You can open a Chase account in about 10 minutes online, or visit a branch in person with an ID and initial deposit
Chase offers two main paths: opening online through their website or mobile app, which takes the shortest time and requires minimal information upfront, or walking into a branch with a government-issued ID and money to deposit. Online accounts open when ready and you can use them the same day. In-person accounts also open the same day, but you'll need to bring physical documents and cash or a check.
The online route works for most people. You'll need a Social Security number, a valid ID, your current address, and a way to fund the account—either a debit card, bank transfer, or wire. In-person, you bring those same documents plus the cash or check you want to deposit. Either way, Chase will ask you to choose an account type before you start, because different accounts have different fees and minimum balances.
Key Takeaways
- Online account opening takes 10 minutes and works on Chase's website or mobile app, with your account active the same day.
- In-person opening requires a government ID, proof of address, and an initial deposit, but a banker can answer questions about which account fits your needs.
- Chase offers checking accounts, savings accounts, and money market accounts, each with different monthly fees and minimum balance requirements.
- You'll need a Social Security number for any account, and Chase will verify your identity before the account goes live.
Opening a Chase Account Online
Start at chase.com or open the Chase mobile app. Click "Open an Account" or the equivalent button on the home page. You'll be asked to choose your account type first—checking, savings, or money market—because the next steps depend on which one you pick. Read the fee schedule for each before you choose, because some accounts have monthly maintenance fees and others don't.
Enter your Social Security number, date of birth, and current address. Chase will run a soft credit check and verify your identity using information from your credit file. This is not a hard inquiry and won't affect your credit score. You'll then choose how to fund the account: link a debit card, provide bank account details for a transfer, or arrange a wire. Most people link a debit card because it's the fastest.
Review the account terms, sign the electronic agreement, and submit. Your account opens when ready. You can log in right away, set up a PIN, and order a debit card. The card usually arrives in 7 to 10 business days. If you need cash before then, you can withdraw from any Chase ATM using your temporary digital card number in the app.
Opening a Chase Account at a Branch
Find your nearest Chase branch using the branch locator on chase.com. Bring a government-issued photo ID (driver's license, passport, or state ID), proof of your current address (a utility bill, lease, or bank statement dated within the last 60 days), and the money you want to deposit. You don't need an appointment, though calling ahead during busy times can save you a wait.
Tell the banker you want to open an account. They'll ask which type—checking, savings, or money market—and explain the fees and features of each. This is the main advantage of opening in person: a banker can answer questions about overdraft protection, linked accounts, and which account matches your spending habits. They'll take your information, run the same identity verification Chase does online, and process your deposit.
Your account opens the same day. The banker will give you a temporary debit card or card number you can use when ready, and your permanent card arrives in 7 to 10 business days. You'll also receive login credentials so you can access your account online or through the app.
What Information Chase Needs From You
Chase requires your full legal name, date of birth, Social Security number, and current residential address. If you've moved in the last 30 days, have your previous address ready—Chase may ask for it. You'll also need to provide a phone number and email address for account notifications and password recovery.
For the identity verification step, Chase uses information from credit bureaus and public records to confirm you are who you say you are. This usually takes seconds. If there's a mismatch—for example, if your name on file differs from your ID—the banker or online system will ask follow-up questions. Having your Social Security card or a tax document with your SSN on it can speed this up if there's any delay.
Initial Deposit Requirements and Account Types
Chase does not require a minimum opening deposit for most checking accounts, though some savings and money market accounts do. Check the specific account terms before you open, because requirements vary. If you're opening online, you can fund with as little as $1 to get your free guide, then add more later. In person, bring whatever you plan to deposit—there's no maximum.
Chase's most common accounts are Chase Total Checking (no monthly fee if you set up direct deposit or maintain a minimum balance), Chase Savings (has a monthly fee unless you meet balance requirements), and Chase Money Market Account (higher interest rate, but requires a larger minimum balance). Each has different rules about overdraft fees, ATM access, and interest earned. The banker or online comparison tool can show you the current fees and features for each.
Timeline From Start to Using Your Account
Online opening is fastest: your account is active within minutes, and you can use it when ready through the app or online banking. Your physical debit card arrives in 7 to 10 business days. If you need cash before the card arrives, use your temporary digital card number in the Chase app at any Chase ATM or any ATM in the MoneyPass network.
In-person opening also completes the same day. You'll leave the branch with a temporary card or card number and can start using your account right away. Your permanent debit card arrives in the same 7 to 10 business day window. If you need checks, you can order them through your online account or ask the banker to order them for you.
What Happens After Your Account Opens
Once your account is open, log into Chase.com or the mobile app to set up your security preferences. Create a strong password, enable two-factor authentication if you want extra security, and set up alerts for large transactions or low balances. You can also link external bank accounts if you want to transfer money between Chase and other banks.
If you set up direct deposit, your employer can start sending paychecks to your new Chase account. You'll need your account number and routing number, both visible in the app or on your first statement. If you have questions about fees, overdraft protection, or linked savings accounts, you can call Chase customer service at the number on the back of your debit card or chat through the app.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I open a Chase account if I don't have a Social Security number?
No. Chase requires a Social Security number to open any account. If you don't have one, you'll need to obtain one from the Social Security Administration before you can open an account. Some banks offer accounts for non-citizens with an ITIN (Individual Taxpayer Identification Number), but Chase does not.
What if I don't have a government ID?
You can still open an account online if you have a Social Security number and can verify your identity through Chase's credit file check. In person, you need a government-issued photo ID. If you don't have one, you can get a state ID from your local DMV—it doesn't require a driver's license.
How long does it take to receive my debit card?
Physical debit cards arrive in 7 to 10 business days. You can use a temporary digital card number in the Chase app when ready after opening, so you don't have to wait to access your money. If you need a card faster, some branches can issue a temporary card in person.
Can I open multiple Chase accounts?
Yes. You can open a checking account, savings account, and money market account all under your name. Some people open multiple checking accounts to separate spending categories or to take advantage of different bonus offers. There's no limit to how many accounts you can have.
What if I make a mistake during the online opening process?
If you submit incorrect information, contact Chase customer service through the app or call the number on your account statement. They can correct most details like address or phone number. If there's a serious error like a wrong Social Security number, you may need to close the account and open a new one.