What you need to open a Chase savings account

You can open a Chase savings account in person at a branch, online through Chase's website, or by phone. The fastest route is usually online if you already have a Chase checking account — it takes about 10 minutes. If you're opening your first account with Chase, you'll need a government-issued photo ID, your Social Security number, and an initial deposit (the amount varies by account type, but many accounts require $25 or more to open).

Chase offers several types of savings accounts with different features and interest rates. The most common are the Chase Savings Account (sometimes called a regular savings account) and the Chase Premier Savings Account, which typically requires a higher opening deposit but may offer a higher interest rate. Before you start, decide which account fits your situation — if you're just starting out with banking, the regular savings account is usually the simpler choice.

Key Takeaways

  • You can open a Chase savings account online (fastest if you have an existing Chase account), in person at a branch, or by phone.
  • You will need a government-issued photo ID, your Social Security number, and an opening deposit of at least $25 for most accounts.
  • Chase offers different savings account types with different interest rates and minimum balance requirements — choose based on how much you plan to keep in the account.
  • Once your account is open, you can deposit money through ATMs, transfers from another bank, or in person at a Chase branch.

Opening an account online

Go to chase.com and look for "Open an Account" or "Savings" in the main menu. You'll be asked to enter your email address, create a password, and confirm your identity using your Social Security number and date of birth. Chase will ask you to verify your identity — this usually means answering questions about your credit history or confirming recent transactions on accounts in your name.

After verification, you'll choose which savings account type you want and enter your personal information: full name, address, phone number, and employment status. You'll also set up how you want to fund the account — you can transfer money from another bank account or provide a debit card to make your opening deposit. The whole process usually takes 10 to 15 minutes, and your account opens when ready.

Opening an account in person at a branch

Find your nearest Chase branch using the branch locator on chase.com. Bring your government-issued photo ID (driver's license, passport, or state ID card), your Social Security number, and your opening deposit in cash or a check. You don't need to call ahead — you can walk in during business hours and ask to open a savings account.

A Chase representative will walk you through the account setup, answer questions about the different account types, and help you decide which one makes sense for you. They'll also explain the account features, fees, and how to use online banking and mobile apps. If you're opening your first bank account, the in-person route gives you a chance to ask questions and understand what you're signing up for.

Opening an account by phone

Call Chase at 1-800-935-9935 to open a savings account over the phone. Have your government-issued photo ID, Social Security number, and information about your opening deposit ready. A Chase representative will verify your identity, explain the account options, and help you choose the right account for your needs.

You'll need to provide your personal information and decide how to fund the account. If you're transferring money from another bank, have that account number and routing number ready. The phone process usually takes 15 to 20 minutes, and your account opens the same day.

What happens after you open the account

Once your account is open, Chase will send you a debit card and checks in the mail (if you ordered them). You can start using your account when ready through online banking or the Chase mobile app, even before your physical card arrives. Your account will have a unique account number that you can use to set up direct deposits or transfers from other banks.

You can deposit money into your savings account by transferring it from another bank account, depositing cash or checks at a Chase ATM or branch, or setting up a direct deposit from your employer. Chase savings accounts earn interest on the money you keep in them — the interest rate changes over time, so check chase.com or ask a representative what the current rate is for your account type.

Fees and minimum balance requirements

Chase savings accounts do not charge a monthly maintenance fee for most account types, but some accounts have a minimum balance requirement — if your balance drops below that amount, you may be charged a fee or lose the higher interest rate. Check the account details before you open to understand what the minimum balance is for your account type.

You can make a limited number of withdrawals or transfers from a savings account each month without a fee — this limit is set by federal law, not by Chase. If you exceed the limit, Chase will charge a fee for each extra transaction. You can withdraw money in person at a branch, through an ATM, or by transferring it to another account.

If you don't have a Social Security number

If you're a non-citizen without a Social Security number, you may be able to open a Chase account using an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) instead. Call Chase at 1-800-935-9935 or visit a branch to ask about this option — not all branches offer ITIN accounts, so it's worth confirming before you go in.

You'll still need a government-issued photo ID and an opening deposit. The process is the same as opening a regular account, but it may take longer because Chase needs to verify your ITIN with the IRS.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I open a Chase savings account if I don't have a checking account?

Yes. You can open a savings account as your first account with Chase. You don't need to have a checking account first. If you open online, the process may be slightly longer because Chase will need to verify your identity more thoroughly without an existing account to reference.

How long does it take to open an account online?

If you already have a Chase checking account, opening a savings account online usually takes 10 to 15 minutes. If you're opening your first Chase account, it may take 20 to 30 minutes because of the identity verification process. Your account opens when ready, though your physical debit card arrives in the mail within 7 to 10 business days.

What's the difference between a Chase Savings Account and a Chase Premier Savings Account?

The Premier Savings Account typically requires a higher opening deposit and minimum balance, but offers a higher interest rate. The regular Savings Account has a lower opening deposit requirement and is better for people just starting out. Compare the current rates and requirements on chase.com to see which makes sense for you.

Can I open an account if I have a bad banking history?

Chase uses ChexSystems, a banking history report, to decide whether to open accounts. If you were reported for overdrafts or fraud at another bank, Chase may decline. You can request your ChexSystems report to see what's on file. Some banks offer second-chance accounts if you've had problems in the past — ask Chase directly about your situation.

Do I need to keep a minimum balance in my savings account?

It depends on which account type you open. Some Chase savings accounts have a minimum balance requirement — if your balance drops below it, you may be charged a fee or lose the higher interest rate. Check the account details before you open to see what the requirement is for the account you choose.