You can open most Chase accounts online in about 10 minutes using a computer or phone

Chase lets you open a checking or savings account entirely through their website or mobile app without visiting a branch. You'll need a valid government ID, a Social Security number, and an initial deposit method — usually a debit card or bank account to link. The process moves fast: you answer questions about yourself, verify your identity, choose your account type, and fund it. Your account number and routing number appear immediately, though it takes one to two business days for the account to be fully active for transfers.

The main limitation is that Chase requires you to be at least 18 years old and a U.S. resident with a valid address. If you're opening an account for someone under 18, you'll need to do it in person at a branch with a parent or guardian present.

Key Takeaways

  • You can open a Chase checking or savings account online using a computer or phone, and the account becomes usable within one to two business days.
  • Chase will verify your identity by asking security questions tied to your credit history, so you need an established credit file or recent address history.
  • You must fund the account immediately during signup using a debit card, bank transfer, or wire transfer — Chase does not open unfunded accounts.
  • If identity verification fails online, you can complete the process in person at any Chase branch with your ID and Social Security card.
  • Chase offers different account types with different fees and minimum balances, so compare them before you choose.

What you need before you start

Gather these items before you open your browser: a valid government-issued ID (driver's license, passport, or state ID), your Social Security number, and your current address. Chase will ask for your phone number and email address too. Have these ready so you don't have to stop mid-process.

You'll also need a way to fund the account right away. This can be a debit card from another bank, a checking or savings account number and routing number, or a wire transfer. Chase does not open accounts without an initial deposit, and the amount varies by account type — typically $25 to $100 for most checking accounts, though some accounts have no minimum.

The online signup process, step by step

Go to chase.com and click "Open an Account" or use the Chase mobile app. You'll be asked whether you want a checking account, savings account, or both. Choose the account type that fits your needs — Chase's website shows the fees and features of each option side by side, so you can compare before you commit.

Next, enter your personal information: full name, date of birth, Social Security number, phone number, email, and current address. Chase will ask whether you're a current customer; answer honestly, because this affects which accounts you can open and what offers you see.

Chase will then verify your identity by asking security questions based on your credit history — things like "Which of these addresses have you lived at?" or "Which of these creditors have you borrowed from?" Answer as accurately as you can. If you have no credit history or very recent address changes, this step may fail; if it does, you can complete the process in person at a Chase branch instead.

Once identity verification passes, you'll choose your initial deposit method. Select whether you're funding from a debit card, bank account, or wire transfer, then enter those details. The deposit posts immediately, though the account itself may take one to two business days to be fully active for all transaction types.

Review the account agreement and disclosures, then sign electronically. You'll receive your account number and routing number on screen right away. Chase will send confirmation and account details to your email within a few minutes.

What happens if identity verification fails

If Chase cannot verify your identity online — usually because you have no credit history, a very new address, or a name mismatch in their records — you'll see a message saying verification was unsuccessful. This does not mean you cannot open an account; it means you need to finish the process in person.

Find your nearest Chase branch using the branch locator on chase.com. Bring your government ID, Social Security card, and the debit card or bank account information you want to use for funding. A Chase representative will verify your identity in person, complete the account setup, and process your deposit. This usually takes 15 to 20 minutes.

How long until you can use the account

Your account number and routing number are available immediately after you complete signup, so you can give them to an employer for direct deposit or set up bill pay right away. However, Chase typically holds new accounts for one to two business days before allowing transfers to external accounts or large withdrawals. Debit card orders take five to seven business days to arrive by mail.

If you need to move money out of the account quickly, ask Chase about expedited debit card delivery or use a wire transfer, which can move money out within hours on the same business day.

Choosing between Chase account types

Chase offers several checking and savings accounts with different features and costs. Chase Total Checking is the most common option for everyday use; it has no monthly fee if you maintain a minimum balance or set up direct deposit. Chase Sapphire Checking is designed for customers who want premium features and higher interest rates, but requires a larger minimum balance.

For savings, Chase offers a basic savings account and a high-yield savings account. The high-yield version pays more interest but may have a higher minimum balance requirement. Compare the current rates and fees on chase.com before you open, because these change and vary by region.

If you're opening your first account with Chase, you may see a promotional offer — for example, a cash bonus if you set up direct deposit within 60 days. Read the terms carefully; these offers have specific requirements and time limits.

What to do if something goes wrong

If your account doesn't appear in your online banking login after two business days, contact Chase customer service at 1-800-935-9935. Have your account number, ID, and the email address you used to sign up ready. A representative can check the status and troubleshoot any delays.

If your debit card doesn't arrive within 10 business days, call the same number to request a replacement or ask about expedited delivery. If you see an error in your account information — a misspelled name, wrong address, or incorrect account type — contact Chase immediately to correct it before you use the account.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I open a Chase account if I'm not a U.S. citizen?

You must be a U.S. resident with a valid address and a Social Security number or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN). Chase will verify this during signup. Non-citizens with an ITIN can open accounts, but the process may require in-person verification at a branch.

Do I need a minimum deposit to open the account?

Yes. Most Chase checking accounts require an initial deposit of $25 to $100, though some accounts have no minimum. The amount depends on the account type you choose. You can fund it with a debit card, bank transfer, or wire transfer during signup.

Can I open a joint account online?

No. Joint accounts must be opened in person at a Chase branch with both account holders present and their IDs. One person can open an individual account online, then visit a branch later to add a joint owner if needed.

What if I don't have a credit history?

Chase may not be able to verify your identity online if you have no credit history. In that case, visit a Chase branch in person with your government ID, Social Security card, and funding method. A representative can open the account for you without the online verification step.

How long does it take to receive my debit card?

Standard debit card delivery takes five to seven business days by mail. Chase offers expedited delivery for an additional fee, which can arrive in two to three business days. You can request expedited delivery during signup or by calling customer service after your account opens.