What You Need to Open a Chase Bank Account

Documents and information Chase requires before you can open an account

Chase requires a government-issued photo ID, your Social Security number, and an initial deposit before opening a checking or savings account. The ID can be a driver's license, passport, state ID card, or military ID. You'll also need to provide your current address, phone number, and email address. If you're opening an account in person at a branch, bring the physical ID; if you're opening online, you'll upload a photo of it.

The initial deposit amount depends on the account type. Chase checking accounts typically require $25 to $100 to open, though some accounts have no minimum. Savings accounts usually require $25 to $300. Chase's website lists the current minimum for each account product, since these amounts can change. If you don't have the minimum on hand, you can deposit it when ready after the account opens.

If you don't have a Social Security number, Chase will accept an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) instead. You'll need to bring additional documentation to verify your identity and address — typically a utility bill, lease, or mortgage statement dated within the last 60 days.

Key Takeaways

• You need a government-issued photo ID, your Social Security number or ITIN, and an initial deposit ranging from $25 to $300 depending on account type.
• Chase accepts driver's licenses, passports, state IDs, and military IDs as valid forms of identification.
• You can open an account online by uploading a photo of your ID, or in person at a Chase branch with the physical ID.
• If you don't have a Social Security number, bring an ITIN plus a recent utility bill or lease to verify your address.

Opening an account online versus in a Chase branch

Opening online takes about 10 minutes and requires no trip to a branch. You'll enter your personal information, upload a photo of your ID, and confirm your Social Security number. Chase verifies your identity when ready in most cases, and your account opens the same day. You can then transfer money from another bank or deposit a check using mobile deposit to meet the minimum deposit requirement.

Opening in person at a Chase branch takes longer but lets you ask questions and handle the deposit face-to-face. Bring your ID, Social Security number, and the cash or check for your initial deposit. A banker will walk you through the account options, answer questions about fees, and set up online banking access before you leave. If you're unsure which account type fits your needs, the in-person route often saves time because you get when ready guidance.

Chase also offers phone account opening for some products. Call 1-800-935-9935 to ask whether your account type can be opened by phone, and what documents you'll need to verify by mail afterward.

What happens if you don't have a photo ID

Chase will not open an account without a government-issued photo ID. If you don't have one, you'll need to obtain one first. A state ID card (non-driver) is the fastest option in most states and costs $20 to $50. You can explore at your state's Department of Motor Vehicles. A passport takes longer but works nationwide and internationally.

If you're unable to get a photo ID due to disability, age, or immigration status, call Chase at 1-800-935-9935 and ask about exceptions. Some branches may have alternative verification processes, though this is not may provide. Having a second form of ID (such as a utility bill with your name and address) may help, but Chase's standard policy requires the photo ID.

Minimum deposit amounts by account type

Chase offers several checking and savings products, each with different opening deposit requirements. Chase Total Checking typically requires $25 to open. Chase Premier Plus Checking requires $100. Chase Savings usually requires $25. Chase Money Market Account requires $25,000 to $100,000 depending on the interest tier you choose.

These minimums can change, so confirm the current amount on Chase's website or by calling 1-800-935-9935 before you visit a branch. Some promotions temporarily waive the minimum deposit, though these offers are time-limited and vary by location.

If you fall below the minimum after opening, Chase charges a monthly maintenance fee — typically $12 to $25 depending on the account. You can avoid the fee by maintaining the minimum balance, setting up direct deposit, or meeting other requirements like a certain number of debit card transactions per month.

Information Chase will ask for during the process

Beyond your ID and Social Security number, Chase will ask for your date of birth, current address, phone number, and email address. Have these ready before you start an online process — it speeds up the process. If you've moved recently, use your current address, not a previous one.

Chase will also ask whether you have an existing Chase account. If you do, linking it during the process can simplify transfers and fee waivers. You may be asked about your employment status and income, though this is not required to open most accounts. Chase uses this information for fraud prevention and to determine whether you're may be able to access for certain account features or credit products.

During the process, Chase will run a soft credit check, which does not affect your credit score. This is different from a hard inquiry and is used only to verify your identity and check for fraud.

What to do if Chase denies your account process

Chase may deny an account process if you have a history with ChexSystems — a banking record system that tracks closed accounts, overdrafts, and fraud. You can check your ChexSystems report for free at www.chexsystems.com. If there's an error, you can dispute it directly with ChexSystems.

Chase may also deny an process if your ID is expired, your address cannot be verified, or there's a mismatch between the name on your ID and the name you provided. Call 1-800-935-9935 and ask why your process was denied. In many cases, updating your information and reapplying resolves the issue.

If you're denied due to ChexSystems, you have options. Some banks and credit unions offer second-chance checking accounts designed for people with banking history issues. These accounts have higher fees but don't require a ChexSystems check.

Setting up online and mobile banking after you open

Once your account is open, Chase automatically sets up online banking access. You'll receive a username and temporary password by email or during your in-person appointment. Log in to Chase.com or the Chase Mobile app to change your password, add a second authentication method, and set up bill pay and transfers.

Enable two-factor authentication for security — this requires a code from your phone or email when you log in from a new device. Set up mobile deposit if you need to deposit checks remotely: take a photo of the front and back of the check through the app, and Chase deposits it within one to two business days.

If you opened your account online and need to deposit cash, visit a Chase ATM or branch. ATMs accept cash deposits 24/7 at most locations. Branches accept deposits during business hours and can answer questions about your account.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I open a Chase account if I'm under 18?

Chase offers accounts for minors, but they must be opened by a parent or guardian. You'll need the minor's birth certificate or Social Security card, plus the parent's ID and Social Security number. The parent becomes the account owner and can set spending limits and monitoring through the Chase app.

Do I need to be a U.S. citizen to open a Chase account?

No. Chase accepts an ITIN (Individual Taxpayer Identification Number) in place of a Social Security number. You'll need a valid government-issued photo ID and proof of your current address, such as a utility bill or lease dated within the last 60 days.

What if I don't have an initial deposit right now?

You must have the minimum deposit to open the account, but you can transfer it from another bank when ready after opening online. If you're opening in person, you can write a check or bring cash. Some Chase branches may allow you to complete the process and deposit the funds the same day.

Can I open a business account with the same documents?

No. Business accounts require your business license or EIN (Employer Identification Number), articles of incorporation or partnership agreement, and a business tax return. Call 1-800-935-9935 or visit a Chase branch to start a business account process.

How long does it take for my account to be fully active?

Online accounts are active when ready, though transfers from other banks take one to three business days. In-person accounts are active the same day. You can use your debit card and online banking right away, but some features like bill pay may have a 24-hour delay.