You can add an authorized user or joint owner through Chase online banking, by phone, or in person at a branch

Chase lets you add another person to your checking account in three ways: as a joint owner (both of you control the account and are liable for overdrafts), as an authorized user (they can use the account but you remain the primary owner), or as a power of attorney (they can act on your behalf but don't own the account). The fastest route is Chase online banking if you're adding a joint owner; phone and branch visits work for all three types but take longer. You'll need the other person's Social Security number, date of birth, and address no matter which method you choose.

Each role carries different rights and responsibilities. A joint owner can withdraw money, write checks, set up transfers, and close the account—but they're also responsible for any overdrafts or fees. An authorized user can spend money and see the account balance but cannot close the account or change its terms. A power of attorney can conduct transactions on your behalf without owning the account, which is useful if you need someone to pay bills while you're away or unable to manage finances temporarily.

Key Takeaways

  • Joint owners have equal rights to the account and both are responsible for overdrafts; authorized users can spend money but cannot close the account or change terms.
  • You can add a joint owner through Chase online banking in minutes, but adding an authorized user or power of attorney usually requires a phone call or branch visit.
  • Chase will verify the new person's identity and may place a temporary hold on the account during the process.
  • The person you're adding must be at least 18 years old and have a valid Social Security number.

Adding a joint owner through Chase online banking

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 labeled "Add owner," "Manage owners," or "Account access." Chase will ask you to enter the other person's full name, Social Security number, date of birth, and current address. You'll confirm their identity by answering security questions or verifying information Chase has on file.

Once you submit the request, Chase typically processes it within one to three business days. The new joint owner will receive notification and may need to accept the addition before it takes effect. Both of you will then have full access to the account, including the ability to withdraw money, write checks, and set up transfers. Neither of you can remove the other without going to a branch in person.

Adding an authorized user or power of attorney by phone

Call Chase customer service at the number on the back of your debit card. Tell them you want to add an authorized user or grant power of attorney. Have the other person's Social Security number, date of birth, and address ready. The representative will verify your identity, confirm the details of the person you're adding, and explain what rights they will have.

For an authorized user, Chase will mail a debit card to the address on file and may take five to ten business days to complete the setup. For power of attorney, you may need to provide a signed power of attorney document or complete one through Chase. Ask the representative whether you need to visit a branch to sign anything in person; some situations require it, others do not. The representative can also tell you whether the addition will be reflected in your online account immediately or after processing is complete.

Adding someone in person at a Chase branch

Bring your ID and the other person's ID and Social Security number to any Chase branch. Tell the banker whether you want to add a joint owner, authorized user, or power of attorney. They will verify both identities, explain the rights and responsibilities of each role, and have you sign the necessary paperwork.

In-branch additions usually take 15 to 30 minutes. If you're adding a joint owner, the change can take effect immediately or within one business day. Authorized users and power of attorney arrangements may require additional processing time after you leave the branch. Ask the banker for a receipt or confirmation number so you can track the request if you don't see it reflected in your account within the stated timeframe.

What happens after you add someone

Once the addition is complete, the new person can access the account through their own Chase login (if they're a joint owner or authorized user) or through your account (if they're a power of attorney). They will see the account balance, transaction history, and be able to make transfers and payments. If they don't already have a Chase online banking account, they may need to set one up using the account number and routing number.

Chase may place a temporary fraud alert on the account during the first few days after adding someone new. This is normal and does not affect your ability to use the account. If you notice any unusual activity, call Chase immediately. Both the primary owner and any joint owners are responsible for overdrafts and fees, so make sure you trust anyone you add to the account.

Removing someone from your account

To remove a joint owner, you must visit a Chase branch in person with your ID. The banker will process the removal, which usually takes one to three business days. Once removed, the joint owner loses all access to the account and cannot make transactions or see the balance.

To remove an authorized user, you can call Chase customer service or visit a branch. The process is faster than removing a joint owner and can sometimes be done over the phone. The authorized user's debit card will stop working immediately, though they may still see the account in their Chase login for a short time before access is fully revoked. If you're removing a power of attorney, the document itself must be revoked in writing, which usually requires a branch visit or notarized letter.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

Chase requires a Social Security number for joint owners and authorized users. If the person has an ITIN (Individual Taxpayer Identification Number) instead, call Chase to ask whether they can use that. Some situations may allow it, but it depends on the person's status and the type of account.

What's the difference between a joint owner and an authorized user?

A joint owner has equal rights to the account and is equally responsible for overdrafts and fees. An authorized user can spend money and see the balance but cannot close the account, change the terms, or remove themselves. Only the primary owner can remove an authorized user.

Does adding someone to my account affect their credit score?

Adding a joint owner or authorized user does not directly affect their credit score because checking accounts are not reported to credit bureaus. However, if the account goes into overdraft or is sent to collections, it could appear on their credit report.

How long does it take to add someone to my Chase account?

Online additions of joint owners usually take one to three business days. Phone and branch additions can take anywhere from same-day to ten business days depending on the type of person you're adding and whether additional verification is needed.

Can I add someone who is under 18 to my account?

Chase requires anyone added to a checking account to be at least 18 years old. If you want to give a minor access to money, you can open a Chase student checking account or savings account in their name instead.