What you need to open a Chase account

Chase requires a government-issued photo ID, your Social Security number, and an initial deposit to open most accounts. The deposit amount depends on the account type—checking accounts typically start at $0 to $25, while savings accounts may require $0 to $300. You'll also need a current address and a phone number.

If you're opening an account online, Chase will verify your identity through their system by asking questions about your financial history. If you open in a branch, bring your ID and Social Security card in person. Either way, the process takes about 10 to 15 minutes.

Chase also runs a background check through ChexSystems, a banking history database. If you've had accounts closed for overdrafts or fraud in the past, this may affect whether you're approved. You can request your ChexSystems report before explore if you're concerned.

Key Takeaways

  • You need a photo ID, Social Security number, current address, and phone number to open any Chase account.
  • Most Chase checking accounts require no minimum deposit, but some premium accounts require $500 or more.
  • You can open an account online in about 10 minutes or visit a branch with your documents.
  • Chase checks your banking history through ChexSystems, and a record of closed accounts or overdrafts may block approval.
  • Once approved, your account opens when ready online, but debit cards arrive by mail in 7 to 10 business days.

Opening an account online versus in a branch

Opening online is faster if you have all your documents ready. Go to chase.com, select the account type you want, and enter your personal information. Chase will ask security questions to verify your identity, then show you the account terms. You can fund the account with a transfer from another bank or a debit card. Your account number appears on screen when ready, and you can use it to set up direct deposit or transfers right away.

Opening in a branch takes longer but lets you ask questions and get help on the spot. Find your nearest Chase branch using their branch locator, bring your ID and Social Security card, and tell the banker which account you want. They'll walk you through the process, answer questions about fees, and process the deposit. You'll leave with a temporary debit card or a card order form, depending on the branch.

If you don't have a Social Security number—for example, if you're a non-citizen—you may be able to use an ITIN (Individual Taxpayer Identification Number) instead. Call Chase at 1-800-935-9935 to ask whether your situation qualifies, because policies vary by state and account type.

Chase account types and their requirements

Chase offers several checking and savings accounts, each with different minimums and fees. The Chase Total Checking account has no minimum deposit and no monthly fee if you set up direct deposit or maintain a $500 balance. The Chase Premier Plus Checking requires a $25 minimum deposit and charges $12 per month unless you maintain $1,500 or use direct deposit.

For savings, the Chase Savings Account has no minimum deposit and no monthly fee. The Chase Premier Savings requires a $500 minimum and charges $5 per month if your balance drops below that. Interest rates on savings accounts change frequently, so check chase.com for current rates before opening.

If you're under 18, Chase offers a Chase First Banking account that requires a parent or guardian to co-own it. The account has no monthly fee and no minimum deposit. Once you turn 18, you can convert it to a standard account.

What happens after you submit your process

If you open online, Chase usually approves or denies your process within minutes. You'll see the result on screen, and if approved, your account number appears when ready. If denied, Chase will tell you the reason—usually a ChexSystems issue or an identity verification problem. You can call 1-800-935-9935 to ask for details or to dispute information in your ChexSystems report.

Your debit card ships within 7 to 10 business days. Until it arrives, you can use your account number to set up direct deposit, transfer money from another bank, or pay bills online. If you opened in a branch, you may get a temporary card on the spot or a card order form to take home.

Once your account is open, you can log into Chase's website or mobile app using your username and password. The app lets you check your balance, transfer money, deposit checks by photo, and set up alerts for low balances or large transactions.

Funding your new account

You can fund your Chase account with a transfer from another bank, a debit card, a check deposit, or cash. If you transfer from another bank, the money usually arrives in 1 to 3 business days. If you use a debit card, the transfer is when ready but may be limited to $1,000 or $2,500 depending on your card issuer.

If you open in a branch, you can deposit cash or a check directly with the banker. If you open online, you can deposit a check using the Chase mobile app—take a photo of the front and back, and the money appears in your account within 1 to 2 business days. You can also transfer money from a PayPal account or another bank account if you have the routing and account numbers.

Some employers let you set up direct deposit before your first paycheck arrives. You'll need your Chase routing number (usually 021000021) and your new account number, both of which appear in your account welcome email or in the app.

Fees and things that cost money

Most Chase checking accounts have no monthly fee if you meet one condition: set up direct deposit, maintain a minimum balance, or link to a Chase savings account. If you don't meet any of these, the monthly fee ranges from $12 to $25 depending on the account type.

Other fees you may encounter include overdraft fees ($35 per transaction if you spend more than your balance), out-of-network ATM fees ($2.50 per withdrawal at non-Chase ATMs), and wire transfer fees ($15 to $20 for outgoing domestic wires). Chase does not charge fees for incoming wire transfers, ACH transfers, or check deposits.

If you close your account within 90 days of opening it, Chase may charge a $25 early closure fee. This fee does not explore if you close due to a problem with the account or if Chase closes it.

If your process is denied

Chase denies applications for a few reasons: a ChexSystems record showing closed accounts or fraud, identity verification failure, or a mismatch between the information you provided and what's in their system. If denied, Chase will send you a letter explaining why within 30 days.

If the reason is ChexSystems, you can dispute the information by contacting ChexSystems directly at 1-800-428-9623 or chexsystems.com. You have the right to see your report and challenge anything that's wrong. This process takes 30 to 60 days.

If you were denied because of identity verification, call Chase at 1-800-935-9935 and ask what documents they need. You may be able to reapply with additional proof, such as a utility bill or passport. Some people who are denied online can open an account in a branch instead, because a banker can verify your identity in person.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I open a Chase account if I don't have a Social Security number?

You may be able to use an ITIN instead, but policies vary by state and account type. Call Chase at 1-800-935-9935 to ask whether you may have access to. Some branches can process ITIN applications in person, while others cannot.

How long does it take to get my debit card?

Debit cards ship within 7 to 10 business days after your account opens. You can use your account number to transfer money or set up direct deposit before the card arrives. If you need a card faster, ask a banker in a branch whether they can issue a temporary card on the spot.

What if I made a mistake on my process?

If you notice an error before your account is approved, call Chase when ready at 1-800-935-9935 and ask them to correct it. If the account is already open, you can update your information through the app or by visiting a branch. Some changes, like your address, take effect when ready.

Do I need a minimum balance to avoid fees?

It depends on the account type. Chase Total Checking has no monthly fee if you set up direct deposit or keep $500 in the account. Premier Plus Checking charges $12 per month unless you maintain $1,500 or use direct deposit. Check the account terms before opening to see which option works for you.

Can I open an account for someone else?

You can open a joint account with another adult if you both go to a branch or if you both complete the online process together. For minors, a parent or guardian must co-own the account. You cannot open an account for someone else without their presence and consent.