What you need before you start
Chase requires you to bring or verify a few pieces of information before opening a checking account. You will need a valid government-issued ID (driver's license, passport, or state ID), your Social Security number, and an initial deposit. The minimum opening deposit varies by account type — some Chase checking accounts require $25, while others require $100 or more.
You will also need a current mailing address. If you have moved recently, update your address with the post office or bring a recent utility bill or lease as proof of residency. Chase uses this information to verify your identity and comply with federal banking regulations.
If you are opening an account online, you will need an email address and a phone number where Chase can reach you. Have these details ready before you begin, because the process moves quickly once you start.
Key Takeaways
- You can open a Chase checking account in person at a branch, online through Chase.com, or by phone, and each method takes a different amount of time.
- Bring a valid government ID, your Social Security number, proof of address, and your initial deposit amount — either cash, a check, or a debit card for the transfer.
- Chase will run a background check using ChexSystems, a banking history database, and may deny the account if you have unpaid overdrafts or fraud flags at other banks.
- Your account number and debit card arrive by mail within 7 to 10 business days, though you can use your account online or at ATMs before the card arrives.
- Different Chase checking accounts have different monthly fees, minimum balances, and benefits — compare them before you open to avoid paying for features you do not use.
Opening an account in person at a Chase branch
Walk into any Chase branch during business hours with your ID, Social Security number, proof of address, and your opening deposit. A banker will ask you which checking account type you want — Chase offers several, including Chase Total Checking, Chase Premier Plus Checking, and Chase Sapphire Checking. Each has different monthly fees and minimum balance requirements, so ask the banker to explain the differences if you are unsure.
The banker will verify your identity, run a background check through ChexSystems, and set up your account on the spot. You will receive a temporary debit card or a card number you can use when ready, and your permanent card will arrive by mail. The whole process takes 15 to 30 minutes. You can start using your account right away — online banking and ATM access are available the same day.
Opening in person is the fastest way to have a working account, because you leave with access to your money and a temporary card. If you have questions about fees or features, a banker can answer them face-to-face before you commit.
Opening an account online through Chase.com
Go to Chase.com, click "Open an Account," and select the checking account type you want. You will enter your personal information, Social Security number, and address. Chase will ask you to verify your identity — usually by answering security questions based on your credit history, or by uploading a photo of your ID.
Once your identity is verified, you will link a bank account or debit card to fund your opening deposit. Chase transfers the money electronically, which takes one to three business days. Your account opens when ready, and you can log in and use online banking and bill pay right away. Your debit card arrives by mail within 7 to 10 business days.
Online opening is convenient if you cannot visit a branch, but you cannot use a debit card until it arrives in the mail. Some people open online and then visit a branch to pick up a temporary card if they need one sooner.
Opening an account by phone
Call Chase at 1-800-935-9935 to open a checking account over the phone. A representative will walk you through the same questions as the online process — your name, address, Social Security number, and which account type you want. You will need to verify your identity, usually by answering security questions.
After verification, you will provide information for your opening deposit. Chase can pull money from an existing bank account or accept a check you mail in. The account opens the same day, but your debit card arrives by mail within 7 to 10 business days, and your opening deposit may take several business days to clear if you are mailing a check.
Phone opening works if you prefer talking to a person, but it is slower than in-person or online because of mail delays for checks and cards.
What happens after you open your account
Your account is active when ready, even if your debit card has not arrived yet. You can log into Chase.com or the Chase mobile app, set up direct deposit, transfer money between accounts, and pay bills online. You can also use any Chase ATM to withdraw cash or deposit checks.
Your debit card arrives within 7 to 10 business days. When it arrives, you will need to set up it — Chase sends instructions in the mail, or you can set up it through the app or website. After set up, you can use it at stores, ATMs, and online.
If you set up direct deposit, your employer can start sending your paycheck to your new account. You will need to provide your new account number and routing number, which you can find in the Chase app or on your first statement.
Why Chase might deny your account
Chase runs a background check through ChexSystems, a database that tracks banking history across banks. If you have unpaid overdraft fees, a history of fraud, or accounts closed due to negative balances at other banks, Chase may deny your process. You will receive a letter explaining the reason.
If you are denied, you can dispute the information in ChexSystems by contacting them directly at 1-800-428-9623. You can also ask Chase to reconsider your process if your situation has changed — for example, if you have paid off old overdraft fees.
If you cannot open a Chase account, you may have better luck with a bank that does not use ChexSystems or that has a second-chance checking program. Some credit unions and online banks have less strict requirements.
Comparing Chase checking account types
| Account Type | Monthly Fee | Minimum Balance | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Chase Total Checking | $12 (waived with direct deposit or $500+ monthly balance) | $0 | People who get direct deposit or keep a small balance |
| Chase Premier Plus Checking | $25 (waived with $15,000+ balance) | $0 | People with higher balances who want premium features |
| Chase Sapphire Checking | $25 (waived with $20,000+ balance) | $0 | People with significant savings who want investment perks |
The differences matter because a $12 monthly fee adds up to $144 a year. If you do not have direct deposit and cannot keep a high balance, choose an account with a low or waivable fee. If you have a lot of money saved, a premium account might offer benefits that justify the fee.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I open a Chase account if I do not have a Social Security number?
No. Chase requires a Social Security number or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) to open any account. This is a federal requirement, not a Chase policy. If you have an ITIN, bring it instead of a Social Security number.
What if I do not have a government ID?
You will need some form of government-issued ID — a driver's license, passport, or state ID. If you do not have one, you can get a state ID from your local DMV. Chase will not open an account without it because of federal identity verification rules.
How much do I need to deposit to open an account?
The minimum opening deposit is $25 for most Chase checking accounts, though some accounts require $100. You can deposit cash, a check, or transfer money from another bank account. Ask which account type you want before you go to the branch, because the minimum varies.
Can I use my account before my debit card arrives?
Yes. You can use online banking, bill pay, and any Chase ATM when ready. You can also request a temporary card at the branch if you need one before your permanent card arrives by mail.
What if I made a mistake on my process?
Contact Chase right away through the app, website, or by calling 1-800-935-9935. If you gave the wrong address or misspelled your name, Chase can usually correct it before your account fully opens. The sooner you call, the easier it is to fix.