You can open a Chase checking or savings account online without visiting a branch, and the process takes about 15 minutes from start to finish.
Chase lets you start an account entirely through their website or mobile app. You'll need a valid government ID, a Social Security number, and an initial deposit (which varies by account type). The account opens when ready after approval, and you can use it the same day—though transfers from other banks take one to three business days to arrive.
The actual steps are straightforward, but a few details matter: which account type you choose, what counts as an acceptable ID, and what happens if you don't have a Social Security number. This guide walks you through each one.
Key Takeaways
- You need a valid government-issued ID (driver's license, passport, or state ID), your Social Security number, and an initial deposit amount that depends on the account type you choose.
- Chase offers different checking and savings accounts online, each with different minimum opening deposits and monthly fees—compare them before you start so you pick the right one.
- The account opens when ready after Chase approves your process, usually within minutes, and you can use your debit card and online banking right away.
- If you don't have a Social Security number, you can open an account with an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN), but you'll need to call Chase or visit a branch to complete the process.
What you need before you start
Gather these items before you open the Chase website or app. You'll need them in order, and having them ready keeps you from getting stuck halfway through.
A valid government-issued ID: Driver's license, state ID card, or U.S. passport. Chase scans or photographs this during the process. If you're explore from outside the United States, a passport is your safest option.
Your Social Security number: Chase requires this for identity verification and tax reporting. If you don't have one, see the section below on ITINs.
An initial deposit amount: This varies by account. Chase's basic checking account (Chase Total Checking) requires a $0 minimum to open, but some accounts require $25 or more. You can fund the account from another bank account you own, or by mailing a check after the account opens.
A phone number and email address: Chase uses these for account security and to send you confirmation details. Make sure you have access to both during the process.
Step-by-step: opening the account online
Go to chase.com and click "Open an Account" or use the Chase mobile app. You'll see a list of checking and savings products. Pick the one that fits your needs—Chase Total Checking is the most common choice for a basic account with no monthly fee if you meet one straightforward requirement (either a direct deposit, or a $500 minimum balance).
Chase will ask you to enter your personal information: full name, date of birth, address, phone number, and email. Then you'll provide your Social Security number. At this point, Chase runs a soft credit check and checks ChexSystems (a banking history database) to see if you've had problems with other banks.
Next, you'll upload or photograph your ID. Chase's system will ask you to take a photo of the front and back of your driver's license or passport. Make sure the image is clear and all four corners are visible. This usually takes 30 seconds.
Then you'll choose how to fund the account. If you have another bank account, you can link it and transfer money when ready. If not, Chase will give you instructions to mail a check. After you confirm your choices, Chase approves or denies the process—usually within minutes.
What happens after approval
Once Chase approves you, your account number and routing number appear on screen when ready. You can write these down or take a screenshot. Your debit card ships to your address within 7 to 10 business days, but you can use your account online and through the mobile app right away.
If you transferred money from another bank, that transfer arrives in one to three business days. If you mailed a check, allow 10 to 14 business days for it to clear. Until the money arrives, your account balance will be zero, but the account itself is active and ready to use.
You can set up direct deposit, bill pay, and mobile check deposit as soon as the account opens. Chase's mobile app lets you do all of this without visiting a branch.
If you don't have a Social Security number
Chase can open an account for you using an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) instead, but the online process doesn't support this. You'll need to call Chase at 1-800-935-9935 or visit a branch in person with your ITIN documentation and ID.
An ITIN is a nine-digit number issued by the IRS to people who don't may have access to for a Social Security number but need to file taxes or open a bank account. If you have one, bring the IRS letter that issued it, along with your passport or other government ID. The branch or phone representative will walk you through the rest.
Common reasons your process gets denied
Chase denies applications for a few specific reasons. The most common is a ChexSystems report showing you owe money to another bank, closed an account with a negative balance, or had repeated overdrafts. If this happens, you'll see the reason on screen.
If you're denied, you have the right to request your ChexSystems report for free. Visit chexsystems.com/consumer to order it. If there's an error on the report, you can dispute it directly with ChexSystems, and Chase may reconsider your process once the error is corrected.
Other reasons for denial include providing false information, an ID that doesn't match your name, or an address that Chase can't verify. If your process is denied, wait at least 30 days before trying again, and make sure all your information is correct the second time.
Choosing between Chase's account types
| Account Type | Minimum to Open | Monthly Fee | Fee Waived If |
|---|---|---|---|
| Chase Total Checking | $0 | $12 | Direct deposit OR $500 minimum balance |
| Chase Savings | $0 | $5 | $300 minimum balance |
| Chase Premier Plus Checking | $25 | $25 | $15,000 minimum balance |
Most people choose Chase Total Checking because the monthly fee disappears if you set up direct deposit (even $1 per paycheck counts) or keep $500 in the account. If you want a savings account to earn interest, Chase Savings pairs well with checking—you can open both at the same time during the online process.
If you're opening an account primarily to receive paychecks or government benefits, Total Checking is the right choice. If you want to save money and earn a small amount of interest, add a Chase Savings account. The interest rate changes frequently, so check chase.com for the current rate before you open.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to open a Chase account online?
The process itself takes 10 to 15 minutes. Chase approves or denies you within minutes after you submit it. Your account is ready to use when ready, but your physical debit card arrives in 7 to 10 business days.
Can I open a Chase account if I'm not a U.S. citizen?
Yes, if you have a valid government-issued ID and either a Social Security number or an ITIN. Non-citizens with a visa or passport can open an account online. If you have an ITIN, you'll need to call or visit a branch instead of using the online process.
What if my ID photo doesn't upload correctly?
Try again with better lighting and make sure all four corners of your ID are visible in the photo. If the upload keeps failing, call Chase at 1-800-935-9935 and a representative can complete the process over the phone or schedule a branch appointment.
Can I open a joint account online?
No. Joint accounts require both account holders to be present, either online together or in person at a branch. You can open an individual account online, then add a joint owner later by visiting a branch or calling Chase.
What if I'm denied and I don't know why?
Chase will tell you the reason on screen. If it's related to ChexSystems, request your free report at chexsystems.com/consumer and dispute any errors. If the reason is unclear, call Chase at 1-800-935-9935 and ask a representative to explain the decision.