You can open a Chase checking or savings account online in about 10 minutes, or visit a branch in person with your ID and Social Security number

Chase offers two main routes: online through their website or mobile app, or by walking into a branch. The online method is faster and works any time of day. The in-person route lets you ask questions and sometimes may have access to for account bonuses that require a branch visit. Both paths require the same basic documents — a government-issued ID, your Social Security number, and an initial deposit (though some accounts have no minimum).

The account you choose matters because Chase's checking and savings accounts have different features, fees, and deposit requirements. A basic checking account costs nothing if you keep a minimum balance or set up direct deposit. Savings accounts earn interest but limit how many withdrawals you can make per month. Understanding what each account does before you start the process saves time and helps you pick the right one for how you actually bank.

Key Takeaways

  • Online account opening takes 10 to 15 minutes and requires a government ID, Social Security number, and an initial deposit, which can be as little as $25 for some accounts.
  • Chase checking accounts have no monthly fee if you maintain a minimum balance, receive direct deposits, or link to a savings account, so the fee structure depends on your banking habits.
  • In-person applications at a branch let you ask questions and sometimes unlock account bonuses, though you will need to bring the same documents as the online process.
  • You can fund your new account immediately through a linked external bank account, a debit card, or a wire transfer, and your account number appears right after approval.

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

Start at Chase.com or download the Chase Mobile app and look for "Open an Account" or "New Account" near the top of the page. You will choose between checking, savings, or both. Chase will ask for your full name, date of birth, Social Security number, and current address. Have your government-issued ID (driver's license, passport, or state ID) nearby — you will need to verify it matches what you enter.

Next, Chase asks about your employment status, annual income, and whether you have had a Chase account before. These questions help them assess risk but do not automatically disqualify you. You will then set up online banking login credentials — a username and password — and choose how to fund the account. You can link an external bank account and transfer money, use a debit card, or arrange a wire transfer. Most people link an existing account and move $25 to $100 to get your free guide.

After you submit, Chase reviews your information in real time. Most approvals happen instantly, and your account number appears on screen. You can start using the account right away for transfers and bill pay, though checks and a debit card arrive by mail within 7 to 10 business days. If Chase needs more information, they will email you or call the phone number you provided.

Opening an account in person at a Chase branch

Walk into any Chase branch during business hours with your government-issued ID, Social Security number, and the initial deposit amount you want to fund the account with. You do not need an appointment, though calling ahead during busy times can save you a wait. A banker will sit with you, walk through the same questions as the online process, and help you choose the right account type.

The in-person process takes 15 to 30 minutes depending on how busy the branch is and whether you have questions. The banker can explain the difference between account types, show you the mobile app, and set up online banking on the spot. Some Chase branches offer account bonuses — typically $100 to $300 — if you open in person and meet conditions like setting up direct deposit within 90 days. These bonuses are not available online, so if you see one advertised, you have to visit the branch.

At the end of the appointment, you walk out with a temporary debit card (or one mails to you) and immediate access to your account. Your official debit card and checks arrive within a week. The banker can also answer questions about fees, overdraft protection, and linked savings accounts that might not be clear from the website.

What documents and information you need to bring

Chase requires a government-issued photo ID — a driver's license, passport, state ID, or military ID. They scan or photograph it to verify your identity matches the information you provide. You also need your Social Security number, which Chase uses to check your banking history and credit. Bring your current address, phone number, and email address.

If you are opening the account with an initial deposit, bring the funds in whatever form works for you: cash, a check, a debit card for online applications, or the routing and account number of an external bank account to transfer from. Some Chase accounts have no minimum deposit, so you can open with $0 and fund it later, though most people deposit at least $25 to $100 to start using the account right away.

If you do not have a Social Security number — for example, if you are not a U.S. citizen — Chase offers accounts for non-citizens with an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN). Bring your ITIN documentation and your passport or consular ID. The process is the same, though you may need to visit a branch instead of applying online.

Understanding Chase account types and their fees

Chase's most common checking account is the Chase Total Checking account, which has no monthly fee if you meet one of three conditions: keep a $500 minimum balance, set up direct deposit, or link it to a Chase savings account. If you do not meet any of those, the fee is $12 per month. For most people with regular paychecks, direct deposit is the easiest way to avoid the fee.

Chase also offers Chase Sapphire Checking, which requires a higher minimum balance ($15,000) but includes perks like higher interest rates and travel benefits. This account is designed for people who carry larger balances or want premium features. There is also Chase Student Checking, which has no monthly fee and no minimum balance if you are under 25 and a full-time student.

For savings, Chase Savings earns interest but limits you to six withdrawals per month (a federal rule that applies to most savings accounts). If you need to withdraw more often, a money market account or checking account works better. Chase also offers Chase High Yield Savings, which earns a higher interest rate but requires a $25,000 minimum balance. Interest rates change, so check Chase.com for current rates before you open.

Funding your account after it opens

After approval, you have several ways to put money into your new Chase account. The fastest is linking an external bank account and transferring money online — this usually takes 1 to 3 business days. You provide the routing number and account number from your other bank, and Chase pulls the money over. If you are opening in person, you can deposit cash or a check directly with the banker.

If you have a debit card from another bank, you can use it to fund the account online during the application process, though this counts as a cash advance and may trigger a fee from your other bank. A wire transfer is the fastest method if you need the money immediately, but it costs $15 to $20 and is usually only worth it for large amounts. Direct deposit from your employer is free and automatic, though it takes a pay cycle or two to set up.

You do not have to fund the account on day one. If you open online and do not transfer money right away, your account stays open and ready to use. You can fund it later through the mobile app or by visiting a branch. However, some account bonuses require you to deposit a certain amount within a set timeframe, so read the bonus terms before you open if you are chasing one.

What happens after you open your account

Your account is active immediately after approval, and you can use it for bill pay, transfers, and receiving deposits right away. Your debit card and checks arrive by mail within 7 to 10 business days. Until they arrive, you can use your account number and routing number to set up direct deposit or make transfers online. The Chase mobile app works the same day, so you can check your balance, transfer money, and deposit checks by phone camera.

Chase will send you a welcome packet by mail with your account agreement, fee schedule, and information about overdraft protection. Read the overdraft section carefully — if you overdraw your account, Chase charges an overdraft fee (currently $35 per transaction) unless you opt out. You can turn off overdraft protection in the mobile app or online banking so transactions simply decline instead of charging a fee.

If you opened in person, the banker may have already set up online banking and the mobile app for you. If you opened online, you set up your login during the application process. Write down your username and password somewhere safe, or use your phone's password manager. You will use these to log in every time you check your balance or move money.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take to open a Chase account?

Online applications take 10 to 15 minutes and are approved instantly in most cases. In-person applications at a branch take 15 to 30 minutes depending on how busy the branch is. Your account is active the same day, though your physical debit card and checks arrive by mail within 7 to 10 business days.

Can I open a Chase account if I have had banking problems before?

Chase checks your banking history through ChexSystems, a database that tracks overdrafts, fraud, and closed accounts. If you have recent problems, Chase may decline you or require a higher minimum balance. If you are declined, you can ask Chase why and dispute inaccurate information. Some people open a basic checking account at a smaller bank first to rebuild their history, then apply to Chase later.

Do I need to open both checking and savings at the same time?

No. You can open just a checking account or just a savings account. However, linking a savings account to your checking account waives the monthly checking fee on some Chase accounts, so many people open both. You can always add a savings account later through the mobile app or online banking.

What if I do not have a Social Security number?

Chase accepts an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) instead. You will need to visit a branch in person with your ITIN documentation and a passport or consular ID. The process is otherwise the same, though approval may take longer because Chase has to verify your ITIN through additional channels.

Can I open a Chase account for someone else, like a child?

No, you cannot open an account in someone else's name. However, Chase offers custodial accounts for minors, which a parent or guardian opens and controls until the child reaches age 18. You can open a custodial account in person at a branch with your ID, the child's birth certificate, and Social Security number. The child does not need to be present.