Yes, you can open a Chase account in person at any branch

Walk into any Chase branch with a valid ID and you can open a checking or savings account on the spot. The teller or new accounts representative will ask for your Social Security number, verify your identity, and set up the account while you wait. You'll leave with a debit card order in progress (it arrives in 7 to 10 business days) and immediate access to your account number so you can start depositing money the same day.

In-person opening takes 15 to 30 minutes depending on how busy the branch is and whether you have questions about account features. You do not need to have an existing Chase account, and you do not need to bring anything except ID and your Social Security number—though having a recent utility bill or lease can speed things up if the branch needs to verify your address.

Key Takeaways

  • Bring a government-issued photo ID and your Social Security number; a recent address document like a utility bill or lease helps but is not required.
  • The account opens immediately, but your physical debit card takes 7 to 10 business days to arrive by mail.
  • You can deposit money and receive your account number the same day, even before the card arrives.
  • Chase branches are open Monday through Friday, with limited Saturday hours at most locations; call ahead to confirm your branch's hours.
  • If you do not have a Social Security number, you can open an account with an ITIN (Individual Taxpayer Identification Number), though some branches may require additional documents.

What to bring to the branch

A government-issued photo ID is the only hard requirement. This means a driver's license, passport, state ID card, or military ID. Chase will scan or photograph it as part of the account opening process.

Your Social Security number is also required. Chase uses it to run a background check through ChexSystems, a banking history database. If you do not have a Social Security number but have an ITIN, tell the representative when you arrive; some branches can open accounts with an ITIN, though policies vary by location.

A recent address document is optional but useful. A utility bill, lease, mortgage statement, or bank statement dated within the last 60 days speeds up verification. If you do not have one, the representative can use your ID address, but it may add a few minutes to the process.

What happens during the account opening

The representative will ask you to choose between a checking account, savings account, or both. They will explain the monthly fees (many Chase accounts waive fees if you maintain a minimum balance or set up direct deposit), interest rates on savings, and features like overdraft protection. Ask about any current promotions—Chase sometimes offers cash bonuses for new accounts, though these vary by location and time of year.

Next, they will verify your identity by scanning your ID and confirming your Social Security number. Chase runs a ChexSystems check to see if you have had problems with previous bank accounts (bounced checks, fraud, or unpaid overdrafts). Most people pass this check instantly. If there is a problem, the representative will tell you on the spot.

Once approved, you will sign documents and choose a PIN for your debit card. The representative will give you your account number, routing number, and temporary access information. You can start using your account immediately—deposit a check, set up direct deposit, or transfer money from another bank. Your physical debit card will arrive by mail in 7 to 10 business days.

Finding a Chase branch and checking hours

Use the Chase branch locator on Chase.com or call 1-800-935-9935 to find the nearest branch and confirm it is open. Most branches operate Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., with some opening at 8 a.m. or staying open until 6 p.m. Many branches have Saturday hours, usually 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., but this varies widely.

Some Chase branches inside grocery stores or pharmacies have different hours than standalone branches. Call ahead or check the locator to avoid a wasted trip. If you cannot get to a branch during business hours, Chase also allows online account opening through their website or mobile app, which takes about 10 minutes and requires the same ID and Social Security number.

What you can do before your debit card arrives

Your account is fully functional the moment it opens, even though your physical card is still in the mail. You can deposit checks at any Chase ATM or branch, set up direct deposit from your employer, transfer money from another bank account, and pay bills online through Chase's bill pay service. You can also request a temporary card number for online shopping if you need to make purchases before the physical card arrives.

If you need cash immediately, you can withdraw it at the branch where you opened the account or at any other Chase branch or ATM. Your account number and routing number are available right away, so you can give them to your employer or creditors for direct deposit or automatic payments.

If you do not have a Social Security number

Chase can open accounts for people with an ITIN instead of a Social Security number, but policies vary by branch. Some branches require additional documents, such as a passport, visa, or state-issued ID. Call your local branch before you go to confirm they can open an account with an ITIN and ask what documents to bring.

If your branch cannot open an account with an ITIN, ask for a referral to a branch that can, or consider opening an account online through Chase's website—some online pathways accept ITINs more readily than in-person branches do.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need an existing Chase account to open a new one in person?

No. You can open your first Chase account in person with just an ID and Social Security number. You do not need to be an existing customer.

Can I open a joint account in person?

Yes. Both account holders must be present with valid IDs and Social Security numbers. Chase will set up the account so either person can withdraw money or make decisions about the account.

What if I fail the ChexSystems check?

The representative will tell you immediately if there is a problem. You can ask what the issue is and may be able to dispute it if it is incorrect. Some Chase branches have second-chance checking options for people with banking history problems; ask the representative what is available.

How long does it take to get my debit card?

Physical debit cards arrive in 7 to 10 business days by mail. If you need to make purchases before then, ask the representative about a temporary card number or digital wallet setup.

Can I open an account if I do not have a permanent address?

Chase requires a mailing address for your account. If you do not have a permanent address, you can use a shelter address, a friend's address, or a mail forwarding service. Bring documentation of that address if possible.