What you need to open a Chase account

Chase requires five things before you can open an account: a valid government-issued photo ID, your Social Security number, your date of birth, a current address, and an initial deposit. The ID can be a driver's license, passport, or state ID card. The initial deposit amount depends on the account type — some Chase checking accounts need $25, others need $100 or more. You can deposit by debit card, transfer from another bank, or cash if you open in person at a branch.

If you don't have a Social Security number yet, you can't open a Chase account online. You would need to visit a branch in person and bring additional documents — a passport, visa, or employment authorization document. Chase staff can tell you what else they'll need when you call or visit.

You'll also need to choose which account type fits your situation. Chase offers different checking and savings accounts with different fees, minimum balances, and benefits. The most common starter account is the Chase Total Checking, which has no monthly fee if you set up direct deposit or keep a $500 minimum balance.

Key Takeaways

  • You need a photo ID, Social Security number, date of birth, current address, and an initial deposit to open a Chase account.
  • You can open most Chase accounts online in about 10 minutes, or in person at a branch if you prefer to speak with someone.
  • Chase Total Checking has no monthly fee if you set up direct deposit or maintain a $500 minimum balance, making it a common choice for first-time account holders.
  • If you open online, Chase will verify your identity using information from your credit report, so the process is faster than mailing documents.
  • Your account number and routing number are ready to use when ready after you finish opening the account, even if your debit card hasn't arrived yet.

Opening an account online

Go to chase.com and look for the "Open an Account" button, usually near the top of the page. Click it and select the account type you want — checking, savings, or both. Chase will ask you to enter your Social Security number, date of birth, and current address. The system checks this information against credit bureaus to verify your identity, which usually takes a few minutes.

Next, you'll create a username and password for your online banking login. Chase requires a strong password — at least 8 characters with uppercase letters, lowercase letters, numbers, and a symbol. Write this down somewhere safe. You'll also set up a security question and answer that only you know, in case you need to reset your password later.

Then you'll choose your initial deposit method. If you have another bank account, you can transfer money from that account — Chase will ask for the routing number and account number from your other bank. If you want to use a debit card instead, have that card ready. The deposit usually shows up in your Chase account within one to two business days.

Once you finish, Chase gives you your account number and routing number right away. You can start using these numbers to set up direct deposit or receive transfers before your physical debit card arrives in the mail, which typically takes 7 to 10 business days.

Opening an account at a Chase branch

Find your nearest Chase branch using the branch locator on chase.com. Bring your photo ID, Social Security number, and your initial deposit. You can bring cash, a check, or a debit card. A Chase banker will walk you through the account setup process, answer questions about which account type suits you, and explain the fees and features.

Opening in person takes about 15 to 30 minutes. The banker will enter your information into the system, verify your identity, and process your deposit. You'll get your account number and routing number before you leave, and you can use online banking that same day. Your debit card will arrive in the mail within 7 to 10 business days, though you can request a temporary card at the branch if you need one right away.

If you don't have a Social Security number, opening at a branch is your only option. Bring your passport or visa, your current address, and your initial deposit. The banker will let you know what other documents Chase needs to complete your account.

Understanding account types and fees

Chase Total Checking is the most common account for people new to banking. It has no monthly fee if you set up direct deposit (even $1 counts) or keep a $500 minimum balance. If you don't meet either of those, the fee is $12 per month. This account comes with a debit card, online banking, and the ability to withdraw cash at any Chase ATM for free.

Chase Savings Account is separate from checking and works differently. You can deposit and withdraw money, but you're limited to six withdrawals per month — after that, Chase charges a fee. Most people use savings to set money aside and checking to pay bills and buy things. You can have both accounts at the same time.

Chase also offers accounts with higher minimum balances that come with extra benefits like higher interest rates on savings or fee waivers. These accounts are usually for people who already have money saved. If you're opening your first account, Chase Total Checking is usually the right choice.

What happens after you open your account

Your account is active when ready, even if your debit card hasn't arrived. You can log into online banking right away, set up direct deposit, and receive transfers from other people's accounts. If your employer needs your account information to set up direct deposit, you have your routing number and account number ready to give them.

Your debit card will arrive in the mail in 7 to 10 business days. When it arrives, you'll need to set up it before you can use it. Chase sends set up instructions with the card, or you can set up it through the mobile app or by calling the number on the back of the card.

Once your debit card is active, you can use it to withdraw cash at Chase ATMs, pay for things in stores, and pay bills online. You can also set up automatic payments through your Chase account if you want to pay the same bill on the same day each month.

If you have trouble opening an account

If Chase's online system can't verify your identity using your credit report, you'll be asked to upload documents instead. This happens sometimes if you're new to the country, have a very thin credit history, or if there's a mismatch in your information. Chase will ask for a photo of your ID and sometimes a utility bill or other proof of address. Upload these through the online form, and Chase reviews them within one to two business days.

If you've been denied a bank account before, Chase may still open one for you, but you might be asked to provide extra documents or open in person at a branch. Call Chase at 1-800-935-9935 to ask what you need to bring.

If you don't have a Social Security number and can't open online, you must visit a branch. Bring your passport, visa, or employment authorization document, your current address, and your initial deposit. The banker will tell you what else is needed.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I open a Chase account if I don't have a credit history?

Yes. Chase doesn't require a credit history to open a checking or savings account. You need a photo ID, Social Security number, and initial deposit. If you're new to the country or have never had credit, opening in person at a branch can be faster because the banker can verify your identity directly.

What's the difference between the routing number and account number?

Your routing number identifies Chase as your bank — it's the same for all Chase customers in your region. Your account number identifies your specific account. Both are printed on the bottom left of your checks. You need both to set up direct deposit or receive transfers from other banks.

Do I have to use direct deposit to avoid the monthly fee?

No. With Chase Total Checking, you can avoid the $12 monthly fee either by setting up direct deposit or by keeping a $500 minimum balance in the account. You only need one of these two things, not both.

Can I open a Chase account if I'm under 18?

Chase requires you to be at least 18 years old to open an account in your own name. If you're younger, a parent or guardian can open a custodial account for you, which gives them access to manage the account until you turn 18.

How long does it take to open a Chase account?

Online, the process takes about 10 minutes if Chase can verify your identity automatically. If you need to upload documents, add one to two business days for Chase to review them. In person at a branch, opening takes 15 to 30 minutes.