What you need before you start

Chase requires a government-issued photo ID, your Social Security number, and a way to fund the account—either a debit card, another bank account, or a check. You'll also need a current mailing address. If you're opening an account online, you can do this from home in about 10 minutes. If you go to a branch, bring these items with you and plan for 15 to 30 minutes.

Chase offers different account types for different needs: checking accounts, savings accounts, and money market accounts. Most people start with a checking account, which comes with a debit card and online banking. Some accounts have monthly fees; others waive fees if you keep a minimum balance or set up direct deposit. The account type you choose determines which of these rules explore to you.

Before you open anything, decide whether you want to do this online or in person. Online is faster and you can do it anytime. In person means you can ask questions and walk out with a debit card the same day, though not all branches stock cards when ready.

Key Takeaways

  • You need a government photo ID, Social Security number, current address, and a way to fund the account—either a debit card, another bank account, or a check.
  • Chase checking accounts may have monthly fees unless you maintain a minimum balance, set up direct deposit, or meet other conditions that vary by account type.
  • Opening online takes about 10 minutes and you can do it from home; opening in a branch takes 15 to 30 minutes but you may get a debit card when ready.
  • After you open the account, you'll receive a debit card in the mail within 7 to 10 business days if you opened online, or the same day if you opened in a branch.

Opening an account online

Go to chase.com and look for the "Open an Account" button, usually near the top of the page. Choose the account type you want—most people choose a basic checking account. You'll be asked to enter your name, date of birth, Social Security number, and current address.

Next, Chase will ask how you want to fund the account. You can transfer money from another bank account, deposit a check by photo, or use a debit card. If you use another bank account, you'll need the routing number and account number. If you use a debit card, have that card ready. If you deposit a check, you'll photograph both sides and upload them.

Review the account terms, including any monthly fees and the conditions that waive them. Then create your username and password for online banking. Chase will send you a confirmation email. Your account opens when ready, but your debit card arrives in the mail within 7 to 10 business days. Until then, you can use your account number to set up direct deposit or transfer money electronically.

Opening an account at a Chase branch

Find a Chase branch near you using the branch locator on chase.com. Bring your photo ID, Social Security number, and proof of your current address—a utility bill, lease, or recent bank statement works. Bring the debit card or checkbook you want to use to fund the account, or be ready to transfer from another bank account if you know the routing and account numbers.

Tell the banker you want to open a checking account. They'll ask the same questions the online form does: your name, date of birth, address, and Social Security number. They'll explain the account type, monthly fees, and ways to waive them. Ask about any current promotions—Chase sometimes offers cash bonuses for new accounts, though these change throughout the year.

Sign the account agreement and fund the account. If you brought a debit card, they'll process it. If you're transferring from another bank, they'll take your routing and account numbers. Some branches can issue a debit card on the spot; others will mail it to you. Ask before you leave so you know when to expect it.

What happens after you open the account

Your account is active when ready, whether you opened it online or in a branch. You can log into online banking right away and see your account number. You can set up direct deposit using this number, or transfer money from another bank account electronically.

Your debit card arrives in the mail within 7 to 10 business days if you opened online. If you opened in a branch, the card may arrive the same day or within a few days, depending on whether the branch had one in stock. You'll receive a PIN in a separate mailing. Until your card arrives, you can withdraw cash at any Chase ATM using your account number and ID, or transfer money online.

Chase will send you statements monthly, either by mail or email depending on what you choose during setup. You can change this preference anytime in online banking. Check your first statement carefully to make sure all deposits and fees are correct.

Monthly fees and how to avoid them

Chase checking accounts may have a monthly maintenance fee, usually $12 to $15, depending on the account type. You can waive this fee by meeting one of these conditions: keeping a minimum balance (often $500 to $1,500), setting up direct deposit, or maintaining a certain number of debit card transactions per month. The exact requirement depends on which account you opened.

When you open your account, the banker or online form will tell you which conditions explore to your account. Write these down or take a screenshot. If you don't meet any of them, the fee will appear on your statement each month. You can change accounts later if you find the fee hard to manage, or you can ask a banker whether a different account type would work better for you.

If you don't have a Social Security number

Chase requires a Social Security number or an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN). If you don't have either, you cannot open a Chase account online. You may be able to open one in person at a branch with additional documentation, but policies vary by location. Call your nearest Chase branch and ask what documents they need.

If you have an ITIN, the process is the same as for a Social Security number. Bring your ITIN documentation along with your photo ID and proof of address.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

Chase allows minors to open accounts, but you'll need a parent or guardian to co-sign. You can do this in person at a branch. The adult will need their own ID and Social Security number. Online, you must be at least 18 to open an account on your own.

What if I don't have a current address?

Chase requires a current mailing address because they need to send your debit card and statements. If you're homeless or living temporarily, some branches may work with you using a shelter address or a trusted contact's address. Call ahead and ask what documentation they'll accept.

How long does it take to get my debit card?

If you opened online, your card arrives in 7 to 10 business days. If you opened in a branch, you may get one the same day or within a few days. Until your card arrives, you can use your account number to set up direct deposit or withdraw cash at Chase ATMs with your ID.

Can I open more than one Chase account?

Yes. You can have multiple checking and savings accounts at Chase. Each account has its own number and debit card. There's no limit, but each account may have its own monthly fee unless you meet the waiver conditions for each one.

What if I made a mistake on my process?

If you opened online and noticed an error before you funded the account, you can cancel and start over. If you already funded it, call Chase customer service at the number on your statement or visit a branch. They can correct information like your address or phone number, but changing your name or Social Security number may require closing the account and opening a new one.