What You Need to Open a Chase Bank Account

Documents and information Chase will ask for

To open a Chase checking or savings account, you will need a government-issued photo ID, your Social Security number, and an initial deposit. Chase accepts a driver's license, passport, state ID card, or military ID. You do not need to be a U.S. citizen, but you do need a valid Social Security number or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN).

You will also need to provide your current address. Chase will verify this against public records, so make sure the address you give matches what appears on your ID or recent mail. If you have moved recently and your ID has not been updated, bring a piece of mail from your new address — a utility bill, lease, or bank statement dated within the last 60 days works.

Have your phone number and email address ready as well. Chase uses these to send account alerts and to contact you if there are questions during the account opening process. You can change both later, but you need to provide them at signup.

Key Takeaways

• You need a government photo ID, Social Security number or ITIN, and proof of your current address to open an account.
• Chase requires an initial deposit to fund your new account, and the amount varies by account type.
• You can open an account online, by phone, or in person at a Chase branch, and the process takes about 10 minutes.
• If you have a history of overdrafts or unpaid accounts, Chase may deny your process or place restrictions on your account.

How much money you need to deposit

The minimum opening deposit depends on which account you choose. Chase's most common checking account, the Chase Total Checking, requires a $25 opening deposit. Their basic savings account, Chase Savings, also requires $25. Some accounts, like the Chase Premier Plus Checking, may have higher minimums — check the current requirements on Chase's website before you start, since these can change.

You can fund your new account with a debit card, another bank account, or cash if you open in person at a branch. If you open online, you will transfer money from an existing bank account. The deposit does not have to come from you — a family member or friend can send the money — but the account itself must be in your name.

Opening an account online versus in person

Chase lets you open most accounts online through their website or mobile app without visiting a branch. The online process takes about 10 minutes. You upload a photo of your ID, enter your personal information, and link a bank account to make your opening deposit. Chase will verify your identity and either approve or deny you on the spot, or within a few hours.

If you prefer to open in person, visit any Chase branch with your ID and the documents listed above. A banker will walk you through the account setup, answer questions, and you can deposit cash when ready if you want. In-person opening also takes about 10 minutes. Some people choose this route if they are uncomfortable uploading ID photos online or if they want to ask about other Chase products at the same time.

You can also open an account by phone by calling Chase at 1-800-935-9935, though this is less common. A representative will guide you through the process and arrange for your opening deposit.

What Chase checks before approving you

Chase runs a background check called ChexSystems on every new account applicant. ChexSystems is a banking history report that tracks overdrafts, bounced checks, closed accounts, and fraud. If you have unpaid overdraft fees from another bank, multiple overdrafts in a short time, or a history of fraud, Chase may deny your process.

Chase also checks your credit report, though this is a soft inquiry that does not affect your credit score. They are looking for signs of financial distress or identity theft, not your credit rating itself. If you have been denied a bank account before, tell Chase when you explore — some denials are temporary and can be reversed after a certain period.

If Chase denies you, they will send a letter explaining why. You can dispute inaccurate information on your ChexSystems report by contacting ChexSystems directly at 1-800-428-9623. Correcting errors can help you open an account later.

Accounts you can open without a branch visit

Chase offers several accounts that you can open entirely online. Chase Total Checking and Chase Savings are the most straightforward — both have low opening deposits and no monthly fees if you meet straightforward requirements like setting up direct deposit or maintaining a minimum balance.

Chase Money Market Account is another option if you want to earn interest on your savings. It requires a higher opening deposit than savings, usually $2,500, but pays a higher interest rate. Chase CDs (certificates of deposit) let you lock money away for a set period in exchange for a may provide interest rate, and you can open these online as well.

If you want a credit card instead of a bank account, you can also explore online for Chase credit cards like the Chase Freedom Unlimited or Chase Sapphire Preferred, though credit card approval depends on your credit score and credit history.

What happens after your account opens

Once Chase approves your account, you can use it when ready. If you opened online, you can log into your account right away and set up bill pay, transfers, or mobile check deposit. Your debit card will arrive by mail within 7 to 10 business days. You can request a rush card at some branches if you need it sooner, though there may be a fee.

If you opened in person, you may receive a temporary debit card on the spot, or you can use your account number to make transfers and payments before your permanent card arrives. Set up your online banking login and mobile app password during your first visit or as soon as you receive your welcome email.

Chase will send you a welcome packet with your account number, routing number, and information about your account terms. Keep this for your records. You can also find this information anytime by logging into your Chase account online or calling customer service at 1-800-935-9935.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I open a Chase account if I do not have a Social Security number?

You can use 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. You will still need a government photo ID and proof of address.

What if I was denied a Chase account before?

Ask Chase why you were denied — the letter will explain the reason. If it was due to ChexSystems, you can dispute the information with ChexSystems directly. If it was due to a recent overdraft or fraud, wait a few months and try again. Some denials are temporary and can be reversed after a certain period.

Do I need to have direct deposit to open a Chase account?

No. Direct deposit is not required to open an account. However, some Chase accounts waive monthly fees if you set up direct deposit or maintain a minimum balance. Check the account terms to see which requirements explore to the account you want.

Can someone else open a Chase account for me?

No. You must open the account yourself because Chase needs to verify your identity. A family member or friend can help you gather documents or walk you through the process, but you have to be present and provide your own ID and signature.

How long does it take to open a Chase account?

The account opening process itself takes about 10 minutes, whether you do it online or in person. Chase will approve or deny you when ready or within a few hours. Your debit card arrives by mail within 7 to 10 business days after approval.