You can open a Chase savings account online in about 10 minutes, or visit a branch with your ID and initial deposit
Chase offers two main paths: online through their website or mobile app, which is fastest, or in person at a Chase branch. Online, you'll need a valid government ID, Social Security number, and an initial deposit (usually $0 to $25, depending on the account type). In person, you bring the same documents plus your deposit method—cash, check, or debit card. Either way, you'll choose your account type, set up login credentials, and link a funding source before you're done.
The online process moves faster because Chase verifies your identity instantly through their system. In-person takes longer only because you're waiting in line, but a banker can answer questions as you go. Both methods result in the same account and the same access to online banking, mobile app, and ATMs.
Key Takeaways
- Online signup takes 10 to 15 minutes and requires a government ID, Social Security number, and an initial deposit amount (often $0).
- In-person signup at a Chase branch requires the same documents plus your deposit method, and a banker can walk you through account options.
- Chase savings accounts come in different types—some with higher interest rates if you maintain a minimum balance, others with no minimums but lower rates.
- Once your account opens, you can immediately use Chase's mobile app, online banking, and ATM network to manage your money.
- Your account number and routing number are available the same day, so you can set up direct deposit or transfers right away.
Opening an account online through Chase.com or the mobile app
Go to Chase.com and click "Open an Account" or open the Chase Mobile app and select "Open an Account." You'll be asked to choose your account type—Chase Savings, Chase Premier Savings, or Chase Preferred Savings (rates and minimums vary). Have your Social Security number, date of birth, and government-issued ID ready.
Chase will ask for your address, phone number, and email. They'll verify your identity by asking security questions or by checking your credit report (a soft pull that doesn't affect your credit score). Once verified, you'll create your username and password, then choose how much to deposit initially. You can fund it from a debit card, external bank account, or by transferring from another Chase account if you have one.
After you confirm everything, your account opens immediately. You'll receive your account number and routing number on screen, and Chase will send a confirmation email. You can start using the account right away through the app or online banking, though any transfers from external accounts may take one to three business days to clear.
Opening an account in person at a Chase branch
Find your nearest Chase branch using the branch locator on Chase.com. Bring your government-issued ID (driver's license, passport, or state ID), your Social Security number, and your initial deposit. You don't need an appointment, though calling ahead during busy times can save you a wait.
A banker will ask which account type you want, explain the differences in interest rates and minimums, and walk you through the paperwork. They'll verify your identity by scanning your ID and asking security questions. You'll choose your username and password on a tablet or computer at the desk, then hand over your deposit—cash, check, or debit card.
Your account opens on the spot. The banker will print your account number and routing number, and you can start using online banking and the mobile app immediately. If you deposit cash or a check, it posts the same day. If you fund it from a debit card, the charge may take one to two business days.
What documents and information you need
Chase requires one valid government-issued photo ID: a driver's license, state ID, passport, or military ID. They also need your full name, date of birth, Social Security number, and current address. If you've moved recently, bring documentation showing your new address—a utility bill, lease, or mortgage statement dated within the last 60 days.
For your initial deposit, you can use cash, a check, a debit card, or a transfer from another bank account. If you're funding from another bank, have that account's routing and account numbers ready. Chase's minimum opening deposit varies by account type—some require $0, others $25 or $100. Check the account details before you start so you know what to bring.
Understanding Chase savings account types and interest rates
Chase offers three main savings accounts. Chase Savings has no monthly fee and no minimum balance requirement, but the interest rate is lower. Chase Premier Savings requires a higher minimum balance (usually $10,000 to $25,000) and pays a higher interest rate if you maintain it. Chase Preferred Savings sits between the two—moderate minimum, moderate rate.
Interest rates change based on the Federal Reserve's actions and market conditions, so the rate you see today may not be the rate you earn next month. Chase publishes current rates on their website and in the account details before you open. If you're opening primarily to earn interest, compare Chase's rates to other banks—online banks often pay more, though they don't have branches or ATMs.
All three accounts include the same features: online banking, mobile app access, Chase ATM network (no fee), and the ability to link external accounts for transfers. The difference is purely in the interest rate and any monthly maintenance fees, which Chase waives if you meet the account's conditions (like maintaining the minimum balance).
Setting up online banking and mobile access after opening
Once your account opens, you can log into Chase.com or the mobile app using the username and password you created during signup. Your account number and routing number appear in the account details section. You can immediately set up direct deposit by giving your employer or benefit provider your routing number and account number.
In the mobile app, you can transfer money between your Chase accounts, send money to people outside Chase using Chase QuickPay, and set up bill pay to pay bills directly from your savings account. You can also set up alerts—for example, a notification when your balance drops below a certain amount, or when a deposit posts.
If you have questions after opening, Chase offers phone support 24/7 at the number on the back of your debit card (if you ordered one) or on your account statements. You can also visit a branch and speak to a banker in person.
Transferring money into your new savings account
If you funded your account with a debit card or cash during opening, that money is already there. If you want to move money from another bank, you have two options: transfer it through Chase's online banking, or have that bank initiate the transfer.
To transfer from another bank through Chase, log into your Chase account online or in the app, go to "Transfer Money," and select "From another bank." You'll enter that bank's routing number and your account number there, and Chase will verify the account by depositing two small amounts (usually under $1 each) and asking you to confirm the amounts. This verification takes one to two business days, and then your transfer can go through.
Transfers typically take one to three business days to complete. If you need the money faster, withdraw cash from your other bank and deposit it at a Chase ATM or branch. Cash deposits at ATMs post the next business day; deposits at a branch post the same day.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to be a Chase customer already to open a savings account?
No. You can open a Chase savings account as your first Chase product. If you already have a Chase checking account, you can open a savings account and link them together for easy transfers between the two.
What happens if I don't meet the minimum balance requirement?
Chase charges a monthly maintenance fee (usually $5 to $25, depending on the account type) if your balance drops below the minimum. You can avoid the fee by maintaining the required balance, setting up a direct deposit, or meeting other conditions Chase lists for that account. Check the account details before opening to see all the ways to waive the fee.
Can I open a savings account for someone else, like a child?
Chase offers savings accounts for minors, but a parent or guardian must open it and be the account owner. The minor can be added as an authorized user. Visit a branch to discuss options, as online signup requires you to be 18 or older.
How long does it take to receive a debit card?
Chase mails debit cards within 7 to 10 business days of opening. You can use your account number and routing number to set up direct deposit or transfers before the card arrives. If you need a card faster, ask a banker at a branch—some locations can issue a temporary card on the spot.
Can I have multiple savings accounts at Chase?
Yes. You can open as many savings accounts as you want, and many people use separate accounts for different goals—one for emergency savings, one for a vacation fund, and so on. Each account has its own account number and earns interest independently.