What you need to do to add an account holder
Adding someone to your bank account means giving them legal access to deposit, withdraw, and manage money in that account. The person you add becomes a joint owner with the same rights you have. Most banks let you add someone in person at a branch, by phone, or online through your account settings — but the exact process and what paperwork you need depends on your bank and the type of account.
Start by calling your bank's customer service line or visiting your branch to ask what documents they require. You will almost always need the other person's full legal name, date of birth, and Social Security number or tax ID. Some banks also require a government-issued ID from the person you are adding, and a few still require both of you to sign paperwork in person.
Key Takeaways
- The person you add becomes a joint owner with full access to the account, not just a user with limited permissions.
- You will need the other person's full legal name, date of birth, and Social Security number before you start the process.
- Most banks can add someone over the phone or online, but some require an in-person visit to a branch.
- The change takes effect immediately or within one business day, depending on your bank.
- Adding someone to your account does not affect their credit score, but it does give them legal claim to all the money in that account.
Information you need before you call or visit
Gather these details about the person you want to add before you contact your bank. You will need their full legal name exactly as it appears on their government ID, their date of birth, and their Social Security number. If they live at a different address than you, have that address ready as well.
You should also know what type of account you want to add them to — checking, savings, money market, or another type. If you have multiple accounts at the bank, be clear about which one you want to change. Some banks allow you to add someone to one account but not others, so confirm this with your bank before you proceed.
Adding someone in person at a branch
If your bank requires an in-person visit, both you and the person you are adding will need to go to a branch together with government-issued photo ID. A bank representative will verify both of your identities, explain what it means to be a joint owner, and have you both sign the paperwork. This usually takes 15 to 30 minutes.
Bring your account number and the other person's Social Security number with you. Some banks will ask the new account holder to sign a signature card so the bank has a record of their signature on file. After you both sign, the change typically takes effect the same day or by the next business day.
Adding someone by phone or online
Many banks now let you add a joint owner without visiting a branch. If you call customer service, a representative will verify your identity, collect the other person's information, and walk you through the process. They may send you a form to sign and return, or they may complete the entire transaction over the phone.
If your bank offers online account management, you may be able to start the process yourself through your account dashboard. Look for a section labeled "Account Holders," "Authorized Users," or "Manage Account." Enter the other person's information and follow the prompts. Your bank will then send them a confirmation email or letter, and they may need to verify their identity before the change is final.
Processing time varies by bank. Some make the change within hours; others take one to three business days. Ask your bank for a specific timeline when you start the process.
What happens after you add someone
Once the person is added as a joint owner, they can use a debit card, write checks, and access the account online or through the bank's mobile app. They can deposit and withdraw money without your permission. They also have the legal right to close the account or remove you as an owner, though most banks will notify you if this happens.
The account will now show both names on statements and tax documents. If the account earns interest, the bank will report that interest on a 1099-INT form in both of your names. If you receive Social Security, veteran benefits, or other government payments into this account, adding a joint owner may affect your benefits — contact your benefits administrator before you add someone.
Removing someone from the account later
If you need to remove the joint owner later, contact your bank and ask about their removal process. Most banks require only the original account holder to request the removal, but some require both people to sign paperwork. The person being removed will usually receive a notice from the bank.
Removing someone does not close the account — it just changes the ownership back to you alone. The process usually takes one to three business days. After removal, the former joint owner will no longer have access to the account through their debit card or online login.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does adding someone to my account hurt their credit score?
No. Adding someone as a joint owner does not appear on their credit report and does not affect their credit score. However, if the account goes into overdraft or has unpaid fees, that could potentially affect their credit if the bank reports it to a credit bureau.
Can I add someone without giving them full access to the account?
That depends on your bank. Some banks offer "authorized user" status, which gives someone limited access — they can use a debit card or make deposits but cannot close the account or remove other owners. Ask your bank whether they distinguish between joint owners and authorized users, because the rules are different.
What if the person I want to add doesn't have a Social Security number?
If they have an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) instead, most banks will accept that. Some banks also accept a passport number or other government ID number. Call your bank and ask what alternatives they accept before you try to add the person.
Can I add someone to my account if they live in another state or country?
Yes, most banks allow this. You will still need their full legal name, date of birth, and Social Security number or tax ID. Some banks may require additional verification if the person lives outside the United States, such as a copy of their passport or visa.
What if I want to add someone but keep some money separate?
Adding someone to an account makes all the money in that account jointly owned — you cannot designate part of it as separate. If you want to keep some money separate, open a second account in your name only and keep your separate funds there.