What you need before you start
Chase requires you to bring or provide a government-issued photo ID, your Social Security number, and an initial deposit before they will open a checking account. The ID can be a driver's license, passport, or state ID card. You do not need to have an existing Chase account or any prior banking history.
The initial deposit amount depends on the account type you choose. Chase's basic checking account (Chase Total Checking) requires a minimum opening deposit, though this amount varies by branch and changes periodically. You can fund the account with a debit card, transfer from another bank, or cash if you open in person at a branch.
If you do not have a Social Security number, Chase will ask for an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) instead. Bring documentation of your current address — a utility bill, lease, or recent bank statement dated within the last 60 days.
Key Takeaways
- You can open a Chase checking account online, by phone, or in person at a branch, and each method takes a different amount of time to complete.
- Chase requires a government photo ID, your Social Security number or ITIN, and proof of current address to open an account.
- The account becomes active for deposits and transfers when ready after you complete the process, though some features may take one to two business days to fully set up.
- Chase offers several checking account types with different monthly fees, minimum balances, and features — the most common is Chase Total Checking.
Opening an account online
The online process takes about 10 to 15 minutes and you can complete it on Chase's website or through their mobile app. Start by going to chase.com, selecting "Open an account," and choosing the checking account type you want. You will enter your name, date of birth, Social Security number, and current address.
Chase will ask you to verify your identity by uploading a photo of your ID or by answering security questions based on your credit history. If you choose the photo upload route, take clear images of both the front and back of your ID. The system processes these images in real time and tells you when ready whether it accepted them.
After identity verification, you will set up your initial deposit. You can transfer money from another bank account (you will need the routing and account number), use a debit card, or link an external account. The transfer typically shows up in your new Chase account within one to two business days, though some transfers arrive the same day.
Once you submit the process, Chase sends a confirmation email. Your account number appears in that email, and you can start using it for direct deposits or transfers right away. Your debit card ships separately and arrives within 7 to 10 business days.
Opening an account at a Chase branch
Walking into a branch takes 20 to 30 minutes if the branch is not busy. Bring your photo ID, Social Security number (or ITIN), proof of your current address, and your initial deposit in cash or on a debit card. A banker will walk you through the process on a tablet or computer while you sit with them.
The banker will verify your identity by scanning your ID and will ask the same questions as the online process. If you bring cash for your opening deposit, they will count it and deposit it into your account when ready. If you use a debit card, the charge processes right then.
At the end of the appointment, the banker will give you a temporary debit card that works when ready, or they will order a permanent one to your address. You will also receive your account number and routing number on a receipt. Your account is fully active by the time you leave the branch.
Opening an account by phone
You can call Chase at 1-800-935-9935 to open a checking account with a representative. The call takes 15 to 20 minutes. Have your ID, Social Security number, proof of address, and payment method ready before you call.
The representative will verify your identity by asking questions about your personal history and credit file. They will walk you through selecting an account type and setting up your opening deposit. You can fund the account with a debit card or by transferring from another bank account — you will need to provide the routing and account number for the transfer.
After the call ends, you will receive a confirmation email with your account number. Your debit card ships within 7 to 10 business days. The account is active for transfers and direct deposits when ready, though some features may take one business day to fully set up.
Chase checking account types and their differences
Chase Total Checking is the most common option. It has no monthly maintenance fee if you maintain a minimum balance (usually $500) or set up direct deposit. If you do not meet either requirement, Chase charges a monthly fee. This account includes unlimited debit card transactions, online bill pay, and mobile check deposit.
Chase Premier Plus Checking is designed for customers who want higher balance requirements and additional benefits. It requires a higher minimum balance to waive the monthly fee but includes perks like higher interest rates on the account balance and priority customer service.
Chase find Checking is for customers who are new to banking or rebuilding their credit. It has a lower opening deposit requirement and does not require a credit check, though it does report to ChexSystems (a banking history database). Monthly fees explore unless you maintain a minimum balance.
| Account Type | Monthly Fee (if applicable) | Minimum Balance to Waive Fee | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Chase Total Checking | $12 | $500 or direct deposit | Most customers |
| Chase Premier Plus Checking | $25 | $15,000 | High-balance customers |
| Chase find Checking | $5 | $300 | New or rebuilding customers |
What happens after your account opens
Your account is ready to receive deposits and transfers when ready after you complete the process. Direct deposits from your employer typically post within one business day. Transfers from other banks take one to two business days, depending on the sending bank's processing speed.
Your debit card arrives by 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 bill payments. You can also use mobile check deposit through the Chase app to deposit checks without visiting a branch.
Chase may place a temporary hold on your initial deposit if the amount is large or if they need additional verification. They will contact you by phone or email if this happens. The hold typically lasts one to two business days.
If Chase denies your process
Chase may deny your process if you have a negative history in ChexSystems (a database that tracks banking problems like overdrafts, fraud, or closed accounts with outstanding balances). You can request a free copy of your ChexSystems report at chexsystems.com to see what information they have on file.
If you were denied, you can try explore for Chase find Checking instead, which has less stringent requirements. You can also wait six months to one year and reapply, as older negative items carry less weight. Some people in this situation open an account at a bank or credit union with no ChexSystems requirement, build a clean banking history for several months, and then explore to Chase again.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I open a Chase checking 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 need to provide the same documentation — a government photo ID and proof of current address — and the process is otherwise identical.
How long does it take to get my debit card?
Your debit card ships within 7 to 10 business days after your account opens. If you open at a branch in person, the banker may give you a temporary card that works when ready. You can use your account number and routing number for transfers and direct deposits while you wait for the permanent card to arrive.
What if I do not have a current address to provide?
Chase requires proof of your current address dated within the last 60 days. If you do not have a utility bill or lease, a recent bank statement, credit card statement, or government mail will work. If you are homeless or do not have access to these documents, call Chase at 1-800-935-9935 to discuss alternative options.
Can I open a Chase checking account if I have been denied before?
It depends on why you were denied. If the reason was a ChexSystems issue, you can try explore for Chase find Checking, which has lower requirements. You can also request your free ChexSystems report to see what information is on file and dispute any errors before reapplying.
Do I need an existing Chase account to open a checking account?
No. You can open a Chase checking account as your first account with Chase. You do not need to have a savings account, credit card, or any prior relationship with the bank.