Yes, you can open most Chase accounts online from start to finish
Chase lets you open a checking or savings account entirely online without visiting a branch. The process takes about 10 minutes, and you can fund the account immediately. You will need a valid government ID, a Social Security number, and a way to verify your identity—usually a phone number or email address on file with the credit bureaus.
Not every Chase account type is available online. Money Market accounts and some specialty products require a phone call or branch visit. But the most common accounts—Chase Total Checking, Chase Savings, and Chase Premier Plus Checking—can all be opened on Chase.com or through the Chase mobile app.
Key Takeaways
- Chase checking and savings accounts open online in about 10 minutes using your ID, Social Security number, and a method to verify your identity.
- You need a valid government-issued ID (driver's license, passport, or state ID) and proof of your current address to complete the process.
- Chase will verify your identity by asking security questions based on your credit history or by sending a code to your phone or email.
- You can fund your new account immediately with a transfer from another bank, a debit card, or by setting up direct deposit.
- Some account types, like Money Market accounts, are not available online and require a phone call or branch visit.
What you need before you start
Gather these items before opening your browser: a valid government-issued ID (driver's license, passport, or state ID card), your Social Security number, and your current address. Chase will ask you to photograph or upload your ID as part of the verification process.
You will also need a phone number or email address that Chase can use to send a verification code. This is how Chase confirms you are who you say you are. If you have moved recently or your phone number has changed, update that information before you begin.
If you are opening an account with a minor, you will need to do this in person at a branch or by phone with a representative. Chase does not allow online account opening for joint accounts with minors.
The step-by-step process on Chase.com
Go to Chase.com and click "Open an Account" or "Sign Up" at the top of the page. Select the account type you want—checking, savings, or both. Chase will ask you to enter your name, date of birth, Social Security number, and current address.
Next, Chase will ask you to upload a photo of your government ID. Use your phone camera or a scanner to capture both the front and back. The image must be clear enough to read all the text. If the upload fails, Chase will give you the option to enter your ID information manually, though this may slow down verification.
Chase will then send a verification code to your phone or email. Enter that code to confirm your identity. If Chase cannot verify you this way, it will ask security questions based on your credit history—things like "Which of these addresses have you lived at?" or "Which of these credit cards do you recognize?" Answer these correctly to proceed.
Once verified, you will choose your account settings: overdraft protection, debit card design, and whether you want paperless statements. Then you will review and sign the account agreement electronically. Your account opens immediately.
How to fund your new account right away
Chase gives you three ways to put money into your account on day one. The fastest is a transfer from another bank account you own. Provide your routing and account number from that bank, and Chase will move the funds within one to three business days. Some banks transfer faster—same-day transfers are possible but not may provide.
You can also fund the account with a debit card. Enter the card number, expiration date, and CVV. Chase will process this as a purchase and the money will appear in your account within minutes, though the debit card company may take a day or two to post the charge on your statement.
The third option is to set up direct deposit from your employer or a government benefit. This does not fund the account immediately, but it is the most reliable way to get regular deposits. You will need your routing number (Chase's is 021000021 for most accounts) and your new account number to give to your employer or benefits administrator.
What happens if Chase cannot verify you online
If Chase's automated verification fails—because your ID photo is unclear, your information does not match the credit bureaus, or you have a thin credit file—you will be asked to call Chase or visit a branch. A representative can verify you by asking additional questions or by reviewing your ID in person.
This does not mean you are rejected. It means Chase needs a human to confirm your identity before opening the account. The phone call usually takes 10 to 15 minutes. You can call Chase at the number provided on the screen, or you can schedule a callback and Chase will call you.
If you have a history of fraud alerts or freezes on your credit, or if you are opening an account with a large initial deposit, Chase may require a branch visit. This is a security measure and is not a reflection on you personally.
Account types you cannot open online
Chase Money Market accounts must be opened by phone or in person. These accounts typically require a higher opening deposit (often $2,500 or more, though this varies) and offer higher interest rates on savings. Call Chase at 1-800-935-9935 to open one, or visit your nearest branch.
Joint accounts with a minor also require a branch visit or phone call. If you want to open an account for a child under 18, you will need to bring the child's birth certificate and your ID to a branch, or call and speak with a representative who can walk you through the process.
Some specialty accounts tied to investment services or business banking may also require a phone call. When you start the online process, Chase will tell you immediately if your chosen account type is not available online.
What to do if you already have a Chase account
If you are an existing Chase customer, you can open additional accounts even faster. Log into your Chase account online or in the app, go to "Accounts," and select "Open a New Account." Chase already has your identity verified, so you will skip most of the verification steps. Your new account opens within minutes.
Existing customers can also open Money Market accounts online if they already have a checking or savings account with Chase. This shortcut is not available to brand-new customers.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to open a Chase account online?
The entire process takes about 10 minutes if your identity verifies automatically. If Chase needs to ask security questions or if you need to call a representative, add another 10 to 15 minutes. Your account is active immediately after you complete the final step, though transfers from other banks may take one to three business days to arrive.
Do I need a minimum deposit to open a Chase account online?
Chase does not require a minimum deposit to open checking or savings accounts online. You can open an account with zero dollars and fund it later. Money Market accounts do require a minimum opening deposit, which varies but is typically $2,500 or higher.
Can I open a Chase account if I have been denied before?
Chase uses ChexSystems, a banking history database, to screen new accounts. If you were denied in the past, you may be denied again if the issue has not been resolved. Common reasons for denial include unpaid overdrafts, fraud, or too many accounts opened in a short time. Call Chase to ask why you were denied and whether you can reapply.
What if I do not have a government ID?
Chase requires a valid government-issued ID to open an account online. If you do not have one, you will need to visit a branch in person with alternative documents like a passport, tribal ID, or military ID. Some branches may accept other forms of identification, so call ahead to ask what they accept.
Can I open a Chase account on my phone?
Yes. The Chase mobile app has the same account-opening feature as the website. The process is identical: you upload your ID, verify your identity, and your account opens within minutes. Some users find the app easier because it can access your phone's camera directly.