Documents and information Chase requires before you open
Chase requires a government-issued photo ID, your Social Security number, and proof of your current address to open a checking account. You'll also need an initial deposit — the amount varies by account type, but many Chase checking accounts have no minimum. Bring these items when you visit a branch, or have them ready if you open online.
The proof of address can be a recent utility bill, lease, mortgage statement, or government mail dated within the last 60 days. If you don't have a Social Security number, Chase offers accounts for non-U.S. citizens using an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) instead, though you'll need additional documentation — typically a passport and visa or travel document.
If you're opening an account for someone under 18, a parent or guardian must be present with their own ID and Social Security number. Some Chase branches also allow you to open an account by mail or video call if you can't visit in person, though the process takes longer.
Key Takeaways
- You need a government photo ID, Social Security number, and proof of address dated within 60 days to open a Chase checking account.
- Most Chase checking accounts have no minimum deposit requirement, though some premium accounts do.
- If you don't have a Social Security number, you can use an ITIN and provide a passport plus visa or travel document.
- You can open an account online, in person at a branch, or by mail or video call, depending on your situation and the account type.
- If you're under 18, a parent or guardian must open the account with you and provide their own ID and Social Security number.
Opening online versus in person
Opening online is faster — you can complete the process in 10 to 15 minutes on Chase.com or the Chase mobile app. You'll upload photos of your ID and proof of address, enter your information, and fund the account immediately. Your account number and debit card order process start right away, though the physical card takes 7 to 10 business days to arrive.
Opening in person at a Chase branch takes 20 to 30 minutes but gives you immediate access to a banker who can answer questions about account features, overdraft settings, and linked services. You'll leave with a temporary debit card or access code that works right away, and your permanent card arrives within the same timeframe. If you're unsure which account type fits your needs, the in-person route often saves you time later.
If you open by mail, send copies of your ID and proof of address to the address Chase provides — this route takes two to three weeks and is rarely the fastest choice. Video call opening is available at some branches and takes about 30 minutes; Chase will tell you during the online process whether your location offers it.
What happens after you submit your information
Chase verifies your identity and runs a check through ChexSystems, a banking history database that flags accounts closed for fraud or unpaid overdrafts. This check usually completes within minutes to a few hours. If you have a history of overdrafts or closed accounts, Chase may deny you or require you to wait a set period before reapplying — typically six months to a year depending on the reason.
Once approved, your account opens immediately if you opened online or in person. If you opened online, you can use your account number to set up direct deposit or transfers right away, even before your debit card arrives. Chase will send you a welcome packet with your account details, routing number, and information about online banking and mobile app access.
If Chase denies your application, they'll send you a letter explaining why within a few days. You have the right to request a copy of your ChexSystems report to see what information they used to make the decision. You can dispute inaccurate information on that report directly with ChexSystems.
Minimum deposit amounts by account type
| Account Type | Minimum Deposit | Monthly Fee |
|---|---|---|
| Chase Total Checking | None | $12 (waived with direct deposit or $500+ monthly balance) |
| Chase Sapphire Checking | None | $25 (waived with $20,000+ balance or linked savings account) |
| Chase Premier Plus Checking | $25,000 | $30 (waived with $25,000+ balance) |
| Chase Student Checking | None | None (available until age 24) |
Most people open Chase Total Checking or Chase Student Checking because neither has a minimum deposit or monthly fee if you meet one simple requirement — usually direct deposit or a minimum balance. If you're under 24 and a student, Chase Student Checking has no fees at all and no balance requirement.
Chase Total Checking is the most common choice for everyday banking because the $12 monthly fee disappears if your employer sets up direct deposit or you keep $500 in the account. Sapphire Checking costs more but waives the fee if you link a Chase savings account, which makes sense if you're already saving with Chase.
Setting up online banking and mobile access
Chase sets up online banking automatically when your account opens. You'll receive a username and temporary password by email or mail, depending on how you opened the account. Log in to Chase.com or the mobile app, change your password to something only you know, and set up two-factor authentication — this sends a code to your phone or email whenever you log in from a new device.
Two-factor authentication takes 30 seconds to enable and protects your account if someone gets your password. Chase also offers fingerprint or face recognition login on the mobile app, which is faster and equally secure. Once you're logged in, you can transfer money, pay bills, deposit checks by photo, and set up alerts for low balances or large transactions.
If you have trouble logging in or forget your password, Chase customer service can reset it over the phone or help you regain access through their website. Keep your login information private — Chase will never ask for your password by email or phone.
What to do if Chase denies your application
If Chase denies you, the letter will state the reason — usually a ChexSystems report showing closed accounts, unpaid overdrafts, or fraud. Request your ChexSystems report directly from ChexSystems (you can do this free at consumerdebit.equifax.com) and review it for errors. If information is wrong, file a dispute with ChexSystems and ask them to correct it.
If the denial is accurate, you have a few options. Some banks like Chime, LendingClub, or Varo offer checking accounts to people with ChexSystems issues, though they may charge higher fees or have lower ATM access. You can also wait — most negative marks on ChexSystems fall off after five years, and some banks will reconsider you after six months to a year if you've resolved the underlying issue (like paying back overdrafts).
If you were denied because of your ITIN or immigration status, call Chase directly at 1-800-935-9935 to confirm what additional documents they need. Some branches are more experienced with ITIN accounts and may approve you when others won't.
Funding your account and setting up direct deposit
You can fund your new Chase account by transferring money from another bank account, depositing cash at a Chase ATM or branch, or setting up direct deposit from your employer. If you transfer from another bank, the money usually arrives within one to three business days. Cash deposits at a Chase ATM or branch post immediately.
Direct deposit is the fastest and most reliable way to fund your account regularly. Ask your employer's payroll department for Chase's routing number (it's 021000021 for most regions, but confirm with Chase) and your new account number. Your employer typically needs three to five business days to set up the deposit, and your first paycheck will arrive on your normal payday once it's active.
If you're moving money from another bank for the first time, Chase may place a temporary hold on large deposits while they verify the transfer. This is normal and usually clears within one to two business days.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I open a Chase checking account without a Social Security number?
Yes, if you have an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN). You'll need your ITIN, a passport, and a visa or travel document showing your immigration status. Not all Chase branches process ITIN accounts, so call ahead or visit a branch that handles international customers.
What if I don't have a recent utility bill for proof of address?
Chase accepts a lease, mortgage statement, government mail, or bank statement dated within 60 days. If none of those work, ask the branch what other documents they can use — some accept insurance bills or tax documents. You can also update your address with the DMV and use your new ID as proof.
How long does it take to receive my debit card?
Physical debit cards take 7 to 10 business days to arrive by mail. If you opened in person, you may receive a temporary card or access code immediately. You can also request expedited shipping at some branches, though this may cost extra.
Can I open a joint checking account with someone else?
Yes. Both account holders must be present with their own ID and Social Security number. You'll both have full access to the account and can withdraw money or close it independently, so only open a joint account with someone you trust completely.
What happens if I don't meet the minimum balance to waive the monthly fee?
Chase charges the monthly fee — typically $12 for Total Checking or $25 for Sapphire Checking. You can avoid the fee by setting up direct deposit, maintaining the required balance, or linking a savings account. If you forget and get charged, call Chase and ask them to waive one or two months while you adjust your balance.