Bring a government ID and proof of address to open a Chase checking account in person
Chase requires two pieces of identification when you open a checking account at a branch: a government-issued photo ID and a document showing your current address. The photo ID can be a driver's license, passport, state ID card, or military ID. The address document can be a recent utility bill, lease, mortgage statement, or bank statement — anything dated within the last 60 days that shows your name and current street address.
If you open the account online instead of at a branch, you will need the same documents but you will upload images of them rather than showing originals. Chase's online process asks you to photograph both sides of your ID and then upload a proof-of-address document. The system reads these images automatically, so the photos need to be clear and fully legible.
You do not need to bring a Social Security number card, but you will need to provide your Social Security number itself — Chase will ask for it during the account setup, whether you are at a branch or online. If you do not have a Social Security number, you can still open an account, but the process takes longer and requires additional steps.
Key Takeaways
- A government photo ID (driver's license, passport, state ID, or military ID) and a document showing your current address dated within 60 days are the two required pieces of identification.
- Address documents can be a utility bill, lease, mortgage statement, or bank statement — anything with your name and current street address.
- If you open the account online, you will photograph both sides of your ID and upload your address document as image files.
- Chase will ask for your Social Security number during setup, but you can open an account without one if you provide additional information.
- Bring your debit card or checkbook information if you want to set up transfers from another bank account on the same day.
What counts as a valid government ID
Chase accepts a narrow list of government-issued photo IDs. A driver's license from any U.S. state works. A U.S. passport, passport card, or state ID card also works. Military ID cards issued by the Department of Defense are accepted. Tribal IDs are accepted if they are government-issued and include a photo.
Expired IDs are usually accepted as long as the photo is still recognizable and the ID itself is not damaged. However, if your ID expired more than a few years ago, the branch may ask for a second form of ID to confirm your identity. Student IDs, work IDs, and library cards do not count, even if they have a photo.
If you do not have a government photo ID, you can still open an account, but you will need to visit a branch in person and bring additional documents. Call your local Chase branch before you go to ask what alternatives they will accept — the process varies slightly by location.
Documents that prove your current address
Chase needs proof that you live where you say you live. A utility bill (electric, gas, water, or internet) works if it is dated within the last 60 days and shows your name and street address. A lease or rental agreement works if it is current and shows both your name and the property address. A mortgage statement or property tax bill works. A bank or credit card statement from another financial institution works if it is recent and shows your address.
The document does not have to be in your name alone — if your spouse or partner is also on the lease or utility bill, that counts. The address on the document must match the address you provide to Chase during account setup. If you recently moved and your documents still show an old address, bring a document dated after your move date.
Some documents do not work: a PO box statement, a bill addressed to "Resident" or "Current Occupant", or a document that shows only a city and state without a street address. If you are having trouble finding a may have access to document, ask the branch what they can accept before you visit.
Opening an account online versus in person
The documents you need are the same whether you open the account online or at a branch, but the process is different. Online, you photograph your ID and address document and upload them to Chase's website or mobile app. The system scans these images and reads the information automatically. This usually takes a few minutes, and you can complete the entire process from home.
In person at a branch, you show the original documents to a banker, who verifies them and enters the information into the system. This takes about 15 to 20 minutes. The advantage of opening in person is that you can ask questions and set up transfers to another bank account on the same day if you bring that account's routing and account numbers.
If you open online and the system cannot read your documents clearly, Chase will ask you to resubmit the photos or visit a branch to complete the process. This can add a few days to the timeline. For this reason, make sure your photos are well-lit, in focus, and show the entire document with all text legible.
What to bring if you want to link another bank account
If you plan to transfer money from another bank account into your new Chase checking account on the same day you open it, bring your debit card or checkbook from that bank. You will need the routing number and account number, which appear on the bottom left of a check or in your online banking portal. If you have the account number but not the routing number, you can look it up on your other bank's website — it is usually listed under "account information" or "wire transfer details".
You do not have to set up a transfer on the day you open the account. You can do it later through Chase's online banking or mobile app. But if you want to move money the same day, having this information ready will speed up the process.
If you do not have a Social Security number
Chase can open a checking account for you without a Social Security number, but the process requires extra steps. You will need to provide an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) instead, or you can open the account using your passport number and country of citizenship. The branch will need to verify this information with additional documentation, which can take longer than a standard account opening.
If you are opening the account online without a Social Security number, the system will likely ask you to visit a branch to complete the process. Call Chase customer service or visit your local branch before you go to confirm what documents they will need.
What happens after you bring your documents
Once the banker or online system verifies your documents, Chase will ask you to choose an account type (checking, savings, or both), set up online banking access, and decide on overdraft protection. You will also choose how you want to receive statements — online, by mail, or both. The account is usually active when ready if you open it in person, or within one business day if you open it online.
Your debit card will arrive by mail within 7 to 10 business days. You can request a rush card at the branch if you need it sooner, though this may have a fee. You can use your account number and routing number to set up transfers or direct deposits before the card arrives.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I open a Chase checking account without going to a branch?
Yes. You can open an account entirely online through Chase's website or mobile app by uploading photos of your ID and address document. The process takes about 10 minutes, and your account is usually active within one business day. You will need clear, legible photos of both sides of your ID and a document showing your current address.
What if my address document is older than 60 days?
Chase prefers documents dated within 60 days, but if you have a recent lease or mortgage statement, those usually work even if they are older. If all your documents are older than 60 days, bring multiple documents that together show your address history. Call your local branch before you visit to ask what they will accept.
Do I need to bring a checkbook or debit card from another bank?
No. You only need to bring these if you want to link another bank account on the same day you open the account. If you do not have them, you can set up transfers later through online banking using the routing and account numbers from your other bank.
Can I use a passport card instead of a full passport?
Yes. A U.S. passport card is a valid government photo ID and works the same as a full passport. It is smaller and easier to carry, and Chase accepts it for account opening.
What if my ID is expired?
Chase usually accepts expired IDs as long as the photo is still clear and recognizable. If your ID expired many years ago, the branch may ask for a second form of ID. Call ahead to confirm what your local branch will accept.