Most banks let you add an account holder online, but the process and what you can do afterward depends on your bank and account type
You can add a name to most checking and savings accounts through your bank's website or mobile app without visiting a branch. The person you're adding becomes a joint account holder with equal access to the money and account decisions. However, some banks require you to do this in person, some limit it to certain account types, and a few won't allow it online at all — you'll need to call or visit a branch instead.
The steps differ by bank. Chase, Bank of America, Wells Fargo, and most regional banks offer an online option, but you'll need the other person's Social Security number, date of birth, and address. Some banks complete the process immediately; others send a confirmation letter or require the new account holder to verify their identity before the change takes effect. A few banks won't let you add someone online if the account is in a different state than where they live.
Key Takeaways
- Most major banks allow you to add a joint account holder through their website or app, but the exact steps and requirements vary by bank.
- You will need the other person's Social Security number, date of birth, and current address to add them online.
- Some banks complete the change immediately, while others send a confirmation letter or require the new holder to verify their identity first.
- If your bank doesn't offer this online, you can call customer service or visit a branch in person to make the change.
- Adding someone to an account gives them full access to the money and the ability to make withdrawals or close the account without your permission.
How to add someone through your bank's website or app
Log into your account and look for a section labeled "Account Settings," "Manage Account," "Account Holders," or "Authorized Users." The exact name varies by bank. Once you find it, you should see an option to add a person. You'll be asked to enter their full name, Social Security number, date of birth, and mailing address. Some banks also ask for a phone number or email.
After you submit the information, the bank will verify the person's identity — usually by checking their credit report or running a background check. This typically takes a few minutes to a few hours. Some banks then send a confirmation letter to both you and the new account holder, and the person may need to sign and return it or verify their identity online before the change is final. A small number of banks require the new holder to visit a branch in person with a government-issued ID, even if you started the process online.
Once the change is complete, the new account holder can log in with their own username and password, see the full balance, and make withdrawals or transfers. They can also close the account, change the address on file, or add another person — you have no control over what they do.
What happens if your bank doesn't allow it online
Some banks, particularly smaller credit unions and regional institutions, do not offer this feature through their website. If you don't see an option to add an account holder online, call the customer service number on the back of your card or visit a branch. You'll need to bring the other person with you or have them call separately to authorize the change, depending on the bank's policy.
A few banks require both account holders to be present in person, even if one of you is already a customer. This is less common at large national banks but more common at credit unions and community banks. If you're in a situation where the other person lives far away or cannot visit, ask the bank whether they accept a notarized authorization letter or a video call with both parties present.
The difference between a joint account holder and an authorized user
Adding someone as a joint account holder means they own the account equally with you. They can see the balance, make deposits and withdrawals, change account settings, and close the account. If you die, the money typically passes to them automatically. If the account goes negative, creditors can pursue both of you.
An authorized user is different — they can access the account and use a debit card, but they don't own it. Some banks let you set spending limits for an authorized user, and you can remove them without their permission. Not all banks offer this option online; some only allow it by phone or in person. If your goal is to let someone use the account but keep control, ask whether your bank supports authorized users before you add them as a joint holder.
What to know before you add someone to your account
Once someone is a joint account holder, they have the same legal rights to the money as you do. They can withdraw all of it, close the account, or take out a loan against it without telling you. If they overdraft the account, you're both responsible for the fee. If they commit fraud or write bad checks, both of your names appear on the record.
If you're adding a minor, the account may automatically convert to a custodial account with different rules — the minor may not be able to withdraw money without your permission, and the account may close when they turn 18 or 21, depending on your state and bank. Ask your bank what happens to a custodial account when the child reaches adulthood.
If you're adding someone for a specific purpose — like helping an aging parent manage bills — consider whether a power of attorney or a limited account access option would work better. A power of attorney lets someone act on your behalf without owning the account, and you can revoke it anytime. A joint account is permanent unless both of you agree to remove the person.
How to remove someone from your account
To remove a joint account holder, log into your account and look for the same "Account Holders" or "Manage Account" section where you added them. Most banks let you remove someone online, but some require you to call or visit a branch. A few banks require both account holders to agree to the removal.
When you remove someone, they lose access to the account immediately. However, they may still be liable for any debt on the account, and if the account is overdrawn, the bank may pursue both of you for the balance. If you're removing someone because of a dispute or concern about fraud, consider whether you need to close the account and open a new one instead.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I add someone to my account if they don't have a Social Security number?
Most banks require a Social Security number or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) to add someone as a joint holder. If the person doesn't have either, ask your bank whether they accept an alternative form of identification or whether you can set up a different type of account. Some banks have special procedures for non-citizens or people without a Social Security number, but this varies widely.
Does adding someone to my account affect their credit score?
Adding someone as a joint account holder does not directly affect their credit score. However, if the account goes negative or is sent to collections, it can appear on their credit report. If you're concerned about this, discuss it with the person before adding them, and make sure the account stays in good standing.
Can I add someone to my account without them knowing?
Technically, you can start the process online without their knowledge, but most banks send a confirmation letter or require the new holder to verify their identity before the change is final. This means they will find out. Adding someone without their knowledge or consent can be considered fraud in some situations, particularly if you're doing it to access their money or hide assets.
What if the person I want to add is in another country?
This depends on your bank and the country. Some banks allow it; others do not. You'll likely need to provide additional documentation, such as a passport or visa. Call your bank's customer service line to ask whether they can add someone who lives abroad and what documents you'll need to provide.
Can I add someone to a savings account the same way as a checking account?
Most banks use the same process for both checking and savings accounts. However, some banks have different rules for savings accounts — for example, they may limit the number of withdrawals per month or require both holders to agree before closing the account. Check your account's terms and conditions or ask your bank whether adding a joint holder changes any of the account rules.