What you need to open a Chase account
Chase requires a government-issued photo ID, your Social Security number, and an initial deposit before your account opens. You can start the process online, on the phone, or in a branch. Most people open an account in under 15 minutes if they have their documents ready.
The initial deposit amount depends on the account type. Chase checking accounts typically require $25 to $100 to open, though some accounts have no minimum. Savings accounts usually need $25 to $300. If you do not have the cash on hand, you can fund the account by transferring money from another bank after it opens, though Chase may place a hold on the funds for a few business days.
You will also need a current mailing address and a phone number. Chase uses these to verify your identity and send account statements and cards. If you are opening an account for a minor, a parent or legal guardian must be present and provide their own ID and Social Security number.
Key Takeaways
- You need a photo ID, Social Security number, and initial deposit; the process takes 10 to 15 minutes online or in a branch.
- Minimum opening deposits range from $0 to $300 depending on account type, and you can transfer money from another bank to meet the requirement.
- Online account opening is available 24/7, but you cannot withdraw cash or use a debit card until the account fully activates, which takes one to two business days.
- Chase will run a ChexSystems check to see if you have a history of overdrafts or fraud at other banks; a negative history may result in denial.
Opening an account online
Go to chase.com and select "Open an Account" from the homepage. You will be asked to choose your account type—checking, savings, or both. Chase will then walk you through a series of screens asking for your name, address, date of birth, Social Security number, phone number, and email. Have your ID ready so you can verify the information matches.
After you enter your personal details, Chase will ask how you want to fund the account. You can transfer money from another bank using your routing and account number, or you can link a debit card to make an immediate transfer. If you choose a bank transfer, it may take one to three business days to appear in your new Chase account. If you use a debit card, the money usually shows up the same day.
Once you submit your application, Chase will send a confirmation email. Your account number appears in that email, and you can log into your Chase online banking portal right away. However, you cannot withdraw cash or use a debit card until the account fully activates, which typically takes one to two business days. During that time, Chase is verifying your identity and running a background check through ChexSystems, a banking history database.
Opening an account in a Chase branch
Walk into any Chase branch with your photo ID, Social Security number, and initial deposit. A banker will sit with you and fill out the account application on a computer or tablet. The process is the same as online, but you can ask questions in real time and hand over cash or a check for your opening deposit.
If you bring cash, the banker will count it and deposit it immediately. If you bring a check, it will be deposited but may take three to five business days to clear, depending on the bank it is drawn from. Your debit card will not be issued on the spot; Chase will mail it to your address within 7 to 10 business days. You can use your account number and online banking to transfer money or pay bills before the card arrives.
Branch hours vary by location. Use the Chase branch locator on chase.com to find the nearest branch, check its hours, and confirm it is open before you go. Some branches are inside grocery stores or pharmacies and may have different hours than standalone Chase locations.
What happens after you submit your application
Chase runs a ChexSystems check on every new account holder. ChexSystems is a database that tracks overdrafts, fraud, and other banking problems. If you have a history of unpaid overdrafts or accounts closed due to fraud, Chase may deny your application. You will receive a letter in the mail explaining the reason for denial, and the letter will include contact information for ChexSystems so you can dispute any errors in your record.
If your application is approved, your account opens within one to two business days. You will receive a welcome email with your account number, routing number, and a link to set up online banking. Your debit card ships separately and arrives within 7 to 10 business days. Until it arrives, you can use your account number to set up direct deposit, pay bills online, or transfer money to other accounts.
If you opened your account online and funded it with a bank transfer, that transfer may still be pending when your account activates. Chase will hold the funds for one to three business days while the sending bank processes the transfer. You can see the pending transfer in your online banking portal, but you cannot spend the money until it clears.
Choosing the right Chase account type
Chase offers several checking and savings accounts, each with different features and fees. Chase Total Checking has no monthly fee if you maintain a $500 minimum balance or set up direct deposit. Chase Premier Plus Checking requires a higher balance but includes benefits like higher interest rates and fee waivers. Chase Savings has no monthly fee but pays a very low interest rate.
If you are opening your first account or have a limited income, Chase Total Checking is usually the simplest choice. If you set up direct deposit from your employer, the monthly fee is waived even if your balance drops below $500. If you do not use direct deposit, you need to keep at least $500 in the account at all times to avoid a $12 monthly fee.
Read the account terms on chase.com before you open. Each account type has different overdraft policies, ATM access, and interest rates. Chase has over 4,700 ATMs nationwide, so you can withdraw cash without fees at most locations. If you use an ATM outside the Chase network, you will be charged a fee by both Chase and the other bank.
Setting up online banking and security
Once your account opens, log into chase.com with your account number and a temporary password. Chase will ask you to create a permanent password and set up security questions. Write down your password in a safe place or use a password manager; Chase cannot reset your password over the phone for security reasons.
Chase offers two-factor authentication, which sends a code to your phone or email every time you log in from a new device. Turn this on in your account settings. It takes an extra 30 seconds but prevents someone from accessing your account even if they steal your password.
After you log in, set up direct deposit if your employer offers it. You will need to provide your employer with your account number and Chase's routing number, which is 021000021 for all Chase accounts. Direct deposit usually takes one to two pay cycles to start, but once it is set up, your paycheck arrives automatically on payday.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I open a Chase account if I have been denied before?
Chase denials are usually based on ChexSystems records. If you were denied, request your ChexSystems report and dispute any errors. If the denial was correct, wait six months to a year and reapply. ChexSystems records expire after five years, and some negative items fall off sooner if you resolve the underlying problem, like paying off an overdraft.
How long does it take to receive my debit card?
Chase mails debit cards within 7 to 10 business days of account opening. You can use your account number to make online purchases or set up bill pay before the card arrives. If you need cash immediately, visit a Chase branch and withdraw from your new account using your ID.
What if I do not 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 do not have either, you cannot open a Chase account online or by phone, but some branches may offer alternatives—call ahead to ask.
Can I open a joint account with someone else?
Yes. Both account holders must be present with photo ID and Social Security numbers. You can open a joint account online if you both have access to a computer, or in a branch. Both names appear on the account, and both people can withdraw money and make decisions about the account.
What is the minimum balance I need to keep in my account?
It depends on your account type. Chase Total Checking has no fee if you maintain a $500 minimum balance or set up direct deposit. Other accounts have different minimums. Check your account terms in online banking or call Chase at 1-800-935-9935 to confirm the requirement for your specific account.