What you need before you start

You can open a Chase checking account entirely online from your computer or phone. The process takes about 10 minutes, but Chase will ask for specific documents and information before they let you finish. Having these ready means you won't get stuck halfway through.

You'll need a valid government-issued ID — a driver's license, passport, or state ID card. Chase will ask to see it, and the name on your ID must match the name you use to open the account. You'll also need your Social Security number, a phone number where Chase can reach you, and an email address.

Finally, you need a way to fund the account. Chase requires an initial deposit, though the amount varies. You can transfer money from another bank account you own, or if you have a Chase card already, you can move money from that. Some people use a debit card from another bank, though Chase may place a temporary hold on large transfers.

Key Takeaways

  • You need a valid government ID, your Social Security number, a phone number, and an email address to open an account online.
  • Chase will check your banking history through ChexSystems, a system that tracks closed accounts and overdrafts at other banks.
  • The account opens when ready after approval, but you won't receive your debit card for 7 to 10 business days.
  • You can start using your account right away through Chase's mobile app or website, even before your physical card arrives.

The actual steps to open your account

Go to chase.com and look for the "Open an account" or "New customer" button — it's usually near the top of the page. Click it and select "Checking" from the account types shown. Chase will ask you to choose which checking product you want; most people start with Chase Total Checking or Chase Sapphire Checking, depending on whether you want to avoid monthly fees.

Next, enter your personal information: full name, date of birth, address, phone number, and email. Chase will ask for your Social Security number at this point. Then you'll upload a photo of your ID — take a clear picture of the front and back, or use your phone's camera if the website offers that option.

After that, Chase will ask about your initial deposit. Choose how much you want to transfer in and from where — another bank account, a Chase card, or a debit card from another bank. Enter those details and review everything one more time before submitting.

Chase will tell you right away whether your account is approved. If it is, you're done — your account exists and you can use it when ready through the Chase app or website. If Chase needs more information, they'll tell you what to do next, usually by phone or email within one business day.

What happens after approval

Your checking account is ready to use the moment Chase approves it. You can log into the Chase app or website, set up bill pay, transfer money, and see your account number and routing number — the numbers you need to give an employer for direct deposit or to set up automatic payments.

Your physical debit card will arrive in the mail within 7 to 10 business days. Until it arrives, you can still withdraw cash at any Chase ATM using your phone — the app has a feature that lets you use your phone as a temporary card at the machine. You can also use your account number to set up direct deposit right away, so your paycheck can go in before your card even arrives.

Chase may place a temporary hold on your initial deposit if you transferred it from another bank. This is normal and usually lasts 1 to 3 business days. The money is yours; Chase just holds it while they confirm the transfer went through correctly.

Understanding ChexSystems and why Chase might say no

Chase uses a system called ChexSystems to check your banking history at other banks. ChexSystems tracks accounts you've closed, overdrafts you didn't pay back, and other problems. If you have recent serious issues — like an account closed because of unpaid overdrafts, or fraud reported on your account — Chase may deny your process.

If Chase says no, ask them why. They're required to tell you. If it's because of ChexSystems, you can contact ChexSystems directly to see what's on your report and dispute anything that's wrong. Sometimes the issue is old and can be explained; sometimes you'll need to wait a period of time before trying again.

If you're denied, you have other options. Some banks and credit unions are more flexible with people who have banking problems in their past. A local credit union or a bank that specializes in second-chance banking might open an account for you when Chase won't.

Monthly fees and how to avoid them

Chase checking accounts have a monthly service fee unless you meet certain conditions. For Chase Total Checking, the fee is waived if you keep a minimum balance, set up direct deposit, or maintain a linked savings account with a certain balance. For Chase Sapphire Checking, the fee is higher but waived if you keep a larger minimum balance or have a higher income deposited monthly.

When you open your account, Chase will show you exactly what the fee is and what you need to do to avoid it. Read this carefully — it's the difference between a free account and one that costs you money every month. If direct deposit is easiest for you, set that up as soon as you can, because it usually counts toward waiving the fee when ready.

Setting up direct deposit and transfers

Once your account is open, you can give your employer your new Chase account number and routing number to set up direct deposit. Your paycheck will go straight into your checking account on payday. You'll find both numbers in the Chase app under "Account details" or on any check you order.

You can also transfer money between your Chase accounts, or from another bank account you own. In the Chase app, go to "Transfer money" and follow the steps. If you're transferring from another bank for the first time, Chase may ask you to verify small deposits they send to that account — this takes a day or two but only happens once.

Setting up bill pay is similar. In the app, select "Pay bills," enter the company you want to pay, and Chase will send them a check or electronic payment on the date you choose. This is free and works for utilities, credit cards, insurance, rent, or any other bill.

What to do if something goes wrong during signup

If your process gets stuck or you get an error message, try these steps in order. First, clear your browser's cache and cookies, then try again in a different browser — sometimes a technical glitch is just a browser issue. If that doesn't work, try the Chase mobile app instead of the website, or vice versa.

If you keep getting the same error, contact Chase directly. You can call 1-800-935-9935 or use the chat feature on chase.com. Have your ID and Social Security number ready. Chase's customer service can sometimes push your process through manually or tell you exactly what's blocking it.

If Chase denies your process and you disagree with the reason, you have the right to request a written explanation. Ask for this when you call — Chase is required to provide it within a reasonable time. Once you have it, you can decide whether to dispute it, wait and try again, or look for a different bank.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I open a Chase checking 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 any account. If you have an ITIN, you can use that instead. If you don't have either, you'll need to look at banks that work with people who don't have a Social Security number yet — some do, but Chase is not one of them.

How long does it take to get approved?

Most people get approved when ready or within a few minutes. If Chase needs to verify something, they may call or email you within one business day. In rare cases, approval takes longer, but Chase will tell you what they need from you and how long to expect.

Can I open an account on my phone?

Yes. The Chase mobile app has the same account opening process as the website. Some people find it easier because the app can use your phone's camera to photograph your ID. The process is the same either way.

What if I don't have a minimum balance to avoid the monthly fee?

Set up direct deposit, even if it's a small amount. Direct deposit usually waives the fee regardless of your balance. If you don't have direct deposit, ask Chase about other ways to waive the fee — some accounts offer waivers for maintaining a linked savings account or keeping a certain amount in savings instead of checking.

Can I use my account before my debit card arrives?

Yes. You can use the Chase app to withdraw cash at any Chase ATM, pay bills online, set up transfers, and see your account number for direct deposit. You can also use your account number to write checks if you order them. Your physical card just gives you another way to spend the money.