You can add someone to a Chase checking account, but the method depends on whether you want them to have full access or limited control

Chase offers two main ways to bring someone onto your account: as an authorized userjoint account holder, who has equal legal ownership and can make all decisions about the account. The difference matters because authorized users cannot close the account or change ownership, while joint account holders can. You can add someone in person at a Chase branch, by phone, or through the Chase mobile app or website — though not all methods work for every account type.

The person you want to add must be at least 18 years old and will need to provide identification. If you are adding them as a joint account holder, they will also need to sign documents that establish their legal ownership. Chase does not charge a fee to add someone to an existing account.

Key Takeaways

  • Authorized users can use a debit card and see the account online, but cannot close the account or change its terms.
  • Joint account holders have equal ownership and can make any decision about the account, including closing it.
  • You can add someone through a Chase branch, by phone at the number on your card, or through the Chase app or website.
  • The person being added must be 18 or older and will need to provide a government-issued ID.
  • Chase does not charge a fee to add an authorized user or joint account holder to a checking account.

Adding an authorized user through the Chase app or website

If you have a Chase checking account and online access, you can add an authorized user without visiting a branch. Log into your Chase account on the website or mobile app, go to the account settings or account details section, and look for an option to add a user or cardholder. Chase will ask you for the person's full name, date of birth, and Social Security number. You will also need to confirm their mailing address.

Once you submit the request, Chase will review it — this usually takes one to three business days. The new authorized user will receive a debit card in the mail within 7 to 10 business days. They can use the card immediately once it arrives, and they can also access the account online using their own login credentials once Chase activates them in the system.

Adding a joint account holder at a Chase branch

If you want to add someone as a joint owner rather than an authorized user, you will need to visit a Chase branch in person. Bring your ID and ask to speak with an account representative about converting your account to a joint account or opening a new joint account. The person you are adding must come with you and bring their own government-issued ID.

The branch representative will have both of you sign the necessary paperwork to establish joint ownership. This process usually takes 15 to 30 minutes. Once it is complete, both account holders have equal rights to the account — either one can withdraw money, change the account settings, or close it. Chase will issue a debit card to the new joint owner, which arrives within 7 to 10 business days.

Adding someone by phone

You can call the number on the back of your Chase debit card to add an authorized user over the phone. A representative will verify your identity by asking security questions, then collect the name, date of birth, and Social Security number of the person you want to add. They will also confirm the mailing address where the new card should be sent.

Phone-based additions typically take one to three business days to process. The new authorized user's card will arrive within 7 to 10 business days. If you need to add a joint account holder, Chase will not complete this over the phone — you will need to visit a branch in person.

What happens after someone is added to your account

Once an authorized user or joint account holder is active, they can see all transactions on the account and access it through their own online login. They receive their own debit card and can make purchases or withdraw cash. If you set up alerts on your account, you can choose whether the other person receives copies of those alerts.

You can remove an authorized user at any time through the Chase app, website, or by calling the number on your card. Removing a joint account holder is more complicated — you will need to visit a branch in person, and Chase may require that person's consent or a court order, depending on the circumstances.

Removing someone from your account

To remove an authorized user, log into your Chase account online or through the app, go to account settings, and select the option to remove a user. You can also call Chase and ask a representative to remove them. The authorized user's debit card will stop working immediately, though they may still see the account online until Chase fully deactivates their access — this usually happens within one business day.

Removing a joint account holder is different because they have legal ownership rights. You cannot remove them unilaterally through the app or phone. You will need to visit a Chase branch and speak with a representative about your options, which may include closing the account and opening a new one, or obtaining written consent from the joint owner. If the joint owner is unreachable or refuses to cooperate, you may need legal help.

What to know about account access and liability

Both authorized users and joint account holders can see the full account balance and transaction history. They can also receive statements and set up alerts. The key difference is control: an authorized user cannot change the account password, add or remove other users, or close the account. A joint account holder can do all of these things.

If money goes missing from the account, Chase's fraud protection covers unauthorized transactions made by someone who is not on the account. If an authorized user or joint account holder takes money without your permission, that is a civil or criminal matter between you and that person — Chase will not reverse it as fraud. This is why it is important to add only someone you trust completely.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I add someone to my account if they do not have a Social Security number?

Chase requires a Social Security number or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) to add someone to an account. If the person does not have either, they will not be able to be added as an authorized user or joint account holder. You may want to contact Chase directly to discuss other options.

What if the person I want to add lives in a different state?

You can add someone who lives out of state through the Chase app, website, or phone. You do not need to visit a branch together. The debit card will be mailed to their address, and they can access the account online from anywhere. If you want to add them as a joint account holder, you will need to visit a Chase branch in person, but they do not need to be present.

Can I add a minor to my checking account?

Chase does not allow minors to be added as authorized users or joint account holders on a regular checking account. If you want to give a minor access to funds, Chase offers a teen checking account that allows a parent or guardian to manage the account while the minor learns to use it. Contact a Chase branch for details.

Will adding someone to my account affect their credit score?

Adding someone as an authorized user or joint account holder does not affect their credit score. Checking accounts are not reported to credit bureaus. However, if the account goes into overdraft or is sent to collections, it could appear on both account holders' credit reports.

How long does it take for the new person to access the account online?

After Chase processes the addition, the new authorized user or joint account holder can usually access the account online within one to three business days. They will need to set up their own login credentials. The debit card arrives separately within 7 to 10 business days.