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 you can start using your account the same day in most cases.

However, Chase does not let you open certain accounts online — notably their investment accounts, business accounts with an EIN, and some specialty products. If you need one of those, you will have to go to a branch or call. For standard personal checking and savings, online is the fastest route.

Key Takeaways

  • Chase checking and savings accounts can be opened online using your Social Security number, a valid ID, and proof of address.
  • You will need a minimum opening deposit, which varies by account type — typically $0 to $25 for most checking accounts.
  • Your account is active immediately, but your debit card arrives by mail in 7 to 10 business days.
  • If you do not have a Social Security number or valid ID, you must open an account in person at a Chase branch.
  • Business accounts, investment accounts, and some specialty products cannot be opened online and require a branch visit or phone call.

What you need to open an account online

Chase requires four things to verify your identity and set up your account. First, a valid government-issued photo ID — a driver's license, passport, or state ID card. Second, your Social Security number. Third, proof of your current address, which can be a recent utility bill, lease, mortgage statement, or bank statement dated within the last 60 days. Fourth, an initial deposit, though many Chase checking accounts have no minimum.

You will also need an email address and a phone number. Chase uses these to send account confirmations and to contact you if they need to verify anything during the signup process. If you already have a Chase account, you can use the same login to open a second account.

The step-by-step process

Start at chase.com or open the Chase Mobile app. Look for "Open an Account" or "New Account" — the exact wording changes, but it is usually on the homepage. Select the type of account you want: checking, savings, or money market. Chase will ask you to choose a specific product, like Chase Total Checking or Chase Savings, each with different features and fees.

Enter your personal information: name, date of birth, address, phone number, email, and Social Security number. Chase verifies this information in real time against their systems and credit bureaus. If everything matches, you move to the next step. If there is a mismatch, Chase may ask you to call or visit a branch to complete the account opening.

Next, you will set your opening deposit amount and choose how to fund it. You can transfer money from another bank account, use a debit card, or wire funds. If you transfer from another bank, it typically takes 1 to 3 business days to appear in your new Chase account. Once your deposit is confirmed, your account is open and you can use it immediately — you can set up direct deposit, pay bills, and transfer money right away.

When you cannot open an account online

Chase requires an in-person visit or phone call for business accounts (sole proprietorships, LLCs, corporations), accounts opened with an EIN instead of a Social Security number, and investment or brokerage accounts. If you do not have a valid government ID or Social Security number, you will also need to go to a branch.

Some customers are flagged during the online process for additional verification — this happens when Chase's systems cannot confirm your identity in real time. If this occurs, you will see a message telling you to call or visit a branch. This is not a rejection; it just means Chase needs to verify you manually. Call the number on the screen or go to your nearest branch with your ID and proof of address.

Your debit card and account access

Your account is ready to use the moment you finish the online signup, but your physical debit card arrives by mail in 7 to 10 business days. Until it arrives, you can use your account number and routing number to set up direct deposit or transfers. You can also request a temporary digital card through the Chase app, which you can add to Apple Pay, Google Pay, or Samsung Pay and use immediately at contactless terminals.

If you need cash before your card arrives, you can visit any Chase branch and withdraw from your new account using your ID. You can also use ATMs at other banks, though you may pay a fee if they are not in the Chase network.

Minimum deposits and account fees

Most Chase checking accounts have no minimum opening deposit — you can open with $0. Chase Savings and Chase Money Market accounts typically require $25 to open. Some specialty accounts have higher minimums, but these are rare and Chase will tell you upfront during signup.

Monthly maintenance fees vary by account type. Chase Total Checking has a $12 monthly fee, but it is waived if you maintain a $500 minimum balance, set up direct deposit, or meet other conditions. Chase Savings has a $5 monthly fee with similar waivers. Read the account details before you finish signup so you know what fees apply to you.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

The signup process itself takes about 10 minutes. Your account is active immediately, but if you need to transfer money from another bank, that transfer takes 1 to 3 business days to show up in your Chase account.

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

No, Chase requires a Social Security number for personal accounts opened online. If you have an ITIN (Individual Taxpayer Identification Number) instead, you will need to visit a branch or call to discuss your options.

What if Chase asks me to verify my identity after I apply online?

This means Chase's automated system could not confirm who you are in real time. Call the number Chase provides or visit a branch with your ID and proof of address. A representative will verify you manually and complete your account opening — this usually takes a few minutes.

Can I open a business account online?

No, Chase business accounts must be opened in person at a branch or by calling their business banking line. You will need your business license, EIN, and personal ID.

Do I need to have money in my account before I can use it?

Your account is active immediately after signup, even if you have not made a deposit yet. However, you cannot withdraw or spend money until funds are in the account. If you opened with $0, you will need to transfer or deposit money before you can use it.