What Chase requires before you can open an account
Chase requires a government-issued photo ID, your Social Security number, and an initial deposit to open a checking or savings account. The ID can be a driver's license, passport, or state ID card. You'll also need to provide your date of birth and current address. If you're opening an account online or by phone, Chase will verify your identity electronically; if you're opening in a branch, bring the physical ID with you.
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 start at $25. If you don't have the cash on hand, you can fund the account with a transfer from another bank account or a check deposit after opening.
If you don't have a Social Security number, Chase offers accounts for non-citizens using an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) instead, though availability varies by branch. Call your local Chase branch or visit Chase.com to confirm whether they offer ITIN accounts in your area.
Key Takeaways
- You need a government photo ID, Social Security number or ITIN, date of birth, and current address to open any Chase account.
- Most Chase checking accounts require $25 to $100 to open; some have no minimum deposit requirement.
- You can open an account online, by phone, or in person at a Chase branch, and each method has different verification steps.
- If you have a history of overdrafts or closed accounts reported to ChexSystems, Chase may deny your application, but you can request a manual review.
Opening an account online versus in a branch
Opening online is fastest and requires no trip to a branch. You'll enter your personal information, upload a photo of your ID, and answer security questions to verify your identity. Chase uses electronic verification, which usually takes a few minutes. Once approved, you can set up direct deposit or transfer money from another account immediately. Some accounts are fully functional within hours.
Opening in a branch takes longer but gives you a chance to ask questions and understand the account features before committing. Bring your ID, Social Security card (or ITIN documentation), and proof of address—a recent utility bill, lease, or bank statement works. A banker will verify your information on the spot and may ask about your banking history. You'll leave with a debit card and account number the same day, though the physical card arrives by mail within 7 to 10 business days.
Phone applications are also available. Call Chase at 1-800-935-9935 and a representative will walk you through the process. You'll need to verify your identity verbally and answer security questions. This method takes 15 to 30 minutes and works well if you prefer speaking to someone but can't visit a branch.
What happens if Chase denies your application
Chase checks your banking history through ChexSystems, a database that tracks overdrafts, bounced checks, and closed accounts. If you have unpaid overdraft fees, multiple NSF (non-sufficient funds) charges, or a recent account closure due to mismanagement, Chase may deny your application. The denial is usually automatic and based on ChexSystems data, not on your credit score.
If you're denied, ask Chase for the specific reason. You have the right to know whether the denial came from ChexSystems or another factor. You can also request a copy of your ChexSystems report from Chex Systems directly at chexsystems.com. If there are errors on your report, you can dispute them in writing.
Some people denied by Chase succeed with a second-chance checking account at another bank, then reapply to Chase after 6 to 12 months of clean banking history. Others request a manual review from Chase, which sometimes overrides an automatic denial if you can explain the past issues and show recent responsible banking.
Documents to bring or upload
| Document | Required | Accepted Forms |
|---|---|---|
| Photo ID | Yes | Driver's license, passport, state ID card, military ID |
| Social Security number or ITIN | Yes | SSN (most common), ITIN for non-citizens |
| Proof of address | For in-branch only | Utility bill, lease, mortgage statement, bank statement (dated within 90 days) |
| Initial deposit | Yes (amount varies) | Cash, check, transfer from another bank account |
Account types and their requirements
Chase offers several checking and savings accounts, each with slightly different opening requirements. The Chase Total Checking account is the most common and requires $25 to open. The Chase Premier Plus Checking requires $500 to open but waives monthly fees if you maintain that balance. Chase Savings accounts start at $25.
Some accounts have age restrictions. The Chase First Banking account is designed for minors and requires a parent or guardian to open it with their ID and Social Security number. The Chase Student Checking account requires proof of enrollment at an accredited school, usually a student ID or recent tuition bill.
If you want a business account, the requirements are different: you'll need an Employer Identification Number (EIN) or Social Security number, business formation documents (like articles of incorporation), and a business license. Business accounts typically require a higher opening deposit, usually $500 to $2,500.
After your account opens: next steps
Once approved, you'll receive an account number and routing number immediately. If you opened online or by phone, your debit card ships within 7 to 10 business days. You can use your account number to set up direct deposit or transfer money before the card arrives.
Activate your debit card when it arrives by calling the number on the back or using the Chase mobile app. You'll be asked security questions to confirm your identity. Once activated, you can use it at Chase ATMs, other banks' ATMs (with a fee), and anywhere Visa is accepted.
Set up online banking and the Chase mobile app to monitor your account, transfer money, pay bills, and deposit checks by photo. You can also set up alerts for low balances, large transactions, or overdrafts. These tools help you avoid fees and catch fraud quickly.
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 offers accounts for non-citizens using an ITIN instead of an SSN. Not all branches offer this, so call ahead or visit Chase.com to find a participating location near you.
How long does it take to open a Chase account?
Online applications take 5 to 15 minutes and are usually approved within hours. In-branch applications take 20 to 30 minutes and are approved on the spot. Phone applications take 15 to 30 minutes. Your debit card arrives by mail within 7 to 10 business days after opening.
What if I don't have a government ID?
Chase requires a government-issued photo ID to open an account. If you don't have one, you'll need to obtain a state ID card or passport first. Visit your state's DMV website or the U.S. State Department website to learn how to apply.
Can I open an account if I'm under 18?
Yes, but you'll need a parent or guardian to open the account with you. Chase offers the Chase First Banking account for minors ages 6 to 17. A parent or guardian must be a joint owner and provide their ID and Social Security number.
What if I have a bad banking history with ChexSystems?
Chase may deny your application based on ChexSystems data. Request a copy of your report to check for errors, and consider opening a second-chance account at another bank to rebuild your history. After 6 to 12 months of clean banking, you can reapply to Chase or request a manual review.