You can change the account holder name on a Chase savings account, but the process depends on whether you want to rename yourself, add someone else, or remove a name

Chase allows you to change the primary account holder name through their online banking portal, mobile app, or by calling customer service. The exact steps vary based on what you're changing: updating your own name after marriage or legal change, adding a joint account holder, or removing someone from a shared account. Most name changes take effect within one to three business days, though some situations require in-person verification at a branch.

The key limitation is that you cannot simply rename an account to a different person's name while keeping it in your own Social Security number. If you want the account to belong to someone else entirely, you'll need to close the current account and open a new one in their name, or add them as a joint owner first.

Key Takeaways

  • Changing your own name on the account (after marriage, divorce, or legal name change) can be done online, through the app, or by phone without visiting a branch.
  • Adding a joint account holder requires both people to be present or to provide written authorization, and Chase may ask for ID verification.
  • Removing someone from a joint account typically requires the account owner to call Chase or visit a branch; the other person cannot remove themselves.
  • Name changes usually process within one to three business days, but legal name changes may require additional documentation like a court order or marriage certificate.

Changing Your Own Name Online or by Phone

If you're updating your name because of marriage, divorce, or a legal name change, you can start the process through Chase's website or mobile app. Log in, go to your account settings, and look for "Profile" or "Personal Information." You should see an option to update your name. Chase will ask you to confirm your identity, usually by answering security questions or verifying a recent transaction.

For a legal name change (not just a marriage), Chase may ask you to upload a copy of your court order, divorce decree, or marriage certificate. You can do this through the secure message center in your online account or by calling Chase customer service at the number on the back of your debit card. Have the document ready before you call; they may be able to process it over the phone or ask you to mail it in.

If you prefer not to use the app or website, call Chase at 1-800-935-9935 (for savings accounts) and speak to a representative. They can walk you through the name change and may ask you to verify your identity by providing your Social Security number, date of birth, and account number. This route typically takes the same one to three business days.

Adding a Joint Account Holder

Adding someone else to your savings account as a joint owner is different from changing the account name. Both account holders will have full access to the funds and can make withdrawals or close the account. Chase requires both people to authorize this change, either in person at a branch or through a written authorization form.

The easiest route is to visit a Chase branch together with a valid ID. The representative will verify both identities and add the second person to the account on the spot. The change usually takes effect immediately, though it may take one business day for the new name to appear on statements and in online banking.

If you cannot both visit a branch, you can call Chase and request a joint account authorization form. One person completes and signs it, then mails it to Chase along with a copy of the new account holder's ID. This process takes longer—typically five to seven business days—because Chase needs to receive and process the mailed documents.

Removing Someone from a Joint Account

If you have a joint account and want to remove the other person, only the original account owner can request this change. Chase does not allow one joint holder to remove the other without the account owner's permission. The person being removed cannot initiate the removal themselves.

To remove a joint account holder, call Chase at 1-800-935-9935 or visit a branch in person. You'll need to verify your identity and provide the name of the person you want to remove. Chase will process the change, and the other person will no longer have access to the account. They will receive a notice in the mail confirming the change.

Be aware that removing someone from a joint account does not close the account—it simply converts it back to a single-owner account in your name. The account number and routing number stay the same, so any automatic payments or direct deposits linked to the account will continue without interruption.

What Documents You May Need

For a simple name change in your own name, you typically need only your ID and account information. However, if the name change is due to a legal event, Chase may ask for supporting documents. A marriage certificate is needed for a name change after marriage. A divorce decree is required if you're reverting to a previous name after divorce. A court order for legal name change is necessary if you changed your name through the court system.

For adding a joint account holder, both people need a valid government-issued ID, such as a driver's license or passport. Chase will make copies of both IDs and keep them on file. If you're mailing in authorization forms, include a copy of the new account holder's ID with the signed form.

Timeline and What Happens During Processing

Most name changes process within one to three business days. During this time, your account remains fully accessible—you can still deposit money, withdraw funds, and use your debit card. The name change affects your statements, online banking display, and any checks you order, but it does not interrupt service.

If Chase needs additional documentation (such as a marriage certificate for a legal name change), they will contact you through your registered phone number or email. Respond as quickly as possible, because the clock restarts once they receive the documents. If you do not provide the requested information within 30 days, Chase may cancel the request and you'll need to start over.

For joint account additions, the timeline is longer if you're mailing documents—typically five to seven business days from the date Chase receives the signed authorization form. If you visit a branch in person, the change is usually immediate or takes one business day to appear in all systems.

When You Cannot Change the Name

Chase will not allow you to change the account name to a completely different person if that person is not already a joint holder. For example, if you want to transfer the account to your adult child, you cannot simply rename it. Instead, you have two options: add them as a joint owner first (which gives them equal access and control), or close the account and have them open a new one in their own name.

If the account has a hold or is flagged for fraud investigation, Chase may freeze name change requests until the issue is resolved. Similarly, if the account is overdrawn or has a negative balance, some branches may ask you to bring the account current before processing a name change, though this is not a universal policy.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need to visit a branch to change my name on a Chase savings account?

No. You can change your own name through the Chase app, website, or by phone. You only need to visit a branch if you're adding a joint account holder and both people want the change processed immediately, or if Chase asks you to verify documents in person.

What if I got married and want to change my last name on the account?

Bring your marriage certificate to a Chase branch, or upload it through your online account, or mail it to Chase with a request form. You can also call customer service and they may be able to process it over the phone if you can provide the certificate number or details. The change typically takes one to three business days.

Can my spouse remove themselves from our joint account without my permission?

No. Only the original account owner can remove a joint holder. Your spouse cannot unilaterally remove themselves or you from the account. If they want out, they would need to ask you to call Chase and request the removal.

Will changing the account name affect my direct deposits or automatic payments?

No. The account number and routing number do not change when you update the name. All direct deposits, automatic bill payments, and other recurring transactions will continue without interruption.

How long does it take to add someone as a joint account holder?

If you both visit a branch in person with ID, it takes effect immediately or within one business day. If you mail in a signed authorization form, it takes five to seven business days from when Chase receives it. Call ahead to confirm your branch can process joint account additions on the same day.