What Chase asks for when you open an account
Chase requires a government-issued photo ID, your Social Security number, and an initial deposit to open most accounts. The ID can be a driver's license, passport, or state ID card. You'll also need to provide your current address and a phone number. If you're opening the account in person at a branch, bring these documents with you. If you're opening online, you'll enter this information into their process and upload a photo of your ID.
The initial deposit amount depends on which account type you choose. Chase checking accounts typically require $25 to $100 to open, though some accounts have no minimum. Savings accounts usually start at $25. If you don't have the minimum on hand, you can fund the account through a transfer from another bank, a direct deposit, or a debit card payment.
Chase will also run a background check using ChexSystems, which is a banking history report similar to a credit report. This check looks at your history with other banks—whether you've had accounts closed for overdrafts, fraud, or other issues. A negative ChexSystems report can result in Chase declining your process, though you can request to see your report and dispute errors.
Key Takeaways
- You need a government photo ID, Social Security number, current address, and phone number to open any Chase account.
- Initial deposits range from $0 to $100 depending on the account type, and you can fund it from another bank account, direct deposit, or debit card.
- Chase checks your banking history through ChexSystems, and a record of overdrafts or fraud can result in denial.
- You can open an account online, by phone, or in person at a branch, and the process typically takes a few minutes to a few hours.
Opening an account online versus in person
Opening online is faster and requires no branch visit. You go to Chase.com, select your account type, enter your personal information, upload a photo of your ID, and confirm your Social Security number. Chase verifies your identity in real time, and if approved, your account opens when ready. You can then transfer money in or wait for a direct deposit. Your debit card arrives by mail within 7 to 10 business days.
Opening in person at a branch takes longer but gives you a chance to ask questions and understand the account features before committing. A banker will walk you through the process, verify your ID on the spot, and take your initial deposit. Your account opens the same day, and you may receive a temporary debit card or be told when your permanent card will arrive. Some branches can issue a debit card on the spot, though this varies by location.
You can also open an account by phone by calling Chase at 1-800-935-9935. A representative will guide you through the process and verify your information verbally. This method is slower than online and requires you to mail in a signed document or visit a branch to complete the process, so most people choose online or in-person instead.
Documents and information to have ready
Gather these items before you start the process: a valid government photo ID (driver's license, passport, or state ID), your Social Security number, your current street address, a phone number where Chase can reach you, and the initial deposit amount. If you're funding the account from another bank, have that bank's routing number and your account number ready. If you're using a debit card to fund it, have the card number and expiration date.
If your address on your ID doesn't match your current address, bring a recent utility bill, lease, or mortgage statement as proof of your current residence. Chase may ask for this to verify you live where you say you do. If you don't have a photo ID, some branches will accept a combination of documents like a passport card, tribal ID, or military ID, though policies vary by location—call ahead to confirm.
Account types and what each one costs
Chase offers several checking and savings accounts, each with different features and costs. The Chase Total Checking account has no monthly fee if you maintain a $500 minimum balance or set up direct deposit. If you don't meet either requirement, the fee is $12 per month. The Chase Sapphire Checking account requires a $500 minimum balance and charges $25 per month if you fall below it, but it includes perks like travel insurance and higher interest rates on savings.
For savings, the Chase Savings account charges $5 per month unless you maintain a $300 minimum balance. The Chase Premier Savings account requires a $10,000 minimum and charges $25 per month if you drop below it. Interest rates on savings accounts are low—typically less than 0.1% annually—so these accounts are meant for holding money short-term, not for building wealth.
Money Market accounts and CDs (certificates of deposit) are also available and require higher minimums, usually $2,500 to $10,000. These pay slightly higher interest but lock your money away for a set period or limit how often you can withdraw. Compare the account features and fees on Chase.com before opening to make sure you're choosing one that fits how you plan to use it.
What happens after you open your account
Once your account is open, Chase issues you a debit card, which arrives by mail within 7 to 10 business days. You can use your account number and routing number to set up direct deposit or transfer money in when ready. Your online banking login is available right away, so you can check your balance, set up bill pay, and transfer money between your own accounts before your debit card arrives.
Chase will send you a welcome packet by mail with your account number, routing number, and information about online banking and mobile app access. You can read the Chase mobile app and log in with your online banking username and password. The app lets you deposit checks by taking a photo, send money to other people, and monitor your account in real time.
If you opened your account online and want to deposit cash, you'll need to visit a branch or use an ATM. Chase has thousands of ATMs nationwide, and you can deposit cash at any of them. If you don't have a debit card yet, you can still deposit checks through the mobile app or by visiting a branch.
If Chase denies your process
Chase may deny your process if your ChexSystems report shows a history of overdrafts, fraud, or accounts closed for cause. You'll receive a letter explaining the reason. You have the right to request a copy of your ChexSystems report and dispute any errors on it. You can contact ChexSystems directly at 1-800-428-9623 or through their website to review your report and file a dispute if information is wrong.
If your process is denied, wait at least 30 days before reapplying, as Chase may review your case again. In the meantime, you can open an account at a bank that doesn't use ChexSystems or that has less strict policies, such as a credit union or online bank. Some banks specialize in second-chance banking and will open accounts for people with banking history issues.
If you believe Chase made an error in denying you, you can call Chase customer service at 1-800-935-9935 and ask to speak with someone in the new accounts department. They can sometimes override a denial or explain what specific issue on your ChexSystems report caused the problem.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a credit card to open a Chase checking account?
No. A checking account and a credit card are separate products. You can open a checking account without ever explore for a credit card. Chase will not check your credit score when you open a checking account—they only check ChexSystems, which is your banking history, not your credit history.
Can I open a Chase account if I don't 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 for all banks. If you don't have either, you'll need to obtain one before you can open an account at Chase or most other banks.
What if I'm under 18?
Chase allows minors to open accounts, but you'll need a parent or guardian to co-sign. The adult will need to provide their own ID, Social Security number, and address. Both of you will need to be present in person at a branch to open the account—you cannot open a minor account online.
How long does it take to open a Chase account?
Online applications take 5 to 10 minutes to complete, and your account opens when ready if you're approved. In-person applications at a branch take 15 to 30 minutes. By phone, the process takes 20 to 30 minutes, but you'll need to mail in or visit a branch to complete it.
Can I open multiple Chase accounts at the same time?
Yes. You can open a checking account and a savings account in the same process, or open multiple accounts of the same type if you want separate accounts for different purposes. There's no limit to how many accounts you can have at Chase, though each account requires its own initial deposit.