What you need to open a Chase account

Chase requires you to bring a government-issued photo ID, your Social Security number, and an initial deposit to open a checking or savings account in person. You can also open an account online without visiting a branch, though the process differs slightly. The minimum opening deposit varies by account type—some Chase accounts have no minimum, while others require $25 or more.

If you do not have a Social Security number, you can open an account using an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) instead, though you will need to visit a branch in person. Chase also accepts a passport, driver's license, or state ID as proof of identity.

You will need to choose between a checking account, savings account, or money market account. Chase offers several versions of each, with different features and monthly fees. The account you choose determines what deposit you need and what services come with it.

Key Takeaways

  • You can open a Chase account online in about 10 minutes or in person at a branch with a photo ID, Social Security number, and opening deposit.
  • Chase checking accounts range from no monthly fee to $12 per month, depending on the account type and whether you meet balance or direct deposit requirements.
  • Online account opening is faster but may require you to verify your identity through a video call or by mailing documents to Chase.
  • Once your account is open, you can use Chase's debit card, mobile app, and online banking immediately, though some features may take a few business days to activate.

Opening an account online

Go to Chase.com and select the account type you want. You will enter your name, address, date of birth, Social Security number, and employment information. Chase will ask for your phone number and email address, which they use to send you account details and security alerts.

Chase will verify your identity during the online process. You may be asked to confirm recent transactions from another bank account, answer security questions about your credit history, or take a photo of your ID. If Chase cannot verify you automatically, they will ask you to schedule a video call with a representative or mail in copies of your documents.

Once you pass identity verification, you will choose your opening deposit method. You can transfer money from another bank account, use a debit card, or wire funds. The deposit usually posts within one to two business days. Your account number and routing number will appear in your online dashboard once the account is created, though you may not receive a physical debit card for five to seven business days.

Opening an account at a Chase branch

Visit any Chase branch during business hours with your photo ID, Social Security number, and opening deposit. A banker will walk you through the account options and help you choose the right one for your needs. The entire process usually takes 15 to 30 minutes.

Bring your opening deposit in cash, by check, or by debit card. If you transfer from another bank account, the banker can initiate that transfer on the spot. You will sign account agreements and receive your account number immediately. Chase will order a debit card for you, which arrives by mail in five to seven business days.

If you open an account in person, you can often use your account and access funds the same day. Some branches can issue a temporary debit card on the spot, though this varies by location. Call your local Chase branch ahead of time to confirm what they can do.

Chase account types and monthly fees

Chase Total Checking has no monthly fee if you maintain a $500 minimum balance, set up direct deposit, or link a Chase savings account. Otherwise, the fee is $12 per month. This account comes with a debit card, online banking, and access to Chase's ATM network.

Chase Premier Plus Checking charges $25 per month but waives the fee if you maintain a $25,000 minimum balance or set up direct deposit of at least $500 per month. This account includes higher ATM withdrawal limits and priority customer service.

Chase Savings Account has no monthly fee and no minimum balance requirement. Interest rates change based on the Federal Reserve's rate decisions. Chase Money Market Account requires a $2,500 opening deposit and charges $25 per month unless you maintain that balance.

What happens after your account opens

Your account is active immediately after you complete the opening process, whether online or in person. You can log into your online banking account and mobile app right away. However, some features take time to activate: your debit card arrives by mail in five to seven business days, and transfers from other banks may take one to three business days to complete.

Chase will send you a welcome packet by mail with your account number, routing number, and information about your account features. If you opened online, you can download your account details from your online dashboard without waiting for the mail.

Your first statement arrives 30 days after your account opens. You can view it online or request paper statements by mail. Set up bill pay and automatic transfers through your online banking account or mobile app once your account is active.

Identity verification and fraud checks

Chase uses automated systems to verify your identity during account opening. They check your Social Security number against credit bureaus and may review your banking history with other institutions. If anything looks unusual—such as a mismatch between your name and Social Security number, or a recent address change—Chase will ask for additional verification.

Video verification is common for online account openings. A Chase representative will ask you to show your ID on camera and may ask questions about your personal information. This call usually takes five to ten minutes. If you cannot complete a video call, Chase will mail you a form to sign and return.

Chase also screens accounts against government lists of sanctioned individuals and entities. This is a standard banking requirement and does not mean anything is wrong with your application. The process is automatic and usually completes within minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I open a Chase account without a Social Security number?

Yes, you can use an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) instead, but you must open the account in person at a branch. Bring your ITIN documentation, a government-issued photo ID, and your opening deposit. Not all branches may be familiar with ITIN accounts, so call ahead to confirm.

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

The application itself takes about 10 minutes. Identity verification can happen instantly or may require a video call, which adds another 5 to 10 minutes. If Chase needs to mail you documents to sign, the process takes an additional one to two weeks.

What is the minimum opening deposit for Chase accounts?

Most Chase checking and savings accounts have no minimum opening deposit. Chase Premier Plus Checking requires $25, and Chase Money Market Account requires $2,500. Check the specific account details before you start the application.

When can I use my debit card after opening an account?

If you open an account in person, some branches issue a temporary debit card immediately. Your permanent card arrives by mail in five to seven business days. If you open online, you will receive your card by mail only. You can use your account for transfers and bill pay through online banking before your physical card arrives.

What if Chase denies my account application?

Chase may deny an account if you have unpaid overdrafts or fraud issues with another bank, or if identity verification fails. If your application is denied, Chase will send you a letter explaining the reason. You can contact Chase to ask about reapplying or to dispute information in their records.