What you need to open a Chase account
Chase requires you to bring a government-issued photo ID (a driver's license, passport, or state ID card), your Social Security number, and an initial deposit. The deposit amount depends on the account type — some checking accounts need $25, while others need $100 or more. You can bring cash, a check, or a debit card to fund the account on the spot.
You'll also need a current address. If your address doesn't match your ID, bring a recent utility bill, lease, or mortgage statement with your name and address on it. Chase uses this to verify you live where you say you do.
If you're opening an account for someone under 18, a parent or legal guardian must be present with their own ID and Social Security number. Chase will set up a custodial account, which means the adult controls it until the young person reaches the age of majority in your state (usually 18).
Key Takeaways
- You need a photo ID, Social Security number, and an initial deposit to open any Chase account in person.
- Chase branches are open Monday through Friday and often Saturday mornings, so you can visit during your regular schedule.
- You can also open some Chase accounts online without visiting a branch, though you'll still need to verify your identity.
- Once your account is open, Chase will issue you a debit card and set up online banking access the same day or within a few business days.
- If you don't have a Social Security number, bring an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) instead — Chase will open accounts for people with an ITIN.
Opening an account in person at a Chase branch
Walk into any Chase branch during business hours with your documents and initial deposit. Tell the person at the desk you want to open a new account. They'll ask you which type of account you want — usually a checking account, savings account, or both. If you're not sure which one fits your situation, ask the banker to explain the difference. Checking accounts are for regular spending; savings accounts earn a small amount of interest and are meant for money you're setting aside.
The banker will fill out the account paperwork with you. They'll ask for your address, phone number, email, and employment information. Be honest about everything — Chase uses this information to prevent fraud and to meet federal banking rules. The whole process takes about 15 to 20 minutes.
Before you leave, the banker will give you a temporary debit card or a card number you can use right away. Your permanent card will arrive in the mail within 7 to 10 business days. You'll also get login information for Chase's online banking system so you can check your balance and move money from home.
Opening an account online
Chase lets you open some checking and savings accounts on their website without visiting a branch. Go to chase.com, click "Open an account," and follow the steps. You'll enter your personal information, choose your account type, and set up a username and password for online banking.
Chase will ask you to verify your identity using your phone. They may send you a code by text message or call you to confirm details. This step usually takes a few minutes. After verification, you'll need to fund the account by linking a bank account you already have or by providing a debit card number.
If you open online, your account opens when ready, but you won't have a physical debit card yet. Chase will mail one to you. In the meantime, you can use your account number to set up direct deposit from an employer, or you can transfer money from another bank account you own. Some people prefer opening online because they can do it from home on their own schedule.
What happens after you open your account
Once your account is open, you can start using it right away. If you opened in person, you have a temporary card or card number. If you opened online, you can transfer money in from another account while you wait for your physical card.
Chase will send you a welcome packet in the mail with your account number, routing number, and information about your account features. Keep this packet — you'll need the routing number and account number to set up direct deposit or to have money transferred from another bank.
You can also read the Chase mobile app to your phone. The app lets you check your balance, send money to other people, deposit checks by taking a photo, and get alerts when money comes in or goes out. Setting up the app takes about five minutes and uses the same login you created for online banking.
Chase account types and their costs
Chase offers several checking and savings accounts, and each one has different features and costs. The most common checking account is the Chase Total Checking account, which has no monthly fee if you keep a minimum balance or set up direct deposit. If you don't meet those conditions, there is a monthly fee, though it's waived for people under 18 or over 65.
Chase also offers Chase Savings, a basic savings account that earns interest. The interest rate is small — usually less than 1% per year — but it's better than keeping cash at home. There's no monthly fee as long as you keep a minimum balance.
Some people open both a checking account (for everyday spending) and a savings account (for money they want to keep separate). You can transfer money between them for free using online banking or the mobile app.
If you don't have a Social Security number
Chase will open an account for you using an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) instead of a Social Security number. An ITIN is a nine-digit number the IRS issues to people who need to file taxes but don't have a Social Security number. If you have an ITIN, bring it and your photo ID to a Chase branch, and the process is the same as for anyone else.
If you don't have an ITIN yet, you can get one by filing Form W-7 with the IRS. The process takes several weeks. Some people use a tax preparation service to help them file; others do it themselves. Once you have your ITIN, you can open a Chase account.
What to bring: a checklist
| Item | Why Chase needs it |
|---|---|
| Government-issued photo ID (driver's license, passport, or state ID) | To confirm you are who you say you are |
| Social Security number or ITIN | To set up your account and meet federal banking rules |
| Current address (on your ID or on a utility bill or lease) | To verify where you live |
| Initial deposit (cash, check, or debit card) | To fund your new account |
| Phone number and email address | So Chase can contact you about your account |
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I open a Chase account if I've had banking problems before?
Chase checks a system called ChexSystems, which tracks banking history. If you had overdrafts, bounced checks, or closed accounts with unpaid balances, Chase may decline to open an account for you. If this happens, ask Chase which issue is blocking you. Some people in this situation open accounts at smaller banks or credit unions first, build a clean history for a year or two, and then try Chase again.
How long does it take to get my debit card?
If you open in person, Chase gives you a temporary card number the same day. Your physical card arrives in 7 to 10 business days. If you open online, the card takes about the same time. You can use your account number to receive direct deposit or transfer money before the card arrives.
Do I need a minimum balance to keep my account open?
It depends on the account type. Chase Total Checking has no monthly fee if you keep a minimum balance (usually $500) or set up direct deposit. If you don't meet either condition, there's a monthly fee. Ask the banker which account has no fee requirement, or check chase.com for current terms.
Can I open a joint account with someone else?
Yes. Both people need to be present with their own ID and Social Security number. A joint account means both people can deposit and withdraw money, and both are responsible for any overdrafts or fees. Make sure you trust the other person completely before opening a joint account.
What if I'm not a U.S. citizen?
Chase will open an account for you if you have an ITIN or a valid visa and passport. Bring your passport and ITIN (or your visa and passport if you don't have an ITIN yet). Some branches are more experienced with non-citizens than others — if one branch turns you away, try another or call ahead to confirm they can help you.