What Chase requires before you can open a checking account
Chase requires a government-issued photo ID, your Social Security number, and an initial deposit to open a checking account. The ID can be a driver's license, passport, or state ID card. You'll also need to be at least 18 years old and a U.S. citizen or permanent resident with a valid tax ID.
The initial deposit amount varies by account type. Most Chase checking accounts require a minimum opening deposit of $25, though some accounts may ask for more. You can fund the account with a debit card, transfer from another bank, or cash at a Chase branch.
Chase will run a background check through ChexSystems, a banking history database. This check looks at your past banking behavior—specifically whether you've had accounts closed due to overdrafts, fraud, or other issues. A negative ChexSystems record can result in denial, though you can request your ChexSystems report to see what's on file.
Key Takeaways
- You need a government photo ID, Social Security number, and proof of U.S. citizenship or permanent residency to open an account.
- Chase requires a minimum opening deposit of $25 for most checking accounts, which you can provide by debit card, bank transfer, or cash.
- Chase checks your banking history through ChexSystems; a record of closed accounts or fraud can result in denial.
- You can open an account online, by phone, or in person at a Chase branch, and the process typically takes a few minutes to a few hours.
- If Chase denies you, you can request your ChexSystems report and dispute inaccurate information, or look into second-chance banking accounts.
How to open an account online, by phone, or in a branch
Chase offers three ways to open a checking account. Online is the fastest: you provide your ID information, Social Security number, and initial deposit details on Chase's website, and the account opens within minutes. You'll receive a temporary debit card number immediately and can use it for online purchases right away.
By phone, you call Chase at 1-800-935-9935 and speak to a representative who walks you through the same questions. This takes 10 to 15 minutes and results in the same temporary card access. A physical debit card arrives by mail within 7 to 10 business days regardless of which method you use.
In person at a Chase branch, a banker collects your documents, verifies your information, and processes the account while you wait. This method takes 15 to 30 minutes and lets you ask questions face-to-face. You leave with a temporary debit card and information about your new account.
Documents and information to have ready
Gather these items before you start, whether online, by phone, or in branch:
- Government-issued photo ID (driver's license, passport, or state ID)
- Social Security number
- Current address and phone number
- Employment information (employer name and address, though this is optional)
- Initial deposit method (debit card number, bank account for transfer, or plan to deposit cash in branch)
If you're opening the account online or by phone, Chase will ask you to verify your identity by answering security questions based on your credit history. These questions pull from public records and help confirm you are who you say you are. Have your ID handy so you can read the information accurately.
What happens if Chase denies your application
Chase may deny your application if ChexSystems shows a history of overdrafts you didn't repay, fraud, or accounts closed by the bank. You'll receive a letter explaining the reason for denial. The letter includes information about how to request your ChexSystems report, which you can do for free within 60 days of denial.
Review your ChexSystems report carefully. If information is wrong—for example, if it lists an account you never opened or overdrafts you already paid—you can dispute it directly with ChexSystems. Disputes typically resolve within 30 days, and you can reapply to Chase after the correction is made.
If your ChexSystems record is accurate but you still want a checking account, look into second-chance banking accounts. These are designed for people with negative banking history and are offered by banks including Chime, LendingClub, and some regional banks. They typically have lower fees and smaller opening deposits than mainstream accounts.
Fees and account types to know about
Chase offers several checking account types, each with different fee structures. The Chase Total Checking account has no monthly fee if you maintain a $500 minimum balance or set up direct deposit. Without either, the fee is $12 per month. The Chase Premier Plus Checking account requires a $25,000 minimum balance to waive the $25 monthly fee.
Common fees across Chase checking accounts include overdraft fees (typically $35 per transaction), out-of-network ATM fees ($2.50 per withdrawal), and wire transfer fees ($15 to $20 depending on type). However, Chase reimburses out-of-network ATM fees if you maintain a $500 minimum balance in Total Checking or higher balances in Premier accounts.
Read the account disclosure document before you open. Chase provides this as a PDF during the online process or in print at a branch. It lists all fees, minimum balances, and account rules so you know exactly what to expect.
Protecting yourself during the opening process
Only open a Chase account through Chase's official website (chase.com), by calling the official number (1-800-935-9935), or at a physical Chase branch. Scammers sometimes create fake Chase websites or send phishing emails asking you to "verify" your information. Chase will never ask for your full Social Security number or password via email or text.
If you open online, use a secure internet connection—not public WiFi. After you create your account, set up a strong password (at least 12 characters, mixing letters, numbers, and symbols) and enable two-factor authentication in your Chase account settings. This adds a second layer of security when you log in.
Once your account is open, monitor it regularly. Check your transactions weekly and set up account alerts through the Chase app so you're notified of large withdrawals or low balances. Report any unauthorized transactions to Chase immediately—federal law limits your liability to $50 if you report within two business days.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I open a Chase checking account if I don't have a Social Security number?
No. Chase requires a Social Security number or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) to open any account. If you're a permanent resident without an SSN, you can use your ITIN instead. Non-residents and undocumented immigrants cannot open a standard Chase account, though some banks offer accounts for people without SSNs.
How long does it take to get my debit card after I open an account?
You receive a temporary debit card number immediately when you open online or by phone, which you can use for online purchases right away. Your physical debit card arrives by mail in 7 to 10 business days. If you open in a branch, you may receive a temporary card to use while the permanent one is mailed.
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 a driver's license or passport, you can get a state ID card from your state's DMV. The process varies by state but typically takes one to two weeks. Until then, you cannot open a Chase account.
Can I open a joint checking account with someone else?
Yes. Both account holders must be present (in person or by phone) and provide their own ID and Social Security number. Each person is equally responsible for the account and can withdraw all funds. If you're opening online, you'll need to complete the process in person or by phone to add a joint owner.
What if I'm under 18?
Chase does not open accounts for anyone under 18. However, Chase offers a Chase First Banking account for ages 6 to 17, which requires a parent or guardian to open and co-own. The parent controls the account until the child turns 18, at which point it can convert to a standard checking account.