Finding the right place to keep your money secure is a major financial decision. With countless options available, a major national institution like Chase Bank offers stability, a massive network of branches, and a highly-rated mobile experience. A checking account is your financial hub, acting as the primary source for your everyday transactions, bill payments, and cash withdrawals.
Opening a bank account might seem like a daunting chore. You might worry about complex paperwork, hidden fees, or long wait times. Fortunately, establishing a banking relationship with Chase is a straightforward process when you know exactly what to expect. They provide several accessible pathways for new customers to get started quickly and securely.
This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about how to open a checking account with Chase Bank. We will cover the different account tiers available, the specific documentation required, and the exact steps to apply. You will also learn how to navigate the fee structures and take full advantage of the practical features Chase offers to keep your finances organized.
Choosing the right Chase checking account
Chase provides a variety of checking accounts tailored to different financial situations. Before you apply, it is helpful to understand the core features of the most popular account options.
Chase Total Checking
The Chase Total Checking account is the most popular everyday banking option. It provides all the essential features you need to manage your money, including access to online banking, bill pay, and Chase’s extensive ATM network. This account is designed for standard use, allowing you to deposit your paycheck, pay your monthly expenses, and use a debit card for daily purchases. It carries a $15 monthly service fee, but Chase offers several realistic ways to waive this cost, making it a highly accessible choice for the average consumer.
Chase Premier Plus Checking
If you maintain higher balances, the Chase Premier Plus Checking account might be a better fit. This mid-tier account offers additional perks, such as waived Chase fees for using non-Chase ATMs, free personal checks, and free money orders. It also features a $0 monthly service fee for current servicemembers and veterans of the U.S. Armed Forces. For non-military customers, the standard monthly service fee is $25, which can be waived by meeting specific balance or linked-account requirements.
Chase Sapphire Banking
Chase Sapphire Banking was previously the high-tier option for customers wanting premium benefits like zero ATM fees worldwide and waived wire transfer fees. However, Chase recently noted that the Sapphire Checking account is no longer available for new account openings. If you are a high-net-worth individual looking for premium banking features, you may want to speak with a Chase representative about their Chase Private Client offerings instead.
What documents do you need to open a checking account?
Banks are legally required to verify your identity before opening an account. Gathering the correct documents ahead of time will prevent any delays in your application process. If you are a U.S. citizen or a non-U.S. citizen residing in the U.S., you will generally need to provide the following items:
Government-issued identification
You must prove who you are. The bank requires a valid, government-issued photo ID. Acceptable forms of identification include a state-issued driver’s license, a state ID card, or a passport. You will also need to provide your Social Security Number (SSN) or an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN).
Proof of address
Chase needs to verify your current physical residence. You cannot use a P.O. Box as your primary address. Bring a document that clearly shows your full name and current residential address. Valid examples include a recent utility bill (like water, electricity, or gas), a bank or credit card statement from another institution, a current employer pay stub, or a signed lease or mortgage document.
Opening deposit funds
Most checking accounts require a minimum opening deposit to fund the account. You should be prepared to transfer money into your new account at the time of your application. You can fund your new Chase account using a debit card from another bank, an ACH transfer (using your current routing and account numbers), or by bringing physical cash if you apply at a local branch.
Step-by-step: Opening your account online vs. in-branch
You have two main options for opening your Chase checking account: completing the process online from the comfort of your home, or visiting a physical branch to speak with a banker face-to-face.
How to apply online
Opening an account online is highly convenient and typically takes less than ten minutes.
- Navigate to the Chase Bank website and locate the checking accounts page.
- Compare the available accounts and click the “Open an account” button next to your chosen option, such as Chase Total Checking.
- Fill out the digital application form. You will need to type in your personal details, including your full name, date of birth, home address, and Social Security Number.
- Upload or verify your identification. Some online applications may ask you to input details from your driver’s license or state ID.
- Review the account disclosures, terms, and conditions carefully before agreeing.
- Fund your account. Enter the routing and account number of your external bank, or use a debit card, to make your initial opening deposit.
- Submit your application. You will typically receive an instant approval decision.
How to apply in person at a branch
If you prefer personal guidance or have a complex financial situation, visiting a branch is a great choice.
- Locate a Chase branch near you using the online branch locator tool.
- Schedule an appointment online to avoid long wait times in the lobby.
- Gather all your required physical documents, including your photo ID, proof of address, and initial deposit funds.
- Meet with a Chase personal banker. They will walk you through the account options, explain the fee structures, and input your information into their system.
- Sign the physical account agreement forms.
- Hand over your cash or check to make your initial deposit. The banker will finalize the setup and provide you with your new account details immediately.
Understanding Chase checking fees and how to waive them
A major concern when opening a new bank account is the potential for unexpected costs. Chase is transparent about its monthly service fees and provides clear options for avoiding them.
Chase Total Checking fee waivers
The standard monthly service fee for Total Checking is $15. You can reduce this fee to $0 each monthly statement period if you meet just one of the following criteria:
- Receive $500 or more in qualifying electronic deposits (like payroll from your employer or government benefits).
- Maintain a balance of at least $1,500 at the beginning of each day in your checking account.
- Keep an average beginning day balance of $5,000 or more across your linked qualifying Chase checking, savings, and investment accounts.
Chase Premier Plus Checking fee waivers
The Premier Plus checking account carries a $25 monthly service fee. You can bring this fee down to $0 by meeting one of these conditions:
- Keep an average beginning day balance of $15,000 or more in this account, or combined with other qualifying linked Chase deposits and investments.
- Link the checking account to a qualifying Chase first mortgage that is enrolled in automatic payments.
- Provide proof of military service as a current servicemember or veteran of the U.S. Armed Forces.
Wire and money order fees
Be aware of transaction fees beyond the monthly service charge. For a Total Checking account, incoming domestic wire transfers cost $15 (or $0 if initiated online or via the app). Outgoing domestic wires cost $35 if done with a banker, or $25 if done digitally. Money orders cost $5 per check. Premier Plus customers enjoy slightly better perks, such as no Chase fees for money orders.
Practical tips for setting up your new Chase account
Once your account is officially open, take a few immediate steps to get your financial life fully integrated with Chase.
Set up the mobile app
Download the Chase Mobile app from the App Store or Google Play. Register your account to create a secure username and password. The app is a powerful tool that lets you monitor your balances, pay bills, send money through Zelle, and deposit paper checks using your smartphone camera.
Route your direct deposits
To ensure you meet the fee waiver requirements, update your direct deposit information with your employer right away. Provide your HR department with your new Chase routing number and account number. It may take one or two pay cycles for the switch to take effect.
Activate your debit card
Chase will mail your physical Visa debit card to your home address within a few business days. Once it arrives, you can activate it by logging into the mobile app, calling the toll-free number on the sticker, or completing a transaction at a Chase ATM using the PIN you selected during the application process.
Frequently asked questions (FAQ)
How does Chase handle overdrafts?
An overdraft occurs when you make a purchase but do not have enough money in your account to cover it. Chase typically charges a $34 overdraft fee per transaction, up to three times per business day (a maximum of $102).
However, Chase provides a feature called Overdraft Assist to help you avoid these penalties. With Overdraft Assist, you will not be charged an overdraft fee if your account is overdrawn by $50 or less at the end of the business day. Furthermore, if you are overdrawn by more than $50, you have until the end of the next business day to deposit enough money to bring your negative balance back to $50 or less, effectively cancelling the fee.
What are the fees for using ATMs?
Using any Chase-owned ATM is completely free for all account holders. If you have a Total Checking account and use a non-Chase ATM within the U.S., Chase charges a $3 fee per withdrawal. If you use a non-Chase ATM internationally, the fee jumps to $5 per withdrawal.
It is important to note that the owner of the non-Chase ATM will likely charge you an additional surcharge fee. If you travel frequently or use out-of-network ATMs often, you might prefer the Premier Plus account, which does not charge a Chase fee for using non-Chase ATMs across the globe.
Ready to manage your money efficiently?
Opening a new checking account is an excellent opportunity to take control of your daily finances. Chase Bank provides a robust infrastructure, user-friendly digital tools, and clear pathways to avoid monthly maintenance fees. By gathering your identification documents, choosing the tier that matches your balance habits, and utilizing their mobile app, you can set yourself up for long-term financial convenience. Take the time to review your payroll setup and transfer your direct deposits early so you can enjoy fee-free banking from day one.
