You can open most Chase accounts online in about 10 minutes, but you'll need an ID, Social Security number, and initial deposit before you start

Chase lets you open a checking or savings account through their website or mobile app without visiting a branch. The process is straightforward: you provide personal information, verify your identity, and fund the account. Most accounts are ready to use the same day, though some verification steps can take longer depending on what information you provide upfront.

The speed depends on which account type you choose and how you verify yourself. A basic checking account with a video call verification typically opens fastest. If you use documents instead of video, the timeline stretches to a few business days while Chase reviews them.

Key Takeaways

  • You need a valid government ID, Social Security number, and initial deposit amount (which varies by account type, typically $25 to $100) before you begin.
  • Chase offers identity verification through a video call with a representative or by uploading documents like a driver's license or passport.
  • Checking accounts open faster than savings accounts, and some account types have monthly fees that you can avoid by meeting balance or deposit requirements.
  • Once your account opens, you can use Chase's website or app to set up direct deposit, transfer money, and manage your account when ready.

What you need before you start

Gather these items before opening your browser: a valid government-issued ID (driver's license, passport, or state ID), your Social Security number, and your date of birth. Chase will ask for your address and phone number as well. Have this information ready so you don't have to stop mid-process.

You'll also need an initial deposit. Chase checking accounts typically require $25 to $100 to open, depending on the specific account. Savings accounts may have different minimums. You can fund the account using a debit card, another bank account, or a wire transfer. If you don't have another account to transfer from, a debit card is the fastest option.

The online opening process step by step

Go to Chase.com and select "Open an account" or use the Chase mobile app. You'll choose between checking and savings, then select the specific account product—Chase offers several checking tiers with different features and fee structures. Read the account details carefully because monthly maintenance fees and balance requirements vary.

Enter your personal information: name, address, date of birth, Social Security number, phone number, and email. Chase will ask about your employment and income, though these are optional fields. Next, you'll verify your identity. Chase offers two paths: a video call with a representative or uploading documents. Video verification is faster and usually completes in minutes. Document verification (uploading photos of your ID) takes one to three business days while Chase reviews them.

After identity verification, you'll fund the account. Enter your debit card number or link another bank account to transfer money. The initial deposit posts when ready if you use a debit card. If you transfer from another bank, it may take one to two business days. Once the deposit clears, your account is active.

Identity verification: video call versus documents

The video call option is faster and more reliable. You'll schedule a brief call with a Chase representative who will ask you to show your ID and answer security questions. The call typically lasts five to ten minutes, and your account opens when ready after. You need a device with a camera and microphone, and you should be in a quiet space where you can hold your ID up to the camera.

If you can't do a video call or prefer not to, you can upload photos of your ID instead. Take clear photos of the front and back of your driver's license, passport, or state ID. Chase will review these documents and contact you if they need clarification. This route takes longer—usually one to three business days—but it works if video isn't convenient for you.

What happens after your account opens

Once Chase confirms your identity and your deposit clears, you can log into your account when ready through the website or app. You'll receive a debit card in the mail within 7 to 10 business days. Until it arrives, you can use your account number and routing number to set up direct deposit or transfer money electronically.

Your account comes with online banking access, bill pay, mobile check deposit, and access to Chase's ATM network. If you opened a checking account, you can order checks through the app or website. Savings accounts come with withdrawal limits depending on the account type—some have no limits, while others restrict transfers.

Monthly fees and how to avoid them

Most Chase checking accounts charge a monthly maintenance fee, typically $12 to $15, but you can waive it by meeting one of these conditions: maintaining a minimum balance (usually $500 to $1,500), setting up direct deposit, or keeping an average daily balance above a certain threshold. The specific requirements depend on which checking account you open.

Savings accounts also carry monthly fees that you can usually waive by maintaining a minimum balance. Read the account details before you open to understand which fee waiver option works best for your situation. If you're opening an account because you don't have much money right now, look for accounts with low balance requirements or direct deposit waivers.

Common problems and what to do

If your identity verification fails, Chase will contact you by phone or email and ask you to resubmit documents or schedule a video call. This usually happens when your ID photo is blurry, your name doesn't match exactly, or your address information is inconsistent. Respond promptly because your account won't fully set up until verification is complete.

If your initial deposit doesn't post, check your email for a confirmation from Chase. Debit card deposits should appear within minutes; transfers from another bank take one to two business days. If more than two business days have passed and the money hasn't arrived, contact Chase customer service through the app or website. Have your confirmation number ready.

If you're denied an account, it's usually because of a ChexSystems report (a banking history report) or a fraud concern. Chase will send you a letter explaining the reason. You can dispute inaccurate information on your ChexSystems report by contacting ChexSystems directly, or you can ask Chase about opening a second-chance account if one is available.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take to open a Chase account online?

With video verification, your account opens in about 10 to 15 minutes. With document verification, it takes one to three business days while Chase reviews your ID photos. Your debit card arrives in 7 to 10 business days, but you can use your account when ready once it opens.

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

No. Chase requires a Social Security number or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) to open an account. This is a federal requirement for all banks, not just Chase.

What if I don't have a government ID?

You need a valid government-issued ID to open an account online. If you don't have a driver's license or passport, you can visit a Chase branch in person with a state ID, tribal ID, or military ID. Some branches may accept other forms of identification—call ahead to ask.

Can I open a joint account online with Chase?

Yes. During the online process, you'll have the option to add a joint owner. Both account holders need to complete identity verification, and both will receive debit cards. Chase will ask which owner is the primary account holder.

What if I already have a Chase account and want to open another one?

You can open additional accounts online using the same process. Log into your existing account, select "Open an account," and follow the steps. Your identity is already verified, so the process is faster. You'll still need to fund the new account with an initial deposit.