What you need to open a Chase savings account

Chase lets you open a savings account online, by phone, or in a branch. You'll need a government-issued photo ID (a driver's license or passport), your Social Security number, and an initial deposit. The deposit amount varies by account type — some Chase savings accounts require $0 to open, while others ask for $25 or more. You can fund the account with a debit card, transfer from another bank, or cash if you're opening in a branch.

Chase also asks for your contact information: a current mailing address, phone number, and email. If you already have a Chase checking account, opening a savings account is faster because they already have most of this information on file. If you're new to Chase, the process takes about 10 to 15 minutes online.

Key Takeaways

  • You can open a Chase savings account online at chase.com, by calling 1-800-935-9935, or at any Chase branch with a photo ID and Social Security number.
  • Most Chase savings accounts require either no opening deposit or a small deposit of $25, though some specialty accounts have higher minimums.
  • The online process takes 10 to 15 minutes and you can fund the account immediately with a debit card or transfer from another bank.
  • Chase offers several savings account types with different interest rates and features, so comparing them before you open helps you pick the right one for your goals.

Opening online through Chase.com

Go to chase.com and look for the "Open an Account" button, usually near the top of the page. Select "Savings" from the account type options. Chase will show you the savings accounts currently available — typically the Chase Savings Account and the Chase Premier Savings Account, though the exact options can change.

Choose the account that fits your needs, then enter your personal information: full name, date of birth, Social Security number, address, phone number, and email. Chase will ask about your employment status and annual income, but these are optional fields. Next, you'll set up online access by creating a username and password, then choose how to fund the account. You can link a debit card, transfer from another bank account, or (if you have a Chase checking account) move money from that account. After you submit, Chase reviews your information — this usually takes a few minutes, and you'll see your new account number and routing number right away.

Opening by phone or in a branch

If you prefer to talk to someone, call Chase at 1-800-935-9935. A representative will walk you through the same questions asked online and can answer questions about which account type suits you. They'll take your initial deposit information over the phone — either a debit card number for a charge, or routing and account details if you're transferring from another bank. The call usually takes 15 to 20 minutes.

To open in a Chase branch, bring your photo ID, Social Security number, and your initial deposit (cash, check, or debit card). A banker will complete the paperwork and set up your online access on the spot. You'll leave with your account number and can start using the account immediately. Branch hours vary by location, so check your nearest branch's hours on chase.com before you go.

Understanding Chase savings account types

Chase offers the Chase Savings Account, which has no monthly maintenance fee and no minimum balance requirement. The interest rate is low — it changes based on the Federal Reserve's rate decisions, so it varies over time. This account is straightforward and works well if you want a basic place to keep money separate from checking.

The Chase Premier Savings Account requires a higher opening deposit (usually $10,000 or more, though this can change) and a higher minimum balance to avoid a monthly fee. In return, it pays a higher interest rate than the basic savings account. This account makes sense if you have a larger amount to save and want to earn more interest.

Chase also offers Chase Secure Savings, which is tied to a Chase Secure Checking account and is designed for people building or rebuilding credit. The interest rate is typically very low, but the account helps you establish banking history.

What happens after you open your account

Once your account is open, you can log into Chase's website or mobile app using the username and password you created. You'll see your account number, routing number, and current balance. You can set up direct deposit, transfer money between your Chase accounts, or send money to accounts at other banks using external transfers.

If you funded the account with a debit card or transfer, that money usually appears within one business day. If you deposited a check in a branch, it follows Chase's standard check deposit timeline — typically one to two business days for the first $225, and longer for the remainder. You can start earning interest on your balance right away, though the rate is small and paid monthly.

Fees and things to watch for

The Chase Savings Account has no monthly maintenance fee. The Chase Premier Savings Account charges a monthly fee (usually $25) if your balance drops below the required minimum, though the exact minimum varies. Neither account charges you for deposits, withdrawals, or transfers to other Chase accounts.

Chase does charge for some services: wire transfers out of the account, overdraft protection, and stopping a payment. Withdrawals from savings accounts are limited by federal rules — you can make up to six withdrawals or transfers per month before Chase may charge a fee or restrict the account. This limit applies to transfers to other banks, checks written against the account, and debit card use, but not to withdrawals at a Chase ATM or in a branch.

Moving money into your new savings account

After your account opens, you can add money in several ways. Direct deposit is the fastest — you give your employer or benefits provider your Chase account number and routing number, and the money lands in your account on payday with no action needed from you. Transfers from another bank take one to three business days and happen through Chase's website or app. Mobile check deposit lets you photograph a check and deposit it through the Chase app — the funds usually appear within one business day.

You can also transfer money from a Chase checking account instantly through the app or website, or deposit cash at a Chase ATM (some ATMs accept deposits, some don't — check before you go). If you opened in a branch, you can deposit cash there as well.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I open a Chase savings account if I don't have a Social Security number?

No. Chase requires a Social Security number or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) to open any account. If you have an ITIN, you can open an account, but you'll need to bring additional documents to a branch to verify your identity.

What's the difference between a savings account and a money market account at Chase?

Chase's money market accounts typically pay higher interest rates than savings accounts, but require a larger opening deposit and minimum balance. They also come with a debit card and checkbook, making them more like a hybrid between savings and checking. A regular savings account is simpler and better if you want to keep money separate and untouched.

How long does it take to access my money after I open?

You can use your account immediately after opening online or by phone. If you funded it with a debit card or transfer, the money appears within one business day. If you deposited a check in a branch, the first $225 is usually available the next business day, with the rest following Chase's standard check deposit timeline.

Can I have multiple savings accounts at Chase?

Yes. You can open more than one savings account at Chase, which some people do to separate money for different goals. Each account has its own number and earns interest separately. You can manage all of them through one login.

What happens if I don't meet the minimum balance requirement?

For the Chase Savings Account, there is no minimum balance, so this doesn't apply. For the Chase Premier Savings Account, if your balance falls below the required minimum (usually $10,000), Chase charges a monthly maintenance fee, typically $25. You can avoid the fee by bringing the balance back above the minimum or closing the account.