The documents and information Chase will ask for
To open a Chase account, you will need a government-issued photo ID, your Social Security number, and proof of your current address. Chase also asks for your date of birth and a phone number where they can reach you. That is the core set — the exact documents vary slightly depending on which type of account you want and whether you are opening it in a branch or online.
If you do not have a photo ID yet, you can bring a passport, a state driver's license, or a military ID. Chase will not accept a school ID or a work badge. If you do not have a Social Security number, you can use an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) instead, though some Chase branches may require you to open the account in person rather than online.
Proof of address usually means a recent utility bill, a lease, a mortgage statement, or a bank statement in your name — something dated within the last 60 days. A cell phone bill works too. If you have just moved and do not have a document yet, bring whatever you have and ask the banker what else they can accept; many branches will work with you on this.
Key Takeaways
- You will need a government photo ID, your Social Security number or ITIN, and proof of your current address dated within the last 60 days.
- Chase can verify your identity online if you have a valid ID and Social Security number, but some situations require you to visit a branch in person.
- If you do not have an address yet or your documents are not in your name, call your local Chase branch before you go in — they can tell you what will work.
- Opening an account takes about 15 minutes in a branch or 10 minutes online, and you can start using your debit card the same day.
Opening an account online versus in a branch
Chase lets you open most checking and savings accounts online without visiting a branch. The online process asks you to upload a photo of your ID, enter your Social Security number, and provide your address. Chase verifies this information electronically and usually confirms your account within minutes. You can fund the account by transferring money from another bank account or by setting up direct deposit.
Opening in a branch takes longer but can be simpler if your documents are not straightforward. A banker can look at what you have, answer questions about which account fits your needs, and help you understand the fees. If you are new to banking or uncomfortable with online forms, the branch is a good choice. Chase branches are open during business hours, usually 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. on weekdays and shorter hours on Saturday; call ahead to confirm your local branch's schedule.
If Chase cannot verify your identity online — for example, if your name does not match your ID exactly, or if you do not have a Social Security number — they will ask you to come to a branch. This is not a problem; it just means the banker will handle it in person.
What information Chase asks for and why
Chase collects your information for two reasons: to confirm you are who you say you are, and to follow federal banking rules. The government requires banks to verify identity and report certain account activity to prevent fraud and money laundering. This is called Know Your Customer (KYC) verification, and every bank does it.
Your Social Security number is how Chase links your account to your credit history and tax records. If you do not have one, an ITIN serves the same purpose. Your address tells Chase where to send statements and where you live for tax purposes. Your phone number is how they contact you if they notice unusual activity on your account.
Chase will also ask whether you have had a bank account with them before, and whether you have any outstanding balances or disputes with other banks. Be honest here — if you say no and Chase finds out you had a previous account that went negative, they may close your new account. If you did have a problem with a bank account in the past, tell the banker; many situations can be resolved or explained.
Minimum deposit and account fees
Chase does not require a minimum deposit to open most checking or savings accounts. You can open an account with zero dollars and add money later. However, some Chase accounts do have monthly fees if you do not meet certain conditions — for example, keeping a minimum balance or setting up direct deposit. The most common Chase checking account for new customers is the Chase Total Checking, which has a monthly fee but waives it if you have direct deposit or keep a $500 minimum balance.
Ask the banker which account has the lowest fees for your situation. If you plan to use direct deposit from your job, that fee waiver alone might save you $12 a month. If you are not sure yet, you can open the account and switch to a different one later without penalty.
Chase also offers savings accounts with interest rates that change based on how much money you keep in the account. The rates are usually low, but any interest is better than keeping cash at home. The banker can show you the current rates when you open your account.
What happens after you open your account
Once your account is open, Chase will issue you a debit card, which usually arrives in the mail within 5 to 7 business days. You can use your account to receive direct deposit, pay bills online, or transfer money to other people before your card arrives. If you need a card when ready, some Chase branches can issue a temporary card on the spot.
You will also get online banking access right away. This means you can log into Chase.com or the Chase mobile app to check your balance, transfer money, and set up automatic payments. Write down your username and password somewhere safe, or use your phone's password manager to store them.
Chase will send you a welcome packet in the mail with your account number, routing number, and information about fees and rules. Keep this packet; you will need the routing number if someone wants to send you direct deposit or if you want to transfer money from another bank.
If you do not have all the documents yet
If you are missing a document — for example, you do not have a photo ID or you just moved and do not have proof of address — call your local Chase branch before you go in. Explain what you have and what you are missing. Many branches can work around this, especially if you have other documents that show who you are and where you live.
If you do not have a photo ID at all, you can get one through your state's Department of Motor Vehicles. This usually takes a few weeks and costs money, but it is the most straightforward path. Some states also issue ID cards that are not driver's licenses; these work just as well for opening a bank account.
If you do not have a Social Security number and cannot get an ITIN quickly, ask Chase whether they have a workaround. Some branches have handled this before and may have options you do not know about.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I open a Chase account without a Social Security number?
Yes, if you have an ITIN (Individual Taxpayer Identification Number). You may need to open the account in a branch rather than online. Call your local Chase branch first to confirm they can do this, because some branches have different procedures.
What if I do not have a government photo ID?
You will need to get one before Chase can open your account. A state ID card or passport works; a driver's license is not required. Your state's Department of Motor Vehicles can issue an ID card even if you do not drive.
Do I have to use my legal name on the account?
Yes. The name on your account must match the name on your ID and Social Security card. If your name has changed recently, bring your marriage certificate, divorce decree, or legal name change document to the branch.
Can someone else open an account for me?
No. You must be present and sign the account agreement yourself. A parent or guardian can open an account for a minor, but the minor usually has to be present too. Call your local branch to ask about their specific rules for minors.
How long does it take to open an account?
Online accounts usually open within minutes. In a branch, plan for 15 to 20 minutes. Your debit card arrives by mail in 5 to 7 business days, but you can use your account when ready through online banking or by asking for a temporary card.