You can add an authorized user or joint owner to your Chase checking account online, by phone, or in person at a branch

Chase lets you add another person to your checking account in two ways: as a joint owner (who has equal rights to the account and can make all decisions) or as an authorized user (who can access and use the account but you remain the primary owner). The fastest route is online through Chase's website or mobile app if you're adding someone to an existing account. If you're opening a new account together, you can do it in person at a branch or over the phone. The person you're adding will need to provide their Social Security number and consent to a credit check, though Chase does not require a minimum credit score to be added.

Key Takeaways

  • Joint owners have equal control of the account and can make changes or close it; authorized users can use the account but cannot change ownership or close it.
  • You can add someone online through your Chase account if they already have a Chase login, or by phone if they don't.
  • The person being added will need their Social Security number and must consent to a credit check.
  • If you're adding a minor, Chase has separate rules and may require the minor to be present at a branch.
  • Both joint owners and authorized users receive debit cards and full access to the account's funds.

Adding an authorized user online

Log into your Chase account on the website or mobile app and navigate to the account settings or account details section. Look for an option labeled "Manage users," "Add authorized user," or "Account access." Chase will ask for the person's full name, date of birth, and Social Security number. You'll also need to confirm their relationship to you (spouse, family member, employee, etc.). Chase will run a soft credit check, which does not affect their credit score.

Once you submit the request, Chase typically processes it within one to three business days. The person will receive a notification that they've been added and can then order a debit card through the app or request one at a branch. They can access the account immediately through their own Chase login if they already have one, or they can create a new login using the email address on file.

Adding a joint owner by phone or in person

If you want to add a joint owner rather than an authorized user, or if the person doesn't have a Chase account yet, call Chase at the number on the back of your debit card. A representative will walk you through the process and collect the same information: the person's name, date of birth, Social Security number, and address. They'll also confirm that the person consents to being added and to the credit check.

You can also visit a Chase branch in person with the other person present. Bring a government-issued ID for both of you. The banker will add them to the account on the spot, and you can order a debit card for them immediately. In-person additions are processed the same day, though the debit card itself will arrive by mail within seven to ten business days.

The difference between joint owners and authorized users

A joint owner has equal legal rights to the account. They can withdraw money, deposit money, order checks, change account settings, add or remove other users, and close the account entirely. Both owners are equally responsible for any overdrafts or fees. If one joint owner passes away, the account typically passes to the surviving owner automatically (depending on your state's laws). Joint ownership is common for spouses, domestic partners, or business partners who manage finances together.

An authorized user can use the account and access funds but cannot change the account's ownership, add or remove other users, or close the account. Only the primary owner can make those changes. Authorized users are useful for adult children, employees, or family members who need access to money but shouldn't have full control. If you remove an authorized user, they lose access immediately, and Chase will deactivate their debit card.

Adding a minor to your account

Chase has specific rules for minors (anyone under 18). You cannot add a minor as a joint owner; they can only be an authorized user. The minor must be present at a Chase branch with a government-issued ID (such as a school ID, passport, or state ID) or a birth certificate. You must also be present as the account owner. Chase will not process minor additions online or by phone.

Once added, the minor receives a debit card and can use the account like any other authorized user. However, they cannot make changes to the account or add other users. When the minor turns 18, you can convert them to a joint owner if you both want to, but this requires a separate request.

What happens after someone is added

The person you added will see the account in their Chase login (if they already had one) or can create a new login using their email address. They can view transaction history, transfer money, pay bills, and use the debit card immediately. If they don't have a Chase account yet, they'll receive an email invitation to set one up within one to two business days.

A debit card will be mailed to the address on file for the account within seven to ten business days. If they need a card sooner, they can visit a Chase branch and request an expedited card or a temporary card number. Both joint owners and authorized users can set up mobile wallet access (Apple Pay, Google Pay, Samsung Pay) using the debit card number once it arrives.

Removing someone from your account

If you need to remove an authorized user, log into your Chase account, go to account settings, and select the option to remove or manage users. You can remove them immediately, and their access will be cut off right away. Their debit card will stop working within hours. If you want to remove a joint owner, you'll need to call Chase or visit a branch, because the system requires both owners to consent or one owner to close the account and open a new one.

If a joint owner passes away, contact Chase with a death certificate. Chase will typically convert the account to the surviving owner's name alone, though the process varies by state and whether the account was set up with survivorship rights.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I add someone to my Chase account if they don't have a Social Security number?

No. Chase requires a Social Security number for anyone being added to an account, whether as a joint owner or authorized user. If the person has an ITIN (Individual Taxpayer Identification Number) instead, contact Chase directly to see if they can use that, though policies vary by branch.

Will adding someone to my account affect their credit score?

Chase runs a soft credit check, which does not appear on their credit report and does not lower their credit score. A soft check is an inquiry only you can see in your own credit history.

What if the person I want to add doesn't live near a Chase branch?

You can add them online if they have a Chase login, or by phone. You do not need to visit a branch unless you're adding a minor or want to order a card in person. The debit card will be mailed to whatever address you provide.

Can I add someone to my account without their knowledge?

No. Chase requires the person's consent and their Social Security number. If you add someone without their knowledge, they will receive a notification from Chase, and they can contact Chase to dispute or remove themselves from the account.

What if I want to add someone but keep their name off the account statements?

You cannot hide an authorized user or joint owner from account statements. Both appear on all statements and in the account's transaction history. If privacy is a concern, speak with a Chase banker about your options.