What to bring when you open a Chase account
Chase will ask for a government-issued photo ID and your Social Security number. That is the minimum. You will also need to bring money to open the account — Chase requires an opening deposit, though the amount varies by account type and changes over time, so call your local branch or check Chase's website for the current minimum.
If you do not have a Social Security number, you can use an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) instead. Bring the document that shows it. You will also need a second form of ID without a photo — a utility bill, lease, or bank statement with your name and current address works.
You can open an account in person at a Chase branch, by phone, or online. In-person is usually fastest because the banker can answer questions on the spot and you can deposit money when ready. Online is slower because Chase will mail you a debit card and checks, which takes a week or two.
Key Takeaways
- Bring a government photo ID and your Social Security number or ITIN to any Chase branch.
- Chase requires an opening deposit to start a checking account; the amount depends on which account type you choose.
- You can open an account in person, by phone, or online, but in-person is fastest if you need to use the account right away.
- If you have no credit history or a closed account in ChexSystems, ask the banker whether you can still open an account before you explore.
Understanding ChexSystems and account history
Chase uses a system called ChexSystems to check your banking history. If you have unpaid overdraft fees, closed an account with a negative balance, or committed fraud at another bank, that information stays in ChexSystems for five years. Chase may deny your process based on what they find there.
You have the right to see your own ChexSystems report before you explore. You can order it free from ChexSystems' website. If there is an error — for example, if the report says you owe money you already paid back — you can dispute it in writing, and ChexSystems must investigate within 30 days.
If ChexSystems shows a problem, you still have options. Some Chase branches will open an account anyway, especially if the issue is old or if you can show you have fixed the problem. Call ahead and ask to speak with a banker about your specific situation.
Types of Chase checking accounts and their requirements
Chase offers several checking accounts, and each has a different opening deposit and monthly fee structure. The most common are Chase Total Checking, Chase find Checking, and Chase College Checking. Chase Total Checking is the standard account for most people. Chase find Checking is designed for people who are new to banking or rebuilding their credit. Chase College Checking has no monthly fee if you are a full-time student.
The opening deposit for Chase Total Checking is usually $25, but this changes, so confirm the current amount before you go to the branch. Chase find Checking may have a different minimum. If you do not meet the opening deposit requirement, the banker can tell you whether you can start with less or whether you need to wait until you have the full amount.
Each account comes with a debit card, online banking, and mobile app access. The difference is mainly in monthly fees and whether there are limits on how many transactions you can make per month.
What happens after you open the account
Once you open the account, you will receive a debit card in the mail within 7 to 10 business days. You can use your debit card to withdraw money from any Chase ATM or to pay for things in stores right away. Your checks will arrive separately, usually within 1 to 2 weeks.
Chase will set up online banking for you during your visit or call. You can log in when ready using the temporary password they give you and change it to something only you know. From there, you can check your balance, move money between accounts, and set up bill pay.
If you opened the account online, Chase will mail your debit card and temporary access information. You will not be able to use the account until the card arrives, so plan ahead if you need money quickly.
Documents you may need if you cannot provide standard ID
If you do not have a government photo ID, Chase may accept other documents. A passport, tribal ID, or military ID all work. If you have none of these, ask the banker what alternatives they can accept — some branches will work with you if you bring multiple documents that together prove who you are and where you live.
If you do not have a Social Security number or ITIN, you cannot open a standard Chase checking account. However, Chase does offer accounts for non-citizens with an ITIN, and some branches have bankers trained to help people in this situation. Call ahead to find a branch near you that handles these accounts.
Opening a joint account with someone else
You can open a checking account with another person — a spouse, family member, or trusted friend. Both people must be present with their own ID and Social Security number or ITIN. Both of you will have full access to the account and can withdraw money or close it without the other person's permission, so only do this with someone you trust completely.
A joint account is different from adding someone as an authorized user. An authorized user can use the debit card but cannot close the account or change the account settings. If you want to give someone limited access, ask the banker about authorized users instead.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I open a Chase account if I have been banned from banking before?
It depends on why you were banned and how long ago. If you owe money to another bank or Chase, that will show up in ChexSystems and may block you. If the issue is old — more than five years — it may no longer appear. Call a Chase branch and ask a banker to review your situation before you visit.
What if I do not have a permanent address?
Chase requires a current address on your ID. If your ID shows an old address, bring a second document with your new address — a utility bill, lease, or mail from a government agency. If you are homeless or living temporarily, ask the banker whether they can use a shelter address or a mail forwarding service address.
How much money do I need to keep in the account after I open it?
Chase does not require you to keep a minimum balance in most checking accounts, but you do need to make the opening deposit. After that, you can let the balance drop to zero. However, if you overdraw the account, Chase will charge you an overdraft fee, so it is wise to keep some money in the account at all times.
Can I open an account for my child?
Chase offers accounts for minors, but a parent or guardian must open it with them and be a joint owner. The child will need their own Social Security number. Ask a banker about Chase First Banking, which is designed for young people and has parental controls.
What if I lose my debit card before it arrives?
Call Chase as soon as you realize it is lost or stolen. They will cancel it and mail a replacement. You can also use your online banking to transfer money or set up bill pay while you wait for the new card to arrive.