You can start a Chase business account online, but you will need to finish it in person or by phone
Chase lets you begin a business bank account application on their website, but the process does not end there. You can fill out your business information, provide your tax ID, and upload documents from your computer, but Chase requires a phone call or in-person visit to verify your identity and complete the account opening. This two-step process takes longer than a personal account and involves a Chase business banker, not an automated system.
The reason for the extra step is regulatory: business accounts carry higher fraud risk and require more documentation than personal accounts. Chase needs to confirm you are who you say you are and that your business is real before they hand you access to a business checking or savings account.
Key Takeaways
- You can start your Chase business account application online, but you must complete it by phone or in person with a business banker.
- You will need your Social Security number, Employer Identification Number (EIN) or tax ID, business license, and proof of address before you begin.
- The verification call or visit typically happens within one to three business days of submitting your online application.
- Chase business accounts have monthly fees that vary by account type, and some fees are waived if you maintain a minimum balance or set up direct deposit.
What documents and information you need before you start
Gather these items before you open the online application. You will need your Social Security number, your business's Employer Identification Number (EIN) or tax ID, and your business license or articles of incorporation. Chase also asks for proof of your business address—a utility bill, lease, or mortgage statement dated within the last 60 days works. If your business is brand new and you do not have an EIN yet, you can apply for one through the IRS website (irs.gov) before you start the Chase application; it takes about 15 minutes online.
You will also need to know your business structure: sole proprietorship, partnership, LLC, S-corp, or C-corp. Chase asks this question early in the application because it determines which forms you sign and which tax documents they request later. If you are unsure, your accountant or the state business registry can confirm your structure in minutes.
The online application and what happens next
Go to chase.com/business and select "Open an account." The online form asks for your business name, address, phone number, industry, and estimated monthly transaction volume. You upload your business license and proof of address as PDF or image files. The application takes about 15 to 20 minutes to complete.
After you submit, Chase sends you an email confirming receipt. Within one to three business days, a Chase business banker calls the phone number you provided. This call is not optional—if you do not answer, the application stalls. The banker verifies your identity by asking security questions, confirms the business information you entered, and explains the account features and fees. If everything checks out, they activate your account during the call and send you login credentials by email.
Some applicants are asked to visit a Chase branch in person instead of taking a phone call. This happens less often but is more common if your application raises questions or if you are opening a business account with a large expected deposit. If Chase asks you to come in, they will tell you which branch and what to bring.
Account types and monthly fees
Chase offers several business checking accounts, each with different fees and features. The Chase Business Basic Checking account has a $15 monthly service fee (waived if you maintain a $2,500 minimum daily balance or set up direct deposit). The Chase Business Premiere Checking costs $25 per month and is designed for businesses with higher transaction volume; the fee is waived at a $25,000 minimum balance. There is also a Chase Business Savings account with a $5 monthly fee (waived at $2,500 minimum balance).
All accounts include online banking, mobile app access, and the ability to add authorized users. Business debit cards are free, but there are per-transaction fees for certain services: wire transfers, stop payments, and excess withdrawals from savings accounts. Ask the banker about these fees during your verification call if you think you will use them regularly.
How long it takes from application to first use
The entire process typically takes three to five business days. You submit the online application on day one, receive the verification call on day two or three, and the account is active by day three or four. You can log into online banking and set up bill pay immediately after the call. Debit cards arrive by mail in five to seven business days, so if you need to make purchases right away, use online bill pay or transfers instead.
If Chase requests additional documents or information during the verification call, the timeline extends. For example, if they ask for a recent business tax return or a letter from your landlord confirming your business address, you will need to provide those before the account activates. This can add three to five more business days.
What disqualifies you or slows down approval
Chase runs a background check as part of the verification process. If you have unpaid debts with Chase, a history of fraud, or significant negative marks on your credit report, your application may be denied. Chase does not publish exact thresholds, but the banker will tell you during the call if there is a problem.
Incomplete or mismatched information also causes delays. If the name on your business license does not match the name you entered in the application, or if your address is different, Chase asks you to clarify before moving forward. Make sure every detail matches your official business documents.
New businesses sometimes face extra scrutiny. If your business is less than six months old and you have no business tax returns yet, Chase may ask for a personal financial statement or a letter explaining your business plan. This is normal and does not mean you will be rejected—it just means the verification call takes longer.
Alternatives if you cannot complete the process online
If you prefer to avoid the online application altogether, you can walk into any Chase branch and ask to open a business account in person. A banker will help you fill out the paperwork on the spot, verify your identity immediately, and often activate your account the same day. This route is faster if you have all your documents with you, but it requires a trip to a branch during business hours.
Some business owners also use Chase's phone line to start the process: call 1-800-935-9935 and ask for business banking. A representative can walk you through the application over the phone and may be able to complete verification in the same call, depending on your situation. This is useful if you have questions during the application or if you want to discuss account options before committing.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need an EIN to open a Chase business account?
Not always. If you are a sole proprietor, you can use your Social Security number instead of an EIN. However, Chase recommends having an EIN because it keeps your personal and business finances separate and is required if you have employees. You can get an EIN from the IRS website in about 15 minutes.
Can I open a Chase business account if I have bad credit?
Chase does not use your personal credit score to decide, but they do check for fraud history and unpaid debts. If you have been flagged for fraud or have an outstanding debt with Chase, your application will likely be denied. Otherwise, bad credit alone does not disqualify you.
What if I do not answer the verification call?
Your application will not move forward. Chase typically tries to reach you once; if you miss the call, check your email for a message asking you to call back. If you do not respond within a few days, the application may be closed. Answer the call or call Chase back as soon as you see the attempt.
Can I use my personal Chase account while I wait for my business account to open?
Technically yes, but Chase's terms of service prohibit using personal accounts for business purposes. If Chase detects business activity on a personal account, they may freeze it or require you to move the funds to a business account. Open the business account first to avoid this problem.
Do I have to keep a minimum balance to avoid monthly fees?
It depends on the account type. Chase Business Basic Checking waives the $15 fee at a $2,500 minimum daily balance. If you cannot maintain that balance, you pay the fee every month. Some small business owners accept the fee as a cost of banking rather than trying to keep a large balance sitting idle.