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

Chase offers two main routes: opening online through their website or mobile app, or walking into a branch. The online process is faster and you can start using your account the same day. In-person opening takes longer but lets you ask questions and handle everything face-to-face. Both routes require the same basic documents and lead to the same account types.

The account will be active once Chase verifies your identity, which usually happens instantly online or within a few minutes at a branch. You'll get a debit card in the mail within 7 to 10 business days, though you can use your account for transfers and bill pay before it arrives.

Key Takeaways

  • Online account opening takes 10 minutes and requires a valid government ID, Social Security number, and an initial deposit (usually $25 minimum, though some accounts require more).
  • Chase verifies your identity instantly when you open online, so your account is ready to use the same day for transfers and bill pay.
  • In-person opening at a Chase branch requires the same documents but takes 20 to 30 minutes and lets you ask questions before committing.
  • Your debit card arrives in 7 to 10 business days; you can request expedited delivery at a branch for a fee if you need it faster.
  • Chase checks your banking history through ChexSystems, so accounts closed for fraud or unpaid fees may be denied.

What documents you need to bring

You'll need a valid government-issued photo ID (driver's license, passport, or state ID card) and your Social Security number. Chase uses these to verify your identity and check your banking history through ChexSystems, a system that tracks closed accounts and banking problems.

If you're opening online, you'll enter this information into the application. If you're opening in person, bring the physical ID and be ready to provide your Social Security number verbally or on a form. You don't need to bring proof of address, income, or employment — Chase doesn't require those for basic checking or savings accounts.

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

Go to Chase.com and click "Open an Account" or use the Chase mobile app. Select the account type you want — Chase Total Checking, Chase Savings, or another option. The app will walk you through entering your name, address, date of birth, Social Security number, and employment status.

You'll be asked to verify your identity by taking a photo of your ID with your phone's camera. Chase scans the ID and compares it to your face in real time. Once verified, you'll choose a username and password, set up security questions, and link a funding source (a bank account to transfer your initial deposit from, or a debit card).

The entire process takes 10 to 15 minutes. Your account number appears on screen immediately, and you can start using it for transfers and bill pay right away. Your debit card ships within 7 to 10 business days.

Opening an account in person at a Chase branch

Find your nearest Chase branch using the branch locator on Chase.com. Walk in during business hours with your government ID and be ready to provide your Social Security number. Tell the banker you want to open a checking or savings account.

The banker will ask the same questions as the online form: name, address, date of birth, Social Security number, and employment status. They'll verify your ID by scanning it or photocopying it. The whole process takes 20 to 30 minutes. You'll sign documents, choose your account settings, and fund the account with cash, a check, or a transfer from another bank.

Your account is active immediately and you can use it for transfers and bill pay the same day. The banker will order your debit card to be mailed to you, or you can ask about expedited delivery options (usually available for a fee). Some branches can issue a temporary debit card on the spot, though this varies by location.

Minimum deposits and account types

Chase Total Checking requires a $25 minimum opening deposit. Chase Savings requires $25 as well. Some specialty accounts like Chase Premier Plus Checking require higher minimums ($500 or more), but these are aimed at customers with larger balances.

You don't need to maintain the minimum after opening — you can drop below it without penalty. However, some accounts charge monthly fees if your balance falls below a certain level, though Chase waives many fees if you set up direct deposit or maintain a minimum balance. Read the fee schedule for your specific account type before opening.

What happens if Chase denies your application

Chase may deny your application if ChexSystems shows a closed account due to fraud, unpaid fees, or repeated overdrafts. You can request a copy of your ChexSystems report for free at ChexSystems.com to see what's on file. If there's an error, you can dispute it directly with ChexSystems.

If you were denied, contact Chase customer service to ask the specific reason. Some issues can be resolved by paying old fees or waiting a certain amount of time. If you can't open a standard account, some banks and credit unions offer second-chance checking accounts designed for people with banking problems, though these usually charge higher fees.

Using your account before your debit card arrives

Your account is fully functional as soon as it opens, even though your physical debit card won't arrive for 7 to 10 business days. You can transfer money from another bank account, receive direct deposits, pay bills online, and send money to other people through Chase's bill pay system or peer-to-peer services.

If you need a debit card immediately, ask at a Chase branch about expedited shipping (usually 1 to 3 business days for a fee) or whether they can issue a temporary card. Some branches can print a temporary debit card number on the spot that works for online purchases and ATM withdrawals until your physical card arrives.

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 or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) to open any account. This is a federal requirement for all banks, not a Chase policy. If you have an ITIN, you can use that instead of a Social Security number.

How long does it take to get my debit card?

Standard delivery takes 7 to 10 business days. If you need it faster, ask at a Chase branch about expedited shipping (usually 1 to 3 business days for a fee). Some branches can issue a temporary card number immediately for online and ATM use.

What if I want to open an account for my child?

Chase offers Chase First Banking for children under 18, which requires a parent or guardian to open a linked account. You'll need your ID and Social Security number, plus your child's Social Security number. The account can be opened online or in person at a branch.

Can I open multiple accounts at the same time?

Yes. You can open a checking account and a savings account in the same application, either online or in person. Some people do this to separate spending money from savings, or to take advantage of different interest rates on savings accounts.

What if I already have a Chase account and want to open another one?

You can open additional accounts online or in person. Log into your existing account and look for the option to open a new account, or start a fresh application. Chase will recognize you and may skip some verification steps, though you'll still need to fund the new account with a minimum deposit.