Chase will open a checking or savings account for you without an SSN, but you'll need an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) instead.

Chase accepts ITINs as a valid form of identification for account opening. An ITIN is a nine-digit number issued by the IRS to people who don't have an SSN but need to file taxes or conduct financial business in the United States. If you have an ITIN, you can walk into a Chase branch with it and open an account the same way a US citizen would.

If you don't have an ITIN yet, you'll need to get one before Chase will open an account. The process takes several weeks and requires filing Form W-7 with the IRS, along with proof of identity and tax residency. Once you have the ITIN, the account opening itself is straightforward.

Some Chase branches are more experienced with ITIN accounts than others. If your local branch seems uncertain, ask to speak with a manager or call Chase's customer service line at 1-800-935-9935 to confirm they can process your account with an ITIN before you visit.

Key Takeaways

  • Chase will open checking and savings accounts using an ITIN instead of an SSN, but you must have the ITIN before you arrive at the branch.
  • An ITIN is issued by the IRS and requires filing Form W-7 along with identity documents; the process typically takes four to six weeks.
  • You'll need to bring your ITIN, a valid passport or national ID, and proof of your current US address to open a Chase account.
  • Not all Chase branches handle ITIN accounts regularly, so calling ahead to confirm your local branch can process one saves a wasted trip.

What documents you need to bring to Chase

Bring your ITIN, a valid government-issued photo ID (usually your passport), and a document showing your current US address. Chase accepts utility bills, lease agreements, or mail from a government agency dated within the last 60 days as proof of address.

If your passport is from outside the US, that's fine—Chase accepts foreign passports. Some branches may also ask for a second form of ID or additional address verification, so bringing two documents that show your address is safer than one.

You do not need an SSN, a US driver's license, or a credit history to open the account. Chase's system is set up to process ITIN accounts, though the person helping you may need to select a specific option in their computer system rather than the standard SSN pathway.

Getting an ITIN if you don't have one yet

File Form W-7 (Application for IRS Individual Taxpayer Identification Number) with the IRS. You can download it from irs.gov or request it by mail. The form asks for your name, date of birth, country of citizenship, and the reason you need an ITIN.

Mail the completed form to the IRS along with certified copies of your passport or national ID and proof of tax residency (such as a letter from your employer, a lease, or a utility bill). Do not send originals—the IRS keeps submitted documents. The address to mail to depends on your country of residence; check the Form W-7 instructions for the correct mailing address.

Processing typically takes four to six weeks from the date the IRS receives your application. You can check the status by calling the IRS at 1-267-941-1000 (international callers) or 1-800-829-1040 (if calling from the US) after six weeks have passed. Once you receive your ITIN by mail, you can take it to Chase.

What happens after you open the account

Your Chase account works exactly like any other checking or savings account. You can use your debit card, set up direct deposit, transfer money, and pay bills online. You'll receive statements and can manage your account through the Chase mobile app or website.

Chase will report your account activity to the major credit bureaus, which means you can begin building a US credit history. This is one of the main reasons people with ITINs open bank accounts—it's the first step toward getting a credit card or loan later.

You may not be able to open certain account types, like investment accounts or some business accounts, without an SSN. Stick to personal checking and savings accounts, which Chase definitely supports with an ITIN.

Alternatives if Chase doesn't work out

Other banks also accept ITINs. Bank of America, Wells Fargo, and many regional banks and credit unions will open accounts for ITIN holders. If your local Chase branch is unwilling or unable to process your ITIN, try another bank in your area or ask your employer if they have a preferred financial institution—some employers work with banks that specialize in accounts for international workers.

Online banks like Wise (formerly TransferWise) and some fintech companies also serve people without SSNs, though their account types and features differ from traditional banks. These can be useful for receiving international transfers or holding multiple currencies, but they may not offer the full range of services a traditional bank does.

Common issues and how to avoid them

The most common problem is arriving at Chase without an ITIN and expecting to open an account on the spot. Chase cannot create an account without either an SSN or an ITIN—there is no workaround. Get your ITIN first, then visit the branch.

A second issue is bringing an expired passport or an address document older than 60 days. Check your documents before you go. If your address proof is too old, get a new utility bill or ask your landlord for a dated letter confirming your residency.

Some branches may ask for a minimum opening deposit. This varies by location and account type, but Chase typically requires $25 to $100 to open a checking account. Call ahead to ask what your local branch requires.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I open a Chase account online with an ITIN?

Chase's online account opening system is designed for SSN holders and may not accept an ITIN. You'll likely need to visit a branch in person. Call Chase at 1-800-935-9935 to ask if online opening is available in your state, but plan on going to a branch to be safe.

How long does it take to get an ITIN?

The IRS typically processes Form W-7 applications in four to six weeks. If you need an account urgently, start your ITIN application as soon as possible. You can check the status after six weeks by calling the IRS.

Do I need a US address to open a Chase account with an ITIN?

Yes. Chase requires proof of a current US address, dated within the last 60 days. If you don't have one yet, get a utility bill, lease, or government mail in your name at your US address before visiting the branch.

Will opening a Chase account with an ITIN affect my immigration status?

No. Opening a bank account is a financial transaction and does not affect your immigration status or visa. Many people with temporary visas, work permits, and other non-immigrant statuses open bank accounts with ITINs.

What if Chase says they can't open an account with my ITIN?

Ask to speak with a manager and confirm that your ITIN is valid and current. If the branch still refuses, try another Chase location or contact Chase customer service. If Chase cannot help, Bank of America, Wells Fargo, and many credit unions also accept ITINs.