Documents and information you'll need to bring
Chase requires a government-issued photo ID, proof of your current address, and your Social Security number to open a checking or savings account. The photo ID can be a driver's license, passport, state ID card, or military ID. Proof of address typically means a recent utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, or bank statement dated within the last 60 days—a piece of mail with your name and current address on it.
You'll also need an initial deposit. The minimum varies by account type: some Chase checking accounts require $0 to open, while others ask for $100 or $500. Savings accounts typically start at $0 minimum. Bring a debit card or have a bank account number ready if you plan to fund the account electronically rather than with cash or a check.
If you're opening an account for someone under 18, you'll need to be a parent or legal guardian and bring your own ID plus the minor's birth certificate or passport. Some Chase branches also accept a school ID or state ID for minors, but calling ahead to confirm what your local branch accepts saves a trip.
Key Takeaways
- Bring a government photo ID, proof of your current address dated within 60 days, and your Social Security number to any Chase branch.
- Some Chase checking accounts require no minimum deposit to open, while others ask for $100 or $500—check the specific account terms before you go.
- You can fund your new account with cash, a check, or a transfer from another bank account on the same day you open it.
- If you open an account online instead of in a branch, Chase will mail you a debit card and you can start using the account within a few business days.
Opening an account in person versus online
Opening at a Chase branch takes 15 to 30 minutes. A banker will verify your documents, explain the account features, set up your debit card, and often give you temporary access to your account that day. You can deposit cash or a check immediately and start using the account within hours. The banker can also answer questions about overdraft protection, fraud monitoring, and which account type fits your spending habits.
Opening online through Chase.com or the Chase mobile app takes about 10 minutes but requires a few extra steps. You'll upload photos of your ID and proof of address, enter your Social Security number, and choose your initial deposit method. Chase will review your application and send you a debit card by mail, which usually arrives within 5 to 7 business days. You can use your account online and through the app immediately, but you won't have a physical card until it arrives.
Online opening is faster if you're not near a branch or prefer to avoid a trip. In-person opening is better if you want to ask questions, deposit cash the same day, or get a debit card immediately. Some people do both: open online for speed, then visit a branch to deposit cash and pick up a temporary card if needed.
What happens after you open the account
Once your account is open, Chase will assign you a routing number and account number. You'll receive these in your welcome email or can find them in the app or online banking portal. Use these numbers to set up direct deposit from your employer, arrange automatic bill payments, or transfer money from another bank.
Your debit card will arrive by mail if you opened online, or you may receive it in-branch if you opened in person. Activate it through the app or by calling the number on the back of the card before you use it. Chase will also send you login credentials for online banking and the mobile app, which you can use to check your balance, transfer money, and monitor transactions immediately.
Chase monitors your account for fraud automatically. If a transaction looks unusual, they may temporarily block it and contact you to confirm. You can also set up alerts through the app to notify you of large purchases, low balances, or transfers.
Minimum deposit amounts by account type
| Account Type | Minimum to Open | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Chase Total Checking | $0 | No monthly fee if you maintain a $500 balance or set up direct deposit |
| Chase Sapphire Checking | $500 | Waived if you have a linked Chase savings account with $500 minimum |
| Chase Savings Account | $0 | Earns interest; rates vary with market conditions |
| Chase Money Market Account | $2,500 | Higher interest rate; limited monthly transfers |
Age and citizenship requirements
You must be at least 18 years old to open an account in your own name. Chase does not require you to be a U.S. citizen, but you do need a valid Social Security number or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN). If you have an ITIN, bring the same documents as a citizen would—photo ID, proof of address, and your ITIN instead of an SSN.
If you're under 18, a parent or legal guardian must open a joint account with you. Chase calls these Youth Savings Accounts. The adult's name appears on the account, and they can monitor activity and set spending limits through the app. Once you turn 18, you can convert it to an account in your name alone.
What to do if you don't have all the documents
If you don't have a government photo ID, Chase may accept alternative documents depending on your branch and situation. Call your local branch or visit Chase.com to ask what they can accept—some branches will take a passport card, tribal ID, or consular ID if a state ID is unavailable. Bring whatever official ID you have and ask what else they need.
If you don't have proof of address in your name, ask if Chase will accept a lease agreement, utility bill in a family member's name with a note from them, or a recent bank statement from another institution. Some branches are flexible; others follow stricter rules. A phone call ahead prevents a wasted trip.
If you don't have a Social Security number, an ITIN works in most cases. You can obtain an ITIN from the IRS if you're not may be able to access for an SSN but need to file taxes or open a bank account. The process takes several weeks, so plan ahead if this applies to you.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I open a Chase account without going to a branch?
Yes. You can open most Chase checking and savings accounts entirely online through Chase.com or the mobile app. You'll upload photos of your ID and proof of address, and your account opens within a few minutes. Your debit card arrives by mail in 5 to 7 business days, and you can use the account online immediately.
What if I don't have a current address proof?
Call your local Chase branch and explain your situation. Some branches accept alternative documents like a lease agreement, utility bill in a family member's name, or a recent statement from another bank. Rules vary by location, so asking first saves a trip.
Do I need a minimum balance to avoid monthly fees?
It depends on the account. Chase Total Checking has no monthly fee if you maintain a $500 balance or set up direct deposit. Chase Sapphire Checking charges a monthly fee unless you keep $500 in the account or link a savings account with $500. Check the specific account terms before opening.
Can I use a passport instead of a driver's license?
Yes. Chase accepts any government-issued photo ID, including a U.S. passport, state ID card, military ID, or passport card. Bring whichever one you have.
How long does it take to get my debit card if I open online?
Chase typically mails debit cards within 5 to 7 business days. You can use your account online and through the app immediately, but you won't have a physical card to swipe in stores until it arrives. Some branches offer temporary cards if you visit in person.