You can open a Chase savings account online without visiting a branch, and the whole process takes about 15 minutes on a computer or phone
Chase lets you start a savings account from home using their website or mobile app. You'll need a valid government ID, a Social Security number, and a way to fund the account—either a debit card, an existing Chase account, or a bank transfer. The account opens immediately after you complete the steps, though you won't be able to move money or set up transfers until Chase verifies your identity, which usually happens within one business day.
The process is straightforward: you provide personal information, choose which type of savings account you want, link a funding source, and confirm your identity. Chase will ask you to verify your phone number and email address during setup. Once that's done, you can log in to your new account right away, but deposits and transfers won't process until the verification step is complete.
Key Takeaways
- You need a valid government ID, Social Security number, and a funding source (debit card, existing Chase account, or bank transfer) to open an account online.
- The entire signup process takes 10 to 15 minutes on Chase's website or mobile app, and your account opens immediately.
- Identity verification happens after you finish signing up and usually completes within one business day before you can move money.
- Chase offers multiple savings account types with different interest rates and minimum balance requirements, so compare them before you choose.
- You can fund your new account right away, but the deposit won't clear until Chase finishes verifying your identity.
What you need before you start
Gather these items before you open your browser: a valid government-issued ID (driver's license, passport, or state ID), your Social Security number, and proof of your current address. Chase will ask for your address during signup, and they may ask for a recent utility bill, lease, or bank statement if they can't verify it automatically.
You also need a way to fund the account. Chase accepts debit cards from any bank, transfers from an existing Chase account, or ACH transfers from another bank account. If you're using a debit card, have the card number, expiration date, and CVV ready. If you're transferring from another bank, you'll need your routing number and account number from that bank.
Make sure you're using a device with a secure internet connection—a home computer or phone on your own WiFi is safer than public WiFi. You'll also need to be able to receive text messages or emails during signup, because Chase sends a verification code to confirm your phone number and email address.
Step-by-step: opening your account on Chase.com
Go to chase.com and click "Open an Account" or "Open a Savings Account" from the homepage. You'll land on a page showing Chase's current savings account options. Read the details of each type—Chase typically offers a standard savings account and a high-yield savings account, and the interest rates and minimum balance requirements differ. Select the account type you want and click "Open Online" or "get your free guide."
Chase will ask you to enter your personal information: full name, date of birth, Social Security number, email address, phone number, and current address. Double-check everything for typos, especially your Social Security number and email, because errors here can delay verification. You'll also create a username and password for your online banking login.
Next, choose how you want to fund the account. If you're using a debit card, enter the card number, expiration date, and CVV. If you're transferring from another bank, select "ACH Transfer" and enter your routing number and account number. If you have an existing Chase account, you can transfer from that account instead. Enter the amount you want to deposit—Chase may require a minimum opening deposit depending on the account type.
Review the account terms and conditions, then check the box to confirm you've read them. Chase will send a verification code to your phone number or email address. Enter that code on the next screen. Once you do, your account is open and you can log in immediately.
Opening an account through the Chase mobile app
The Chase mobile app follows the same steps as the website, but it's often faster on a phone because the app can pull some information from your device automatically. Download the Chase app from the App Store or Google Play, then tap "Open an Account" from the home screen.
The app will ask for the same personal information and funding details as the website. One advantage of the app is that it can use your phone's camera to scan your ID, which is faster than typing in ID information manually. After you enter your information and receive the verification code, the process is complete and your account opens immediately.
If you start on the website and want to switch to the app, you can log in with the username and password you created during signup. Your new account will appear in the app once you've finished verification.
What happens after you submit your application
Your account opens right away, and you can log in to see your account number and routing number. However, Chase needs to verify your identity before you can move money or set up transfers. This verification usually takes one business day, but it can take up to three business days depending on how Chase verifies your information.
During verification, Chase may contact you by phone or email to confirm details about your application. They may also ask you to upload a photo of your ID or answer security questions about your credit history. If you provided a debit card for funding, Chase may place two small temporary deposits (usually under $1 each) to that card and ask you to confirm the amounts—this is how they verify the card is real and belongs to you.
Once verification is complete, you'll receive an email or notification in the app confirming that your account is fully active. At that point, any deposits you made during signup will clear, and you can make transfers, set up automatic deposits, and use all account features.
Funding your account after it opens
If you didn't fund your account during signup, you can add money after your account is open and verified. Log in to your Chase account online or in the app, go to your savings account, and select "Deposit" or "Add Money." Chase lets you transfer from another Chase account instantly, or you can set up an ACH transfer from another bank, which usually takes one to three business days.
You can also deposit cash at a Chase ATM or branch if you have access to one. If you deposit at an ATM, the money usually appears in your account within one business day. If you deposit at a branch, it may post the same day if you deposit before the branch closes.
Chase also lets you set up direct deposit to your savings account. Ask your employer for the routing number and account number for your Chase savings account, and provide those to your payroll department. Direct deposits typically post on your regular payday.
Troubleshooting common problems during signup
If Chase rejects your application, the most common reasons are a mismatch between the name or address you provided and what's on file with the credit bureaus, a Social Security number that doesn't match your name, or an address that Chase can't verify. If this happens, you'll see an error message on the screen. Try again with the exact name and address that appear on your government ID.
If you don't receive the verification code via text or email, check your spam folder and make sure you entered your phone number and email correctly. You can request a new code from the signup screen. If you still don't receive it after 10 minutes, try a different method—if you chose email, switch to text message, or vice versa.
If your debit card is declined during funding, the card may not be set up for online transactions, or there may not be enough money in that account. Try a different debit card, or choose ACH transfer from your bank account instead. If you're transferring from another bank and the transfer fails, double-check your routing number and account number—these are the most common sources of error.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much money do I need to open a Chase savings account online?
Chase's minimum opening deposit varies by account type. Some savings accounts require $0 to open, while others require $25 or $100. Check the account details before you start signup to see the minimum for the account you want. You can fund the account during signup or add money later after your account is open.
Can I open a Chase savings account if I don't have a Social Security number?
No. Chase requires a valid Social Security number to open any account. If you have an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) instead, you'll need to visit a Chase branch in person and bring your ITIN documentation and government ID.
What if I already have a Chase checking account?
You can open a savings account online even if you already bank with Chase. Log in to your existing Chase account, and you'll see an option to "Open Another Account" or "Add a Savings Account." This is faster than opening a new account from scratch because Chase already has your information on file.
How long does it take for money to appear in my new savings account?
If you funded your account with a debit card during signup, the deposit usually clears within one business day after identity verification is complete. ACH transfers from another bank take one to three business days. Transfers from an existing Chase account post instantly or within one business day.
Can I change my mind and close the account right after opening it?
Yes. You can close your Chase savings account online through the app or website, or by calling Chase customer service. If you close the account within a few days, there are no penalties. Just make sure any pending deposits have cleared first, or withdraw any money you deposited before you close it.