If you're considering opening an investment account with Chase Bank, you might wonder how much you need to get started. The good news: you don’t need a fortune just to begin. Chase, through J.P. Morgan, offers a few options, each with its own requirements. Let’s break it down so you know exactly what to expect.
Investment Options at Chase: An Overview
J.P. Morgan by Chase gives clients a range of ways to invest, from hands-on self-directed accounts to fully managed portfolios. Each type has a different minimum to open and maintain.
Photo by Tima Miroshnichenko
No Minimum for Self-Directed Investing
Chase’s popular J.P. Morgan Self-Directed Investing account has no minimum balance requirement. That means you can start with any amount that fits your budget—even if it’s just a few bucks.
Key features:
- Trade U.S. stocks, ETFs, and options commission-free online
- No account minimums to open or maintain the account
- Access research tools and screeners for investment ideas
Why does this matter? It helps newer investors get their foot in the door, even if they aren’t ready to commit large sums of money.
$25,000 Minimum for Managed Portfolios and Advisors
If you want a more hands-off approach or advice from a professional, you’ll look at J.P. Morgan Automated Investing or working with a J.P. Morgan advisor. These options do have minimum requirements.
- Automated (Robo) Investing: Minimum to start is typically $500.
- J.P. Morgan Personal Advisors: Minimum initial investment is $25,000.
This means you'll need a larger amount if you're looking for custom-built strategies, tailored financial advice, or portfolio management.
What Can You Buy with a Self-Directed Account?
With no minimum, you set the pace. Buy a single share of a stock, invest in an ETF, or put a little into a mutual fund. The only limit is the price of the security itself plus any transaction costs (like the 65-cent per contract charge for options trades).
Chase’s platform lets you trade:
- U.S.-listed stocks and ETFs (with no online trade commissions)
- Options (with a small per-contract fee)
- Mutual funds and fixed income products
There are some restrictions, like no trading in most penny stocks or after hours, but for most regular investors, it’s all you need to start.
When Minimums Do Matter
Even if an account has no minimum, some investments require a certain amount to buy in. For example, mutual funds sometimes have their own minimums, often $500 or $1,000, set by the fund provider—not by Chase.
With managed accounts or advice from a financial expert, the $25,000 starting point isn't flexible. Consider this if you want more guidance or a team to manage your investments.
What About Fees?
Chase doesn’t charge annual fees for self-directed accounts. You’ll pay for certain trades (like that 65-cent options fee), but not for stocks or ETFs. Managed accounts charge advisory fees, and those can add up, so make sure the services fit your needs.
Signing Up: What You’ll Need
To open an investment account with Chase, you’ll need:
- To be at least 18 years old
- A valid Social Security number
- A U.S. address
Simple, right? If you're opening a joint account, both parties must already have a joint Chase banking or investing account if you’re applying online.
Risk: Remember What’s at Stake
Investing isn’t risk-free. Markets go up and down, and there’s always a chance your investments could lose value. Chase provides plenty of research and learning tools, but you need to know what you’re getting into. Don't skip reading those risk disclosures and prospectuses.
Quick Facts: Chase Investment Minimums
At a glance:
- Self-Directed Account: $0 minimum
- Automated (Robo) Investing: $500 minimum
- Personalized Advice/Wealth Management: $25,000 minimum
Other potential minimums:
- Individual mutual funds or fixed income products may require more
Should You Start Small or Wait?
There’s no wrong answer. Some people save until they can meet those higher minimums and work with an advisor. Others like to get started while they learn, making slow, consistent investments in their own account. The freedom to choose is a win for investors.
The Bottom Line
You don’t need a big bankroll to invest with Chase. Their self-directed platform welcomes everyone, letting you start with as much or as little as you want. If you want expert help or a managed account, plan for higher minimums.
Start with what you can afford, keep learning, and check the product details so you know exactly what fits your needs best. Investing is a marathon, not a sprint—so take your first step, no matter how small.