Yes, you can open most Chase accounts online, but not all of them

Chase lets you open a checking or savings account entirely online through their website or mobile app. You will not need to visit a branch. The process takes about 10 minutes, and your account can be active the same day. However, some Chase products — like certain business accounts, investment accounts, and accounts that require a large opening deposit — still require a phone call or in-person visit.

The accounts you can open online are the ones most people use: Chase Total Checking, Chase Savings, Chase Premier Plus Checking, and Chase Premier Savings. If you are looking at a different product, Chase's website will tell you during the application whether you can complete it online or need to call.

Key Takeaways

  • Chase checking and savings accounts can be opened online in about 10 minutes using a computer or phone.
  • You will need a Social Security number, a valid government ID, and a way to fund the account (debit card, bank transfer, or check deposit).
  • Your account opens the same day, but it may take one to two business days for your initial deposit to show up.
  • Some Chase products, including certain business and investment accounts, cannot be opened online and require a phone call or branch visit.

What you need to have ready before you start

Gather these items before you begin the online application. Chase will ask for them in this order: your Social Security number, your date of birth, your current address, and a valid government ID (driver's license, passport, or state ID). Have the ID number from the document in front of you.

You will also need to choose how you want to fund the account. Chase accepts a debit card from another bank, a transfer from an existing bank account, or a check you mail in. If you use a debit card or bank transfer, the money can move immediately. If you mail a check, it will take several business days to clear.

If you are opening an account as a minor (under 18), a parent or guardian must open it with you, and they will need their own ID and Social Security number.

The actual steps to open your account online

Go to Chase.com or open the Chase mobile app and look for "Open an Account" or "New Accounts." Select the type of account you want — checking, savings, or both. Chase will show you the features and monthly fees for each option.

Enter your personal information: name, date of birth, Social Security number, address, phone number, and email. Chase will ask whether you are a current customer. If you are, the application may move faster because Chase already has some of your information on file.

Next, you will verify your identity. Chase uses a third-party service to check your information against public records. This usually takes a few seconds. If there is a problem, Chase will ask you to upload a photo of your ID or call their verification line.

Finally, choose how you want to fund the account and enter that information. If you are using a debit card, enter the card number and expiration date. If you are using a bank transfer, provide your routing number and account number. Review the account terms and agree to them, and you are done.

When your account is actually ready to use

Your Chase account number and routing number are available immediately after you finish the application. You can use these right away to set up direct deposit or have your employer send your paycheck there. You can also log into your Chase account online or through the app to see your account details.

However, your debit card will arrive by mail in 7 to 10 business days. Until it arrives, you cannot withdraw cash at an ATM or use the card to pay in stores. You can still transfer money in and out of the account online, and you can deposit checks using the mobile app's mobile check deposit feature.

If you funded the account with a debit card or bank transfer, that money should appear within one to two business days. If you mailed a check, allow five to seven business days.

What happens if Chase cannot verify your identity online

If the automated verification fails, Chase will ask you to upload a photo of your ID. Take a clear photo of the front and back of your driver's license, passport, or state ID. The photo must show all four corners of the document and be in color. Upload it through the application, and Chase will review it within a few hours.

If the photo does not work or Chase needs more information, they will call you at the phone number you provided. You can also call Chase directly at the number on their website to complete verification over the phone. This usually takes 5 to 10 minutes.

In rare cases, Chase may ask you to visit a branch in person with your ID. This happens when their systems cannot match your information to public records. If this occurs, Chase will tell you which branch to visit and what to bring.

Accounts you cannot open online

Chase business accounts, including sole proprietor accounts, require a phone call or branch visit. You will need to speak with a business banker who can discuss your business structure and which account type fits your needs.

Chase investment accounts and brokerage accounts also cannot be opened online. If you want to open a Chase investment account, you will need to call or visit a branch.

Some specialty accounts, like Chase Sapphire Banking (which requires a higher opening deposit), may have restrictions on online opening depending on your situation. Chase will let you know during the application process if you need to call or visit a branch instead.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I open a Chase account if I do not have a Social Security number?

No. Chase requires a Social Security number or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) to open any account. If you do not have either, you will need to visit a branch and speak with a banker about your options, though they may still require one of these numbers.

What if I do not have a government ID?

You can still start the online application, but you will not be able to complete it without uploading a photo of a valid ID. If you do not have a driver's license or passport, a state ID card will work. If you have none of these, you will need to visit a branch in person with whatever ID you do have.

Can I open a joint account online with someone else?

No. Joint accounts require both account holders to verify their identity and agree to the terms. One person must start the application online, and Chase will send a link to the other person to complete their portion. Both of you must finish within a certain time frame, or the application will expire.

How long does it take to open a Chase account online?

The application itself takes 10 to 15 minutes. Your account number is available immediately. Your debit card arrives in 7 to 10 business days, and your initial deposit shows up in 1 to 2 business days.

Can I open multiple Chase accounts at the same time?

Yes. You can open a checking and savings account in the same application, or you can open separate accounts on different days. Chase does not limit the number of accounts you can have, though they may ask why you are opening multiple accounts of the same type.