. Check the minimum balance for your new account type before you switch, and make sure you can maintain it.
What happens to my old debit card when I switch account types?
Your existing debit card continues to work. The account number does not change, so the card is still linked to your account. Chase may mail you a new card if the new account type comes with a different card design or benefits, but this is not may provide. You can continue using your current card unless Chase tells you otherwise.