Documents and information Chase will ask for

To open a Chase checking or savings account, you will need a government-issued photo ID, your Social Security number, and an initial deposit. Chase accepts a driver's license, passport, state ID card, or military ID. You do not need to bring physical documents to a branch — you can open most accounts online or by phone with the same information.

Chase will also ask for your date of birth, current address, phone number, and email address. If you are opening an account online, you will enter this information directly into their website or mobile app. If you go to a branch, a banker will collect it in person. Either way, the process takes about 10 to 15 minutes.

The initial deposit amount depends on the account type. Chase checking accounts typically require $0 to open, though some premium accounts have higher minimums. Savings accounts also usually have no minimum. You can fund the account with a debit card, transfer from another bank, or cash at a branch.

Key Takeaways

  • You need a government photo ID, Social Security number, and current address to open any Chase account.
  • Most Chase checking and savings accounts have no minimum deposit to open, though some premium products do.
  • You can open an account online, by phone, or in person at a Chase branch in about 10 to 15 minutes.
  • Chase will verify your identity through ChexSystems, a banking history report, which may delay approval if you have unpaid overdrafts or closed accounts at other banks.
  • If you do not have a Social Security number, Chase offers accounts for non-U.S. citizens with an ITIN and additional documentation.

Opening online versus in a branch

Opening online is faster and requires no trip. You download the Chase mobile app or visit chase.com, enter your personal information, upload a photo of your ID, and confirm your Social Security number. Chase verifies your identity instantly in most cases. You can fund the account immediately with a debit card or by transferring money from another bank account.

Opening in a branch takes longer but gives you a chance to ask questions and set up additional services on the spot. A banker can discuss account features, overdraft protection, and linked savings goals. If you have a complex financial situation — such as a recent bankruptcy or multiple accounts at other banks — a banker may be able to explain what Chase's verification process will check and whether you might face delays.

Chase also offers phone account opening through their customer service line. You provide the same information you would online, but a representative guides you through it. This option works well if you prefer talking to a person but do not have a nearby branch.

What Chase checks before approval

Chase uses ChexSystems, a third-party banking history report, to verify your background. ChexSystems tracks overdrafts, bounced checks, closed accounts, and disputes at other banks. If you have unpaid overdrafts or a history of fraud, Chase may deny your application or place restrictions on your account.

Chase also runs a soft credit check, which does not affect your credit score. This check looks for signs of identity theft or fraud but does not assess your creditworthiness. You do not need good credit to open a Chase account.

The verification process usually completes within minutes online. If ChexSystems flags something, Chase may contact you to ask about it before approving the account. In rare cases, approval can take a few business days.

If you do not have a Social Security number

Chase will open accounts for non-U.S. citizens using an ITIN (Individual Taxpayer Identification Number) instead of a Social Security number. You will need a valid passport or travel document, proof of U.S. address (such as a utility bill or lease), and your ITIN. Some Chase branches are more experienced with ITIN accounts than others, so calling ahead to confirm they can open one for you saves a trip.

The process takes longer than a standard account opening — usually one to two weeks — because Chase must verify your ITIN with the IRS. You can open the account online or in person, but in-person opening at a branch that handles ITIN accounts tends to move faster.

Minimum balance and monthly fees

Most Chase checking accounts have no monthly fee and no minimum balance to avoid fees. Chase Total Checking, their most common account, costs nothing per month and requires no minimum deposit or balance.

Some premium accounts, such as Chase Sapphire Checking, charge a monthly fee (typically $25 to $35) but waive it if you maintain a minimum balance or set up direct deposit. Savings accounts also have no monthly fee on most products, though interest rates and minimum balances vary.

Read the account terms before opening to confirm which fees apply to the specific account you choose. Chase's website lists all fees for each product type.

What happens after you open the account

Once approved, your account opens immediately online or within one business day if you opened in a branch. Chase will issue you a debit card, which arrives by mail in 7 to 10 business days. You can use your account number and routing number to receive direct deposits or set up bill payments right away, even before the card arrives.

If you opened in a branch, you may be able to get a temporary debit card on the spot or use a cardless ATM withdrawal to access cash the same day. Online account holders can use Chase's mobile app to transfer money, pay bills, and deposit checks by phone camera immediately.

Chase will send you login credentials by email. Set up two-factor authentication (a security code sent to your phone) as soon as you log in for the first time. This protects your account from unauthorized access.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I open a Chase account if I have been denied at other banks?

Maybe. If you were denied because of ChexSystems, you can request a copy of your ChexSystems report and dispute any errors before applying to Chase. If the denial was due to fraud or unpaid overdrafts, Chase may also deny you, but policies vary by branch. Call Chase customer service or visit a branch to ask about your specific situation.

Do I need to be a U.S. citizen to open a Chase account?

No. You need a valid government ID and either a Social Security number or ITIN. Permanent residents, visa holders, and non-citizens with an ITIN can all open accounts. Bring your passport or travel document and proof of U.S. address to a branch.

What if I do not have a government photo ID?

Chase requires a government-issued photo ID to open an account. If you do not have one, you will need to obtain a state ID card or passport first. Some states offer ID cards specifically for people who do not drive. Check your state's DMV website for options.

Can someone else open an account on my behalf?

No. Chase requires the account holder to be present and verify their identity in person or online. A parent or guardian can open a custodial account for a minor, but the adult must provide their own ID and information.

How long does it take to receive my debit card?

Standard delivery takes 7 to 10 business days. Chase offers expedited shipping for an additional fee in some cases. If you opened in a branch, ask whether they can issue a temporary card or provide cardless ATM access while you wait for the permanent card to arrive.