You can open a Chase savings account entirely online in about 10 minutes
Chase lets you start a savings account from your computer or phone without visiting a branch. The process moves through their website or mobile app, and you'll need a valid ID, Social Security number, and an initial deposit method. Most accounts are active within one business day, though some verification steps can take longer if Chase needs additional information.
The account opens in your name when ready, but you won't be able to use it until Chase completes their identity verification. This usually happens while you're still on the website, but occasionally they'll ask you to come back with documents or call you to confirm details.
Key Takeaways
- You need a valid government-issued ID, your Social Security number, and a way to fund the account (debit card, bank account, or wire transfer).
- Chase verifies your identity during signup using information from credit bureaus and public records, and may ask follow-up questions if something doesn't match.
- The account opens when ready, but you cannot deposit or withdraw money until verification is complete, which usually takes minutes to a few hours.
- You can fund the account with a debit card, transfer from another bank account, or wire transfer, and the minimum opening deposit varies by account type.
- If you already have a Chase checking account, the process is faster because Chase already has your verified identity on file.
What you need before you start
Gather these items before you open the browser or app. Chase will ask for them in order: a government-issued photo ID (driver's license, passport, or state ID card), your Social Security number, your date of birth, and your current address. Have your phone nearby—Chase may text or call you during verification.
You'll also need a way to fund the account. Chase accepts debit cards, transfers from another bank account (using routing and account numbers), or wire transfers. The minimum opening deposit is $0 for most Chase savings accounts, though some specialty accounts require $25 or more. Check which savings product you're opening before you start, because the requirements differ slightly.
If you already have a Chase checking account, bring your login credentials. Chase can verify you faster using existing account information, and the whole process may take only a few minutes instead of the full 10.
The step-by-step process on Chase's website
Go to chase.com and look for "Open an account" or "Savings" in the top navigation. Click through to the savings account options and select the one you want—Chase offers several types, including their basic savings account and higher-yield options. Read the product details to confirm the interest rate, minimum balance requirements, and monthly fees before you proceed.
Click "Open now" or the equivalent button. Chase will ask whether you're a current customer. If you are, log in with your existing username and password. If you're new, select "I'm not a Chase customer" and continue.
Enter your personal information: full name, date of birth, Social Security number, and current address. Chase will cross-check this against credit bureaus and public records. If everything matches, you'll move to the next step. If something doesn't line up—a name spelling difference, an old address still on file somewhere, a Social Security number mismatch—Chase will flag it and ask you to clarify or provide documents.
Choose how you'll fund the account. If you're transferring from another bank, enter that bank's routing number and your account number there. If you're using a debit card, enter the card number, expiration date, and CVV. Chase will process the transfer or charge, usually within one to three business days.
Review the account agreement and disclosures. Chase requires you to read and accept their terms before the account opens. These documents explain fees, interest rates, and how Chase handles your money. You cannot skip this step.
Submit. Chase will show you a confirmation number and tell you the account is open. At this point, the account exists in Chase's system, but you may not be able to use it yet if verification is still pending.
What happens during identity verification
Chase verifies your identity automatically in most cases. They run your information against credit bureaus, the Social Security Administration, and other databases. If the data matches cleanly, verification completes while you're still on the website, and you can start using the account when ready.
If something doesn't match, Chase will ask follow-up questions. They might ask you to confirm an old address, explain a name variation, or verify recent transactions on accounts in your name. Answer these questions on the spot if you can. If you can't, Chase will tell you they need to review your information and will contact you within one to two business days.
In rare cases, Chase asks you to upload documents—a copy of your ID, a utility bill showing your address, or a recent bank statement. They'll give you a find link to upload these files. Once they receive and review them, verification usually completes within 24 hours.
Until verification is complete, your account exists but is frozen. You cannot deposit additional money, withdraw, or transfer funds. The initial deposit you made during signup will be held in a temporary status until the account is fully verified.
Using the account after it opens
Once verification is complete, your savings account is fully active. You can log into Chase's website or app, see your balance, and make transfers. You can move money from the savings account to a Chase checking account (if you have one) or to an external bank account using the transfer tool.
You cannot write checks from a savings account or use a debit card to withdraw money directly. If you need to access your savings regularly, you'll want to set up transfers to a checking account, or keep the savings account separate for money you're not touching frequently.
Chase savings accounts earn interest, which is deposited monthly. The rate changes based on market conditions and the type of account you opened. Log in periodically to see your current rate and balance.
If verification takes longer or gets stuck
If Chase doesn't complete verification within a few hours, check your email and phone for messages from them. They may have sent a link to upload documents or a request for more information. Respond as quickly as you can—delays usually happen because Chase is waiting for you to provide something.
If you don't hear from Chase within two business days, call their customer service line at the number on your confirmation email or on chase.com. Have your confirmation number and Social Security number ready. They can tell you what's holding up verification and what you need to do next.
In some cases, Chase cannot verify you online and will ask you to visit a branch in person with your ID. This is rare but happens occasionally. If this occurs, Chase will tell you which branch to visit and what documents to bring. Bring your ID and the confirmation number from your online process.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I open a Chase savings account if I don't have a checking account with them?
Yes. Chase will open a savings account for anyone who can verify their identity and provide a valid ID and Social Security number. The process takes slightly longer than it does for existing customers, but it works the same way.
What if I don't have a debit card to fund the account?
You can transfer money from another bank account using the routing and account numbers, or you can wire money to the new account. Chase will provide you with the wire instructions during signup. Wire transfers usually arrive within one business day.
How long does it take to use the account after I open it?
If verification completes when ready, you can use the account within minutes. If Chase needs to ask follow-up questions or request documents, it typically takes a few hours to one business day. In rare cases, it can take up to two business days.
Can I open multiple savings accounts with Chase online?
Yes. Once your first account is verified, you can open additional savings accounts through the same login. Each account has its own balance and interest rate, and you can transfer money between them.
What happens if I don't complete the opening process?
If you start the process but don't finish, Chase will save your progress for a limited time. You can return to the website or app and pick up where you left off. If too much time passes, you may need to start over, but your initial deposit will still be held and can be returned to you.