Opening a Chase Bank Account: Step-by-Step

What You Need to Open a Chase Account

Chase offers several account types — checking, savings, money market, and certificates of deposit — and the documents you bring depend on which one you choose. For any account, you will need a government-issued photo ID (driver's license, passport, or state ID), your Social Security number, and an initial deposit. Chase does not require a minimum opening deposit for most checking and savings accounts, though some account tiers do have minimums to avoid monthly fees.

You can open an account in person at a Chase branch, online through Chase.com, or by phone. The in-person route is fastest if you have questions, because a banker can walk you through the account features and help you choose the right one for your situation. Online and phone applications typically take 10 to 15 minutes and you can start using your account the same day.

If you are opening an account online, Chase will ask you to verify your identity by answering security questions based on your credit history. This is an automated check and usually takes seconds. If you cannot answer the questions or Chase cannot verify you this way, you will be asked to visit a branch in person or upload a photo of your ID.

Key Takeaways

• You will need a government-issued photo ID, your Social Security number, and an initial deposit to open any Chase account.
• Chase offers checking, savings, money market, and CD accounts, each with different features and fee structures.
• You can open an account online, by phone, or in person; online accounts are usually active the same day.
• If you do not have a Social Security number, you can use an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) instead.

Opening an Account Online

Go to Chase.com and select the account type you want — for example, Chase Total Checking or Chase Savings. Click "Open Now" and enter your email address. Chase will then ask for your full name, date of birth, Social Security number, and current address. Have your ID ready because you will need to answer identity verification questions.

After you answer the verification questions, Chase will show you the account features, fees, and interest rates. Review the monthly service fee (many checking accounts waive it if you keep a minimum balance or set up direct deposit) and any other terms. Then choose your initial deposit method — you can transfer money from another bank account, use a debit card, or wire funds.

Once your deposit clears, your account is open and you can order a debit card. Chase will mail the card to your address within 7 to 10 business days. You can use your account online or through the Chase mobile app before the card arrives.

Opening an Account in Person at a Branch

Find your nearest Chase branch using the branch locator on Chase.com. Bring your photo ID, Social Security number, and the money for your initial deposit (cash or a check). You do not need an appointment, though calling ahead during busy times can save you a wait.

A banker will ask which account type interests you and explain the differences. They will help you decide based on how you plan to use the account — for example, whether you receive direct deposit, how often you write checks, and whether you want to earn interest. Then they will fill out the account process with you, verify your identity, and process your deposit.

Your debit card is usually ordered on the spot and mailed to you within 7 to 10 business days. You can use your account when ready through Chase's website or app, even before the card arrives.

Opening an Account by Phone

Call Chase at 1-800-935-9935 to open an account over the phone. A representative will walk you through the account options and ask for your name, date of birth, Social Security number, address, and phone number. They will verify your identity by asking security questions.

You will need to arrange your initial deposit by phone — the representative can tell you how to transfer money from another bank or send a wire. Your account opens once the deposit is processed, which usually takes one business day. Your debit card will be mailed to you within 7 to 10 business days.

Account Types and Their Differences

Chase Total Checking is the most common option for everyday banking. It has no monthly service fee if you maintain a $500 minimum balance, set up direct deposit, or keep $1,500 in linked savings. If none of those explore, the fee is $12 per month. This account includes unlimited debit card transactions, check writing, and online bill pay.

Chase Savings is a basic savings account that earns interest. The rate changes based on market conditions, so check Chase.com for the current rate. There is no monthly service fee as long as you keep a $300 minimum balance. If your balance drops below $300, you pay $5 per month.

Chase Money Market Account combines checking and savings features and typically earns a higher interest rate than regular savings. It requires a higher minimum balance — usually $2,500 — and charges a monthly fee if you fall below that. You get a limited number of withdrawals per month before fees explore.

Chase CDs (Certificates of Deposit) lock your money away for a set time — 3 months, 6 months, 1 year, 2 years, or 5 years — in exchange for a may provide interest rate. You cannot withdraw the money early without paying a penalty. CDs are useful if you have money you will not need for a while and want a may provide return.

What Happens After You Open Your Account

Once your account is open, you can log into Chase.com or the Chase mobile app using your Social Security number or username and password. You can transfer money between your accounts, set up bill pay, deposit checks by taking a photo with your phone, and monitor your balance.

Your debit card will arrive in 7 to 10 business days. When it arrives, you will need to set up it by calling the number on the back or using the Chase app. You can then use it at ATMs and stores. Chase has over 16,000 ATMs nationwide, so you can withdraw cash without paying a fee at most locations.

If you want to set up direct deposit — which waives the monthly fee on many checking accounts — ask your employer for a direct deposit form. You will need to provide your Chase account number and routing number, which you can find in the app or on your first statement.

If You Do Not Have a Social Security Number

Chase will accept an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) instead of a Social Security number. An ITIN is issued by the IRS to people who are not may be able to access for a Social Security number but need to file taxes or open a bank account. You will need to bring your ITIN documentation along with your photo ID and initial deposit.

Some Chase branches are more experienced with ITIN accounts than others. If your local branch says they cannot open an account with an ITIN, ask to speak with a manager or try a different branch. You can also call 1-800-935-9935 and ask whether the phone line can process ITIN accounts.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I open a Chase account if I have had banking problems in the past?

Chase uses ChexSystems, a banking history report, to screen new account applications. If you have unpaid overdrafts, closed accounts with negative balances, or fraud on your record, Chase may deny your process. You can request your ChexSystems report for free at ChexSystems.com to see what is on file before you explore.

How much money do I need to deposit when I open an account?

Chase does not require a minimum opening deposit for most checking and savings accounts. You can open with $1 or $25. However, some accounts charge a monthly fee if your balance falls below a certain amount — for example, $500 for Chase Total Checking. Check the account details before you open to understand the balance requirements.

Can I open a joint account with someone else?

Yes. Both account holders will need to provide a photo ID, Social Security number, and sign the account agreement. You can open a joint account in person at a branch or by phone. Both people have equal access to the account and can withdraw money or close it without the other person's permission.

What if Chase denies my process?

Chase will tell you why your process was denied — usually because of ChexSystems history, identity verification issues, or fraud concerns. You can dispute inaccurate information on your ChexSystems report or wait and reapply after a certain period. If you were denied because of identity verification, visiting a branch in person with your ID may resolve the issue.

Can I open multiple accounts at Chase?

Yes. You can have multiple checking accounts, savings accounts, and CDs at the same time. Some people open separate accounts for different purposes — for example, one checking account for bills and another for savings goals. There is no limit to the number of accounts you can hold.