What you need to open a Chase checking account

Chase lets you open a checking account in person at a branch, online, or by phone. The fastest route is usually online if you have what they ask for ready. You will need a government-issued photo ID (a driver's license, passport, or state ID card), your Social Security number, and an initial deposit — though the amount varies by account type and changes over time, so ask before you start.

If you do not have a Social Security number yet, you can still open an account, but the process takes longer because Chase has to verify your identity a different way. Bring your ID and ask a banker about the steps for non-citizens or people without a Social Security number.

You will also need a way to fund the account — either a debit card from another bank, a transfer from an existing account, or cash if you go to a branch in person. Chase will not let you fund an account with a credit card.

Key Takeaways

  • You can open a Chase checking account online, at a branch, or by phone, and the online route is usually fastest if you have your ID and Social Security number ready.
  • Chase requires a government-issued photo ID, your Social Security number, and an initial deposit, though the deposit amount varies by account type.
  • You will need to fund the account with a debit card, a transfer from another bank account, or cash at a branch — not a credit card.
  • The entire process typically takes a few minutes online or about 15 to 20 minutes at a branch, and your account number appears right away.
  • If you do not have a Social Security number, tell Chase when you start — the process takes longer but is still possible.

Opening an account online

Go to chase.com and look for the "Open an Account" button, usually near the top of the page. Chase will ask you to choose which type of checking account you want — they offer several, and the differences are mainly in monthly fees and how much you need to deposit to avoid those fees. Read the details for each one before you choose.

Next, Chase will ask for your personal information: your name, address, date of birth, Social Security number, and phone number. They will also ask about your employment and income, though you can skip those questions if you prefer. After that, you will set up a username and password for online banking.

At the end, you will choose how to fund the account. If you have a debit card from another bank, you can enter that information and Chase will move money from that account into your new checking account. If you want to transfer from an existing bank account instead, you will need your routing number and account number from that bank. Once you submit everything, your account opens right away and you get an account number you can use when ready.

Opening an account at a Chase branch

Find a Chase branch near you on their website, then go in during business hours with your ID, Social Security number, and a way to make your initial deposit. A banker will sit with you, ask the same questions the online form asks, and help you choose an account type. The whole process usually takes 15 to 20 minutes.

If you want to deposit cash, bring it with you — the banker can take it right then and it goes into your account when ready. If you are transferring from another bank, the banker can help you set that up. Your debit card will not be ready the same day, but you can use your account number to set up direct deposit or transfers while you wait for the card to arrive by mail.

Opening an account by phone

Call Chase at 1-800-935-9935 and tell them you want to open a checking account. A representative will walk you through the same questions and help you pick an account type. You will need your ID, Social Security number, and a way to fund the account — either a debit card from another bank or information from an existing bank account.

The phone process takes about 20 to 30 minutes. Your account opens at the end of the call, and you get your account number right away. Your debit card comes by mail a few days later. If you want to fund the account with cash, you will have to do that at a branch after your account is open.

What happens after you open the account

Your account is active when ready, and you can use your account number to set up direct deposit or transfers from other accounts right away. Your debit card arrives by mail within 7 to 10 business days. Until it arrives, you can withdraw cash at any Chase ATM using your account number and ID, or you can go to a branch and ask a banker to help you withdraw.

Chase will send you information about online banking, mobile banking, and other services. You can set up online banking on chase.com using the username and password you created when you opened the account. The mobile app is free and lets you check your balance, transfer money, and deposit checks by taking a photo.

Your first statement arrives about 30 days after you open the account. It shows all the transactions from your account and tells you about any monthly fees. Read it carefully so you understand what you are being charged for.

Monthly fees and how to avoid them

Chase checking accounts have different monthly fees depending on which type you choose. Some accounts have no monthly fee if you keep a certain balance or set up direct deposit. Others charge a fee every month no matter what. When you open the account, ask which account type has the lowest fee for your situation.

The easiest way to avoid fees is usually to set up direct deposit — that means your paycheck goes straight into your Chase account. Many Chase accounts waive the monthly fee if you have direct deposit, even if your balance is low. If you do not have direct deposit, ask the banker or representative which account type charges the least.

If you run into problems during the process

If the online form will not accept your information, try opening the account at a branch instead — a banker can often fix problems that the website cannot. If you do not have a Social Security number, go to a branch and ask about their process for non-citizens; it takes longer but the banker can walk you through it step by step.

If you are not sure which account type to choose, ask. The differences matter mainly if you are worried about monthly fees or if you want certain features like overdraft protection. A banker can explain what each account includes and help you pick the one that fits your situation.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

The initial deposit amount varies by account type and changes over time. Some accounts require $25, others require more. When you start the process online or at a branch, Chase will tell you the minimum for the account you chose. You can ask a banker which account has the lowest opening deposit if cost is a concern.

Can I open a Chase account if I do not have a Social Security number?

Yes, but the process is different and takes longer. Go to a Chase branch with your passport or other government ID and ask about opening an account without a Social Security number. The banker will explain what documents you need and how the verification works.

When can I use my account number before my debit card arrives?

Right away. Your account number is active the moment your account opens. You can use it to set up direct deposit, make transfers, or withdraw cash at a Chase ATM with your ID. Your physical debit card arrives by mail in 7 to 10 business days.

What if I want to close my account after I open it?

You can close a Chase checking account anytime by going to a branch, calling 1-800-935-9935, or using online banking. Make sure you withdraw all your money first and pay any outstanding checks. Chase will tell you when the account is closed.

Do I have to use Chase online banking?

No. You can manage your account at a branch or by phone if you prefer. Online banking and the mobile app are free and make it easier to check your balance and move money, but they are not required. You can choose how much or how little to use them.