Yes, you can open a Chase savings account entirely online
Chase lets you open most of their savings accounts through their website or mobile app without visiting a branch. The process takes about 10 minutes, and you'll have an account number and routing number the same day. You'll need a Social Security number, a valid government ID, a current address, and a funding source — either a debit card or an external bank account to transfer money in.
Not every Chase savings product is available online. High Yield Savings accounts and regular savings accounts can be opened remotely. Some specialty accounts tied to investment products or specific programs may require a branch visit or a phone call, but the standard savings options work through digital channels.
Key Takeaways
- Chase savings accounts open online in about 10 minutes using their website or mobile app, with no branch visit required.
- You will need a Social Security number, valid government ID, current address, and a way to fund the account (debit card or linked bank account).
- Your account number and routing number appear immediately after approval, so you can start using the account the same day.
- Chase may ask you to verify your identity by answering security questions or confirming recent transactions on other accounts you hold.
- If you already have a Chase checking account, the online process is faster because Chase already has your identity information on file.
What documents and information you need to have ready
Gather these items before you start the application. Chase will ask for your full legal name, date of birth, and Social Security number. Have your current street address ready — a PO box does not work. You'll also need a valid government-issued ID: a driver's license, passport, or state ID card.
For funding, you have two options. You can provide a debit card (Visa, Mastercard, American Express, or Discover) and Chase will charge a small amount to verify it, then refund it. Or you can link an external bank account and transfer money in. If you already bank with Chase, you can transfer from your existing checking account, which is the fastest route.
Chase may also ask for your phone number and email address. Make sure the email and phone number you provide are ones you can access immediately — Chase sometimes sends a verification code that expires within a few minutes.
The online application process, step by step
Start on Chase's website or open their mobile app. Look for "Open an account" or "New accounts" — the exact link changes depending on which device you're using. Select the savings account type you want: Chase Savings, Chase High Yield Savings, or another option if available. Chase will show you the current interest rate and any monthly fees for each type.
Enter your personal information: name, date of birth, Social Security number, and address. Chase runs a soft credit check at this stage — it does not affect your credit score. Next, you'll provide your funding method. If you're using a debit card, enter the card number and expiration date. If you're linking a bank account, you'll enter your routing number and account number.
Chase will ask you to create a username and password for online banking if you don't already have one. Then you'll review the account terms and agree to them. Once you submit, Chase usually approves the account within minutes. Your account number and routing number will appear on screen and in your email.
Identity verification and what happens if Chase asks follow-up questions
After you submit your application, Chase may ask you to verify your identity. This usually means answering security questions about your personal history — previous addresses, names of family members, or past financial accounts. These questions come from public records and credit bureaus, and Chase uses them to confirm you are who you say you are.
If you already have a Chase account, the verification step is often skipped because Chase already confirmed your identity when you opened that account. If you're a new customer, the verification questions typically take 2 to 5 minutes.
In rare cases, Chase may ask you to upload a photo of your ID or take a selfie to match against it. If this happens, you'll see instructions on screen. Upload a clear photo of the front and back of your ID, or follow the selfie prompts. Chase processes these within a few minutes.
When your account is active and ready to use
Once Chase approves your application and you complete identity verification, your account is open. Your account number and routing number appear immediately in the app or on the website. You can start using these numbers right away to set up direct deposit, receive transfers, or link the account to other services.
If you funded the account with a debit card, Chase will charge a small verification amount (usually $0.01 to $1.00) and refund it within 1 to 2 business days. If you linked a bank account, you can transfer money in immediately, though the transfer may take 1 to 3 business days to appear depending on your other bank.
Your debit card for the savings account will arrive in the mail within 7 to 10 business days. Until it arrives, you can still access your money through transfers, ATM withdrawals at Chase branches, or by linking the account to your checking account for transfers.
Reasons Chase might deny or delay your online application
Chase may decline your application if your Social Security number does not match public records, if you have a history of fraud or unpaid accounts with Chase, or if you're under 18 years old. Chase also checks ChexSystems, a banking history database, and may deny you if you have recent overdrafts or closed accounts marked as problematic.
If Chase denies you online, you can visit a branch in person and speak to a banker. Sometimes a banker can override an online decision or open an account with additional documentation. Bring your ID, proof of address (a utility bill or lease), and be prepared to explain any issues that came up in the online check.
Delays sometimes happen if Chase cannot verify your identity through their automated questions. This does not mean you're denied — it means a person at Chase needs to review your application manually. This usually takes 1 to 3 business days. Chase will email you if this happens and may ask you to call or visit a branch.
Differences between opening online versus in a branch
Opening online is faster and requires no appointment. You can do it at any time, day or night, and your account is ready to use the same day. Opening in a branch takes longer — you'll wait for an available banker and the appointment itself may take 20 to 30 minutes — but a banker can answer questions in real time and help you choose the right account type.
If you already have a Chase account, opening another account online is nearly identical to opening it in a branch, because Chase already has your information. If you're a new customer with no Chase history, opening in a branch may be slightly easier because a banker can walk you through identity verification rather than having you answer automated security questions.
There is no fee difference between online and branch accounts. The interest rates, monthly fees, and account features are the same regardless of how you open the account.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to be a current Chase customer to open a savings account online?
No. You can open a Chase savings account online even if you have never banked with Chase before. The process is the same whether you're new or existing. If you already have a Chase checking account, the process is slightly faster because Chase already has your identity verified.
What if I don't have a debit card to fund the account?
You can link an external bank account instead. Provide your routing number and account number from your other bank, and Chase will verify the account by depositing and withdrawing small amounts. You can also visit a Chase branch and deposit cash or a check in person after your account opens.
How long does it take for money to show up after I transfer it?
If you transfer from another bank account, it typically takes 1 to 3 business days. If you transfer from an existing Chase checking account, the money usually appears within a few hours or by the next business day. Transfers on weekends or holidays may take longer.
Can I open a joint savings account online with Chase?
Most Chase savings accounts can be opened as joint accounts online, but the process is slightly different. You'll provide information for both account holders, and both people may need to verify their identity. Check Chase's website for the specific joint account option you want, as some products have restrictions.
What happens if Chase asks me to verify my identity and I can't answer the security questions?
If you can't answer the automated questions, you can request a manual review. Chase will contact you by phone or email to verify your identity another way, such as by asking about your address history or recent transactions. This usually takes 1 to 3 business days. You can also visit a branch with your ID and proof of address to complete the process in person.