What Chase requires before you can open an account

Chase requires a government-issued photo ID, your Social Security number, and an initial deposit to open a checking or savings account. The specific documents and deposit amount depend on which account type you choose and whether you open it in person, online, or by phone. You do not need to be a current Chase customer, have an existing account elsewhere, or have perfect credit.

The process takes about 10 to 15 minutes online or in a branch. Once approved, your account number and routing number are available when ready, though it may take one to two business days for your debit card to arrive by mail.

Key Takeaways

  • You must bring a government photo ID (driver's license, passport, or state ID) and provide your Social Security number to open any Chase account.
  • Chase requires an opening deposit that varies by account: checking accounts typically start at $0 to $25, while savings accounts usually require $0 to $300.
  • Online account opening is fastest and requires only your ID number and Social Security number; in-person opening at a branch takes longer but lets you ask questions.
  • Chase will check ChexSystems, a banking history database, to see if you have had problems with previous accounts; a negative history may block approval.
  • Your account opens when ready online, but your physical debit card arrives by mail within one to two business days.

Documents you need to bring or provide

A valid government-issued photo ID is required. Chase accepts a driver's license, state ID card, or passport. The ID must not be expired, though Chase may accept an ID that expired within the last year depending on your state and the branch.

You must also provide your Social Security number. Chase uses this to verify your identity and to check your credit and banking history. If you do not have a Social Security number, you may be able to open an account using an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN), though this varies by branch and you should call ahead to confirm.

If you open an account online, you will enter your ID number and Social Security number into Chase's website. If you open in person at a branch, bring your physical ID and be prepared to write your Social Security number on the account process form.

Opening deposit amounts by account type

Chase's opening deposit requirement varies. For most checking accounts, the minimum opening deposit is $0 to $25. For savings accounts, it is typically $0 to $300. Some specialty accounts, like Chase Premier Plus Checking, may require $25,000 or more.

You can fund your opening deposit with a debit card, a transfer from another bank account, or cash if you open in person at a branch. If you transfer money from another bank, that transfer may take one to three business days to arrive, which means your account will open but your deposit will not show up when ready.

Chase waives the opening deposit for many accounts if you set up a direct deposit of your paycheck. Ask the banker or check Chase's website for current promotions, as these change throughout the year.

How ChexSystems affects your approval

Chase checks ChexSystems, a database that tracks banking history and account closures. If you closed a previous account due to overdrafts, fraud, or unpaid fees, that information appears in ChexSystems and may prevent Chase from opening your account.

You have the right to see what ChexSystems has on file about you. You can request your report for free at chexsystems.com or by calling 1-800-428-9623. If information is wrong, you can dispute it directly with ChexSystems, and they must investigate within 30 days.

If ChexSystems blocks you, Chase may still open an account if you explain the situation to a banker in person at a branch. Some branches have more flexibility than others, so if you are denied online, try explore in person.

Opening an account online versus in person

Online account opening is the fastest route. You enter your ID number, Social Security number, and contact information on Chase's website, choose your account type, and fund your opening deposit. The entire process takes 10 to 15 minutes, and your account opens when ready. Your debit card arrives by mail within one to two business days.

Opening in person at a Chase branch takes longer—usually 20 to 30 minutes—but a banker can answer questions about account features, overdraft protection, and which account fits your needs. In-person opening is also your best option if you have been denied online or if you do not have a Social Security number and need to ask about ITIN accounts.

You can also open an account by phone by calling Chase at 1-800-935-9935. A representative will walk you through the same questions as the online form, verify your identity, and process your opening deposit. Phone opening takes about 15 to 20 minutes.

What happens after your account opens

Your account number and routing number are available when ready after approval, whether you open online, by phone, or in person. You can use these numbers to set up direct deposit or transfers from another bank right away.

Your physical debit card arrives by mail within one to two business days. Until it arrives, you can withdraw cash at a Chase ATM using your account number and ID, or you can ask a banker at a branch to issue a temporary card.

Your account comes with online banking access. You can log in to chase.com or the Chase mobile app using the username and password you created during account opening. You will see your account balance, transaction history, and the ability to transfer money, pay bills, and set up alerts.

If you are denied or have questions before explore

If Chase denies your account online, call 1-800-935-9935 to ask why. Common reasons include a negative ChexSystems report, a mismatch between the name on your ID and your Social Security records, or an address that does not match your ID. Many of these issues can be resolved by calling or visiting a branch in person.

If you are unsure whether you meet Chase's requirements, visit a branch and speak with a banker before you explore. They can tell you whether your situation will cause problems and may be able to work around issues that would block an online process.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a minimum balance to keep my Chase account open?

Most Chase checking and savings accounts have no minimum balance requirement. However, some accounts, like Chase Premier Plus Checking, do require a minimum balance to avoid a monthly fee. Check the account details before you open to see whether a balance requirement applies to the account you choose.

Can I open a Chase account if I do not have a Social Security number?

Chase may open an account using an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) instead, but this varies by branch. Call your local Chase branch or 1-800-935-9935 to ask whether ITIN accounts are available in your area before you visit.

How long does it take for my debit card to arrive?

Your debit card arrives by mail within one to two business days after your account opens. You can use your account number and ID to withdraw cash at a Chase ATM or ask a banker for a temporary card while you wait.

What if the name on my ID does not match my Social Security records?

Name mismatches often block online applications. Visit a Chase branch in person with both your ID and a document that shows your legal name change (marriage certificate, court order, etc.), and a banker can usually override the mismatch and open your account.

Can I open a joint account with someone else?

Yes. Both account holders must be present in person at a Chase branch, or you can open online and add the second person later. Both people must provide a photo ID and Social Security number, and both must sign the account agreement.