Yes, you can open most Chase accounts online without visiting a branch
Chase lets you open a checking or savings account entirely through their website or mobile app. You do not need to go to a physical branch, though some account types require a visit or a phone call to complete. The online process takes about 10 to 15 minutes if you have the right documents ready, and your account can be active the same day.
What you can and cannot do online depends on which account you want. Chase's basic checking and savings accounts open fully online. Some specialty accounts — like their premium checking products or accounts for business owners — may require you to verify information by phone or in person. Before you start, check which account type fits what you need, because the path differs.
Key Takeaways
- Chase checking and savings accounts open completely online using their website or app, with no branch visit required.
- You will need a valid government ID, Social Security number, and proof of current address to open an account online.
- Chase checks your banking history through ChexSystems during the process, and a poor history may block approval or require a branch visit.
- Your account number and debit card arrive by mail within 7 to 10 business days, though you can use the account when ready after approval.
- Some account types — like business accounts or premium products — cannot be opened online and require a phone call or branch appointment.
What documents and information you need before you start
Gather these items before opening your browser. Chase will ask for them during the process and will not let you proceed without them. Having everything ready means you will not have to stop halfway through and come back later.
You need a valid government-issued photo ID — a driver's license, passport, or state ID card. Chase scans or photographs this during the online process. You also need your Social Security number, date of birth, and current mailing address. If you moved recently, use the address where you live now, not an old one. Chase will send your debit card and account documents to this address, so make sure it is correct.
If you want to fund the account when ready — which most people do — have a bank account or debit card from another bank ready. Chase can transfer money from an external account to get you started. You do not have to fund it right away, but many people do to set up their debit card faster.
The step-by-step online process process
Start at Chase.com or open the Chase Mobile app. Look for "Open an Account" or "New Account" — the button location changes occasionally, but it is always on the homepage. Click it and select which type of account you want: checking, savings, or both. Chase will show you the features and fees for each option so you can decide.
Enter your personal information: name, date of birth, Social Security number, and current address. Chase verifies this information against public records and their own systems. If anything does not match — for example, if you recently changed your name or address — the system may ask you to call or visit a branch to confirm.
Next, Chase runs a ChexSystems check. This is a banking history report that shows whether you have had problems with previous bank accounts — things like overdrafts you did not pay, accounts closed for cause, or fraud. If your ChexSystems report is clear, you move forward when ready. If there are issues, Chase may deny the account online and ask you to call or visit a branch to discuss.
Review the account terms and disclosures, then sign electronically. Chase will ask you to create a username and password for online banking. Your account opens when ready, and you will see your new account number on the screen. Write this down or take a screenshot — you will need it to transfer money in or set up direct deposit.
When Chase requires a phone call or branch visit instead
Some situations force you offline even though you started online. If your ChexSystems report shows past banking problems, Chase may require you to call their verification team or visit a branch to explain. This does not mean you cannot open an account — it means a person needs to review your situation first.
Business accounts, accounts for people under 18, and some premium checking products cannot be opened online at all. If you fall into one of these categories, Chase will tell you during the account selection step and direct you to call or make an appointment. Do not try to open a business account as a personal account — Chase will catch this during verification and close it.
If you cannot verify your identity online — for example, if your ID does not scan clearly or your address cannot be confirmed — Chase will ask you to visit a branch with your documents. This usually takes one business day to resolve.
How long it takes to use your new account
Your account is ready to use when ready after you finish the online process. You can set up direct deposit, transfer money from another bank, or receive transfers from other people right away. Your employer or benefits provider can start sending paychecks to your new account number the same day.
Your physical debit card arrives by mail in 7 to 10 business days. Until it arrives, you can use your account number and routing number to receive money, or you can request a temporary digital card through the Chase app to make purchases online or in stores. Some Chase branches will also issue a temporary card if you visit in person.
If you need cash before your debit card arrives, you can visit any Chase ATM with your account number and ID, or you can withdraw at a Chase branch. You can also use your temporary digital card at any store that accepts contactless payments.
What happens if your process is denied
Chase denies online applications most often because of ChexSystems issues or because the applicant is already a Chase customer with an account in good standing. If you already have a Chase account, you cannot open another one of the same type online — you have to call or visit a branch.
If your ChexSystems report caused the denial, Chase will send you a letter explaining why. You have the right to dispute information on your ChexSystems report if it is wrong. You can contact ChexSystems directly to request a copy of your report and file a dispute. This process takes 30 to 45 days, and you can reapply to Chase after it is resolved.
Some people with ChexSystems issues are told they can open an account by visiting a branch in person. This is Chase's way of saying a manager can review your situation and may approve you despite the report. Call your local Chase branch to ask whether this option is available to you.
Fees and account requirements to know upfront
Chase's basic checking account has no monthly fee if you maintain a minimum balance or set up direct deposit. If you do neither, the fee is around $12 per month, though this varies by account type and changes periodically. Savings accounts typically have no monthly fee but earn interest that varies with market rates.
Overdraft fees, ATM fees, and wire transfer fees all explore. Chase charges for out-of-network ATM use, though you can use any Chase ATM for free. Read the fee schedule during the process process — Chase shows it before you sign, and you can also find it on their website anytime.
Some accounts require a minimum opening deposit. Chase's basic accounts do not, but premium accounts do. The process will tell you the requirement before you commit.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I open a Chase account if I have been denied before?
It depends on why you were denied. If it was a ChexSystems issue, you can dispute the report and reapply after 30 to 45 days. If you were denied because you already had an account, you cannot open another one of the same type. Call Chase to ask whether visiting a branch might result in approval.
Do I need to be a U.S. citizen to open a Chase account online?
No, but you do need a Social Security number or ITIN (Individual Taxpayer Identification Number). Chase will ask for this during the process. If you do not have one, you will need to visit a branch and bring additional documents.
What if I do not have a current address or I am homeless?
Chase requires a mailing address for account statements and your debit card. If you do not have a permanent address, you can use a shelter address, a trusted friend's address, or a mail forwarding service. Call Chase before you explore to ask what documentation they will need.
Can I open a joint account online with someone else?
Joint accounts cannot be opened fully online. One person can open an account online, and then the second person can be added by visiting a branch or calling Chase with both people on the phone. The branch or phone team will verify both people's identities before adding the second owner.
What if my online process times out or I lose my internet connection?
Your process is saved as you go. If you lose connection, log back in and you should be able to pick up where you left off. If the process disappeared, start over — you will not be charged twice. If you have trouble, call Chase customer service and they can help you complete it over the phone.