Chase offers checking accounts with no monthly maintenance fee, but you need to meet one condition to keep it free

Chase's most common free checking account is the Chase Total Checking account. It has no monthly fee as long as you maintain a minimum balance of $500 or set up direct deposit. If you do neither, Chase charges $12 per month. The account comes with a debit card, online banking, and access to Chase's ATM network.

You can open one online, by phone, or in a Chase branch. The whole process takes about 15 minutes if you have your Social Security number and a valid ID ready. You'll need to fund the account with an opening deposit — usually at least $25, though this varies by location.

If you're new to banking or returning after a gap, a checking account is straightforward a place to keep money that you can access by debit card, check, or ATM withdrawal. It's different from a savings account because checking is meant for money you use regularly.

Key Takeaways

  • Chase Total Checking has no monthly fee if you keep $500 in the account or set up direct deposit from your employer or benefits.
  • You can open an account online, by phone, or in person with a valid ID and Social Security number.
  • An opening deposit of at least $25 is required, and the account opens within minutes.
  • If you cannot maintain the $500 balance and have no direct deposit, you will pay $12 per month.
  • Chase also offers a student checking account with different fee rules if you are under 24 and enrolled in school.

What you need before you start

Gather these items before opening your account: a valid government-issued photo ID (driver's license, passport, or state ID card), your Social Security number, and the money for your opening deposit. If you plan to set up direct deposit right away, have your employer's routing number and account information ready, though you can add this later.

If you don't have a Social Security number, you can explore for an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) through the IRS. Chase will accept an ITIN in place of a Social Security number. You'll need to bring additional documents to a branch if you use an ITIN — ask Chase what they need before you go.

Opening online versus in a branch

Opening online is faster and you can do it anytime. Go to Chase.com, click "Open an Account," and follow the steps. You'll enter your personal information, choose your account type, and fund it with a debit card or bank transfer. The account usually opens the same day, and you can use it when ready.

Opening in a branch takes longer but gives you a chance to ask questions in person. A Chase employee will help you fill out the paperwork and can explain features you're unsure about. Bring your ID and Social Security number, and have your opening deposit ready — you can bring cash or a check.

If you open online and later want a physical debit card, it arrives by mail in 7 to 10 business days. You can use your account number to make purchases online or set up bill pay before the card arrives.

How to avoid the monthly fee

The $12 monthly fee is waived if you meet one of two conditions: keep a minimum balance of $500 in the account, or set up direct deposit. Direct deposit means your paycheck, Social Security, or other regular income goes straight into your Chase account from your employer or benefits administrator.

Direct deposit is the easier path if your income is regular. Once it's set up, you don't have to think about the balance. To set up direct deposit, give your employer or benefits administrator your Chase account number and routing number — Chase will provide both when your account opens. It usually takes one or two pay periods to start.

If you don't have direct deposit, keeping $500 in the account works, but that money is yours and you can use it anytime. The fee only applies if your balance drops below $500 and you have no direct deposit. Some people keep exactly $500 and use the rest of their money in a separate savings account.

What happens after you open the account

Your debit card arrives by mail within 7 to 10 business days. Until it arrives, you can withdraw money at any Chase ATM using your account number, or visit a branch. You can also set up online bill pay to send money to companies or people.

Chase sends statements online by default. You can view them anytime through your online account or the Chase mobile app. If you prefer paper statements mailed to your home, you can request that in your account settings, though Chase may charge a small fee.

If you have questions after opening, Chase customer service is available by phone, through the mobile app, or in any branch. Most branches are open Monday through Friday and some on Saturday.

Chase student checking if you're under 24

If you're a full-time student under 24, Chase offers Chase Student Checking with no monthly fee for up to five years, regardless of your balance or direct deposit. After five years, it converts to Chase Total Checking and the $500 balance or direct deposit rule applies.

You'll need proof of enrollment — usually a student ID or a letter from your school. The account otherwise works the same way: you get a debit card, online banking, and access to Chase ATMs. This is a good option if you're in school and don't have a steady income yet.

Alternatives if Chase doesn't fit your situation

If you can't maintain a $500 balance and don't have direct deposit, the $12 monthly fee adds up. Some banks and credit unions offer checking with no balance requirement and no monthly fee. Online banks like Ally, Charles Schwab, and Discover have no-fee checking with no minimum balance.

Credit unions often have lower fees and may waive them for members who meet different conditions — sometimes just opening a savings account or having a small deposit. If you're part of a union, work for a large employer, or live in a certain area, you may be able to join a credit union.

The trade-off is that online banks and smaller credit unions may have fewer ATMs nearby. If you use ATMs often or prefer to visit a branch in person, Chase's large network might be worth the fee if you can't meet the balance requirement.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

Yes. You can use an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) instead. You'll need to bring additional documents to a branch — Chase requires proof of identity and proof of address. Call your local Chase branch first to ask what documents they need.

What if my balance drops below $500 for one month?

You'll be charged the $12 monthly fee that month. The fee applies only if your balance is below $500 and you have no direct deposit. If you bring the balance back above $500 the next month, the fee won't explore again.

Can I set up direct deposit after I open the account?

Yes. You don't need to set it up right away. Once your account is open, you can give your employer or benefits administrator your account number and routing number anytime. It usually takes one or two pay periods to start.

What's the difference between Chase Total Checking and Chase Student Checking?

Student Checking has no monthly fee for up to five years if you're a full-time student under 24, with no balance or direct deposit requirement. Total Checking requires either a $500 balance or direct deposit to avoid the fee. After five years, Student Checking converts to Total Checking.

Do I need to visit a branch to open an account?

No. You can open online and never visit a branch. However, visiting a branch lets you ask questions and sometimes get a welcome offer. If you open online, you can still visit a branch later to deposit cash or ask for help.