You can open most Chase accounts online in about 10 minutes using a computer or the Chase mobile app

Chase lets you open a checking or savings account entirely online without visiting a branch. The process is straightforward: you provide personal information, verify your identity, fund the account, and you're done. Most accounts are active the same day or within one business day.

The exact steps depend on which account type you choose and whether Chase recognizes you as an existing customer. New customers typically need a government ID, Social Security number, and an initial deposit. If you already bank with Chase, opening a second account takes even less time.

Key Takeaways

  • Chase account opening happens entirely online through their website or mobile app, with no branch visit required.
  • You will need a valid government ID, your Social Security number, and proof of current address to complete the process.
  • Most new accounts require an opening deposit, which varies by account type and can often be as low as $0 for some checking accounts.
  • Chase verifies your identity using information from credit bureaus and may ask security questions or request a photo of your ID.
  • Your account number and routing number are usually available immediately after approval, though some features may take one business day to activate.

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), your Social Security number, and proof of your current address. A recent utility bill, lease agreement, or bank statement works for the address.

You will also need a way to fund the account. Chase accepts transfers from another bank account, a debit card, or a credit card. If you are opening your first Chase account, have your current bank's routing and account numbers ready if you plan to transfer money in.

Make sure you have a phone number and email address that you actively use. Chase will send you a confirmation code by text or email during the verification process, and you will need to enter it to complete the account opening.

Step-by-step: opening a new Chase account online

Step 1: Go to Chase.com or open the Chase mobile app. On the website, look for "Open an Account" or "New Customer" near the top of the page. In the app, tap the menu icon and select "Open an Account." Choose the account type you want—checking, savings, or money market account.

Step 2: Enter your personal information. Provide your full name, date of birth, Social Security number, phone number, and email address. Chase will ask for your current address and employment status. Be accurate; mismatched information can slow down verification.

Step 3: Verify your identity. Chase uses information from credit bureaus to confirm who you are. You may be asked security questions about your financial history, or Chase may request a photo of your ID. Take a clear photo of the front and back of your ID if asked, and submit it through the app or website.

Step 4: Review account terms and set up security. Read the account agreement and fee schedule. Create a username and password for online banking. Set up a PIN for the mobile app if you plan to use it.

Step 5: Fund your account. Choose how much to deposit and select your funding method. If you transfer from another bank, enter that bank's routing number and your account number there. If you use a debit or credit card, enter the card details. Most transfers arrive within one to three business days.

Step 6: Confirm and finish. Review all the information you entered. Chase will send a confirmation code to your phone or email. Enter that code to complete the process. Your account is now open.

How long it takes and when you can use your account

The online application itself takes 10 to 15 minutes. Identity verification happens in real time for most applicants, so you will know whether you are approved before you finish. If Chase needs additional information, they will contact you by phone or email within one business day.

Your account number and routing number are available immediately after approval. You can use these to set up direct deposit or transfers right away. However, some features—like the ability to deposit checks through the mobile app—may not activate until the next business day.

If you fund your account by transfer from another bank, that money typically arrives within one to three business days, depending on the other bank's processing time. Debit and credit card deposits may be available within hours or by the next day. If you fund by check, allow five to seven business days for the check to clear.

Opening a second Chase account if you already bank there

If you are already a Chase customer, opening a second account is faster. Log into your existing Chase account online or in the app, then look for "Open Another Account" or a similar option in the menu. Chase will use your existing information and skip most of the verification steps.

You can still choose a different account type—for example, open a savings account if you already have checking. The process takes about five minutes, and the new account is usually active within hours.

What to do if your application is denied or stalled

Chase may deny your application if you have a history of overdrafts, unpaid fees, or fraud reported to ChexSystems (a banking history database). You can request a copy of your ChexSystems report to see what Chase saw. If there is an error, you can dispute it directly with ChexSystems.

If your application is pending, Chase will contact you with next steps. This usually means they need to verify information or confirm your identity by phone. Answer their call or respond to their email promptly; delays on your end can extend the process.

If you are denied, ask Chase why. Some reasons are temporary—a recent overdraft or fraud alert—and you may be able to reapply after 30 to 90 days. Other banks like Chime or Ally offer accounts to people with ChexSystems issues, though they have different features and fees.

Fees and account minimums

Chase's checking accounts have no monthly maintenance fee if you maintain a minimum balance (usually $500 to $1,500, depending on the account) or set up direct deposit. Savings accounts typically require a minimum balance to avoid a monthly fee, often $300 to $500.

Overdraft fees, out-of-network ATM fees, and wire transfer fees apply if you use those services. Chase offers overdraft protection, which links your checking account to a savings account or credit line to cover overdrafts, though this comes with its own fees.

Review the fee schedule for the specific account you are opening. Chase's website shows all fees upfront before you complete the application, so you can compare accounts and choose the one that fits your banking habits.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I open a Chase account if I don't have a Social Security number?

Chase requires a Social Security number or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) to open an account. If you have an ITIN, you can use that instead. If you have neither, you will need to visit a branch in person and bring additional documentation, such as a passport and proof of address.

What if Chase can't verify my identity online?

If the online verification fails, Chase will contact you by phone or email to complete the process manually. They may ask you to visit a branch with your ID, or they may conduct a phone interview. This adds one to three business days to the timeline but does not mean you will be denied.

Can I open a Chase account on my phone?

Yes, the Chase mobile app supports account opening for most account types. The process is identical to the website version. Make sure you have a clear photo of your ID ready if Chase asks for it during verification.

Do I have to make a deposit when I open the account?

Most Chase checking accounts have no minimum opening deposit, though some premium accounts require $25 or more. Savings accounts typically require a minimum deposit of $25 to $100. Check the specific account details before you apply to confirm what is required.

When can I use my debit card?

Chase will issue you a debit card, but it arrives by mail within 7 to 10 business days. You can use your account number and routing number to set up direct deposit or transfers immediately. Some Chase branches will issue a temporary card in person if you visit within a few days of opening your account.