You can open most Chase accounts online in about 10 minutes using a computer or the Chase mobile app
Chase lets you open a checking or savings account from home without visiting a branch. The process is straightforward: you provide personal information, verify your identity, and link a funding source. Most accounts are ready to use the same day, though it can take one to two business days for your debit card to arrive by mail.
The exact steps depend on which account type you choose and whether Chase already has your information on file. If you're a new customer, the process takes longer than if you already bank with Chase, because the identity verification step is more thorough.
Key Takeaways
- You'll need a valid government ID, Social Security number, and an initial deposit method (debit card, bank transfer, or wire transfer) to open an account online.
- Chase verifies your identity by asking security questions based on your credit history, so the process works best if you have an established credit file.
- New customers typically complete the full application in 10 to 15 minutes, but approval can take up to one business day.
- Your account number and routing number are available immediately after approval, so you can set up direct deposit right away even if your debit card hasn't arrived.
- Some account types, like Chase Private Client, require a minimum deposit or existing relationship with Chase and cannot be opened online.
What you need before you start
Gather these items before opening your browser: a valid government-issued photo ID (driver's license, passport, or state ID), your Social Security number, and a way to fund the account. Chase accepts initial deposits from a debit card, another bank account, or a wire transfer. The debit card method is fastest and requires only the card number, expiration date, and CVV.
If you're opening an account as a new Chase customer, have your most recent tax return or pay stub handy. Chase may ask for proof of income or employment, though this is not always required. You'll also need a current mailing address and phone number.
The online application process
Start at chase.com or open the Chase mobile app and look for "Open an Account" or "New Customer." You'll be asked to choose your account type—checking, savings, or money market. Chase will then ask for your name, date of birth, address, phone number, and email. This information is used to search their systems and verify your identity.
Next comes identity verification. Chase asks security questions based on your credit history, such as "Which of these addresses have you lived at?" or "Which of these is your correct mortgage lender?" These questions are generated from credit bureau records, so they work best if you have an established credit file. If you don't have much credit history, Chase may ask for additional documents or refer you to a branch.
After you answer the security questions correctly, you'll set up your account details: choose a username and password, decide on a PIN for phone banking, and select your account preferences. Then you'll choose your initial deposit method and amount. Chase requires a minimum opening deposit, which varies by account type—typically $25 for a basic checking account, though some accounts require more.
Funding your new account
Chase offers three ways to fund your account during signup: debit card, bank transfer, or wire transfer. Debit card funding is instant and requires only your card details. Bank transfer (ACH) takes one to two business days and requires your current bank's routing number and account number. Wire transfer is fastest for large amounts but may carry a fee from your sending bank.
The minimum opening deposit depends on your account type. Chase Total Checking requires $25, while Chase Premier Plus Checking requires $500. If you don't meet the minimum, you can't complete the application online—you'll need to visit a branch or call Chase to open the account by phone.
What happens after you submit
If Chase approves your application immediately, you'll see your account number and routing number on screen. Write these down or take a screenshot, because you can use them to set up direct deposit or transfer money before your debit card arrives. Your account is typically active within minutes.
In some cases, Chase places a hold on approval and tells you they'll contact you within one business day. This usually means the identity verification questions didn't match their records clearly, or they need to review your application manually. You'll receive an email or phone call with next steps. Don't close the browser or app until you see a confirmation number—this proves you submitted the application.
Your debit card ships by mail and typically arrives within 7 to 10 business days. You can use your account number and routing number to receive deposits before the card arrives. If you need a card faster, some Chase branches can issue a temporary card in person.
Common reasons the online application gets rejected or delayed
Chase may deny your application if you have a history with ChexSystems (a banking verification system) showing unpaid overdrafts, fraud, or repeated account closures. You can request your ChexSystems report to see what's on file. If there's an error, you can dispute it directly with ChexSystems.
Identity verification also fails if your information doesn't match credit bureau records closely enough. This happens to people with very new credit files, those who've recently moved, or those with common names. If this happens, Chase will offer to verify you by phone or in person at a branch.
Some applicants are asked to provide additional documents—a utility bill, lease, or recent bank statement—to prove their address. Chase will email you a secure link to upload these. This step adds one to two business days to the process.
After your account is open: next steps
Once your account is active, set up direct deposit using your employer's payroll system. You'll need your Chase account number and routing number, both of which appear in your online banking portal. Direct deposit typically begins within one to two pay periods.
Link your Chase account to other banks if you want to transfer money between them. Go to your Chase online banking portal, select "Transfer Money," and follow the prompts to add an external account. Chase will verify the account by depositing two small amounts (usually under $1 each) and asking you to confirm the amounts. This takes two to three business days.
Download the Chase mobile app and set up mobile banking so you can check your balance, pay bills, and deposit checks by phone camera. You can also set up alerts for low balances, large transactions, or bill due dates.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I open a Chase account online if I don't have a credit history?
It depends on how new your credit file is. Chase uses credit bureau records to verify your identity, so if you have no credit history at all, the security questions won't work. You can still open an account, but you'll likely need to visit a branch in person or call Chase to complete the process by phone with a representative.
What if I'm denied online but want to open an account anyway?
Visit a Chase branch with your ID and the minimum opening deposit. A banker can open the account in person and may be able to override online restrictions. Bring proof of address (utility bill or lease) in case they ask for it. Some people denied online are approved in branch because a banker can verify your identity directly.
How long does it take to receive my debit card?
Chase ships debit cards by standard mail, which typically takes 7 to 10 business days. You can use your account number and routing number to receive direct deposits or make transfers before the card arrives. If you need a card immediately, ask at a Chase branch whether they can issue a temporary card in person.
Can I open multiple Chase accounts online at the same time?
You can open one account per application. If you want both a checking and savings account, complete one application, wait for approval, then start a second application. Most people complete both within the same day, but Chase may flag multiple applications submitted in quick succession and ask you to call to verify.
What's the difference between opening an account online versus in a branch?
Online is faster if you're approved immediately—you can be done in 10 minutes. In branch, a banker walks you through the process and can override some restrictions, which helps if you don't have a strong credit file or have banking history issues. Both methods result in the same account and same fees.