Documents and information you'll need before you walk in

Chase requires a government-issued photo ID, your Social Security number, and an initial deposit to open a checking or savings account. The ID can be a driver's license, passport, state ID card, or military ID. You'll also need to bring a current mailing address — this can be a home address, PO box, or address where mail reaches you reliably.

The initial deposit amount varies by account type. Chase checking accounts typically require $25 to $100 to open, though some accounts have no minimum. Savings accounts usually need $25 to $300. If you're opening an account online instead of in a branch, you may be able to fund it from another bank account you already own, which means you don't need cash on hand.

If you don't have a Social Security number, you can open an account with an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) instead, though you'll need to visit a branch in person and bring additional documentation. Chase will ask for a second form of ID in this case — a passport, consulate ID, or state-issued ID card.

Key Takeaways

  • You need a government photo ID, Social Security number or ITIN, current address, and an initial deposit ranging from $25 to $300 depending on account type.
  • You can open an account online using another bank account to fund it, or in person at a Chase branch with cash or a check.
  • If you have no credit history or a negative banking history, Chase will still open an account, but you may be placed on ChexSystems, which tracks banking behavior.
  • Chase offers different account types with different features and fees, so confirm which account you want before you arrive or start the online process.

Opening an account in person versus online

In-branch opening takes about 15 to 30 minutes. You'll sit with a banker who verifies your documents, confirms your address, takes your initial deposit, and sets up online banking access on the spot. You walk out with a debit card that works when ready, though the physical card arrives by mail in 7 to 10 business days. This route works if you have cash or a check and want to ask questions face-to-face.

Online opening takes 5 to 10 minutes and can happen any time of day. You'll upload photos of your ID, enter your Social Security number, provide your address, and link another bank account to fund the deposit. Chase verifies your identity through that linked account — they'll make two small deposits and ask you to confirm the amounts. Your account opens when ready, and you can use it right away through the Chase app or website, though your physical debit card still takes 7 to 10 business days to arrive.

Online is faster if you already have another bank account. In-branch is better if you want to ask about account features, fee waivers, or promotional offers before you commit. Some Chase branches are inside grocery stores or pharmacies, so you may have a location near you even if there's no standalone bank building.

What happens if you have banking problems in your past

Chase uses ChexSystems, a banking history database that tracks overdrafts, bounced checks, closed accounts, and fraud reports. If you're in ChexSystems with negative marks, Chase may still open an account for you, but they may require a larger initial deposit, restrict your account features, or deny you outright depending on what's in your history and how recent it is.

You have the right to see what's in your ChexSystems report before you explore. You can request it free once a year at chexsystems.com or by calling 1-800-428-9623. If there's an error — a closed account that wasn't yours, a fraud report you didn't file, a paid overdraft still showing as unpaid — you can dispute it with ChexSystems directly, and they have 30 days to investigate.

If Chase denies you, they must tell you why and provide the ChexSystems contact information. You can then dispute the information or wait for negative marks to age off (typically 5 to 7 years). In the meantime, some banks and credit unions have accounts designed for people with ChexSystems records, though Chase itself does not offer a second-chance account.

Account types and what each one costs

Chase's most common checking account is the Chase Total Checking, which has no monthly fee if you maintain a $500 minimum balance, set up direct deposit, or keep a linked savings account with $300. If you don't meet any of those, the fee is $12 per month. It comes with unlimited debit card transactions, online bill pay, and mobile check deposit.

The Chase Savings Account has no monthly fee if you keep a $300 minimum balance. Below that, the fee is $5 per month. Interest rates on savings accounts change with the market, so ask what the current rate is when you open — it's not locked in.

Chase also offers Chase Premier Plus Checking, which requires a higher minimum balance ($15,000) but waives fees on other accounts and offers higher interest rates. This account is worth considering only if you have that balance sitting in the bank already.

Ask about promotional offers when you open. Chase periodically offers $200 to $500 bonuses for opening a checking account and meeting requirements like setting up direct deposit or making a certain number of debit card transactions within 90 days. These offers change monthly and vary by location, so the banker can tell you what's current.

What to expect after your account opens

Your debit card arrives in 7 to 10 business days. You can use your account through the Chase app or website when ready — you don't have to wait for the physical card. Mobile check deposit works right away, so you can deposit checks by taking a photo through the app.

Chase will send you a welcome packet with your account number, routing number, and information about online banking setup. If you opened online, you'll receive an email with a link to set up online banking. If you opened in branch, the banker will have set this up for you already.

Your first statement arrives 30 days after opening. Chase statements are available online, and you can choose to receive paper statements by mail or go paperless. If you set up direct deposit, your employer will need your account number and Chase's routing number — the banker or your online account will show you both.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I open a Chase account if I don't have a Social Security number?

Yes, if you have an ITIN (Individual Taxpayer Identification Number). You must open the account in person at a branch, bring your ITIN documentation, and provide a second form of ID such as a passport or consulate-issued ID. The process takes longer because Chase verifies the ITIN with the IRS.

What if I don't have a current address?

Chase requires a mailing address where they can reach you. This can be a PO box, a shelter address, a relative's address, or a mail forwarding service address. You'll need to show proof of that address — a utility bill, lease, or mail from a government agency dated within the last 60 days. If you don't have proof, ask the banker whether they can use your ID address temporarily while you establish a mailing address.

Do I need to bring my Social Security card itself?

No. Chase needs your Social Security number, but you don't have to show the card. Your ID and verbal confirmation of the number are enough. Never carry your Social Security card in your wallet — it's a security risk.

How long does it take to get my debit card if I open online?

The physical card takes 7 to 10 business days by mail. You can use your account when ready through the app and website, and you can withdraw cash at any Chase ATM or get cash back at a store using your debit card number before the physical card arrives.

What if Chase denies my account?

Chase will tell you the reason — usually a ChexSystems record, an unpaid overdraft at another bank, or fraud concerns. You can dispute ChexSystems information directly with them, or you can try opening at a different bank that may have less strict policies. Some credit unions and online banks have lower barriers to opening an account.