Are you planning to open a bank account? With dozens of banking institutions offering multiple types of bank accounts, it can feel intimidating.
Every financial institution carries a savings account suited for first-timers. However, if you want a hassle-free, convenient application process, you might be considering the most widely known bank in the country: JPMorgan Chase Bank.
Chase is a financial services firm backed by 200 years’ worth of industry experience and $2.6 trillion assets. Your money is safe with them.
The requirements for opening a Chase bank account might seem overwhelming, but they generally consist of standard documents.
Do you find yourself lost on how to start the application process? We can help! We reviewed multiple sources from Chase explaining what paperwork you’d need to open a new account.
This article gives you in-depth insights into Chase’s eligibility requirements. Read through the end so you won’t waste time starting the application process before you have all the required documentation ready or accidentally provide the wrong ones.
Chase Total Checking
First-timers like Chase Total Checking for its practicality. Despite the account’s easy, straightforward requirements, you’ll already get access to 16,000 ATMs, plus Chase’s online/mobile banking platforms.
Documents Needed
- Social Security Number (SSN) or Individual Tax Identification Number (TIN)
- 2 Government-Issued Photo IDs (i.e., driver’s license, passport)
- Utility Bill (for proof of address)
- Fully Accomplished Application Form
Eligibility Requirements
Age: 18+
You can waive the $12 monthly service fee if you make $500+ of monthly direct deposits, maintain an account balance of $1,500 at the start of each day, or maintain a combined average daily balance of $5,000 across your linked investments and deposits.
Account Opening Fees
| Opening Deposit | $0 |
| Monthly Service Fee | $12 |
| ATM Fees at Chase ATM | $0 |
| ATM Fees at Third-Party ATM | $2.50 – $5.00 |
Chase Secure Checking
If you need a simple checking account for bills payment, try Chase Secure Checking. You can qualify for this checking account without worrying about opening deposits, overdraft fees, or paper checks.
Documents Needed
- Social Security Number (SSN) or Individual Tax Identification Number (TIN)
- 2 Government-Issued Photo IDs (i.e., driver’s license, passport)
- Utility Bill (for proof of address)
- Fully Accomplished Application Form
Eligibility Requirements
Age: 18+
Although Chase Secure Checking requires a non-negotiable, unavoidable $4.95 monthly service, it doesn’t charge fees on cashier’s checks and money orders.
Account Opening Fees
| Opening Deposit | $0 |
| Monthly Service Fee | $4.95 |
| ATM Fees at Chase ATM | $0 |
| ATM Fees at Third-Party ATM | $2.50 – $5.00 |
Chase Premier Plus Checking
Chase Premier Plus Checking goes beyond the standard bills payment and online banking services. This account will help you get the most out of your money. It yields interest earnings, allows non-Chase ATM withdrawals for free, and charges minimal fees.
Documents Needed
- Social Security Number (SSN) or Individual Tax Identification Number (TIN)
- 2 Government-Issued Photo IDs (i.e., driver’s license, passport)
- Utility Bill (for proof of address)
- Fully Accomplished Application Form
- Qualifying Military ID (for military banking clients)
Eligibility Requirements
Age: 18+
Chase waives the $25 monthly service fee if you’re a military banking client, maintain a $15,000 average beginning day balance across all linked Chase deposits and investments, or enroll in a Chase first mortgage policy for automatic payments.
Account Opening Fees
| Opening Deposit | $0 |
| Monthly Service Fee | $25 |
| ATM Fees at Chase ATM | $0 |
| ATM Fees at Third-Party ATM | $2.50 – $5.00 (4 free non-Chase ATM withdrawals per statement period) |
Chase College Checking
Chase College Checking serves as the most widely used and accessible checking account for college students. It offers essential banking services and has easy requirements.
Documents Needed
- Social Security Number (SSN) or Individual Tax Identification Number (TIN)
- 2 Government-Issued Photo IDs (i.e., driver’s license, passport)
- Utility Bill (for proof of address)
- Fully Accomplished Application Form
- Proof of Enrollment (i.e., student ID, college acceptance letter)
Eligibility Requirements
Age: 17 – 24
Chase waives the $6 monthly service fee during your first 5 years in college or if you maintain a $5,000 average ending day balance.
Account Opening Fees
| Opening Deposit | $0 |
| Monthly Service Fee | $6 |
| ATM Fees at Chase ATM | $0 |
| ATM Fees at Third-Party ATM | $2.50 – $5.00 |
Chase First Checking
Parents can use Chase First Checking to teach their kids about banking. This account accepts applicants as young as six years old.
Documents Needed
Documents Needed
- Social Security Number (SSN) or Individual Tax Identification Number (TIN)
- 2 Government-Issued Photo IDs (i.e., driver’s license, passport)
- Utility Bill (for proof of address)
- Fully Accomplished Application Form
Eligibility Requirements
Age: 6 – 17
How much does it cost to open a Chase bank account for your kids? The answer: nothing.
Parents can open their child’s first checking account without worrying about the minimum Chase opening deposit or monthly service fee. However, this account only accepts applicants with existing Chase accounts or policies (i.e., auto loans, mortgage, credit cards).
Account Opening Fees
| Opening Deposit | $0 |
| Monthly Service Fee | $0 |
| ATM Fees at Chase ATM | $0 |
| ATM Fees at Third-Party ATM | $2.50 – $5.00 |
Chase High School Checking
Chase High School Checking introduces students as young as 13 to the world of banking. Apart from the standard banking services, this account also has ​​Zero Liability Protection to combat unauthorized transactions.
Documents Needed
Documents Needed
- Social Security Number (SSN) or Individual Tax Identification Number (TIN)
- 2 Government-Issued Photo IDs (i.e., driver’s license, passport)
- Utility Bill (for proof of address)
- Fully Accomplished Application Form
- Proof of Enrollment (i.e., student ID, college acceptance letter)
Eligibility Requirements
Age: 13 – 17
Parents can serve as the co-owner of their teenage child’s checking account. Although Chase High School Checking doesn’t have a minimum deposit or monthly service fee, the parent would need to link their personal Chase checking account.
Account Opening Fees
| Opening Deposit | $0 |
| Monthly Service Fee | $0 |
| ATM Fees at Chase ATM | $0 |
| ATM Fees at Third-Party ATM | $2.59 – $5.00 |
Chase Sapphire Checking
Chase Sapphire Checking will save you hundreds every month by eliminating the fees on non-Chase ATM withdrawals, wire transfers, stop payments, and overdrafts.
Documents Needed
Documents Needed
- Social Security Number (SSN) or Individual Tax Identification Number (TIN)
- 2 Government-Issued Photo IDs (i.e., driver’s license, passport)
- Utility Bill (for proof of address)
- Fully Accomplished Application Form
Eligibility Requirements
Age: 18+
You can waive the $25 monthly service fee by having a $75,000 combined average beginning day balance in your linked Chase deposits and investments.
Account Opening Fees
| Opening Deposit | $0 |
| Monthly Service Fee | $25 |
| ATM Fees at Chase ATM | $0 |
| ATM Fees at Third-Party ATM | $0 |
Chase Private Client Checking
Chase Private Client Checking is the best option for clients who need an all-around financial vehicle. It gives you access to priority customer service, customized investment advice, and exclusive benefits.
Documents Needed
Documents Needed
- Social Security Number (SSN) or Individual Tax Identification Number (TIN)
- 2 Government-Issued Photo IDs (i.e., driver’s license, passport)
- Utility Bill (for proof of address)
- Fully Accomplished Application Form
Eligibility Requirements
Age: 18+
Maintaining a $150,000 combined average beginning day balance in your linked Chase deposits and investments waives the $35 monthly service fee.
Account Opening Fees
| Opening Deposit | $0 |
| Monthly Service Fee | $35 |
| ATM Fees at Chase ATM | $0 |
| ATM Fees at Third-Party ATM | $0 |
Chase Business Checking Accounts
Chase Business Checking Accounts typically consists of three variations: Chase Business Complete Banking, Chase Performance Business Checking, and Chase Platinum Business Checking.
Documents Needed
Documents Needed
- Social Security Number (SSN) or Individual Tax Identification Number (TIN)
- 2 Government-Issued Photo IDs (i.e., driver’s license, passport)
- Utility Bill (for proof of address)
- Fully Accomplished Application Form
- Basic Business Information
- Partnership Agreement
- Letter on Company Letterhead (must contain current partners)
- Annual Report
- Assumed Name Certificate
- Current Members or Managers
Eligibility Requirements
Age: 18+
You can waive the monthly service fee by maintaining a $2,000 beginning day balance, spending $2,000+ with your Chase Ink business card, or depositing $2,000+ from adjustments like refunds and chargebacks into your account.
Also, note that the eligibility requirements and documents vary based on your business type. Sole proprietors only need to submit basic business information, but partners, corporations, and LLC companies must provide supplement records supporting their business.
Account Opening Fees
| Opening Deposit | $0, $25, $25 |
| Monthly Service Fee | $15, $30, $95 |
| ATM Fees at Chase ATM | $0 |
| ATM Fees at Third-Party ATM | $0 |
How to Apply for a Chase Bank or Checking Account?
Here are the general steps you need to follow when applying for a Chase bank account:
- Head to your nearest branch to fill out the application in person, or submit the requirements online.
- Check for eligibility. For Chase First, College, and High School Checking accounts, the co-owner would also have to accomplish identity and address verification forms.
- Note that applicants under 18 can only sign contracts in person and in the presence of a legal guardian. Only joint co-owners over 18 can apply online.
- Link your qualifying investment accounts or loan policies.
- Wait for the bank to finish processing your application.
How Long Will the Process Take?
Processing the Chase bank account application in person should take no more than an hour. You’ll also receive your debit card within three to five days.
However, expect your debit card within two weeks if you submitted your application online.
Can You Open a Chase Bank Account if You’re a US Citizen Living Abroad?
US citizens living abroad can open Chase bank accounts that accommodate online applications. However, you’d need your SSN or TIN. If you face issues with your SSN, seek help from the Social Security Federal Benefits Unit (FBU) or designated US embassy.
Can You Open a Chase Bank Account as a Foreigner in the United States?
Yes, Chase accepts foreign applicants living in the US. Just know what to bring to open a Chase bank account. You’ll need your proof of address, source of income, and government-issued IDs.
Note that most small banks limit their client base to permanent residents. Only larger financial institutions accommodate non-residents and foreigners.
Can You Use a P.O. Box To Open a Chase Account or Must You Have a Physical Address?
Yes, you can use your P.O. box as your mailing address, but you’ll still need a permanent address for your billing address. Expect Chase to validate the home and work locations you provide.
Ready to Open a Bank Account?
Overall, the key to a smooth, hassle-free application process is research. Learn the standard Chase account requirements.
Preparing your opening documents beforehand makes a world of difference when applying for bank accounts, regardless of whether you already have one or not.
Also, don’t hesitate to ask for help. Although bank employees may look intimidating, they will willingly answer all your queries. After all, their daily responsibilities involve guiding clients through the available banking products and services.
Aidan has been writing about personal finance for over 6 years. Prior to this, he worked as a Corporate Finance Analyst where he specialized in Due Diligence, Company Valuations and more. He is a CFA charterholder.
