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

Chase offers two main paths: opening an account through their website or mobile app, or walking into a branch. The online route is fastest — you'll have an account number and routing number before you leave the page. In-person accounts take longer but let you ask questions and deposit cash immediately. Both require the same basic documents: a valid government-issued ID, your Social Security number, and an initial deposit (which varies by account type).

The account you choose matters because Chase has different checking and savings products with different monthly fees, minimum balances, and interest rates. A checking account is for everyday spending; a savings account is for money you want to set aside. Many people open both at the same time.

Key Takeaways

  • Online account opening takes 10 to 15 minutes and requires a valid ID, Social Security number, and an initial deposit ranging from $0 to $25 depending on the account type.
  • Chase checking accounts have different fee structures — some charge a monthly service fee unless you meet balance or deposit requirements, while others have no monthly fee.
  • You can fund your new account immediately with a debit card, transfer from another bank, or cash deposit at a branch.
  • If you open online, your debit card arrives in 7 to 10 business days; in-branch accounts can issue a temporary card the same day.

Opening an account online through Chase.com

Go to Chase.com and click "Open an account" or "Sign up" — the button is usually in the top right. You'll choose between checking, savings, or both. Chase will ask for your name, date of birth, address, phone number, email, and Social Security number. Have your ID ready to photograph or verify the information matches.

Next, you'll choose your initial deposit method. You can link a debit card from another bank, transfer money from an existing account at a different bank, or skip the deposit for now (though some account types require a minimum). After you confirm your choices, Chase generates your account number and routing number on the screen. You can use these immediately to set up direct deposit or transfers, even before your debit card arrives.

Chase will send you a welcome email with login instructions. Your temporary online access starts right away, but your physical debit card takes 7 to 10 business days. If you need cash access sooner, you can visit a Chase branch and ask for a temporary card or make a withdrawal from your new account.

Opening an account at a Chase branch

Find your nearest branch on Chase.com using the branch locator. Walk in during business hours with your ID, Social Security number, and the money you want to deposit. A banker will sit with you, ask the same questions the online form does, and help you choose which account type fits your needs.

The in-person process takes 20 to 30 minutes because the banker reviews your information, answers questions, and processes the paperwork. At the end, you'll have your account number, a temporary debit card (sometimes issued same-day), and a receipt. Your permanent card arrives by mail in 7 to 10 business days.

Opening in person is useful if you want to deposit cash immediately, prefer talking to someone, or have questions about which account type to choose. It's also the only option if you don't have a valid ID that can be verified online or if you're opening an account for a minor (which requires a parent or guardian present).

What documents and information you need

Chase requires a government-issued photo ID — a driver's license, passport, or state ID card. They'll verify it matches the name and date of birth you provide. You also need your Social Security number; Chase uses this to check your banking history and run a background check.

For the initial deposit, you can use a debit card from another bank, a bank transfer, or cash (in-person only). The minimum deposit depends on the account: some Chase checking accounts have no minimum, while others require $25. Savings accounts typically have no minimum deposit requirement. If you don't have money to deposit right now, you can open an account with $0 and add funds later, though some account types may charge a monthly fee until you meet a balance requirement.

If you're opening an account online, have your phone or computer ready to photograph your ID or verify information. If you're opening in person, bring the physical ID itself.

Chase checking account types and their fees

Chase offers several checking accounts, and the one you choose affects whether you pay a monthly fee. The Chase Total Checking account charges $12 per month unless you meet one of these conditions: maintain a $500 minimum balance, set up direct deposit, or link a Chase savings account. The Chase Secure Checking account is designed for people building credit and has no monthly fee but requires a $300 minimum balance and doesn't earn interest.

Chase also offers Chase College Checking for students (no monthly fee, no minimum balance) and Chase Premier Plus Checking for customers with higher balances (higher fees but more benefits). When you open an account online or in person, you'll see which accounts you're may be able to access for and what the current fees and requirements are.

The monthly fee is waived if you meet just one requirement, so most people avoid the fee by setting up direct deposit from their employer or keeping $500 in the account. If you're not sure which account fits your situation, ask the banker in person or call Chase customer service at the number on their website.

Funding your new account

After your account opens, you can add money in several ways. If you opened online, you can link a debit card from another bank and transfer money immediately, or initiate an ACH transfer from another bank account (this usually takes 1 to 3 business days). If you opened in person, you can deposit cash or a check right then.

If you have direct deposit set up with your employer, you can provide your new Chase account number and routing number to your payroll department, and your paycheck will go directly into the account. This is the fastest way to fund a new account and also waives the monthly fee on most Chase checking accounts.

You can also visit any Chase ATM and deposit cash or checks using the ATM's envelope slot, though this takes longer to process than a branch deposit.

When your debit card and checks arrive

Your debit card is mailed to the address you provided and typically arrives in 7 to 10 business days. If you opened in person, you may receive a temporary card the same day. You can activate your card through the Chase mobile app or by calling the number on the back of the card when it arrives.

If you ordered checks, they're printed by a third party and take 7 to 14 business days. You can order checks through your Chase online account or ask for them at a branch. Many people skip ordering physical checks and use their debit card or mobile payment apps instead.

While you wait for your card, you can use your account number and routing number to set up direct deposit, bill pay, or transfers. You can also withdraw cash at any Chase ATM or branch using your account number and ID.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I open a Chase account if I have a bad banking history?

Chase checks your banking history through ChexSystems, a system that tracks closed accounts and overdrafts. If you have recent negative marks, you may not be approved for a standard checking account. Chase offers Chase Secure Checking as an alternative for people rebuilding their banking history — it has no monthly fee but requires a $300 minimum balance and doesn't earn interest.

Do I need to be a U.S. citizen to open a Chase account?

No, but you do need a Social Security number or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN). If you don't have either, visit a branch in person and ask about their options for non-citizens. Some branches can work with you using a passport and other identification.

Can I open an account for someone else?

No, the account holder must open the account themselves using their own ID and Social Security number. If you're opening an account for a minor, a parent or guardian must be present and co-sign. You cannot open an account on behalf of an adult.

What's the difference between Chase checking and savings?

A checking account is for everyday spending — it comes with a debit card and check-writing ability. A savings account earns interest and is meant for money you're setting aside. You can open both at the same time and link them together for easy transfers.

How long does it take to use my new account?

Online access starts immediately after you open the account, so you can see your balance and set up transfers right away. Your debit card takes 7 to 10 business days to arrive. If you need cash access sooner, visit a Chase branch with your ID and account number to withdraw money or request a temporary card.