Yes, you can open most Chase bank accounts online without visiting a branch

Chase allows you to open checking and savings accounts entirely online through their website or mobile app. The process takes about 10 minutes and requires basic information: your Social Security number, date of birth, address, and a valid government ID. You'll need a debit card or bank account from another institution to fund your new account, since Chase cannot accept cash transfers online.

Not all Chase account types are available online. Some specialty accounts, business accounts, and accounts for customers under 18 require a visit to a branch or a phone call with a Chase representative. The online option works for their most common personal checking and savings products.

Key Takeaways

  • Chase checking and savings accounts can be opened online using their website or mobile app in about 10 minutes.
  • You will need your Social Security number, government ID, current address, and a way to fund the account from another bank or card.
  • Some account types, including business accounts and accounts for minors, require you to visit a branch or call Chase directly.
  • Your account becomes active when ready after you complete the online process, though you may wait a few business days for your debit card to arrive.

What information and documents you need to have ready

Before you start the online process, gather these items: your Social Security number, a government-issued photo ID (driver's license, passport, or state ID), your current mailing address, and your date of birth. Chase will verify this information against their systems and third-party databases.

You will also need a way to fund your new account. Chase accepts transfers from another bank account or a debit card from another institution. You cannot deposit cash online, so if you only have cash, you will need to visit a branch after opening the account or fund it from another source first.

How the online process process works step by step

Go to Chase's website or open their mobile app and select the option to open a new account. Choose the account type you want—checking, savings, or both. Enter your personal information: name, address, date of birth, and Social Security number. Chase will ask you to create a username and password for online banking.

Next, you will verify your identity. Chase may ask you security questions based on your credit history, or they may request a photo of your ID. Once verified, you will choose how to fund the account and enter the details of your funding source. Review the account terms and disclosures, then submit your process. You should receive confirmation when ready, and your account number will appear on screen.

When your account becomes active and when you can use it

Your Chase account is active when ready after you complete the online process. You can log into online banking right away and set up bill pay or transfers. However, you cannot use your debit card until it arrives in the mail, which typically takes 7 to 10 business days.

If you need to access funds or make deposits before your debit card arrives, you can visit a Chase branch with your ID and account number. Some branches can issue a temporary card on the spot. You can also transfer money out of your new account to another bank account you own once the account is fully set up.

Account types you cannot open online

Chase business accounts, including sole proprietor and LLC accounts, must be opened at a branch or by phone. You will need to bring business documents such as an EIN letter, business license, or articles of incorporation.

Accounts for customers under 18 also require a branch visit or phone call, since a parent or guardian must be present or verify their identity. Chase also does not allow online opening for some specialty accounts like their investment or wealth management products. If you are unsure whether your desired account type is available online, check Chase's website or call their customer service line.

What happens if your online process is declined

Chase may decline your online process for several reasons: a mismatch between the information you provided and their records, a ChexSystems report issue, or a history with Chase that prevents new account opening. If this happens, you will see a message on screen explaining that your process cannot be completed online.

You have options. Call Chase customer service to ask why you were declined and whether you can resolve the issue. Some problems, like outdated address information, can be corrected over the phone. If you were declined due to a ChexSystems report, you can request a copy of that report and dispute any errors. Visiting a Chase branch in person sometimes allows a banker to review your situation and override an online decline, though this is not may provide.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need to have a Chase account already to open a new one online?

No. You can open your first Chase account online without being an existing customer. You will need to fund it from another bank or debit card, but you do not need a prior relationship with Chase.

Can I open a joint account online with someone else?

Chase allows you to start the process online, but both account holders must verify their identity and sign the account agreement. The second person may need to complete part of the process separately or visit a branch to finalize the joint account setup, depending on Chase's current process.

What if I don't have a government ID?

Chase requires a valid government-issued photo ID to open an account online. If you do not have one, you will need to visit a branch in person with alternative identification documents, such as a passport card or state ID, and speak with a banker about your options.

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

Standard delivery takes 7 to 10 business days. Chase offers expedited shipping for an additional fee in some cases. You can check the status of your card in your online banking account or by calling Chase customer service.

Can I deposit checks into my new account right away?

Yes, if you have the Chase mobile app. You can use mobile check deposit to photograph and submit checks as soon as your account is active, even before your debit card arrives. You can also visit a Chase branch to deposit checks in person.