The documents and information Chase will ask for

To open a checking account at Chase, you will need a government-issued photo ID, your Social Security number, and an initial deposit. Chase accepts a driver's license, passport, or state ID card. The deposit amount varies — some accounts require a minimum opening deposit of $25, while others have no minimum, so the specific amount depends on which account type you choose.

You will also need to provide your current address. If you have recently moved, bring a piece of mail showing your new address — a utility bill, lease, or bank statement dated within the last 60 days works. Chase uses this to verify your identity and comply with federal banking rules.

If you are opening an account online instead of in a branch, you may be able to complete the process without visiting in person, though Chase sometimes asks you to verify your identity by video call or by visiting a branch afterward.

Key Takeaways

  • You will need a government photo ID, your Social Security number, and proof of your current address to open an account.
  • The opening deposit amount depends on which checking account you choose, ranging from no minimum to $25 or more.
  • Chase can open some accounts online, but you may need to verify your identity in person or by video before the account is fully active.
  • If you do not have a Social Security number, you may be able to use an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) instead, though policies vary by branch.

What happens during the account opening process

When you arrive at a Chase branch or start an online process, a banker or the website will ask you to fill out a form with your personal information. This includes your name, date of birth, address, phone number, email, and Social Security number. The form also asks about your employment status and annual income — Chase uses this information for regulatory purposes, not to judge whether to open your account.

After you provide this information, Chase will run a check through ChexSystems, a banking history database. This check looks at whether you have had problems with previous bank accounts — such as unpaid overdrafts or fraud — but it does not affect your credit score. Most people pass this check without issue.

Once the check clears, you will choose which checking account type you want. Chase offers several options with different features and fee structures. The banker or website will explain the differences, and you can pick the one that fits your needs.

Bringing proof of address if you are new to the area

If you have just moved and do not yet have mail at your new address, bring whatever you have. A lease signed by you and your landlord, a utility bill in your name, or a recent bank statement all work. The document needs to show your current address and be dated within the last 60 days.

If you are living with someone else and do not have a document in your name, ask the person you live with for a piece of their mail showing the address, then bring a signed letter from them confirming you live there. Some branches accept this arrangement, though policies can vary — calling ahead to confirm is worth the time.

Opening an account without a Social Security number

If you do not have a Social Security number, you may be able to open an account using an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN). An ITIN is a nine-digit number issued by the IRS to people who need to file taxes but do not have a Social Security number — this includes some immigrants and visa holders.

Not every Chase branch handles ITIN accounts the same way, so call ahead or ask when you arrive. If your local branch cannot open an account with an ITIN, they can often direct you to a branch that can, or you can try opening online to see if the system accepts it.

What to expect after you open the account

Once your account is open, Chase will issue you a debit card. If you opened the account in a branch, you may receive the card on the spot or it will arrive in the mail within 7 to 10 business days. If you opened online, the card will be mailed to the address you provided.

You will also receive information about online banking and mobile banking. Chase's website and mobile app let you check your balance, transfer money, pay bills, and deposit checks by taking a photo. Setting up online access usually takes just a few minutes.

Your account will be ready to use as soon as it opens — you do not have to wait for the debit card to arrive. You can set up direct deposit, transfer money from another bank, or visit a branch to deposit cash or checks right away.

Minimum deposit amounts by account type

Chase offers several checking account options, and the opening deposit requirement depends on which one you choose. Some accounts have no minimum opening deposit, while others require $25 or more. The account you select also affects monthly fees, interest rates, and features like ATM access or overdraft protection.

When the banker or website shows you the account options, ask about the opening deposit for each one. This helps you pick an account that matches both your needs and what you can deposit right now. If you do not have enough cash on hand, you can sometimes fund the account with a transfer from another bank instead.

Opening an account for someone else

If you are opening an account for a minor or another person, the rules are different. For a child's account, a parent or legal guardian must be present and provide their own ID and Social Security number. For an adult who cannot come to the branch, Chase generally requires that person to be present in some form — either in person or by video verification.

If you are helping someone else open an account, bring their ID and Social Security number along with yours. The banker will explain what documents that person needs to provide separately.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I open a Chase checking account online?

Yes, you can start the process online, but Chase may ask you to verify your identity in person or by video call before the account is fully active. You will still need your ID, Social Security number, and proof of address. Check the Chase website to see which accounts can be opened fully online in your state.

What if I do not have a current address?

If you are experiencing homelessness or do not have a permanent address, call your local Chase branch and explain your situation. Some branches can work with you using a shelter address, a mail forwarding service, or another arrangement. Policies vary by location, so speaking directly with a banker gives you the best answer.

Does opening a Chase account hurt my credit score?

No. Chase checks your banking history through ChexSystems, not your credit. This check does not appear on your credit report and does not lower your credit score. Your credit score is only affected by credit products like loans and credit cards.

How long does it take to open an account?

In a branch, the process usually takes 15 to 30 minutes. Online, you can complete the initial process in 10 to 15 minutes, but you may need to wait for identity verification, which can add a few hours or a business day. Your account is typically ready to use the same day or the next business day.

What if Chase denies my account opening?

Chase may decline to open an account if ChexSystems shows serious banking problems like fraud or unpaid overdrafts from a long time ago. If this happens, ask why — Chase must tell you. You can then dispute the information with ChexSystems if it is wrong, or you can look into banks that are more willing to work with people who have banking history issues.