What you need to open a Chase account

Chase lets you open a checking or savings account online, by phone, or in person at a branch. The process takes about 10 to 15 minutes online. You will need a government-issued photo ID (a driver's license or passport), your Social Security number, and an initial deposit — though the amount varies by account type and changes over time, so check Chase's website for the current requirement for the specific account you want.

If you do not have a Social Security number yet, you can use an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) instead. Chase will also ask for your address and phone number. If you are opening the account online, you will need a debit card or bank account from another institution to fund your first deposit, or you can bring cash to a branch.

You do not need to have had a bank account before. Chase does check ChexSystems, a banking history database, but a first-time account holder will not have a record there. If you have been denied a bank account in the past, that history may show up, but it does not automatically disqualify you — Chase reviews each case.

Key Takeaways

  • You need a photo ID, Social Security number or ITIN, and an initial deposit to open a Chase account online or in a branch.
  • Opening online takes about 10 to 15 minutes and can be done from your phone or computer without visiting a branch.
  • Chase offers different account types — checking, savings, and money market accounts — each with different features and deposit requirements.
  • Once your account is open, you can request a debit card in person or have one mailed to you, and set up direct deposit or transfers from another bank.

Opening an account online

Go to Chase.com and look for the option to open a new account. You will be asked to choose the type of account — most people start with a checking account. Chase will ask for your personal information: full name, date of birth, address, phone number, email, and Social Security number or ITIN.

Next, you will verify your identity. Chase uses a third-party service to check your information against public records. This usually takes a few seconds. If you pass, you move to the funding step. You can link a debit card from another bank, transfer money from another bank account, or schedule a wire transfer. Some people also deposit cash at a Chase ATM after the account opens, though this takes a day or two to show up.

Once funding is complete, Chase will show you your account number and routing number. You can start using your account right away for transfers and bill pay. Your debit card will arrive by mail in 7 to 10 business days, though you can request expedited shipping or pick one up at a branch the same day if you prefer.

Opening an account at a Chase branch

Find your nearest Chase branch using the branch locator on Chase.com. Bring your photo ID, Social Security number or ITIN, and your initial deposit. The deposit can be cash, a check, or a transfer from another account. A Chase employee will walk you through the account setup on their computer, which takes about 15 minutes.

One advantage of opening in person is that you can get your debit card when ready instead of waiting for it to arrive by mail. You can also ask questions about account features, fees, and how to set up online banking. If you are not comfortable with technology or prefer to talk through your options, opening at a branch is a good choice.

Chase branches are usually open Monday through Friday, with limited Saturday hours. Some locations close on Sundays. Call ahead or check the branch locator to confirm hours before you go.

Choosing between account types

Chase offers several checking and savings options. Chase Total Checking is the most common choice for everyday banking — it has no monthly fee if you meet one of several conditions, such as keeping a minimum balance or setting up direct deposit. Chase Savings is a basic savings account that earns interest, though the rate is low and changes with the market.

Chase Premier Plus Checking and Chase Sapphire Checking are premium accounts with higher fees but more perks, like higher interest rates on linked savings accounts or cash back on purchases. These are not necessary for someone opening their first account. Start with Total Checking unless you have a specific reason to choose something else.

The deposit requirement and monthly fee vary by account type. Chase's website shows the current requirements for each account. If you cannot meet the minimum deposit right now, you can open with a smaller amount and ask about fee waivers — Chase sometimes waives fees for new customers or those with direct deposit.

What happens after you open your account

Once your account is open, you will receive a welcome email with instructions to set up online banking. Create a username and password, then log in to see your account number, routing number, and balance. You can also read the Chase mobile app to check your balance and send money from your phone.

If you want to receive paychecks directly into your account, you will need to give your employer your account number and routing number. This is called direct deposit. You can find both numbers in your online account or on the checks that come with your account.

Your debit card will arrive by mail unless you picked one up at the branch. Once it arrives, you can use it to withdraw cash at any Chase ATM for free, or at other ATMs for a small fee. You can also use it to pay for things in stores and online. If your card is lost or stolen, call Chase when ready — the number is on the back of your card or in your online account.

Understanding Chase fees

Chase Total Checking has no monthly fee if you meet one of these conditions: keep a $500 minimum balance, set up direct deposit, or maintain an average daily balance of $1,500. If you do not meet any of these, the monthly fee is currently around $12, though this can change. Check Chase's website for the exact current fee.

Other common fees include overdraft fees (charged if you spend more than you have), out-of-network ATM fees (charged when you use an ATM that is not Chase), and wire transfer fees. Many of these fees can be avoided by keeping enough money in your account and using Chase ATMs. Some fees are waived for accounts with direct deposit or higher balances.

When you open your account, Chase will show you the fee schedule. Read it carefully so you understand what you might be charged. If you have questions, ask a Chase employee — they can explain which fees explore to your specific account.

If you have trouble opening an account

If Chase denies your account, they will send you a letter explaining why. Common reasons include a negative ChexSystems report (a record of unpaid fees or fraud at another bank), too many recent account openings, or an issue with your identity verification. You have the right to see your ChexSystems report and dispute any errors.

If your identity verification fails online, you can try opening in person at a branch instead. Bring extra documents like a utility bill or lease to prove your address. A branch employee can sometimes verify you manually when the online system cannot.

If you were denied because of ChexSystems, you can request your report from ChexSystems directly and correct any mistakes. Once errors are fixed, you can try opening a Chase account again. Some banks also offer second-chance accounts for people with banking history issues, though Chase does not specifically market one — your best option is to speak with a branch manager about your situation.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I open a Chase account without a Social Security number?

Yes. If you do not have a Social Security number, you can use an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) instead. You will still need a photo ID and an initial deposit. The process is the same whether you open online or at a branch.

How much money do I need to open a Chase account?

The minimum deposit varies by account type and changes over time. Chase Total Checking currently requires a small initial deposit, but the exact amount is on Chase's website. If you cannot meet the current minimum, call a branch to ask about exceptions or fee waivers for new customers.

Can I open a Chase account if I have been denied before?

It depends on why you were denied. If it was because of a ChexSystems record, you can request your report, correct any errors, and try again. If it was for another reason, speak with a Chase branch manager about your situation — they have some flexibility in reviewing cases.

How long does it take to open a Chase account?

Online, the process takes about 10 to 15 minutes from start to finish. At a branch, it usually takes 15 to 20 minutes. Your account is active when ready, though your debit card arrives by mail in 7 to 10 business days unless you pick one up at the branch.

What if I do not have a photo ID?

You will need a government-issued photo ID to open a Chase account. If you do not have a driver's license or passport, you can get a state ID card from your local DMV. This process varies by state but usually takes a few weeks. Until then, you cannot open a bank account at Chase or most other banks.