You can open most Chase accounts online in about 10 minutes using a computer or phone

Chase lets you open a checking or savings account from home without visiting a branch. You'll need a valid government ID, a Social Security number, and a way to fund the account (a debit card, another bank account, or a wire transfer). The process happens entirely on Chase's website or mobile app, and you can start using your account the same day or within one business day.

The account opens in your name when ready after you finish the online steps. Chase will send you a debit card by mail within 7 to 10 business days. Until it arrives, you can transfer money in and out using your account number, or use Chase's mobile app to deposit checks by taking a photo.

Key Takeaways

  • You need a valid government ID, Social Security number, and an initial deposit method before you start the online process.
  • Chase's website and mobile app both let you open an account in one session, usually taking 10 to 15 minutes.
  • Your account is active when ready, but your physical debit card arrives by mail in 7 to 10 business days.
  • You can deposit checks through the mobile app or transfer money from another bank account while you wait for your card.
  • If you already have a Chase account, opening a second one online follows the same steps but may be faster.

What you need before you start

Gather these items before you open your browser. You'll need a valid government-issued ID — a driver's license, state ID card, or passport. Chase will ask you to enter the ID number and expiration date. If you don't have a government ID, you'll need to visit a branch in person instead.

You'll also need your Social Security number. Chase uses this to check your identity and to report the account to credit bureaus. If you don't have a Social Security number, some Chase branches can help you open an account, but the online process won't work.

Finally, you need a way to fund the account with at least the minimum opening deposit. For most Chase checking accounts, that's $0 — you can open with no money and deposit later. For some savings accounts, Chase requires $25 or more. You can fund the account using a debit card from another bank, a wire transfer, or by transferring money from another bank account you own.

The step-by-step process on Chase's website

Go to chase.com and look for a button that says "Open an Account" or "get your free guide." This is usually near the top of the page. Click it, and Chase will ask you to choose the type of account you want — checking, savings, or both. Read the features of each one, because they have different monthly fees and interest rates.

Next, Chase asks for your personal information: your full name, date of birth, address, phone number, and email. Enter these exactly as they appear on your government ID. If your name on the ID is "Robert" but you go by "Bob," use "Robert" here — mismatches can slow down verification.

Chase then asks for your Social Security number and government ID details. Enter your ID number and the expiration date. Chase will verify this information in real time. If there's a problem, the website will tell you right away.

After that, you'll set up your login credentials: a username and a strong password. Chase requires passwords to be at least 8 characters long and include uppercase letters, lowercase letters, and numbers. Write this down somewhere safe, or use a password manager if you have one.

Finally, you'll choose how to fund the account. If you have a debit card from another bank, enter the card number, expiration date, and the three-digit security code on the back. If you want to transfer from another bank account instead, you'll enter the account number and routing number. Chase will verify the transfer within one to two business days.

What happens after you submit

Your account opens when ready. Chase will send you a confirmation email with your account number and routing number. Save this email or write down these numbers — you'll need them to set up direct deposit or to transfer money before your debit card arrives.

If you funded the account with a debit card, the money appears in your Chase account within one to three business days. If you transferred from another bank, it takes one to two business days. Wire transfers are faster — usually the same day or next business day.

Your physical debit card ships within 7 to 10 business days. You can track the shipment in the Chase mobile app or on the website. In the meantime, you can use your account number to receive direct deposits, set up bill pay, or transfer money online.

Using your account before the debit card arrives

You don't have to wait for the physical card to start using your account. The Chase mobile app lets you deposit checks by taking a photo of the front and back. This works for most personal checks, and the money usually appears within one business day.

You can also transfer money from another bank account you own. Log into the Chase website or app, go to "Transfer Money," and choose "Transfer from another bank." Chase will ask for the other bank's routing number and your account number there. The transfer takes one to two business days.

If someone wants to send you money, give them your Chase account number and routing number. You can find both in the app or on your confirmation email. Money sent this way usually arrives within one to two business days.

Common problems and how to fix them

If Chase says your ID information doesn't match, double-check that you entered it exactly as it appears on your ID. Spaces, hyphens, and abbreviations matter. If the problem continues, you can call Chase at the number on their website and ask them to verify you over the phone, or visit a branch in person.

If your initial deposit is declined, the most common reason is that you entered the debit card number or routing number wrong. Go back and check each digit. If the card or account is from a very new bank, Chase's system might not recognize it — in that case, try a wire transfer instead, or call Chase to ask about other options.

If you're not a U.S. citizen or don't have a Social Security number, the online process will stop. You'll need to visit a Chase branch in person. Bring your passport or other government ID and ask about accounts for non-citizens. Some branches can open accounts for people with an ITIN (Individual Taxpayer Identification Number) instead of a Social Security number.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I open a Chase account if I don't have a Social Security number?

The online process requires a Social Security number. If you have an ITIN or are a non-citizen, visit a Chase branch in person. Some branches can open accounts using an ITIN, but policies vary by location. Call ahead to confirm your branch can help.

How long does it take to get my debit card?

Chase ships debit cards within 7 to 10 business days. You can track the shipment in the mobile app. If your card doesn't arrive after 10 days, contact Chase through the app or call the number on your account statement.

Can I use my account before the debit card arrives?

Yes. You can deposit checks through the mobile app, transfer money from another bank account, or receive direct deposits using your account number and routing number. You just can't use the physical card at stores or ATMs until it arrives.

What if I already have a Chase account and want to open a second one?

The process is the same, but faster. Log into your existing Chase account, go to "Open an Account," and follow the steps. Chase already has your ID and Social Security number on file, so verification is quicker. You can open a second account in just a few minutes.

Do I have to make a minimum deposit to open a Chase account?

Most Chase checking accounts have no minimum opening deposit. Some savings accounts require $25 or more. Check the account details before you start the online process to see what applies to the account you want.