What you need to open a Chase savings account

You can open a Chase savings account in person at a branch, online through Chase's website, or by phone. Most people find the online route fastest — it takes about 10 minutes and you can fund the account when ready. You will need a government-issued photo ID (a driver's license, passport, or state ID card), your Social Security number, and an initial deposit.

The initial deposit amount depends on which savings product you choose. Chase offers several types of savings accounts with different minimum opening deposits. Some accounts require $25 to open; others require $300 or more. Chase's website shows the current minimum for each account type when you start the process, so you will know the exact amount before you commit.

If you do not have a government ID yet, you can still open an account in person at a branch by bringing alternative documents — a passport card, tribal ID, or military ID all work. A branch representative can tell you what documents they will accept if you call ahead.

Key Takeaways

  • You can open a Chase savings account online in about 10 minutes using a photo ID, Social Security number, and an initial deposit.
  • The minimum opening deposit varies by account type, from $25 to $300 or more, and Chase shows you the exact amount before you open the account.
  • Opening online is usually fastest, but you can also open in person at a Chase branch or by phone if that works better for you.
  • After opening, you can deposit money through mobile check deposit, transfers from another bank, or in-person at a branch.
  • Chase savings accounts earn interest, though the rate changes and is typically lower than some online banks offer.

Opening an account online

Go to Chase.com and look for the "Open an Account" or "Savings" section. You will be asked to enter your personal information: full name, date of birth, address, phone number, email, and Social Security number. Chase will ask whether you want a personal or joint account. A personal account is in your name alone; a joint account is shared with another person who has equal access and responsibility.

Next, you will choose which savings product you want. Chase offers several: a basic savings account, a high-yield savings account (which earns more interest), and accounts designed for specific goals like college savings. The online form shows the interest rate and minimum deposit for each one. Read the details carefully — the interest rate and fees vary.

Once you have chosen, you will set up online access by creating a username and password. Chase will send a verification code to your email or phone. Enter that code to confirm your identity. Then you will fund the account by linking a bank account you already have or providing a debit card. The money usually arrives within one to two business days.

Opening an account in person at a branch

Find your nearest Chase branch using the branch locator on Chase.com. Bring your photo ID, Social Security number, and the initial deposit (in cash or by check). You do not need to call ahead, though calling first can help you avoid a long wait.

A branch representative will walk you through the same choices you would make online: personal or joint account, which savings product, and how you want to access it. They will enter your information into their system and give you temporary access details on the spot. You will set up your permanent online password at home or at the branch, depending on what the representative offers.

Opening in person takes longer than online — usually 20 to 30 minutes — but some people prefer it because they can ask questions face-to-face and leave with their account active when ready.

Opening an account by phone

Call Chase customer service at the number on the back of a Chase debit card or credit card, or search for "Chase customer service phone number" online. Tell them you want to open a savings account. A representative will ask for the same information as the online form: your name, address, date of birth, Social Security number, and which type of account you want.

You will need to verify your identity, usually by answering security questions based on your credit history. Once verified, the representative will set up your account and give you temporary access details. You will fund the account by providing a bank account number to transfer from, or by arranging a wire transfer. This method takes about 15 to 20 minutes.

What happens after you open the account

Your account is active as soon as the opening process is complete. You can log into your Chase account online or through the Chase mobile app to see your balance, transfer money, and set up alerts. Your debit card will arrive in the mail within 7 to 10 business days if you ordered one.

You can deposit money into your savings account in several ways: transfer from another bank account you own, mobile check deposit through the Chase app (photograph a check and it deposits electronically), or in person at a Chase branch or ATM. Withdrawals work the same way — you can transfer money out, use an ATM, or visit a branch.

Your savings account earns interest, which means Chase pays you a small percentage of your balance each month. The interest rate changes over time and is set by Chase. You can see your current rate and earned interest in your online account.

Fees and account requirements

Chase savings accounts do not charge a monthly maintenance fee. However, some accounts have limits on how many withdrawals you can make per month without a fee — this varies by account type. Check the account details when you open to see if your account has withdrawal limits.

If your balance drops below the minimum required for your account type, Chase may charge a fee or convert your account to a different product. For example, if you open a high-yield savings account with a $300 minimum and your balance falls to $200, Chase might move you to a basic savings account or charge a monthly fee. The account details show what happens if your balance drops.

You can avoid most fees by keeping your balance above the minimum and following any withdrawal limits. If you have questions about fees for your specific account, log into your Chase account online or call customer service.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I open a Chase savings account if I do not have a Social Security number?

Chase requires a Social Security number or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) to open an account. If you have an ITIN, you can use that instead. If you do not have either, visit a branch to ask whether they have other options, though most banks have the same requirement.

How long does it take to open an account online?

The online process usually takes 10 to 15 minutes from start to finish. Your account is active when ready, though money you transfer from another bank may take one to two business days to arrive.

Can I open a joint savings account with someone else?

Yes. Both people will need to provide their own ID, Social Security number, and signature. You can open a joint account online if both people are present, or in person at a branch. Both account holders have full access and responsibility for the account.

What is the difference between Chase savings accounts and Chase checking accounts?

A savings account is meant for money you want to keep and grow through interest. A checking account is meant for everyday spending — you get a debit card and checks. Savings accounts typically have limits on withdrawals; checking accounts do not. You can have both types at Chase.

Can I change my account type after I open it?

Yes. You can contact Chase customer service or visit a branch to switch to a different savings product. There is no fee to change account types, though you may need to meet a new minimum deposit if you switch to an account with a higher requirement.