Will Chase access my bank account without my knowledge?

I was behind on a Chase c.c. payment and (stupidly) answered the phone from them. Was talked into giving them my bank account # over the phone (it was NOT a Chase banking acct.) to get caught up. I happened to have the money in the acct. at the time. The representative convinced me that it was safe and they would access for this "one-time" payment. Now I'm late paying them again and I'm afraid that they will access that bank acct. and just take the money. Has this ever happened to anyone - is my bank account safe?

Well, we can only hope that it remains safe.

How many times in the past Chase has made direct withdrawals from the account?

I suggest you go into your bank and put do an ACH block to keep Chase out of your account.

Most likely your bank will not be able block your account with a check card or credit card. Chase should not be taking unauthorized draws from your account, but to be safe, just open another account in the same bank and close this one.

they shouldnt but that does not mean that they wont. i would take the safer route by contacting your bank and see what can be done. but considering that they stated it was a "one time only" that is usually what happens i have done this with ccards, and they have never just helped themselves but im sure that there is someone somewere that they have. so i would be sure to find a way to be sure that does not happen

One time only. I'm current with them at the moment, so breathing easier just now.