You can open most Chase checking and savings accounts online in about 10 minutes using a computer or the Chase mobile app
Chase lets you open a checking account, savings account, or money market account entirely online without visiting a branch. The process asks for your Social Security number, date of birth, address, and initial deposit information. Most accounts are ready to use the same day, though it can take one to two business days for your debit card to arrive by mail.
You do not need to be an existing Chase customer. You will need a valid government ID, a Social Security number, and a way to fund the account — either a debit card, another bank account, or a wire transfer.
Key Takeaways
- Chase online account opening takes about 10 minutes and works on a computer or phone through the Chase website or mobile app.
- You will need your Social Security number, a valid ID, proof of address, and an initial deposit method before you start.
- Your account is usually active the same day, but your physical debit card arrives by mail within 7 to 10 business days.
- Some account types have monthly fees unless you meet balance or deposit requirements, so read the fee schedule before you choose.
- If you cannot verify your identity online, Chase will ask you to visit a branch or complete verification by phone.
What you need before you start
Gather these items before you open the Chase website or app. Having them ready means you will not have to stop halfway through.
Government-issued ID: A driver's license, passport, or state ID card. Chase scans or photographs it as part of the identity check.
Social Security number: Chase uses this to verify your identity and check your credit history. You will enter it during the process.
Proof of current address: A utility bill, lease, mortgage statement, or government document dated within the last 90 days. Chase may ask to see this if the address you provide does not match their records.
Initial deposit: Chase requires a minimum opening deposit that varies by account type — usually $25 for checking accounts. You can fund it with a debit card from another bank, a transfer from another checking or savings account, or a wire transfer.
The online account opening process
Start at chase.com or open the Chase mobile app. Look for "Open an Account" or "New Account" — the button location changes slightly between the website and app, but both are on the home page.
Chase will ask you to choose an account type first. The most common options are Chase Total Checking, Chase Savings, and Chase Money Market. Each has different fees and minimum balance requirements. Read the fee schedule for the account you want before you proceed — you can find it on the same page as the account description.
Next, enter your personal information: full name, date of birth, Social Security number, current address, phone number, and email. Chase uses this to verify your identity against public records and its own database.
You will then be asked to create login credentials — a username and password, or to use your existing Chase login if you already have an account. Set up a strong password with numbers, letters, and symbols.
Chase will verify your identity by asking questions about your credit history or by scanning your ID. If you are using the app, you can photograph your driver's license or passport directly. On the website, you may be asked to upload a file or answer security questions instead.
Finally, choose your initial deposit method and enter the amount. Chase accepts debit cards, ACH transfers from another bank account, or wire transfers. The deposit posts when ready for debit card and ACH transfers, though ACH transfers may take one business day to clear.
What happens after you submit your process
Chase sends a confirmation email to the address you provided. Your account number and routing number appear in the email and in your online banking dashboard right away.
Your account is usually active the same day you open it. You can log in, set up bill pay, transfer money, and use mobile check deposit when ready. However, you cannot use a debit card until it arrives in the mail — that typically takes 7 to 10 business days.
If Chase cannot verify your identity online, you will receive an email asking you to visit a branch with your ID or to complete verification by phone. This happens in a small number of cases and does not mean your process was denied — it just means Chase needs to confirm your identity in person or by voice.
Chase may also place a temporary hold on your account if the initial deposit came from a new source or if there are any red flags in the verification process. You will receive a separate email if this happens, and the hold is usually lifted within one to three business days.
Account types and their fees
Chase offers several account types online, and each has different costs and requirements. Understanding the difference before you open an account saves you from paying fees you do not expect.
Chase Total Checking: This is the most common option. There is a $12 monthly service fee, but it is waived if you maintain a $500 minimum daily balance, set up direct deposit, or have a Chase credit card. There is no minimum opening deposit.
Chase Savings: The monthly fee is $5, waived if you keep a $300 minimum daily balance. Interest rates vary and are posted on the Chase website.
Chase Money Market Account: This account earns higher interest than savings but requires a higher minimum balance — usually $2,500. The monthly fee is $25, waived if you meet the balance requirement.
Chase also offers student checking and senior checking accounts with lower or no monthly fees if you meet age or enrollment requirements. Check the full fee schedule on the account details page before you open an account.
If your online process is denied or incomplete
Chase may decline your process if you do not pass the identity verification, if you have a history of fraud or unpaid accounts, or if you are under 18 years old. If this happens, you will receive an email explaining the reason.
If the reason is identity verification, you can visit a Chase branch in person with your ID and ask a banker to help you open an account. Bring the same documents you would have used online: your ID, Social Security number, and proof of address.
If the reason is your banking history, you may not be able to open a standard Chase account. Chase does offer second-chance checking accounts in some states through partner programs, but these are not opened online — you would need to visit a branch or call Chase directly to ask about options.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I open a Chase account on my phone?
Yes. The Chase mobile app has the same account opening process as the website. read the app, tap "Open an Account," and follow the same steps. You can photograph your ID directly in the app, which is often faster than uploading a file on the website.
How long does it take to get my debit card?
Chase mails debit cards within 7 to 10 business days. You can use your account and transfer money when ready, but you cannot use a physical debit card until it arrives. Some Chase accounts offer a temporary digital card you can add to your phone's wallet right away.
What if I do not have a Social Security number?
Chase requires a Social Security number or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) to open an account. If you have an ITIN, you can use that instead. If you do not have either, you will need to visit a branch and speak with a banker about your options.
Can I open a joint account online?
Chase does not allow you to open a joint account entirely online. One person opens the account, and the second account holder must visit a branch or complete a separate verification process. Contact Chase directly or visit a branch to add a joint owner after your account is open.
Do I need an existing Chase account to open a new one?
No. You can open your first Chase account online without being an existing customer. If you already have a Chase account, you can open additional accounts using your existing login.