The basic process depends on your bank and the type of account access you want
Most banks let you add someone to a checking account in one of two ways: as a joint owner (who has equal rights to the money and can make changes to the account) or as an authorized user (who can withdraw and deposit but usually cannot close the account or change terms). Some banks call authorized users "signatories" or "account signers." The steps differ slightly between banks, but the person you're adding will need to provide identification and sign paperwork, either in person or sometimes online.
You'll start by contacting your bank directly—either by visiting a branch, calling customer service, or logging into your online banking portal. Not all banks offer both options, and some have restrictions based on the relationship between you and the person being added. A few banks require the new account holder to be present in person; others allow you to initiate the process and have them complete it remotely.
Key Takeaways
- Joint owners have equal legal rights to all money in the account and can make any changes; authorized users can access funds but typically cannot close the account or change ownership.
- Your bank's website or customer service line will tell you whether they offer both options and what documents the new account holder must bring.
- The person being added will need a government-issued ID and may need to provide a Social Security number or tax ID.
- The process usually takes a few minutes in a branch or a few business days if done online, but the account may not reflect the change for one to three business days.
- Adding someone as a joint owner means they inherit the account if you die; adding them as an authorized user does not.
What documents and information you'll need
Before you go to the bank or call, gather your account number and the other person's full legal name, date of birth, and current address. The person being added will need to bring a government-issued photo ID—a driver's license, passport, or state ID card. Some banks also ask for a second form of ID, such as a utility bill or lease showing the current address.
If the person being added is not a U.S. citizen, they may need an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) or passport instead of a Social Security number. Ask your bank ahead of time what they accept. If you're adding a minor (under 18), the rules vary widely—some banks require a parent or guardian to be the joint owner, while others allow minors as authorized users only. Call your bank to confirm their policy before you visit.
Adding someone in person at a branch
This is the fastest route if your bank requires it or if you want to complete everything in one visit. Both you and the person being added should go to a branch together with their ID. Tell the teller or banker you want to add them to your account and ask whether they'll be a joint owner or authorized user. The banker will explain the differences and the legal implications—particularly important for joint owners, since they'll have full access to the money and inherit the account if you die.
You'll sign paperwork (usually called an "account agreement" or "signature card"), and the new account holder will sign as well. The banker may ask security questions to verify your identity. Once everything is signed, the change usually takes effect immediately for in-person additions, though it may take one business day for the debit card or online access to activate. Ask for a receipt or confirmation showing the new account holder's name.
Adding someone online or by phone
Many banks now let you start the process through their website or mobile app. Log in, look for "Account Settings" or "Manage Account," and find the option to add an account holder. You'll enter the person's name, date of birth, and contact information. The bank will then send them an email or text with a link to verify their identity and sign the agreement electronically. This usually takes 24 to 48 hours.
If your bank doesn't offer an online option, call customer service and ask to add someone to your account. They'll verify your identity, collect the new account holder's information, and either mail paperwork for both of you to sign or send a secure link for electronic signature. Phone-based additions typically take three to five business days from start to finish. Once the bank receives all signed documents, the change appears in your account within one to three business days.
Joint owner versus authorized user: what each can do
| Action | Joint Owner | Authorized User |
|---|---|---|
| Withdraw money | Yes | Yes |
| Deposit money | Yes | Yes |
| Use debit card | Yes | Yes |
| Close the account | Yes | No |
| Change account terms | Yes | No |
| Remove other account holders | Yes | No |
| Inherit account if you die | Yes | No |
Choose joint owner if you want the person to have full control and you're comfortable with them making major decisions about the account. This is common for spouses, adult children managing finances for an aging parent, or business partners. Choose authorized user if you want them to access the money but not make changes—for example, a teenager with a debit card, a caregiver who pays bills on your behalf, or an employee who handles petty cash.
One important note: if you die, a joint owner automatically inherits the account and its contents. An authorized user does not. The money becomes part of your estate and goes through probate or to whoever you named in your will. If inheritance matters to you, discuss this with your bank when you're adding the person.
What happens if something goes wrong
If the bank denies your request, they must tell you why. Common reasons include the person not having a valid ID, a mismatch between the name you provided and their ID, or a problem with their credit or banking history. If the issue is a name mismatch (for example, a legal name change), ask what documents the bank needs to verify the current name. If it's a credit or history issue, ask the bank to explain their policy—some banks have restrictions on who can be added based on ChexSystems or other banking records.
If you've added someone and want to remove them later, you can do so by visiting your bank or calling customer service. Removing a joint owner usually requires both of your signatures; removing an authorized user typically requires only yours. The process takes a few business days. If the person you're removing contests the removal, the bank may freeze the account until the dispute is resolved, so communicate clearly before you make the change.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I add someone to my account without them being present?
Many banks allow remote additions through electronic signature or by mail, but some still require the person to visit a branch in person. Call your bank to ask. If they require in-person verification, you and the other person must both go to a branch together.
Will adding someone to my account affect their credit score?
Adding someone as a joint owner or authorized user does not directly affect their credit score. However, if the account goes into overdraft or is reported to credit bureaus for non-payment, it could appear on their credit report. Ask your bank whether they report authorized user accounts to credit bureaus.
What if I want to add someone but they live in a different state?
Most banks can add out-of-state account holders through online or mail-based processes. You'll need their current address on file, and they'll need to provide a valid ID. Some banks require a video call to verify identity. Contact your bank to ask what options they offer for remote additions.
Can I add someone temporarily, like for a vacation?
No—adding someone to an account is a permanent change until you remove them. If you need someone to access money temporarily, consider giving them cash, a prepaid card, or a wire transfer instead. If you want to remove them later, contact your bank and follow their removal process.
What if the person I'm adding has no Social Security number?
Some banks accept an ITIN (Individual Taxpayer Identification Number) or a passport number instead. Call your bank ahead of time to confirm what forms of ID they accept for non-citizens or people without a Social Security number.