What Chase credit cards are and how to get one

Chase Bank issues credit cards under several brand names — the most common are Chase Freedom, Chase Sapphire, Chase Ink (for business), and co-branded cards with airlines and hotels. Each card has different rewards, annual fees, and spending categories. You can open a Chase credit card by explore online at chase.com, by phone, or in person at a Chase branch.

The process takes about 10 minutes online. Chase will check your credit report and usually tell you within seconds whether you are approved, denied, or pending review. If approved, your card arrives in 7 to 10 business days. You can use it online when ready after approval if you set up a temporary digital card number through the Chase app.

Chase also offers secured credit cards if you have limited or damaged credit history. A secured card requires a cash deposit (usually $200 to $2,500) that becomes your credit limit. After 6 to 18 months of on-time payments, Chase may convert it to an unsecured card and return your deposit.

Key Takeaways

  • Chase credit cards come in several types — rewards cards, travel cards, and business cards — each with different annual fees and earning rates.
  • You can open an account online at chase.com in about 10 minutes, and most decisions are when ready.
  • Your physical card arrives in 7 to 10 business days, but you can use a temporary digital card number when ready through the Chase app.
  • Chase offers secured cards for people rebuilding credit, which require a cash deposit but can convert to a regular card after consistent payments.
  • You will need a Social Security number, valid ID, and current address to explore.

What you need before you explore

Have your Social Security number, a valid government-issued ID (driver's license or passport), and your current address ready. Chase will ask for your date of birth, employment status, and annual income. You do not need to be a Chase checking account customer to open a credit card, though having an existing relationship with Chase may speed the process.

If you are explore for a business credit card, you will need your business tax ID (EIN) or Social Security number if you are a sole proprietor. Chase will also ask for your business name, type, and how long it has been operating.

how the process works online at Chase

Go to chase.com and click "Credit Cards" in the top menu. Browse the available cards or use the filter to narrow by rewards type, annual fee, or card features. Click the card you want and select "Open Now" or "Learn More" then "explore."

On the process form, enter your personal information: name, date of birth, Social Security number, address, phone number, and email. Then enter employment information and annual income. Chase will ask whether you want to link the card to an existing Chase checking account (optional). Review the terms and submit.

Chase will display a decision on screen within seconds in most cases. If approved, write down your confirmation number and the temporary card number if one is offered. You can log into your Chase account when ready to see your new card and set up a PIN.

What happens after approval

Your physical card ships within 7 to 10 business days. Track it through your Chase account under "Cards" — the tracking number appears once the card is in the mail. In the meantime, you can use the temporary digital card number in the Chase app for online and mobile purchases right away.

When the physical card arrives, set up it by calling the number on the back or through the Chase app. Set your PIN (if you have not already), and your card is ready to use at stores and ATMs. Your first statement closes 25 to 30 days after your first purchase, and payment is due about 21 days after that.

Understanding rewards and annual fees

Chase rewards cards earn points or cash back on purchases. Some cards earn a flat rate on all purchases (usually 1.5% to 2% cash back). Others earn higher rates in specific categories — for example, 5% on groceries and gas, 1% on everything else. Points can be redeemed for cash back, travel, or merchandise through the Chase Ultimate Rewards program.

Many Chase cards have no annual fee. Others charge $95 to $550 per year but offer benefits like travel credits, lounge access, or bonus points that may offset the fee. Read the card's terms page to see the exact annual fee and what you get in return.

Chase often offers sign-up bonuses — for example, 50,000 bonus points if you spend $3,000 in the first three months. These bonuses are worth real money when you redeem them, so compare the bonus value against the annual fee to decide whether the card makes sense for you.

If your process is denied or pending

If Chase denies your process, you will see the reason on screen or receive it by mail within 30 days. Common reasons are low credit score, recent negative marks on your credit report, or too many recent credit inquiries. You can request a reconsideration by calling the number on your denial letter and asking a representative to review your process again.

If your process is pending, Chase is reviewing your credit report more carefully. This usually takes 1 to 7 business days. You can check the status in your Chase account or call the number provided in your confirmation email. Do not explore for another card while an process is pending — multiple applications in a short time can hurt your credit score.

If you are denied, consider a secured card instead. Secured cards have lower credit requirements and can help you build credit history. After 6 to 18 months of on-time payments, you may be able to move to a regular Chase card.

Managing your Chase credit card account

Log into your Chase account at chase.com or through the mobile app to view your balance, make payments, and track rewards. You can set up automatic payments so your bill is paid on the due date every month. Paying in full each month avoids interest charges and helps build your credit score.

Chase lets you change your due date, request a credit limit increase, and add authorized users (people who can use your card) through your account. You can also freeze or temporarily lock your card through the app if it is lost or if you want to prevent unauthorized use.

Monitor your account regularly for fraudulent charges. If you see a purchase you did not make, report it to Chase when ready through the app or by calling the number on the back of your card. Chase covers unauthorized charges, but reporting quickly protects your account.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take to get approved for a Chase credit card?

Most decisions are when ready — you will know within seconds of submitting your process online. Some applications go to pending review, which takes 1 to 7 business days. Chase will contact you by phone or email if they need more information.

Can I use my Chase credit card before the physical card arrives?

Yes. If you are approved online, Chase offers a temporary digital card number through the app that you can use when ready for online and mobile purchases. Your physical card arrives in 7 to 10 business days.

What is the difference between Chase Freedom and Chase Sapphire cards?

Chase Freedom cards focus on cash back in rotating categories (5% on groceries, gas, or restaurants depending on the quarter). Chase Sapphire cards focus on travel rewards and have higher annual fees but offer travel protections and lounge access. Choose based on whether you spend more on everyday purchases or travel.

Do I need a Chase checking account to open a credit card?

No. You can open a Chase credit card without any existing relationship with Chase. However, linking it to a Chase checking account may make it easier to make payments and manage both accounts in one place.

What should I do if my Chase credit card process is denied?

Call the number on your denial letter and ask for reconsideration — a representative may approve you after reviewing your process again. If denied again, consider a secured card, which has lower credit requirements and can help you build credit history for a future process.