Documents and information Chase will ask for

Chase requires a government-issued photo ID, your Social Security number, and an initial deposit to open a checking or savings account. The ID can be a driver's license, passport, or state ID card. You'll also need to provide your current address, phone number, and email address.

If you're opening an account online or by mail, Chase will ask you to verify your identity through additional steps — usually a code sent to your phone or email, or answers to questions based on your credit history. In a branch, a teller can verify your ID in person and complete the account setup the same day.

For a joint account, both account holders need to provide their own ID and Social Security number. If you're opening an account for a minor, a parent or legal guardian must be present and provide their own identification as well.

Key Takeaways

  • You need a government photo ID, Social Security number, and initial deposit to open any Chase account.
  • Chase verifies your identity differently depending on whether you open the account in a branch, online, or by mail.
  • Opening an account in a Chase branch takes about 15 to 20 minutes and is complete the same day.
  • If you don't have a Social Security number, Chase offers accounts for non-U.S. citizens with an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) instead.

Opening an account in a Chase branch

Bring your photo ID, Social Security number, and the amount you want to deposit. A Chase representative will ask you which account type you want — checking, savings, or both — and will walk you through the terms. You'll sign documents and choose a PIN for your debit card if you're opening a checking account.

The whole process usually takes 15 to 20 minutes. You'll leave with a debit card if you opened checking, though it may take 7 to 10 business days to arrive by mail if the branch doesn't issue it on the spot. Your account is active immediately, and you can use it online or at an ATM right away.

Opening an account online

Go to Chase.com and select "Open an Account." You'll enter your name, address, phone number, email, and Social Security number. Chase will ask you to create a username and password for online banking. You'll then verify your identity — usually by confirming a code sent to your phone or email, or by answering security questions based on your credit file.

After verification, you'll choose your account type and set your initial deposit amount. You can fund the account by transferring money from another bank account, or Chase will provide you with account details so you can deposit funds another way. Your account opens within one business day, though you may not see your debit card for 7 to 10 business days.

Opening an account by mail

Chase allows you to request an account application by phone at 1-800-935-9935 or through their website. You'll fill out the application, sign it, and mail it back with a copy of your ID and proof of address (a utility bill or bank statement dated within the last 60 days).

This method takes longer — typically two to three weeks from the time Chase receives your completed application. You'll need to fund the account by check or transfer from another bank. Chase will contact you by phone to confirm your identity before the account is finalized.

Minimum deposit amounts

Chase's minimum opening deposit varies by account type and changes periodically. Most checking accounts require $25 to $100 to open. Some savings accounts have no minimum, while others require $25 or more. Money Market accounts typically have higher minimums, often $2,500 or more.

Check Chase.com or call 1-800-935-9935 to confirm the current minimum for the specific account you want. If you don't have the full minimum on hand, you can ask whether Chase offers a temporary waiver or whether you can deposit the minimum over your first few days of account ownership.

If you don't have a Social Security number

Chase accepts an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) instead of a Social Security number. You'll need to visit a Chase branch in person with your ITIN documentation, passport or other government ID, and proof of address. The branch representative will verify your identity and open the account.

Some Chase branches are more experienced with ITIN accounts than others. If your local branch says they can't open one, ask whether another nearby branch can, or call 1-800-935-9935 to find a branch that handles ITIN accounts regularly.

What happens after you open your account

Your account is active immediately, even if you opened it online or by mail. You can log into Chase.com or the Chase mobile app to check your balance, transfer money, and pay bills. Your debit card will arrive by mail within 7 to 10 business days. Until it arrives, you can withdraw cash at any Chase ATM using your temporary card number or by visiting a branch.

Chase will send you a welcome packet with your account number, routing number, and information about online banking and mobile deposits. Keep this information — you'll need your routing number and account number to set up direct deposit or to have money transferred from another bank.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I open a Chase account without going to a branch?

Yes. You can open most Chase accounts online at Chase.com or by mail. Online is fastest — your account opens within one business day. By mail takes two to three weeks. You cannot open an account by phone, but you can call 1-800-935-9935 to request a mail application.

What if I don't have a photo ID?

Chase requires a government-issued photo ID to open an account. If you don't have one, you'll need to obtain a state ID or passport first. Visit your state's DMV or the U.S. State Department website to learn how to apply. Once you have an ID, you can open your Chase account.

How long does it take to receive my debit card?

Debit cards typically arrive within 7 to 10 business days. Some Chase branches issue temporary cards on the spot when you open an account in person. You can also use your temporary card number online or request a rush card delivery, though rush delivery may have a fee.

Can I open a joint account with someone who doesn't live with me?

Yes. Both account holders need to provide their own ID and Social Security number. You can open a joint account online together, or one person can open it and add the other person later. If opening in a branch, both people should be present, though some branches allow one person to open the account and the other to be added afterward.

What's the difference between a checking and savings account at Chase?

A checking account comes with a debit card and is meant for frequent transactions. A savings account earns interest and is meant for money you're setting aside. Chase checking accounts typically have no monthly fee if you maintain a minimum balance or set up direct deposit. Savings accounts have lower interest rates than other banks but may have monthly fees if your balance drops below a certain level.