What you need to open a Chase account
Chase requires a government-issued photo ID, your Social Security number, and an initial deposit to open most accounts. You can open an account online, on the phone, or in a branch. Online is fastest — you can finish in about 10 minutes if you have your documents ready. In-branch takes longer but lets you ask questions and hand over cash or a check for your opening deposit on the spot.
The documents you'll need are a valid driver's license, passport, or state ID card; your Social Security number; and proof of your current address (a utility bill, lease, or bank statement from the last 60 days). If you don't have a Social Security number, Chase can open an account with an ITIN (Individual Taxpayer Identification Number) instead, though some account types may not be available to you.
Chase's opening deposit requirement varies by account type. Checking accounts typically need $25 to $100. Savings accounts usually need $25. Money market accounts often require $2,500 or more. If you don't have the minimum deposit ready, you can open the account and fund it later, but some accounts charge a monthly fee until you meet the minimum.
Key Takeaways
- You need a government photo ID, Social Security number, and an opening deposit to start a Chase account, though the deposit amount depends on the account type.
- Online account opening takes about 10 minutes and is the fastest route; in-branch opening lets you hand over cash or a check immediately.
- Chase will ask for proof of your current address, which can be a utility bill, lease, or recent bank statement from the last 60 days.
- If you don't meet the minimum deposit requirement, you can still open the account but will pay a monthly fee until you do.
- Chase offers checking, savings, money market, and CD accounts, each with different opening deposit minimums and fee structures.
Opening an account online
Go to Chase.com and click "Open an Account" or "Sign Up" — the button location changes periodically. Select the account type you want (checking, savings, money market, or CD). You'll enter your name, date of birth, Social Security number, and current address. Chase will ask for your phone number and email address next.
Chase verifies your identity by checking your information against credit bureaus and public records. This usually takes a few minutes. If verification fails, you'll be asked to upload a photo of your ID or visit a branch in person. Once verified, you'll choose a username and password, set up security questions, and link a funding source — either a bank account to transfer money from or a debit card.
After you fund the account, Chase will send you a debit card and checks (if you opened a checking account) by mail. The debit card typically arrives within 7 to 10 business days. You can use your account online or through the Chase mobile app immediately, even before the physical card arrives.
Opening an account in a Chase branch
Find your nearest branch on Chase.com or in the mobile app. Walk in during business hours — no appointment needed for account opening, though you may wait if the branch is busy. Bring your photo ID, Social Security number, and proof of address. If you're bringing cash or a check for your opening deposit, bring that too.
A banker will ask you the same questions as the online form: name, date of birth, Social Security number, address, phone, and email. They'll verify your identity using your ID and may run a quick check against credit bureaus. If you're opening a checking account, they'll discuss overdraft protection options and debit card preferences. The whole process takes 15 to 30 minutes.
If you brought cash or a check, the banker deposits it immediately. Your account is active the same day. You'll receive a temporary debit card on the spot or a permanent one by mail within 7 to 10 business days, depending on the branch. You can start using your account online that day.
What happens after you open the account
Chase sends your debit card and a welcome packet by mail. The packet includes your account number, routing number, and initial PIN for your debit card. You can change the PIN at any ATM or through the mobile app. If you opened a checking account, checks arrive separately, usually within 1 to 2 weeks.
Set up direct deposit or link external accounts through the Chase mobile app or online banking. To receive direct deposit (for paychecks or government benefits), you'll give your employer or benefits administrator your Chase account number and routing number — both are in your welcome packet or visible in the app. Direct deposits typically post within one to two business days of being sent.
You can also set up bill pay, transfer money to other banks, and manage your account settings immediately. Chase offers free transfers to other Chase accounts and to external accounts through ACH (which takes 1 to 3 business days). Wire transfers and expedited transfers cost money.
Account types and their opening deposit minimums
| Account Type | Opening Deposit Minimum | Monthly Fee (if minimum not met) |
|---|---|---|
| Chase Total Checking | $25 | $12 (waived with direct deposit or $500+ monthly balance) |
| Chase Savings Account | $25 | $5 (waived with $500+ balance or linked checking account) |
| Chase Money Market Account | $2,500 | $25 (waived with $2,500+ balance) |
| Chase Certificate of Deposit (CD) | $1,000 | None (fixed-term account) |
These minimums and fees change periodically. Check Chase.com for current terms before opening. Some accounts waive the monthly fee if you maintain a minimum balance or set up direct deposit, so the fee isn't automatic.
What to do if verification fails
If Chase cannot verify your identity online, you'll receive a message saying verification was unsuccessful. This happens most often when your name, address, or Social Security number doesn't match what's on file with credit bureaus or the Social Security Administration. You have two options: upload a photo of your ID through the online portal, or visit a Chase branch in person with your ID and documents.
Uploading a photo of your ID usually resolves the issue within a few hours. Take a clear photo of both the front and back of your driver's license, passport, or state ID. Make sure the photo is in focus and all text is readable. Chase will review it and notify you by email when verification is complete.
If you prefer not to upload a photo, go to a Chase branch with your ID, Social Security number, and proof of address. The banker can verify you in person and open your account on the spot. This is also the fastest option if you want to fund your account with cash immediately.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I open a Chase account without a Social Security number?
Yes, if you have an ITIN (Individual Taxpayer Identification Number). Chase will ask for your ITIN instead of your Social Security number. Some account types and features may not be available to ITIN holders, so ask a banker which accounts you can open.
How long does it take to open a Chase account?
Online opening takes about 10 minutes if verification is immediate. In-branch opening takes 15 to 30 minutes. If Chase needs to verify your identity using an uploaded photo, add a few hours to a day. Your account is active the same day in all cases.
Do I have to keep a minimum balance after I open the account?
Only if you want to avoid the monthly fee. Most Chase accounts waive the fee if you maintain a minimum balance (usually $500 to $2,500) or set up direct deposit. If you fall below the minimum and have no direct deposit, Chase charges the monthly fee until you bring the balance back up.
Can I open multiple Chase accounts at once?
Yes. You can open a checking account and a savings account in the same session, either online or in a branch. Each account has its own opening deposit requirement, so you'll need to fund both if you want to avoid monthly fees.
What if I lose my debit card before it arrives?
Contact Chase immediately through the mobile app, online banking, or by calling the number on the back of any Chase card or statement. Chase will cancel the card and send a replacement. You can use your account online and through the app while you wait for the new card.