What you need to open a Chase checking account

You can open a Chase checking account online, by phone, or in person at a branch. Most people start online because it takes 10 to 15 minutes and you can fund the account immediately. You will need a valid government-issued ID (driver's license, passport, or state ID), your Social Security number, and an initial deposit—usually $25 or more, depending on the account type.

Chase offers several checking account types: Chase Total Checking (the standard option), Chase Sapphire Checking (higher fees but more perks), and Chase Premier Plus Checking (requires a larger opening deposit). Each has different monthly maintenance fees, minimum balance requirements, and rewards. The account you choose depends on how much you plan to keep in the account and what features matter to you.

If you do not have a Social Security number, you can open an account with an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) at most Chase branches, though online opening may not be available. Bring your ITIN documentation and passport or consular ID.

Key Takeaways

  • You need a valid ID, Social Security number or ITIN, and an opening deposit of at least $25 to start a Chase checking account.
  • Online opening takes 10 to 15 minutes and lets you fund the account right away; in-branch opening takes longer but allows you to ask questions in real time.
  • Chase Total Checking has a $12 monthly fee that is waived if you maintain a $500 minimum balance or set up direct deposit.
  • Your debit card arrives in 7 to 10 business days; you can use a temporary digital card in the Chase app immediately after opening.

Opening your account online

Go to chase.com and select "Open an Account" from the homepage. Choose the checking account type you want, then enter your personal information: full name, date of birth, address, phone number, email, and Social Security number. Chase will ask you to verify your identity by answering security questions based on your credit history—this is instant and does not affect your credit score.

Next, you will choose your opening deposit method. You can transfer money from another bank account (this takes one to three business days), use a debit card to fund it, or arrange a wire transfer. If you transfer from another bank, you will need the routing number and account number from that bank. Once your deposit clears, your account is active and you can start using your temporary digital debit card in the Chase mobile app.

Chase will mail your physical debit card within 7 to 10 business days. You can also request a rush card at some branches for a fee, or pick up a temporary card in person if you need one sooner.

Opening your account in person at a Chase branch

Bring your ID, Social Security number, and your opening deposit (cash or a check). A Chase representative will walk you through the account setup, answer questions about features and fees, and may offer you a promotional bonus if one is running. The whole process usually takes 20 to 30 minutes.

In-person opening is useful if you want to understand the account options before committing, if you need a debit card immediately (some branches can issue a temporary card on the spot), or if you prefer to speak with someone directly. You can find your nearest branch and check hours on chase.com.

Monthly fees and how to avoid them

Chase Total Checking charges $12 per month, but the fee is waived if you meet one of these conditions: maintain a $500 minimum daily balance, set up direct deposit of any amount, or maintain a linked savings account with a $300 minimum balance. Most people avoid the fee by setting up direct deposit from their employer or another source.

Chase Sapphire Checking charges $25 per month and is waived only by maintaining a $5,000 minimum balance or having a linked Sapphire Savings account with $5,000. Chase Premier Plus Checking requires a $25,000 opening deposit and charges $25 per month, waived with a $25,000 minimum balance.

If you do not meet the waiver requirements, you will be charged the monthly fee on the last day of each statement cycle. Chase will notify you before charging the fee for the first time.

What happens after you open your account

Your account is active immediately after you complete the online application or in-person signup. You can transfer money between Chase accounts, set up bill pay, and use your temporary digital debit card in the Chase app right away. Your physical debit card arrives in the mail within 7 to 10 business days.

When your debit card arrives, activate it by calling the number on the back or using the Chase app. You can then use it at ATMs, stores, and online. Chase offers zero liability protection on debit card fraud, meaning if your card is stolen or used without permission, you are not responsible for unauthorized charges as long as you report them within a reasonable time.

You can also set up online bill pay through your Chase account to pay bills directly from your checking account. This is free and typically takes one to three business days to reach the payee.

Overdraft protection and insufficient funds

If you spend more money than you have in your account, Chase will decline the transaction at most merchants and ATMs. However, if a check or automatic payment clears for more than your balance, Chase may cover it and charge you an overdraft fee (currently $34 per occurrence, up to three per day). You are not required to use overdraft protection—you can turn it off in your account settings.

Alternatively, you can link a Chase savings account or credit card to your checking account for overdraft protection. If you overdraw, Chase will automatically transfer money from the linked account to cover the shortfall, usually charging a smaller transfer fee ($12 for savings account transfers) instead of an overdraft fee.

Moving money into your new account

After opening, you can fund your account by transferring from another bank (one to three business days), depositing a check through mobile deposit or at a branch (one to three business days), using direct deposit from your employer (one to two pay cycles to set up), or depositing cash at a Chase ATM or branch (immediate).

If you are switching from another bank, you can ask that bank to help you move automatic payments and direct deposits to your new Chase account. Many banks offer this service for free. Alternatively, you can update each payee individually with your new Chase account and routing number.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I open a Chase checking account if I have been denied before?

Chase uses ChexSystems, a banking history report, to screen applicants. If you were denied in the past, you can request your ChexSystems report for free at chexsystems.com to see why. If the reason was a closed account with a negative balance or unpaid fees, you may need to resolve that with Chase or the previous bank before applying again.

How long does it take to get my debit card?

Standard delivery takes 7 to 10 business days. Some branches offer rush cards for a fee (usually $15 to $25), or you can use your temporary digital card in the Chase app immediately after opening. You can also pick up a temporary card at a branch if you need one sooner.

What is the Chase routing number for transfers?

Chase has multiple routing numbers depending on your state and the type of transfer. The most common routing number for ACH transfers is 021000021. For wire transfers, the number may differ. Check your account details in the Chase app or website, or call Chase customer service at 1-800-935-9935 to confirm the correct routing number for your specific transfer.

Can I open an account without a Social Security number?

Yes, you can open an account with an ITIN (Individual Taxpayer Identification Number) at most Chase branches in person. You will need to bring your ITIN documentation and a valid passport or consular ID. Online opening typically requires a Social Security number, so you will need to visit a branch.

What is the difference between Chase Total Checking and Chase Sapphire Checking?

Chase Total Checking charges $12 per month (waived with $500 minimum balance or direct deposit) and offers basic checking features. Chase Sapphire Checking charges $25 per month (waived with $5,000 minimum balance) and includes higher cash back rates on debit card purchases, travel protections, and other premium benefits. Choose based on how much you plan to keep in the account and whether you value the extra perks.