You can open a Chase checking or savings account online in about 10 minutes, or visit a branch in person with an ID and proof of address

Chase offers two main routes: online through their website or mobile app, or at a physical branch. The online process is faster and works from home. The in-person route takes longer but lets you ask questions and sometimes may have access to for account opening bonuses. Both require the same basic documents: a valid government ID, proof of your current address (usually a utility bill or lease), and your Social Security number.

You'll also need an initial deposit to fund the account. Chase checking accounts typically require a minimum opening deposit of $25, though some accounts ask for more. Savings accounts have similar minimums. If you don't have the cash on hand, you can transfer money from another bank account after opening.

Key Takeaways

  • Online account opening takes 10 to 15 minutes and you can start using your account the same day for transfers and bill pay.
  • You will need a valid ID, proof of address (utility bill, lease, or bank statement), and your Social Security number for either method.
  • Chase checking accounts require a $25 minimum opening deposit; some premium accounts require $500 or more.
  • In-person applications at a branch may take 30 minutes to an hour but sometimes include promotional bonuses worth $100 to $300.
  • Your debit card arrives by mail in 7 to 10 business days; you can request expedited shipping at some branches.

Opening an account online through Chase.com or the mobile app

Go to Chase.com and select "Open an account" or use the Chase Mobile app. You'll choose the account type—checking, savings, or both. Chase will ask for your name, date of birth, Social Security number, and current address. Have your ID and proof of address ready to photograph or upload.

Next, you'll verify your identity. Chase uses a combination of questions about your financial history and a photo ID scan. The system reads your ID automatically, so make sure the photo is clear and well-lit. If you're opening an account with a co-owner, both people need to complete this step.

Once verified, you'll set up your initial deposit. You can link an external bank account and transfer money in, or use a debit card. Chase will send two small test deposits to confirm the external account is yours—you'll need to verify those amounts later. After funding the account, you're done. Your account opens immediately, and you can use it for bill pay and transfers right away. Your physical debit card arrives in 7 to 10 business days.

Opening an account in person at a Chase branch

Bring your government-issued ID, proof of your current address, and your Social Security number to any Chase branch. A banker will walk you through the account options and help you choose checking, savings, or both. This is the time to ask about current promotions—Chase regularly offers bonuses for opening new accounts, though the amounts and requirements change.

The banker will collect the same information as the online form: your name, address, date of birth, and Social Security number. They'll verify your identity using your ID and may ask security questions. If you're opening a joint account, both account holders need to be present with their own IDs.

You'll make your opening deposit at the branch—cash, check, or transfer from another account. The banker can often order an expedited debit card if you need it faster than the standard 7 to 10 days, though this may cost extra. The whole process usually takes 30 minutes to an hour. Your account opens that day, and you can use it immediately for in-branch transactions.

What documents you need and why

Chase requires a valid government-issued ID to confirm you are who you say you are. This can be a driver's license, passport, state ID card, or military ID. The ID must not be expired. If your ID doesn't have your current address on it, you'll need a separate proof of address.

Proof of your current address can be a utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, or recent bank statement. It must show your name and address and be dated within the last 60 days. If you just moved and don't have a recent bill yet, some branches will accept a lease or rental agreement instead.

Your Social Security number is required for tax reporting and fraud prevention. Chase will use it to check your banking history through ChexSystems, a database that tracks account closures and overdrafts. If you have a history of unpaid overdrafts or fraud, Chase may deny your application.

Account types and minimum opening deposits

Chase offers several checking and savings products. Chase Total Checking is the most common option and requires a $25 minimum opening deposit. Chase Premier Plus Checking requires $500 and includes benefits like higher ATM reimbursement and waived overdraft fees. Chase Sapphire Checking is designed for high-income customers and requires $10,000.

For savings, Chase Savings requires $25 to open. Chase Premier Savings requires $500 and pays a higher interest rate. The interest rates and fees change, so ask the banker or check Chase.com for current terms before you open.

If you don't have $25 in cash or available funds right now, you can still open an account online and fund it later the same day by transferring from another bank. Some people open the account first, then move money in once they're ready.

What happens after you open your account

Your account is active immediately, whether you opened online or in person. You can log into your Chase account online or through the mobile app to check your balance, set up bill pay, and transfer money. You cannot withdraw cash or use a debit card until your card arrives in the mail.

Your debit card typically arrives in 7 to 10 business days. If you opened in person at a branch, ask whether they can order expedited delivery—some branches can get it to you in 2 to 3 days for a fee. Once your card arrives, activate it through the app or by calling the number on the back.

If you opened a joint account, both account holders can use the same debit card or request separate cards. Each person can set up their own login and access the account independently. You can also add authorized users (like a teenager) to the account without giving them full ownership.

What to do if Chase denies your application

Chase may deny your application if ChexSystems shows unpaid overdrafts, fraud, or multiple account closures. You have the right to request a copy of your ChexSystems report and dispute any errors. You can contact ChexSystems directly at 1-800-428-9623 or through their website to see what's on file.

If the denial is recent and related to an overdraft you've since paid, contact Chase directly and explain. Some branches will reconsider if you can show proof of payment. If you're denied, you may still open an account at another bank—not all banks use ChexSystems, and some specialize in second-chance banking.

If you were denied because of identity verification issues (your ID didn't scan clearly, for example), try again in person at a branch with a clearer photo ID or additional documents like a passport.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I open a Chase account if I don't have a Social Security number?

No. Chase requires a Social Security number for all account holders. If you have an ITIN (Individual Taxpayer Identification Number) instead, you may be able to open an account at some Chase branches, but policies vary by location. Call your local branch to ask.

Do I need to go to a branch, or can I do everything online?

You can do everything online. The online process is faster and works from home. Going to a branch is optional and mainly useful if you want to ask questions, deposit cash immediately, or take advantage of a promotional bonus.

How long does it take to get my debit card?

Standard delivery is 7 to 10 business days. Some branches offer expedited shipping for a fee, which can get your card in 2 to 3 days. You can also request a temporary digital card through the app to use online or with your phone's digital wallet while you wait.

What if I want to open a joint account with someone else?

Both account holders need to complete the identity verification process. Online, you'll each log in separately and verify your own ID. In person, you both need to be present with your IDs. Either way, both people have full access to the account and can withdraw money or close it.

Can I open multiple Chase accounts at the same time?

Yes. You can open a checking and savings account in the same application, or open multiple checking accounts if you want separate ones for different purposes. Chase does not limit the number of accounts you can hold.