How to Open a Chase Bank Account Online or In Person

You can open a Chase account online in minutes or visit a branch in person

Chase lets you open a checking or savings account through their website, mobile app, or at a physical branch. The online process takes about 10 minutes and you can start using your account the same day. If you prefer to meet someone face-to-face, any Chase branch can open an account while you wait, though you may need to bring documents with you.

The main difference between routes is speed and what you need to bring. Online opening is fastest and requires only your Social Security number, a valid ID, and a funding source. In-person opening gives you a chance to ask questions and sometimes may have access to for branch-specific promotions, but requires a trip to a location near you.

Key Takeaways

• Online account opening through Chase.com or the Chase mobile app takes about 10 minutes and you can fund the account when ready.
• You will need a valid government-issued ID, your Social Security number, and an initial deposit (minimum amounts vary by account type).
• Chase verifies your identity during signup using information from your credit report and may ask follow-up questions if something doesn't match.
• In-person opening at a branch lets you ask questions and sometimes access promotions not available online, but requires an appointment or walk-in visit.
• Once your account is open, you can use Chase's debit card, set up direct deposit, and access online and mobile banking when ready.

What you need before you start

Have these items ready before you begin, whether online or in person: a valid government-issued photo ID (driver's license, passport, or state ID card), your Social Security number, and proof of your current address. Proof of address can be a recent utility bill, lease, mortgage statement, or government mail dated within the last 60 days. If you don't have a recent document, some branches will accept an ID with your current address on it.

You will also need an initial deposit. Chase requires a minimum opening deposit that varies by account type — checking accounts typically require $25 to $100, while savings accounts may require $0 to $100. You can fund the account with a debit card, another bank account, or a wire transfer. If you are opening in person, you can also deposit cash.

If you are not a U.S. citizen, you can still open an account, but you will need an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) instead of a Social Security number. Bring your passport or travel document along with your ITIN documentation.

Opening an account online through Chase.com

Go to Chase.com and click the "Open an Account" button, usually found near the top of the page. You will be asked to choose the type of account you want — checking, savings, or both. Chase will then walk you through a series of screens asking for your personal information: name, date of birth, Social Security number, address, phone number, and email.

Chase verifies your identity by checking information against credit bureaus and other databases. This usually happens when ready, but if something doesn't match (a name spelling difference, an old address still on file, or a recent move), Chase may ask you to confirm details or call you to verify. This step typically takes a few minutes.

Once verification is complete, you will choose your account features: overdraft protection, linked savings accounts, or other options. Then you will fund the account by entering a debit card number, routing and account number from another bank account, or setting up a wire transfer. Your account opens when ready and you can use it right away, though transfers from other banks may take one to three business days to arrive.

Opening an account in person at a Chase branch

Find a Chase branch near you using the branch locator on Chase.com. Some branches accept walk-ins, but many now require you to book an appointment through their website or by calling the branch directly. When you arrive, bring your ID, Social Security number, proof of address, and your initial deposit (cash, check, or debit card).

A Chase representative will ask you the same questions as the online form and verify your identity in person. This usually takes 15 to 30 minutes. The representative can answer questions about account features, explain overdraft policies, and sometimes offer promotions available only to in-person customers — such as bonus cash for setting up direct deposit or maintaining a minimum balance.

Once you sign the account agreement, your account opens when ready. If you deposited cash or a check, it posts to your account that day. The branch will order a debit card for you, which arrives by mail in 7 to 10 business days. You can use your account number and routing number to set up transfers or direct deposit before your card arrives.

What happens after your account opens

Your account is active the moment it opens, whether online or in person. You can log into Chase.com or the Chase mobile app using your username and password (set during online signup or given to you at the branch). From there you can check your balance, set up bill pay, transfer money between your accounts, and view your account agreement and disclosures.

Your debit card arrives by mail within 7 to 10 business days. You will receive an email or text when it ships. Once it arrives, you can set up it through the app or by calling the number on the card. Until your card arrives, you can still withdraw cash at any Chase ATM using your account number, or transfer money to another account.

If you want to set up direct deposit from your employer, you will need your account number and routing number. Chase's routing number is 021000021 for most accounts, but you can confirm this in your account settings or by calling Chase. Your employer's payroll department can set up direct deposit once you provide these numbers.

Identity verification and what to do if you're denied

Chase uses automated systems to verify your identity during signup. The system checks your name, address, date of birth, and Social Security number against credit bureaus and other databases. If everything matches, you are approved when ready. If something doesn't match, Chase may ask you to confirm details or call you to verify information.

Occasionally, Chase will deny an account opening. Common reasons include a mismatch between the information you provided and what's on file elsewhere, a history of fraud or unpaid accounts at other banks (visible through ChexSystems, a banking history database), or an address that cannot be verified. If your account is denied, Chase will send you a letter explaining the reason and your options, which may include reapplying after correcting the issue or visiting a branch in person with additional documentation.

If you believe the denial was a mistake, call Chase at 1-800-935-9935 and ask to speak with someone about your process. Bring your ID and be ready to explain any discrepancies. Some denials can be overturned if you can clarify the issue on the phone.

Choosing between checking and savings accounts

Chase offers different account types with different features and fees. A checking account is designed for frequent deposits and withdrawals — you get a debit card, checks, and online bill pay. Chase checking accounts include options like Chase Total Checking (no monthly fee if you meet certain conditions) and Chase Premier Plus Checking (higher fees but more perks for customers with larger balances).

A savings account is designed to hold money and earn interest. Chase savings accounts include Chase Savings (basic savings with a low interest rate) and Chase Premier Savings (higher interest rate if you maintain a larger balance). Savings accounts have limits on how many withdrawals you can make per month — currently six per month under federal rules, though this can change.

Many people open both a checking account for daily spending and a savings account for money they want to keep separate. You can link them together so transfers between them are when ready and free. When you open your account, you will be asked which type you want; you can always add another account later through the app or by visiting a branch.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take to open a Chase account online?

The signup process takes about 10 minutes. Your account opens when ready after identity verification, which usually happens when ready. If Chase needs to verify additional information, it may take a few minutes longer, but your account will still open the same day.

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

If you are not a U.S. citizen or don't have a Social Security number, you can use an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) instead. You will need to bring documentation of your ITIN and your passport or travel document, either online (by uploading a photo) or in person at a branch.

What is the minimum deposit to open a Chase account?

Minimum opening deposits vary by account type and can range from $0 to $100. You can check the current minimum for the specific account you want on Chase.com before you start. Some promotions may require a higher opening deposit.

Can I open a joint account with someone else?

Yes. If you are opening in person, the other person can be present and sign the account agreement with you. If you are opening online, you can add an authorized user after the account opens, though the primary account holder must complete the initial signup.

What if I don't have a current address to provide?

You will need a verifiable address to open an account. If you recently moved and don't have a utility bill or lease in your new name, bring your ID with your current address on it, or visit a branch in person where a representative can verify your address directly.