You can open most Chase checking and savings accounts entirely online, but some account types require a visit to a branch
Chase lets you open a checking account, savings account, or money market account through their website or mobile app without stepping into a branch. The process takes about 10 minutes and you can start using your account the same day. However, Chase business accounts, certain specialty products, and accounts opened by someone under 18 require an in-person visit or a co-signer present.
The online application asks for your Social Security number, date of birth, address, and employment information. Chase will run a soft credit check and verify your identity through a few security questions. If you pass, you can fund the account immediately with a transfer from another bank, and your debit card ships within 5 to 7 business days.
Key Takeaways
- Chase checking and savings accounts open online in about 10 minutes, and you can use them the same day with a temporary debit card number.
- You need a valid government ID, Social Security number, and a current address to complete the online application.
- Chase will verify your identity by asking security questions based on your credit history and checking your name against banking databases.
- Business accounts, accounts for minors without a co-signer, and some specialty products require you to visit a Chase branch in person.
- Your physical debit card arrives in 5 to 7 business days, but you can use a temporary card number for online purchases immediately after opening.
What you need before you start the online application
Gather these documents and information before you open the Chase website or app. You will need a valid government-issued ID—a driver's license, passport, or state ID card. Chase scans or photographs this during the application, so have it ready.
You also need your Social Security number, current mailing address, and a phone number where Chase can reach you. If you are employed, have your employer's name and your job title handy, though this is not required to open the account. If you want to fund the account immediately with a transfer, have the routing number and account number from your other bank ready.
The step-by-step process to open an account online
Go to chase.com or open the Chase mobile app and select "Open an account." Choose the account type you want—checking, savings, or money market. Chase will ask you to enter your name, date of birth, Social Security number, and current address. This takes about 2 minutes.
Next, Chase verifies your identity by asking 3 to 5 security questions based on your credit history. These questions ask about past addresses, previous employers, or loan details. Answer them correctly and the verification is instant. If you cannot answer them or get them wrong, Chase may ask you to visit a branch or call their verification team.
After verification, you choose your account features—overdraft protection, linked savings, or other options. Then you set up online banking login credentials and a PIN. At this point, your account is open and you can use a temporary debit card number for online purchases immediately. Your physical card arrives in 5 to 7 business days.
When you must visit a Chase branch instead
Chase requires an in-person visit for business accounts, regardless of business size. Sole proprietorships, LLCs, partnerships, and corporations all need to be opened at a branch with an EIN (Employer Identification Number) or business tax ID.
If you are under 18, you cannot open an account online alone. You need a parent or guardian to co-sign in person at a branch. Some Chase branches allow a co-signer to open the account remotely using video verification, but this varies by location—call your local branch to ask.
Certain specialty accounts, such as Chase Sapphire or high-net-worth products, may also require a branch visit or a phone call with a banker. Check the product details on chase.com before you start the application.
How Chase verifies your identity online
Chase uses a combination of methods to confirm you are who you say you are. First, they check your name, address, and Social Security number against banking and credit databases. This is instant and happens in the background.
Second, they ask security questions based on your credit history—questions only you should know the answer to. These might ask about a car loan you took out, a previous address, or a credit card account. If you have no credit history or very limited history, Chase may ask you to verify your identity by uploading a photo of your ID or by visiting a branch.
If verification fails, Chase will tell you why and offer next steps. Most often, you can call Chase at 1-800-935-9935 to speak with someone who can verify you over the phone, or you can visit a branch with your ID.
Funding your new Chase account
You can fund your account immediately after it opens, or you can leave it empty and deposit money later. The fastest way is to transfer money from another bank account you own. You will need the routing number and account number from that bank.
Chase also accepts deposits by check—you can mail a check or deposit it through the mobile app using mobile check deposit. ATM deposits work too if you have access to a Chase ATM. Direct deposit from your employer can be set up right away; it typically takes 1 to 2 pay periods to begin.
If you do not have another bank account to transfer from, you can wait for your debit card to arrive and use it to withdraw cash at a Chase ATM, then deposit that cash at another Chase ATM or branch. This is slower but works if you need to fund the account without an external transfer.
What happens after your account opens
Your account is active immediately, and you can use online banking, mobile banking, and a temporary debit card number for online purchases right away. You can also set up bill pay, transfer money between accounts, and receive direct deposits.
Your physical debit card ships within 5 to 7 business days. Once it arrives, you can use it at Chase ATMs and anywhere Visa is accepted. If your card does not arrive within 10 business days, contact Chase to request a replacement or to ask if there was a delivery issue.
You will also receive a welcome packet by mail with information about your account, your routing number, and account number. This packet usually arrives within 7 to 10 business days. If you need this information before the packet arrives, you can find it in your online banking dashboard or by calling Chase.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a minimum deposit to open a Chase account online?
No. Chase does not require a minimum opening deposit for most checking and savings accounts. You can open an account with zero dollars and fund it later. However, some accounts have minimum balance requirements to avoid monthly fees—check the account details before you open.
Can I open a Chase account if I have been denied by ChexSystems?
ChexSystems is a banking history database. If you have a record there—usually from unpaid overdrafts or fraud—Chase may deny your application. You can request your ChexSystems report for free at chexsystems.com. If there is an error, you can dispute it. Some Chase branches may still open an account for you in person even with a ChexSystems record, so call your local branch to ask.
What if I do not pass the identity verification questions?
If you cannot answer the security questions correctly, Chase will not open your account online. You can call 1-800-935-9935 to verify your identity over the phone with a representative, or you can visit a Chase branch in person with your government ID. Either option usually resolves the issue within a few minutes.
Can I open a joint account online with someone else?
Yes. One person starts the application online, and during the process, Chase will ask if you want to add a co-owner. The co-owner will need to verify their identity separately using the same security questions. Both owners can then access the account online and receive debit cards.
How long does it take to use my account after opening it online?
Your account is ready to use immediately after you complete the application and pass identity verification. You can log into online banking, set up bill pay, and use a temporary debit card number for online purchases the same day. Your physical card arrives in 5 to 7 business days.