Yes, you can open most Chase accounts online, but not all of them

Chase lets you open a checking or savings account entirely online using a computer or phone. You do not need to visit a branch. The process takes about 10 minutes, and your account can be active the same day. However, Chase has a few account types—like some business accounts and certain specialty products—that still require a branch visit or a phone call to a banker.

The accounts you can open online are the ones most people use: Chase Total Checking, Chase Savings, Chase Premier Checking, and Chase Premier Plus Checking. Each has different monthly fees, minimum balance requirements, and interest rates. You choose which one fits your situation during the online signup process.

Key Takeaways

  • Chase checking and savings accounts open online in about 10 minutes using your computer, phone, or tablet.
  • You will need a Social Security number, a valid ID, a current address, and a way to fund the account (debit card, bank transfer, or check deposit).
  • Your account number and routing number arrive immediately, so you can set up direct deposit or transfers the same day.
  • Some Chase accounts—including certain business and specialty accounts—still require a phone call or branch visit to open.

What you need before you start

Gather these items before you begin the online signup. Chase will ask for them in order: your Social Security number, a government-issued ID (driver's license or passport), your current mailing address, and your date of birth. Have these ready so you do not have to stop and search for them.

You will also need a way to fund your new account. Chase accepts transfers from another bank account (using routing and account numbers), a debit card, or a check you mail in. Most people use a transfer from an existing account because it is fastest—the money can arrive within one to three business days. If you do not have another bank account yet, a debit card works, though Chase may place a temporary hold on the funds while they verify it.

Finally, make sure you have a phone number and email address where Chase can reach you. They use these to send account confirmations and security alerts.

The step-by-step process

Start at Chase.com and click "Open an Account" or go directly to the account opening page. Choose which account type you want—the page shows the monthly fee, minimum balance, and interest rate for each one side by side, so you can compare before you decide.

Enter your personal information: name, date of birth, Social Security number, address, phone, and email. Chase verifies your identity using this data and checks it against their fraud database. This usually takes less than a minute.

Next, choose how you will fund the account. If you pick a transfer from another bank, enter that bank's routing number and your account number there. If you use a debit card, enter the card number and expiration date. Chase processes the transfer or charge immediately, though the money may take a few business days to arrive in your new account.

Review the account agreement and disclosures, then sign electronically. Chase sends a confirmation email with your new account number, routing number, and online banking login. You can log in and use the account right away, even if your funding transfer has not cleared yet.

Accounts you cannot open online

Chase business accounts—including sole proprietor, LLC, and corporation accounts—require a phone call or branch visit. You will need to speak with a business banker who can verify your business structure and tax ID. This process typically takes longer than personal account opening and may require additional documents like articles of incorporation or an EIN letter from the IRS.

Some specialty accounts, like Chase Private Client or certain investment-linked accounts, also require a banker conversation. If you are interested in one of these, call Chase at 1-800-935-9935 or visit a branch to ask about opening one.

What happens after you open your account

Your account is live immediately, and you can start using it right away. You receive a debit card in the mail within 7 to 10 business days. Until it arrives, you can withdraw cash at any Chase ATM using your online banking login and a temporary PIN, or you can transfer money out to another account you own.

If you set up direct deposit during signup, your employer can start depositing your paycheck to the new account as soon as your account number is active. You do not have to wait for the debit card. The same is true for automatic bill payments—you can set those up immediately using your routing number and account number.

Chase sends monthly statements by email (or paper, if you choose). You can view your balance, transactions, and statements anytime by logging into Chase.com or the Chase Mobile app.

Fees and minimum balances

Chase Total Checking has a monthly maintenance fee that is waived if you meet one of these conditions: keep a minimum daily balance, set up direct deposit, or maintain a linked Chase savings account with a certain balance. The exact amounts vary, so check the current terms on Chase.com when you open your account.

Chase Savings has a monthly fee that is also waived by maintaining a minimum balance or linking it to a may have access to checking account. Interest rates on savings accounts change frequently and vary based on market conditions—Chase publishes the current rate on their website.

If you do not meet the waiver conditions, the monthly fee is charged to your account. You can avoid it by switching to a different account type, closing the account, or meeting one of the waiver requirements.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take to open a Chase account online?

The signup process itself takes about 10 minutes. Your account number arrives immediately in your confirmation email, so you can use it for direct deposit or transfers right away. However, if you fund the account with a transfer from another bank, that transfer may take one to three business days to arrive.

Can I open a Chase account if I do not have a Social Security number?

Chase requires a Social Security number or ITIN (Individual Taxpayer Identification Number) to open an account. If you have an ITIN, you may be able to open an account by calling Chase or visiting a branch, though policies vary by location. Call 1-800-935-9935 to ask about your specific situation.

What if I already have a Chase account and want to open another one?

You can open a second account online using the same process. Chase allows you to have multiple checking and savings accounts. Each one gets its own account number and can be managed separately through your online banking login.

Do I need a minimum deposit to open an account?

No minimum deposit is required to open most Chase accounts online. However, some accounts waive their monthly fee only if you maintain a certain daily balance. You can open the account with any amount and decide later whether to meet the balance requirement or pay the fee.

Can I open a joint account online with someone else?

Chase does not allow you to add a joint owner during the online signup process. You can open an account in your name online, then visit a branch or call to add a joint owner afterward. Bring the other person's ID and Social Security number when you make that change.