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 checking and savings accounts. The specific documents and deposit amount depend on which account type you choose and whether you open it in a branch, online, or by phone.
You will also need a way to fund the account—either cash, a check, or a transfer from another bank. Chase will verify your identity against their internal systems and check your banking history through ChexSystems, a database that tracks account closures and overdraft patterns at other banks.
If you have been flagged in ChexSystems or have had accounts closed for cause at other institutions, Chase may deny your process or require additional documentation. This is not a credit check—it is a record of how you have managed deposit accounts in the past.
Key Takeaways
- You need a valid government photo ID, your Social Security number, and proof of current address to open any Chase account.
- Chase checks ChexSystems, which records closed accounts and overdraft history, so past banking problems may affect whether you are accepted.
- Minimum opening deposits range from zero dollars for some checking accounts to $25 for others, depending on the account type.
- You can open an account online, in a branch, or by phone, and the documents required are the same across all three methods.
- If Chase denies you, you can request the reason and may be able to reapply after addressing the issue or waiting a set period.
Documents you will need to bring or provide
Chase requires a government-issued photo ID—a driver's license, passport, state ID card, or military ID. The ID must be current and match the name you use to open the account. If your ID has expired within the last year, Chase may still accept it, but policies vary by branch.
You will also need to provide your Social Security number in full. Chase uses this to verify your identity and to report account activity to the IRS. If you do not have a Social Security number, you may be able to open an account using an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN), but this varies by branch and account type.
Chase will ask for proof of your current address—a utility bill, lease, mortgage statement, or government mail dated within the last 60 days. A driver's license with your current address printed on it counts as both ID and address proof. If you are opening an account online, you may be able to skip this step if your ID address matches your stated address.
Minimum deposit amounts by account type
Chase offers several account types, and the opening deposit requirement differs for each. Some accounts have no minimum deposit, while others require $25 or more. The amount you deposit does not have to stay in the account—you can withdraw it when ready after opening if you choose, though most people leave at least some money in.
| Account Type | Minimum Opening Deposit |
|---|---|
| Chase Total Checking | $0 |
| Chase find Checking | $0 |
| Chase Premier Plus Checking | $25 |
| Chase Savings Account | $0 |
| Chase Money Market Account | $25 |
These minimums can change, and some branches or online offers may have different requirements. If you are opening an account online, check the specific offer you are viewing—promotional offers sometimes waive the minimum deposit entirely.
How to fund your new account
You can fund your account with cash if you open it in a branch, or with a check or electronic transfer if you open it online or by phone. If you transfer money from another bank, Chase will provide you with routing and account numbers once the account is open, and the transfer usually takes one to three business days to arrive.
If you do not have another bank account to transfer from, you can deposit a check at a Chase ATM or branch, or ask someone to write you a check. Cash deposits at a branch are when ready; check deposits typically clear within one business day.
Some people open a Chase account with a small deposit and then move larger amounts in later. There is no rule against this—Chase does not require you to deposit a certain amount per month or maintain a balance above the minimum.
Opening an account online versus in a branch
Opening online is faster—you can complete the process in 10 to 15 minutes and start using a debit card within days. You will need to upload a photo of your ID and provide your address, and Chase will verify your information electronically. You will still need to fund the account, either by transferring from another bank or by mailing a check.
Opening in a branch takes longer but lets you hand over documents in person and fund the account when ready with cash. A banker can answer questions about which account type suits your needs and can sometimes waive fees or offer promotional bonuses. Branch appointments are often available same-day or next-day, especially at larger locations.
Opening by phone is also an option—you can call Chase at 1-800-935-9935 and a representative will walk you through the process. You will need to provide all the same information as you would online, and you will still need to fund the account separately.
What happens after you submit your information
Chase will verify your identity against government records and check ChexSystems for your banking history. This usually takes a few minutes if you open online or by phone, or a few minutes in-branch. If everything clears, your account opens when ready and you can use it right away.
If Chase needs more information—for example, if your address does not match their records or if there is a discrepancy in your name—they will contact you by phone or email. This can add a day or two to the process. Keep your phone number and email current when you explore.
If Chase denies your process, they will tell you why. Common reasons include a ChexSystems flag, unpaid overdrafts at another bank, or identity verification failure. You can request a copy of your ChexSystems report and dispute any errors, or you can reapply after the issue is resolved.
If you have been denied at other banks
If you have had accounts closed for cause or have unpaid overdrafts, Chase may still open an account for you, but they may require additional documentation or offer you a secured checking account instead of a standard one. A secured account works the same way as a regular account but may have lower limits or higher fees.
You can check your own ChexSystems report before you explore. Visit chexsystems.com and request your report—it is free. If there are errors, you can dispute them directly with ChexSystems, and the correction may take 30 days. If the information is accurate, waiting 3 to 5 years from the date of the issue often helps, as older items carry less weight.
Some people find it easier to open an account at a smaller bank or credit union first, use it responsibly for several months, and then explore to Chase. This rebuilds your banking history and makes approval more likely.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I open a Chase account without a Social Security number?
You can use an ITIN (Individual Taxpayer Identification Number) instead of a Social Security number in some cases, but not all Chase branches accept this. Call your local branch or 1-800-935-9935 to ask whether they can open an account with an ITIN before you visit.
What if my ID is expired?
Chase may accept an ID that expired within the last year, but policies vary by branch. Bring a second form of ID if possible—a passport, military ID, or state ID. If your ID is older than a year expired, you will need to renew it first.
How long does it take to get a debit card after opening an account?
If you open in a branch, you may receive a debit card on the spot or within a few days. If you open online, Chase will mail a debit card to your address, which usually takes 7 to 10 business days. You can use your account number to set up direct deposit or transfers before the card arrives.
Do I have to keep the minimum deposit in my account?
No. The minimum deposit is only required to open the account. You can withdraw it when ready after opening if you want. Some accounts have a minimum balance requirement to avoid fees, but that is separate from the opening deposit.
What if I do not have a current address to provide?
Chase requires proof of a current address dated within the last 60 days. If you are homeless or do not have mail in your name, ask your local branch whether they can use an alternative document—some branches accept letters from shelters or social service agencies. Calling ahead is worth the time.