Chase checking accounts have no monthly fee and no minimum opening deposit
You can open a Chase checking account with zero dollars. Chase does not require a minimum deposit to start the account, and most of their checking products have no monthly maintenance fee. The only cost you might face is if you overdraw your account or use services like wire transfers or cashier's checks, which carry their own fees.
The account itself is free to open and free to maintain, as long as you follow the terms of the specific account type you choose. Chase offers several checking products, and the cost structure varies slightly between them.
Key Takeaways
- Chase checking accounts require no minimum deposit to open and have no monthly maintenance fee on most products.
- You can open an account online, by phone, or in a branch with just an ID and Social Security number.
- Overdraft fees, ATM fees outside the Chase network, and wire transfer fees are the main costs you might encounter after opening.
- Chase offers different checking products for different needs, and each has the same zero opening cost but different features.
What you need to bring or provide to open an account
To open a Chase checking account, you need a valid government-issued ID (driver's license, passport, or state ID), your Social Security number, and a current address. If you open online or by phone, you can provide all of this information without visiting a branch. If you open in person, bring your ID and be ready to give your Social Security number verbally.
You do not need an initial deposit. Some banks require you to fund the account on the day you open it; Chase does not. You can open the account and deposit money later, though most people link a debit card or set up a transfer within the first few days.
The different Chase checking products and what they cost
Chase offers three main checking accounts: Chase Total Checking, Chase Sapphire Checking, and Chase Premier Plus Checking. All three have zero opening cost and no monthly fee.
Chase Total Checking is the standard option. It comes with a debit card, online banking, mobile app access, and the ability to deposit checks by phone. There is no monthly fee and no minimum balance requirement.
Chase Sapphire Checking is designed for customers who want premium features. It includes everything in Total Checking plus higher ATM reimbursement limits, priority customer service, and a higher interest rate on the account balance. It also has no monthly fee and no minimum opening deposit.
Chase Premier Plus Checking requires a higher relationship with Chase (typically a minimum balance or linked savings account) but still has no opening cost. It offers the highest interest rate and additional perks like fee waivers.
Fees you might pay after opening
While opening and maintaining a Chase checking account is free, you can incur fees for specific actions. An overdraft fee applies if you spend more money than you have in the account—Chase charges a fee each time this happens. ATM fees apply if you use an ATM outside the Chase network; Chase reimburses some of these fees depending on your account type, but not all.
Wire transfers, cashier's checks, and stop payment requests each carry a fee. Foreign transaction fees apply if you use your debit card outside the United States. Monthly fees do not apply to any Chase checking account as long as you keep the account open and in good standing.
How to open an account online, by phone, or in person
Opening online is the fastest route. Go to Chase.com, select "Open an Account," choose your checking product, and follow the prompts. You will enter your personal information, Social Security number, and address. Chase will verify your identity in real time, usually within minutes. You can then set up online banking and order a debit card immediately.
Opening by phone takes about 15 minutes. Call Chase at 1-800-935-9935 and tell them you want to open a checking account. A representative will walk you through the same information and can answer questions about which account type fits your needs.
Opening in a Chase branch takes about 20 to 30 minutes. Bring your ID and Social Security number. A banker will help you choose an account, verify your information, and set up your debit card on the spot. You can leave with a temporary card and receive your permanent card in the mail within 7 to 10 business days.
When your debit card arrives and how to use it
If you open online or by phone, Chase will mail your debit card to the address you provided. Delivery typically takes 7 to 10 business days. You can request expedited shipping in some cases, though this may carry a fee. Once the card arrives, you activate it through the Chase mobile app or by calling the number on the back of the card.
If you open in a branch, you may receive a temporary card immediately that you can use right away. Your permanent card will arrive in the mail within the same timeframe. Until your card arrives, you can transfer money into the account and use online bill pay to move money out.
What happens if you close the account later
Closing a Chase checking account is free and can be done online, by phone, or in person. There is no early closure fee or penalty. Before you close, make sure you have withdrawn all remaining funds or transferred them to another account. If you have automatic payments or direct deposits set up, update those with your new account information first to avoid missed payments or lost deposits.
Chase will send you a confirmation once the account is closed. If you had a debit card, it will stop working immediately. Any pending transactions may still process, so check your account for a few days after closure to make sure everything cleared.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to deposit money the day I open the account?
No. Chase does not require you to fund the account on opening day. You can open the account with zero dollars and deposit money whenever you are ready. Most people link a transfer or set up direct deposit within the first few days, but there is no deadline.
Can I open an account if I have had problems with another bank?
Chase uses ChexSystems, a banking history database, to screen new account applications. If you have unpaid overdrafts, fraud, or other serious issues on your banking record, Chase may deny your application. You can request a copy of your ChexSystems report to see what is on file.
What is the difference between Chase Total Checking and Chase Sapphire Checking?
Both have no monthly fee and no opening cost. Sapphire offers higher ATM reimbursement, a higher interest rate, and priority customer service. Sapphire is better if you travel frequently or want to earn interest on your balance; Total Checking is fine if you just need basic checking.
Can I open a Chase account online if I do not have a Chase branch near me?
Yes. You can open any Chase checking account entirely online and never visit a branch. Your debit card will be mailed to you, and you can manage everything through the mobile app or website. Chase has no geographic restrictions on online account opening.
What happens if I do not use my Chase checking account?
Chase will not close your account for inactivity. However, if your account sits unused for an extended period and you do not respond to Chase communications, they may eventually close it. There is no inactivity fee, but it is good practice to use the account at least once every few months.