Documents and information Chase requires to 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 specific documents depend on which account type you choose and whether you open it in person, online, or by phone. Most people can complete the process in under 15 minutes if they have everything ready.

You will also need to provide your current address and a phone number. If you are opening an account for a minor, a parent or guardian must be present with their own ID and Social Security number. Chase uses this information to verify your identity and comply with federal banking regulations.

Key Takeaways

  • You need a government-issued photo ID, Social Security number, and initial deposit to open any Chase account.
  • Online account opening is fastest and requires only your ID number and basic information; you do not need to visit a branch.
  • Chase checks your banking history through ChexSystems, so a history of overdrafts or fraud may prevent account opening.
  • Minimum deposit amounts vary by account type, ranging from $0 for some checking accounts to $25,000 for premium accounts.
  • You can bring additional documents like a utility bill or lease if your ID is expired or if you want to speed up verification.

Acceptable forms of government-issued ID

Chase accepts a driver's license, passport, state ID card, or military ID. The ID must be current and show your photo, full name, and date of birth. An expired ID may still work if the expiration date is recent, but Chase staff will make the final call at the branch or during phone verification.

If you do not have a photo ID, you can bring two forms of non-photo ID instead—such as a Social Security card, birth certificate, or utility bill. However, this route takes longer and may require a branch visit rather than online opening. A passport is the strongest document because it is federally issued and accepted everywhere.

Social Security number and ChexSystems check

Chase requires your nine-digit Social Security number to open an account. They use this number to verify your identity and to run a check through ChexSystems, a banking history database that tracks overdrafts, fraud, and closed accounts. If you have a history of unpaid overdrafts or fraud at another bank, Chase may deny your application.

You can request your own ChexSystems report before applying if you want to know whether you will face a problem. Visit chexsystems.com or call 1-800-428-9623 to order a free copy. If the report contains errors, you can dispute them directly with ChexSystems before you apply to Chase.

Minimum deposit amounts by account type

Chase checking and savings accounts have different minimum deposit requirements. Most basic checking accounts require $0 to open, though some branches may ask for $25. Premium checking accounts like Chase Premier Plus require $25,000 to open and maintain.

Savings accounts typically require $0 to open online but may ask for $25 in a branch. Money Market accounts require $25,000. You can fund your account with a debit card, transfer from another bank, or cash at a Chase branch. If you do not have the minimum deposit ready, you can open the account and deposit money later, though some account features may be limited until you meet the minimum.

Opening an account online versus in person

Online account opening is the fastest route and requires only your ID number, Social Security number, and basic contact information. You can complete it in 10 minutes on Chase.com or the Chase mobile app. The account is usually active within one business day, and you can set up direct deposit or transfers immediately.

Opening in person at a Chase branch takes 15 to 30 minutes and requires you to bring your ID and Social Security card or number. A branch representative will verify your information in real time and can answer questions about account features. In-person opening is useful if you want to deposit cash immediately or if you have questions about which account type fits your needs.

Phone opening is also available by calling 1-800-935-9935, though it is less common. You will need to provide the same information as online opening, and the process takes about 20 minutes. A representative will mail you a debit card and checks after verification.

Additional documents that speed up verification

Bringing a utility bill, lease, or recent bank statement can speed up the verification process, especially if your ID is expired or if you are opening an account online. Chase uses these documents to confirm your current address. A utility bill in your name dated within the last 60 days is the strongest supporting document.

If you are opening a joint account, both account holders must be present in person or provide their own ID and Social Security number. If you are opening an account for a minor, the parent or guardian must provide their ID and Social Security number as well. Chase will not open a joint account if one person is under 18.

What happens if Chase denies your application

Chase may deny your application if ChexSystems shows a history of unpaid overdrafts, fraud, or multiple closed accounts due to negative balances. If this happens, Chase will send you a letter explaining the reason. You have the right to request your ChexSystems report and dispute any errors on it.

If you are denied, you can reapply after 12 months, or sooner if you resolve the issue that caused the denial. Some people in this situation open an account at a bank that does not use ChexSystems or that has a second-chance program. You can also ask Chase directly whether there is a path to opening an account—some branches have discretion to override a ChexSystems flag if you can explain the circumstances.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I open a Chase account without a Social Security number?

No. Chase requires a Social Security number to open any account. If you do not have one, you may be able to use an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) instead, but this varies by branch. Call your local Chase branch or 1-800-935-9935 to ask whether ITIN accounts are available in your area.

How long does it take to get my debit card after opening an account?

If you open online or by phone, Chase mails your debit card within 7 to 10 business days. If you open in person at a branch, you can request a temporary card on the spot or wait for the permanent card to arrive by mail. You can use your account for transfers and bill pay immediately, even before your card arrives.

Do I need an initial deposit to open the account?

Most Chase checking accounts require $0 to open online. Some branches may ask for $25 in person. Premium accounts require $25,000. If you do not have money to deposit right away, you can open the account and fund it later, though some features may be limited until you meet any minimum balance requirement.

What if my ID is expired?

Chase may still accept an expired ID if the expiration is recent and the photo is still recognizable. Bring a second document like a utility bill or lease to strengthen your application. If your ID is very old or damaged, opening in person at a branch gives you the best chance, because a representative can use their judgment.

Can I open a joint account with someone who lives in another state?

Yes. Both account holders can open the account online or by phone without being in the same location. However, both people must provide their own ID and Social Security number, and both must agree to the account terms. If you prefer to open in person, both account holders must visit a Chase branch together.