Chase checking accounts have no opening deposit requirement
You can open a Chase checking account with zero dollars. Chase does not require a minimum deposit to start the account, and there is no fee to open one. You can fund it later, or not at all — the account itself costs nothing to create.
However, Chase does charge monthly maintenance fees on most checking accounts unless you meet certain conditions. The fee itself is not an opening cost, but it is the real expense you need to understand before you decide which account to open.
Key Takeaways
- Chase checking accounts require no money upfront to open, and there is no application fee.
- Most Chase checking accounts charge a monthly fee of $12, but you can waive it by maintaining a minimum balance or setting up direct deposit.
- Chase Total Checking and Chase Secure Checking are the two main options for most people, and they have different fee structures.
- You can open an account online, by phone, or in a branch, and you will need a government ID and Social Security number.
Monthly fees and how to avoid them
Chase Total Checking charges $12 per month, but the fee is waived if you keep a $500 minimum balance in the account or set up direct deposit of your paycheck. Many people choose direct deposit because it is easier than maintaining the balance, especially if they are living paycheck to paycheck.
Chase Secure Checking is designed for people with no banking history or poor credit. It charges $4.95 per month with no way to waive the fee, but it requires only a $25 opening deposit (not $0). After six months of responsible use, you can often move to Chase Total Checking.
If you are opening an account purely to have one and do not plan to use it, the $12 monthly fee will accumulate. Chase will eventually close the account if it sits inactive and unpaid for long enough, though the exact timeline varies.
What you need to bring or provide
To open a Chase checking account, you will need a government-issued ID (driver's license, passport, or state ID) and your Social Security number. If you are opening online, you can upload a photo of your ID. If you are opening in a branch or by phone, you will provide the information verbally or show the ID in person.
You do not need to bring a deposit. If you want to fund the account immediately, you can transfer money from another bank account, deposit cash in a branch, or use a debit card. None of these are required to open the account itself.
Opening online versus in a branch
Online opening takes about 10 minutes and can be done from your phone or computer. You upload your ID, enter your Social Security number and personal information, and choose which type of checking account you want. Chase will tell you immediately whether the account is open.
Opening in a branch takes longer but gives you a chance to ask questions and have someone walk you through the process. You will still need your ID and Social Security number. Some people prefer this if they are uncomfortable with online banking or want to deposit cash at the same time.
Opening by phone is also an option. Call the Chase customer service number on the back of any Chase card, or search for "Chase phone number" online. You will need your ID information ready, and the process takes 15 to 20 minutes.
Differences between Chase checking account types
| Account Type | Monthly Fee | Fee Waiver Options | Minimum to Open |
|---|---|---|---|
| Chase Total Checking | $12 | $500 balance or direct deposit | $0 |
| Chase Secure Checking | $4.95 | None | $25 |
| Chase Premier Plus Checking | $25 | $15,000 balance or $10,000 plus linked savings | $0 |
Chase Total Checking is the most common account for everyday banking. It has no opening deposit, a reasonable monthly fee, and easy ways to waive the fee.
Chase Secure Checking is for people rebuilding credit or new to banking. The $4.95 fee is lower, but there is no way to waive it. After six months of on-time payments and no overdrafts, you can move to Total Checking.
Chase Premier Plus Checking is for people with higher balances or who want premium features. The $25 monthly fee is steep, but it is waived if you maintain $15,000 or more in the account.
What happens after you open the account
Once your account is open, Chase will issue you a debit card, usually within 7 to 10 business days. You can use your account number and routing number to set up direct deposit or transfers before the card arrives. Your routing number is 021000021 for all Chase accounts.
If you opened with $0, you can fund the account by transferring money from another bank, depositing cash at a Chase ATM or branch, or having your employer send your paycheck directly. The first deposit is not required, but if you do not make one within a certain period, Chase may close the account for inactivity.
Your first monthly fee will be charged 30 days after you open the account, unless you have already met the waiver conditions (direct deposit received or $500 balance maintained).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I open a Chase checking account if I have been denied before?
Chase uses ChexSystems, a banking history report, to decide whether to open accounts. If you were denied, it was likely because of unpaid overdrafts, fraud, or other issues on that report. You can request a copy of your ChexSystems report and dispute errors. Chase Secure Checking is designed for people with banking problems and may be an option even if Total Checking was denied.
Do I have to keep money in the account after I open it?
No. You can open the account with $0 and leave it empty. However, if you do not use the account or deposit money within a certain period (usually 90 to 120 days), Chase may close it for inactivity. If you want to keep the account open without using it, maintain the $500 minimum balance to avoid the monthly fee.
What 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 do not have either, you cannot open a Chase checking account. Some credit unions and smaller banks have different policies, but Chase's requirement is firm.
Can I open multiple Chase checking accounts?
Yes, but Chase may charge you a monthly fee on each account unless each one meets the waiver conditions separately. For example, if you open two Total Checking accounts, you would need either $500 in each account or direct deposit going to each one to avoid paying $12 per month on both.
How long does it take to access my money after I open the account?
If you transfer money from another bank, it usually takes one to three business days to show up in your Chase account. If you deposit cash at a Chase branch or ATM, it is available immediately. If you set up direct deposit, the first paycheck will arrive on your normal payday once your employer processes the new account information.