You can open a Chase savings account in about 15 minutes online, or in person at a branch with an ID and initial deposit
Chase offers two main paths: online through their website (fastest, takes 10 to 15 minutes) or at a physical branch (good if you want to speak with someone or need cash deposited when ready). Both require a valid government ID, a Social Security number or ITIN, and an opening deposit — usually $25 for their basic savings account, though some accounts require more. You'll need a way to fund the account: a debit card, bank transfer, or cash if you go in person.
The online route is straightforward if you have a debit card or another bank account to transfer from. The in-person route works if you prefer face-to-face help or want to deposit cash on the spot. Either way, your account opens the same day, and you can start using it when ready.
Key Takeaways
- Online account opening takes 10 to 15 minutes and requires a valid ID, Social Security number, and a debit card or linked bank account for the opening deposit.
- In-person opening at a Chase branch requires the same ID and Social Security number, but you can deposit cash directly and speak with a banker about account options.
- Most Chase savings accounts require a $25 minimum opening deposit, though some premium accounts require $300 or more.
- Your account is active the same day you open it, and you can begin depositing and withdrawing money right away.
- Chase offers several savings account types with different interest rates and features, so comparing them before you open matters.
Opening a Chase savings account online
Start at chase.com and look for the "Open an account" or "Savings" section. You'll be asked to choose which type of savings account you want — Chase typically offers a basic savings account and a high-yield savings account (which pays more interest). Select the one that fits your needs, then click to begin.
You'll enter your name, date of birth, Social Security number or ITIN, address, phone number, and email. Chase will ask you to create a username and password. Have your ID ready — you may need to photograph it or answer security questions to verify your identity. The whole process usually takes 10 to 15 minutes.
At the end, you'll choose how to fund the account. If you have a debit card from another bank, enter the card number and the amount you want to deposit (at least $25). If you prefer a bank transfer, you can link another account and move money that way — this may take one to two business days to show up. Once you submit, your account opens when ready, and you'll receive a confirmation email with your account number.
Opening a Chase savings account in person at a branch
Find your nearest Chase branch using their branch locator on chase.com. Bring a valid government ID (driver's license, passport, or state ID), your Social Security number, and your opening deposit. You can bring cash, a debit card, or a checkbook from another account.
Walk in during business hours and tell a banker you want to open a savings account. They'll ask the same questions as the online form — name, address, Social Security number, date of birth — and show you the different savings account options. They can explain the interest rates and features of each account and help you choose. If you have questions about which account makes sense for you, this is the moment to ask.
Hand over your opening deposit. If you're depositing cash, the banker will count it and confirm the amount. If you're using a debit card, they'll process it. Your account opens the same day, and you'll walk out with a debit card (or a temporary one, depending on the branch) and your account number. Some branches can issue a card on the spot; others mail it within 7 to 10 business days.
What documents and information you'll need
Before you start the opening process, gather these items so you're not interrupted mid-process. Having everything ready means the process moves faster and you're less likely to abandon the process partway through.
| What you need | Online opening | In-person opening |
|---|---|---|
| Valid government ID | Yes (photographed or verified digitally) | Yes (shown in person) |
| Social Security number or ITIN | Yes | Yes |
| Opening deposit ($25 minimum) | Yes (debit card or bank transfer) | Yes (cash, debit card, or check) |
| Phone number and email | Yes | Yes |
| Current address | Yes | Yes |
If you're opening online, make sure your debit card is from a different bank — you can't use a Chase card to fund a new Chase account. If you're opening in person, bring your ID in its original form; a photocopy won't work. The banker needs to see the actual document to verify it's real.
Chase savings account types and their differences
Chase offers a Chase Savings account (their basic option) and a Chase Premier Savings account (higher interest rate, higher minimum balance). The basic savings account requires a $25 opening deposit and pays a low interest rate. The Premier Savings account requires a $300 opening deposit and pays more interest, but only if you keep a higher balance in the account.
If you plan to keep less than $300 in savings, the basic account makes sense. If you're building an emergency fund or saving for something specific and can maintain a higher balance, the Premier account will earn you more money over time. You can always start with the basic account and switch later if your balance grows.
Chase also offers a Chase High Yield Savings account through their online banking platform, which pays significantly more interest than either of the above. This account has no monthly fees and no minimum balance requirement, making it worth comparing if you're serious about earning interest on your savings. The trade-off is that it's online-only — you can't visit a branch to make deposits or withdrawals in person.
After your account opens: what happens next
Your account is ready to use the same day you open it. If you opened online and used a debit card, the deposit shows up when ready. If you used a bank transfer, it may take one to two business days. If you opened in person with cash, it's available right away.
You'll receive a debit card in the mail within 7 to 10 business days (or when ready if you opened in person at a branch that issues cards on-site). Until it arrives, you can move money in and out of your savings account through Chase's mobile app or website, or by visiting a branch. You can also set up direct deposit from your employer if you want paychecks to go straight into savings.
Chase will send you a welcome packet with your account number, routing number, and information about online banking. Set up your login credentials right away so you can check your balance and manage your account online. Write down your account number and routing number in a safe place — you'll need them if you want to set up automatic transfers or direct deposit.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to be a Chase customer already to open a savings account?
No. You can open a Chase savings account whether or not you have a checking account or other products with Chase. If you're new to Chase entirely, you'll go through the same opening process as anyone else.
What if I don't have a Social Security number?
Chase will accept an ITIN (Individual Taxpayer Identification Number) instead. You'll need to provide it during the opening process, and you may need to verify it in person or by mail if the online system flags it for review.
Can I open an account if I'm under 18?
Chase requires account holders to be at least 18 years old. If you're younger, a parent or guardian can open a custodial savings account on your behalf, which gives you access to the account but keeps a parent in control until you reach the age of majority.
How long does it take to receive my debit card?
If you open in person at a branch, some locations issue a card when ready or within a few days. If you open online, expect 7 to 10 business days. You can use your account before the card arrives by transferring money online or visiting a branch.
What's the difference between a savings account and a checking account?
A savings account is designed for storing money and earning interest; you can withdraw money but there are limits on how often. A checking account is for everyday spending and bill payments, with unlimited withdrawals. Many people have both — checking for daily use, savings for goals or emergencies.