What You Need to Open a Chase Bank Account

Documents and information Chase requires before you 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 must be current and show your name, date of birth, and photo — a driver's license, passport, or state ID card all work. You will also need to provide your address, phone number, and email address during the account setup process.

The initial deposit amount depends on the account type. Chase checking accounts typically require $25 to $100 to open, though this varies by account tier and whether you open online or in a branch. Savings accounts usually require $25. If you do not have the minimum deposit available at the moment you want to open the account, you cannot complete the process until you do.

If you are opening an account online, Chase will ask you to verify your identity through their digital system, which may include answering security questions based on your credit history. This verification step can take a few minutes to complete. If you open an account in a Chase branch, a banker will review your documents in person.

Key Takeaways

• You need a current government-issued photo ID, your Social Security number, and proof of your current address to open any Chase account.
• Chase requires an initial deposit ranging from $25 to $100 depending on the account type and how you open it.
• Online account opening uses digital identity verification and typically takes less than 15 minutes if your information matches Chase's records.
• Opening an account in a branch requires the same documents but allows you to ask questions and set up additional services with a banker present.
• If you do not have a Social Security number, Chase offers accounts for non-U.S. citizens using an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) instead.

Opening an account online versus in a branch

Chase lets you open most checking and savings accounts entirely online through their website or mobile app. The online process walks you through entering your personal information, uploading a photo of your ID, and confirming your identity through their verification system. Once approved, you can fund the account by transferring money from another bank account or by setting up a direct deposit. The entire process usually takes 10 to 15 minutes.

Opening an account in a Chase branch takes longer but gives you the chance to ask questions and discuss which account fits your needs. You will bring your ID and Social Security number, and a banker will enter your information into their system while you are there. You can deposit cash or a check to meet the minimum opening deposit requirement. Some people prefer the branch route because they can set up online banking access and a debit card on the spot.

Chase branches are not open on Sundays, and hours vary by location. If you choose to open in a branch, check the hours of your nearest location before you go, since some branches close earlier on certain weekdays.

What happens after you submit your information

Once you submit your process online or in a branch, Chase reviews your information against their internal records and may check your banking history through ChexSystems, a system that tracks checking and savings account activity. This check is not the same as a credit check and does not affect your credit score. Chase is looking for signs of past account misuse, such as unpaid overdrafts or fraud.

If Chase approves your account, you will receive confirmation when ready online or before you leave the branch. Your account number and routing number will be provided so you can set up direct deposit or transfer money in. You can use your account right away, though your debit card will arrive by mail within 7 to 10 business days.

If Chase denies your process, they will tell you why — usually because of a negative ChexSystems report or because you provided information that did not match their records. You can dispute inaccurate information in ChexSystems directly with that company, or you can try opening an account at a different bank that may have different approval standards.

Proof of address and why Chase asks for it

Chase requires proof that you live at the address you provide. If you open an account online, Chase may verify your address through their own records or through a third-party verification service. If the address matches public records associated with your Social Security number or driver's license, you usually do not need to submit additional documents.

If your address does not match existing records — for example, if you recently moved or if your ID shows an old address — Chase may ask you to upload a recent utility bill, lease agreement, or bank statement showing your name and current address. These documents should be dated within the last 60 days. A cell phone bill, credit card statement, or mortgage statement also works.

If you are homeless or do not have a permanent address, some Chase branches will work with you to use a shelter address or a care-of address. Call your local branch directly to ask whether they can accommodate this situation, since policies vary by location.

Opening a joint account with another person

Chase allows you to open a checking or savings account with another person as a joint owner. Both people have equal access to the account and can withdraw money, write checks, or close the account without the other person's permission. Both owners must be present in the branch or, if opening online, both must complete the process separately and verify their identity.

Each joint owner needs to provide their own government-issued photo ID, Social Security number, and proof of address. Chase will run a ChexSystems check on both people. The account will be opened in both names, and both will receive a debit card and online banking access.

If you want to open an account where one person controls the money but another person can make withdrawals on their behalf — for example, a parent managing money for an adult child — that is a different arrangement called power of attorney, and you will need to set that up separately after the account is open.

Special situations: minors, non-citizens, and business accounts

If you are under 18, a parent or legal guardian must open the account with you or on your behalf. Chase offers youth checking accounts designed for teenagers, which come with parental controls and lower or no monthly fees. The parent provides their own ID and Social Security number, and the minor provides theirs. Both names appear on the account.

If you are not a U.S. citizen but have a valid passport or visa, Chase will open an account for you. Instead of a Social Security number, you can use an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN), which you can obtain from the IRS. Some Chase branches are more experienced with ITIN accounts than others, so if you encounter difficulty, ask to speak with a manager or try a different branch.

If you want to open a business checking account, the requirements are different. You will need to provide your business's Employer Identification Number (EIN) from the IRS, proof of business registration or a business license, and personal identification for the person opening the account. Business accounts have higher minimum deposits and different fee structures than personal accounts.

Fees and account maintenance after opening

Chase charges a monthly maintenance fee on most checking accounts, though the amount varies by account type. Some accounts waive the fee if you maintain a minimum balance, set up direct deposit, or meet other conditions. Savings accounts also have monthly fees that may be waived based on balance or other activity. Chase's website lists the specific fee structure for each account type.

Once your account is open, you are responsible for keeping your information current. If you move, change your phone number, or change your email address, update this information in your online banking profile. Chase uses this information to contact you about account activity and to send important notices.

You can close your Chase account at any time by visiting a branch, calling Chase customer service, or using online banking. If you have a negative balance — meaning you owe Chase money — you must pay that balance before closing the account. Chase will not close an account with an outstanding debt.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I open a Chase account if I have been denied by other banks?

A denial from another bank does not automatically disqualify you from Chase. Chase makes its own decision based on your ChexSystems report and the information you provide. If you were denied because of a ChexSystems issue, you can dispute the information directly with ChexSystems before you explore to Chase. If you were denied for other reasons, Chase may still approve you.

What if I do not have a Social Security number?

You can open a Chase account using an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) instead. 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 conduct banking. You will need to bring your ITIN documentation and a valid passport or visa to a Chase branch. Not all branches handle ITIN accounts regularly, so call ahead to confirm.

How long does it take to receive my debit card after opening an account?

Chase typically mails debit cards within 7 to 10 business days of account opening. You can use your account and transfer money before the card arrives. If you need a card sooner, some Chase branches can issue a temporary card in-branch, though this varies by location.

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

You need the minimum opening deposit to open the account, but after that, the balance can drop to zero without closing the account. However, if your balance falls below the minimum required to waive the monthly maintenance fee, you will be charged a fee each month. Check your account's specific fee structure to understand what balance, if any, avoids monthly charges.

Can I open multiple Chase accounts at the same time?

Yes, you can open more than one checking account or savings account with Chase. Some people open separate accounts for different purposes, such as one for bills and one for savings. Each account will have its own account number, routing number, and debit card. You will manage all accounts through the same online banking login.