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 — it takes about 10 minutes and you can fund the account the same day. You'll need a valid government-issued ID (a driver's license, passport, or state ID card), your Social Security number, and an initial deposit.
Chase requires a minimum opening deposit that varies by account type. For most basic savings accounts, this is $0 to $25, though some accounts require more. You can fund the account with a debit card, transfer from another bank account, or a check. If you open in person at a branch, you can also deposit cash.
If you don't have a Social Security number yet, you can still open an account, but you'll need to provide an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) instead. Bring this documentation with you or have it ready when you open online.
Key Takeaways
- You can open a Chase savings account online in about 10 minutes with a valid ID, Social Security number, and a small opening deposit.
- Chase requires different minimum deposits depending on the account type, ranging from $0 to $25 for most savings accounts.
- You can fund your new account when ready using a debit card, transfer from another bank, or cash at a branch.
- If you open online, you'll receive account details right away and can start using your account the same day.
- Bring or have ready a government-issued ID, Social Security number, and proof of your current address if opening in person.
Opening online through Chase.com
Go to Chase.com and look for the "Open an Account" button, usually near the top of the page. Select "Savings Account" and choose which type of savings account you want — Chase offers several, including basic savings and high-yield savings accounts that earn more interest. The site will walk you through each step.
You'll enter your name, date of birth, Social Security number, and current address. Chase will ask for your phone number and email address so they can contact you. Have your ID ready because you'll need to verify information from it — the site will ask questions like your driver's license number or the state that issued it.
Next, you'll choose how much to deposit to open the account. You can transfer money from another bank account (you'll need the routing number and account number from that bank), or use a debit card. The transfer usually takes one to two business days, but debit card funding is often when ready. Once Chase confirms your deposit, your account is open and you can use it right away.
Opening in person at a Chase branch
Find your nearest Chase branch using the branch locator on Chase.com. Bring your government-issued ID, your Social Security number (or ITIN), and proof of your current address — a recent utility bill, lease, or bank statement works. If you want to deposit cash to open the account, bring that too.
Tell the person at the desk you want to open a savings account. They'll ask you the same questions the online form does: your name, address, date of birth, and Social Security number. They'll verify your ID and explain the different savings account options Chase offers. You can ask questions about interest rates, fees, and how the account works.
Once you decide which account you want, the banker will process it on the spot. If you're depositing cash or a check, they'll take it and give you a receipt. You'll leave with your account number and can start using the account when ready. Some branches will also give you a debit card on the same day, though it may take a few days to arrive by mail.
Opening by phone
Call Chase customer service at 1-800-935-9935 to open a savings account over the phone. Have your ID, Social Security number, and current address ready. The representative will walk you through the same questions as the online form and explain your account options.
You'll need to fund the account during the call. The representative can set up a transfer from another bank account (you'll need that account's routing and account number) or take payment information for a debit card. After the call, your account will be open and you can use it right away, though transfers from other banks usually take one to two business days to show up.
What happens after you open your account
Once your account is open, Chase will send you a welcome packet by mail with your account details, a debit card (if you don't have one), and information about online banking. You can start using your account when ready through the Chase mobile app or website, even before the physical card arrives.
Set up online banking so you can check your balance, transfer money, and pay bills. You can also set up direct deposit if your employer or a government benefit sends you money — this is usually the fastest way to get funds into your account. If you opened online or by phone, your debit card will arrive in about 7 to 10 business days.
Your savings account will earn interest, though the rate varies depending on which type of account you opened. Check your account details online to see your current interest rate and how often interest is added to your balance.
Documents you'll need at each step
| Opening Method | Documents Needed | Time to Complete |
|---|---|---|
| Online | Valid ID, Social Security number, debit card or bank account info for funding | About 10 minutes |
| In person at branch | Valid ID, Social Security number, proof of address, opening deposit (cash, check, or card) | 15 to 30 minutes |
| By phone | Valid ID, Social Security number, debit card or bank account info for funding | About 20 minutes |
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a minimum balance to keep my account open?
Chase's basic savings accounts have no minimum balance requirement — you can keep $0 in the account and it stays open. Some of Chase's other savings products do have minimums, so check your account details or ask when you open to know what applies to yours.
Can I open an account if I don't have a Social Security number?
Yes. You can use an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) instead. You'll need to bring or provide the ITIN when you open the account, and Chase will verify it the same way they verify a Social Security number.
How long does it take to fund my account after I open it?
If you use a debit card, the money usually shows up when ready or within a few hours. If you transfer from another bank account, it typically takes one to two business days. If you deposit cash or a check in person, it's available right away.
What if I make a mistake on my process?
Contact Chase customer service right away at 1-800-935-9935 or visit your local branch. They can correct information like your address or phone number. If you gave the wrong Social Security number, you may need to close the account and open a new one.
Can someone else open an account for me?
No. You must open the account yourself because Chase needs to verify your identity. A family member or friend cannot open an account in your name, even with your permission.