Chase will open a checking account for you without an SSN, but you will need an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) or a passport instead
Chase does not require a Social Security Number to open a checking account. If you do not have an SSN, you can use an ITIN — a tax identification number issued by the IRS to people who are not may be able to access for an SSN but need to file taxes or conduct banking. You can also use a valid passport from your country of origin, along with a second form of ID.
The process is the same as for any other Chase checking account: you can open one online, by phone, or in a branch. Chase will run a background check using ChexSystems (a banking history report system) rather than a credit check, so your credit score does not matter. You will need to fund the account with an initial deposit, which varies by account type but is often $25 or less.
The main difference is that you will be asked for your ITIN or passport number instead of an SSN during the process. If you do not yet have an ITIN, you will need to obtain one before you can complete the account opening.
Key Takeaways
- Chase accepts an ITIN or a valid passport as identification instead of an SSN when opening a checking account.
- You can open an account online, by phone, or in a Chase branch, and the process takes about 10 to 15 minutes.
- An initial deposit of $25 to $100 is required, depending on which checking account type you choose.
- Chase will check your banking history through ChexSystems, not your credit score, so past credit problems will not prevent you from opening an account.
- If you do not have an ITIN yet, you will need to obtain one from the IRS before you can complete your account opening.
What documents you will need to bring or provide
Chase requires two forms of identification. Your primary ID should be your passport or national ID card from your country. Your second ID can be a driver's license, state ID, or other government-issued document. If you do not have a second ID, some Chase branches will accept a utility bill or lease agreement as proof of address instead.
You will also need your ITIN. If you do not have one, you can request one from the IRS using Form W-7. The IRS will mail your ITIN to you, which usually takes four to six weeks. You cannot open a Chase account until you have received your ITIN in writing.
If you are opening the account online, you will upload images of your documents or enter the information directly. If you are opening in a branch, bring the physical documents with you. Chase staff will verify them on the spot.
How to get an ITIN if you do not have one yet
An ITIN is a nine-digit number that looks like a Social Security Number but starts with 9. You request one by filing Form W-7 with the IRS. You can mail the form and supporting documents to the IRS, or you can explore in person at an IRS office or an authorized acceptance agent (usually a tax preparation service or community organization).
When you file Form W-7, you must include proof of identity and proof of foreign status. A passport works for both. The IRS will mail your ITIN to your address within four to six weeks. Some acceptance agents can issue an ITIN on the same day if you explore in person, though this varies by location.
Once you have your ITIN, you can use it to open a bank account, file taxes, and conduct other financial business in the United States. It does not give you work authorization or any immigration status — it is only for tax and banking purposes.
Opening your account online versus in a branch
Chase lets you open a checking account online through their website or mobile app. The online process takes about 10 to 15 minutes. You will enter your personal information, upload or photograph your ID documents, choose your account type, and make an initial deposit using a debit card or bank transfer. You can fund the account when ready if you have a debit card from another bank.
Opening in a Chase branch takes about the same amount of time and has one advantage: a staff member can answer questions about which account type suits you best. Some people also prefer the in-person route because they can ask about other services (like a savings account or credit card) at the same time. Bring your passport, second ID, and ITIN number.
Both routes result in the same account. Online opening is faster if you already know which account you want. In-branch opening is better if you want to ask questions or prefer not to upload documents online.
Which Chase checking account to choose
Chase offers several checking accounts. The most common for people new to banking are Chase Total Checking and Chase find Banking. Total Checking has no monthly fee if you maintain a minimum balance or set up direct deposit. find Banking is designed for people building banking history and has a lower minimum balance requirement, though it comes with some limits on how many transactions you can make per month.
Both accounts come with a debit card, online banking, and mobile app access. Both allow you to deposit checks by photographing them with your phone. The main difference is the fee structure and transaction limits. Ask a Chase representative which account fits your situation, or compare them on Chase's website before you explore.
You can change account types later if you want, so do not worry too much about choosing perfectly the first time.
What happens after you open your account
Once your account is open, you will receive a debit card in the mail within 7 to 10 business days. You can use your online banking or mobile app to check your balance and make transfers when ready, even before the card arrives. You can also set up direct deposit right away if your employer or benefit program needs your account information.
Chase will send you a welcome packet with your account number, routing number, and information about online banking. Save this information — you will need the routing number and account number to receive direct deposits or set up bill payments. You can also find this information anytime by logging into your online account.
If you have questions after opening, you can call Chase customer service, visit a branch, or use the chat feature in the mobile app. Chase customer service is available in multiple languages.
What to do if Chase denies your account
Chase may deny your account if ChexSystems shows a history of unpaid overdrafts, fraud, or other serious banking problems at another bank. If this happens, Chase will send you a letter explaining the reason. You have the right to request a copy of your ChexSystems report and dispute any errors on it.
If you are denied, you can try explore again at a different bank. Some banks have more lenient policies for people with banking history problems. You can also look into second-chance banking accounts, which are designed for people who have been denied elsewhere. These accounts usually have higher fees but will accept you even with a difficult banking history.
If you believe Chase made an error, you can dispute it by contacting ChexSystems directly. You have the right to know why you were denied and to correct any false information in your report.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I open a Chase account with just a passport and no other ID?
Chase requires two forms of identification. Your passport can be one of them, but you will need a second ID — a driver's license, state ID, or utility bill showing your current address. If you have only a passport, ask the branch whether they will accept a lease agreement or other proof of address as your second form of ID.
How long does it take to get an ITIN from the IRS?
By mail, the IRS usually takes four to six weeks to send your ITIN. If you explore in person at an IRS office or authorized acceptance agent, some locations can issue an ITIN the same day, though this varies. Check with your local IRS office or a tax preparation service to see if same-day issuance is available near you.
Do I need a credit score to open a Chase checking account without an SSN?
No. Chase does not check your credit score for checking accounts. They use ChexSystems, which is a banking history report, not a credit report. Your credit score does not matter for opening a checking account.
Can I use my ITIN to get a Chase credit card later?
Yes, you can use your ITIN to build a credit history and eventually may have access to for a credit card. Start by using your checking account responsibly and consider a secured credit card (where you deposit money as collateral) to build credit. After a year or two of good history, you may may have access to for a regular credit card.
What if I move to a different state after opening my Chase account?
Your Chase account will work the same way in any state. You do not need to close it or open a new one. You can update your address online or in the mobile app, or visit any Chase branch to update it in person.