What you need to start a Chase account

Chase offers several account types — checking, savings, money market, and CDs — and the opening process is the same for most of them. You can open an account online, on the phone, or in a branch. Online is fastest: you can complete it in 10 to 15 minutes and start using your account the same day. You will need a valid government ID, a Social Security number or ITIN, and an initial deposit (the amount varies by account type, but many checking accounts have no minimum).

If you already have a Chase account, opening a second one takes even less time — sometimes just a few minutes through your existing online banking login. If you are opening your first account, you will need to verify your identity, which Chase does by asking security questions based on your credit history or by requesting a photo of your ID.

Key Takeaways

  • You can open most Chase accounts online in 10 to 15 minutes with a valid ID, Social Security number, and initial deposit.
  • Chase verifies your identity during signup by asking security questions or requesting a photo of your ID.
  • Your account is usually active the same day, and you can use your debit card immediately for online purchases or transfers.
  • If you do not have a Social Security number, you can open an account with an ITIN, though some account types may not be available.
  • Existing Chase customers can open additional accounts faster through their online banking login.

Opening an account online

Go to chase.com and click "Open an Account" or "Sign Up" — the button location varies depending on which device you are using. Select the account type you want: checking, savings, money market, or CD. Chase will ask for your name, date of birth, address, phone number, email, and Social Security number or ITIN. Have your ID ready because you will need to upload a photo or answer security questions to confirm your identity.

After identity verification, you will choose your account features — overdraft protection, linked accounts, and alerts. Then you will make your initial deposit. Chase accepts transfers from another bank account, a debit card, or a credit card (though credit card deposits may count as a cash advance). Your account opens immediately, and you can log in right away. Your debit card ships within 7 to 10 business days, but you can use your account number and routing number for transfers and bill payments before it arrives.

Opening an account by phone or in a branch

Call Chase at 1-800-935-9935 to open an account over the phone. A representative will walk you through the same questions as the online form and help you choose your account type and features. Phone opening takes longer than online — usually 20 to 30 minutes — because the representative must verify your identity verbally and confirm each step. You will still need to make an initial deposit, which you can do by transfer from another bank or by providing a debit card number.

If you prefer to open an account in person, visit any Chase branch with your ID and Social Security number or ITIN. A banker will help you choose your account, answer questions about fees and features, and process your initial deposit on the spot. In-branch opening is useful if you want to ask detailed questions or if you have an unusual situation — for example, if you do not have a Social Security number or if you are opening an account for a minor.

What happens after you open your account

Your account is active immediately, but full access depends on how you opened it. If you opened online, you can log into your account right away and use your account number for transfers and bill payments. Your debit card arrives in 7 to 10 business days. Until it arrives, you can use your account for direct deposits, transfers, and online purchases if you add your account to a digital wallet like Apple Pay or Google Pay.

Chase may place a hold on your initial deposit for one to two business days, especially if you funded it with a transfer from another bank. During that time, the money is in your account but not yet available to withdraw. Once the hold clears, you can use the full balance. If you opened your account in a branch or by phone, you may receive your debit card faster — sometimes the same day — because the banker can order it while you are there.

Account types and their differences

Chase checking accounts come in several versions: Chase Total Checking (no monthly fee if you meet one of several conditions, such as a direct deposit or a $500 minimum balance), Chase Premier Plus Checking (higher balance requirement, more perks), and Chase Student Checking (for people under 24, no monthly fee). Savings accounts earn interest, though the rate is low — usually well below 1 percent. Money market accounts combine checking and savings features and require a higher opening deposit. CDs lock your money for a set term — 3 months to 5 years — in exchange for a may provide interest rate.

The opening process is identical for all of them. The difference is in fees, minimum balances, and features. Before you open, check Chase's current terms because interest rates and fee structures change. You can compare them on chase.com or ask a representative during the opening process.

If you do not have a Social Security number

Chase will open an account for you with an ITIN (Individual Taxpayer Identification Number) instead of a Social Security number. You will need to provide your ITIN, a valid government ID, and proof of address — a utility bill, lease, or bank statement with your name and address on it. Some account types may not be available to ITIN holders, and Chase may require a higher initial deposit or place additional restrictions on your account.

Call 1-800-935-9935 or visit a branch to open an account with an ITIN, because the online process is designed for Social Security numbers. A representative can tell you which accounts are available to you and what documents you need to bring.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take to open a Chase account?

Online opening takes 10 to 15 minutes, and your account is active the same day. Phone opening takes 20 to 30 minutes. In-branch opening is fastest if you want your debit card immediately, though it still takes 20 to 30 minutes to complete the paperwork.

Do I need an initial deposit to open a Chase account?

Most Chase accounts require an initial deposit, but the amount varies. Many checking accounts have no minimum deposit requirement. Savings accounts and money market accounts may require $25 to $100. Check the current terms on chase.com or ask during the opening process.

Can I open a Chase account if I have bad credit?

Chase does not run a credit check to open a checking or savings account. However, Chase may check ChexSystems, a banking history database, to see if you have had problems with previous accounts. If you have been flagged in ChexSystems, Chase may decline to open an account or require a higher deposit.

When will I receive my debit card?

Debit cards ship within 7 to 10 business days after you open your account. If you opened in a branch, the banker may order an expedited card that arrives in 3 to 5 business days. You can use your account for transfers and online purchases before your card arrives.

Can I open multiple Chase accounts at the same time?

Yes. If you are opening your first account, you can open a second one during the same session. If you already have a Chase account, you can open additional accounts through your online banking login or by calling or visiting a branch.