Documents and information Chase requires before you open an account

Chase requires a government-issued photo ID, your Social Security number, and proof of your current address to open a checking or savings account. You'll also need an initial deposit — the amount varies by account type, but many Chase accounts have no minimum. You can open an account online, on the phone, or in a branch, and the process usually takes 10 to 15 minutes.

If you don't have a photo ID yet, Chase will not open an account for you online or by phone. You'll need to visit a branch in person with whatever ID you do have — a state ID, passport, or tribal ID all work. If you're under 18, a parent or guardian must be present and will need to provide their own ID and Social Security number.

Chase uses ChexSystems, a banking history report, to screen new account holders. If you've had accounts closed for overdrafts or fraud at other banks, Chase may deny your application. You can request your ChexSystems report for free to see what's on file before you apply.

Key Takeaways

  • You need a government-issued photo ID, Social Security number, and proof of address — a utility bill, lease, or recent bank statement all work as proof.
  • Chase checks your banking history through ChexSystems, so past overdrafts or closed accounts at other banks may affect whether you're accepted.
  • Many Chase checking and savings accounts have no minimum deposit requirement, though some premium accounts do.
  • You can open an account online, by phone, or in a branch, and the whole process takes about 10 to 15 minutes.
  • If you're under 18, a parent or guardian must open the account with you and provide their own ID and Social Security number.

Proof of address: what Chase will accept

Chase accepts a current utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, or recent bank statement as proof of address. The document must show your name and current address and be dated within the last 60 days. If you're moving and don't have a document yet, you can use a lease signed for your new address.

If you live with family or in a shared space and the utility bill is in someone else's name, bring a letter from that person on their letterhead stating that you live there, plus the utility bill. Some branches will accept this; others may ask for a second form of ID instead. Call your local Chase branch before you go to confirm what they'll take.

What happens if you don't have a Social Security number

Chase requires a Social Security number or an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) to open an account. If you're not a U.S. citizen and don't have either, you cannot open a standard Chase account online or by phone. Some Chase branches may open an account in person with a passport and additional documentation, but policies vary by location.

Contact your local Chase branch directly to ask whether they can open an account without a Social Security number or ITIN. Be prepared to bring your passport, proof of address, and any other ID you have. If Chase cannot help you, community banks and credit unions sometimes have different requirements.

Opening an account online versus in a branch

Opening online is faster — you can finish in 10 minutes and start using your account the same day. You'll need your ID, Social Security number, and proof of address ready. Chase will verify your information electronically and deposit your initial deposit into the account immediately if you link an existing bank account.

Opening in a branch takes longer but gives you a chance to ask questions and understand the account features before you commit. A banker can also help if your documents are unclear or if you're missing something. If you've been denied online, visiting a branch in person sometimes results in approval, though it's not may provide.

If you open online and Chase needs more information, they'll contact you by email or phone. Respond quickly — if you don't reply within a set timeframe, your application may be closed and you'll have to start over.

Initial deposit amounts by account type

Chase's most common checking account, the Chase Total Checking, has no minimum deposit to open. Their savings account, Chase Savings, also has no minimum. However, some of Chase's premium accounts — like Chase Sapphire Checking or Chase Premier Plus Checking — do require a minimum opening deposit, usually $500 to $1,500.

You can fund your account with a transfer from another bank account, a debit card, or cash if you're opening in a branch. If you transfer from another bank, the money may take one to three business days to arrive. If you open in a branch and deposit cash, the funds are available immediately.

What to do if Chase denies your application

Chase will tell you why they denied your application — usually because of ChexSystems records, a missing document, or an issue with the information you provided. Ask for the specific reason in writing. If it's a ChexSystems issue, you can dispute inaccurate information on your report directly with ChexSystems.

If you were denied because of a missing or unclear document, gather what Chase asked for and try again. Some applicants are denied online but approved in a branch because a banker can verify information in person. You can also wait six months to a year and reapply — ChexSystems records age, and older issues carry less weight.

If you can't open an account at Chase, look into community banks or credit unions in your area. They often have less strict requirements and may accept you even if Chase won't.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I open a Chase account without a Social Security number?

Chase requires a Social Security number or ITIN for online and phone applications. Some branches may open an account in person with a passport and additional ID, but this varies by location. Call your local branch to ask what they can do.

How long does it take to open a Chase account?

Online applications take about 10 minutes and your account is ready to use the same day. In-branch applications may take 20 to 30 minutes because a banker reviews your documents in person. Phone applications typically take 15 to 20 minutes.

What if my address proof is older than 60 days?

Chase prefers documents dated within 60 days, but some branches will accept older documents if you explain why — for example, if you just moved and haven't received a new utility bill yet. Bring a lease or other document showing your current address and ask the banker if they can work with it.

Do I need to have money in the account to keep it open?

No minimum balance is required to keep most Chase checking and savings accounts open. However, if your account sits unused for a long time, Chase may close it. Check your account at least once every six months to keep it active.

Can someone else open an account for me?

No, you must open the account yourself. If you're under 18, a parent or guardian opens it with you and becomes a co-owner. If you're an adult, only you can authorize the account opening.