You can add an authorized user or joint owner to your Chase checking account through the Chase mobile app or website in about five minutes

Log into your Chase account online or open the Chase mobile app. Go to your checking account details, look for "Account Services" or "Manage Account," and select the option to add a user. Chase will ask whether you want to add an authorized user (someone who can use the debit card and make transactions but does not own the account) or a joint owner (someone with equal access and legal ownership). You will need the person's Social Security number, date of birth, and current address. The process takes a few minutes, and Chase will send confirmation to both account holders.

The person you add will receive a debit card in the mail within 7 to 10 business days. They can start making transactions online or through the app immediately, but they cannot withdraw cash or use the card in stores until the physical card arrives. If you need them to access funds faster, you can transfer money to their own account or add them as an authorized user on an existing Chase credit card instead, which gives them a card they can use right away.

Key Takeaways

  • Authorized users can spend from your account but do not own it; joint owners have equal legal rights and access to all account features.
  • You will need the person's Social Security number, date of birth, and address to add them through the Chase app or website.
  • A new debit card takes 7 to 10 business days to arrive, but the person can make online and app-based transactions immediately.
  • Both account holders receive confirmation of the change, and either can remove the other person later.

Authorized user versus joint owner: which one to choose

An authorized user gets a debit card linked to your account and can spend money, but you remain the sole owner. You can set spending limits, freeze the card, or remove them at any time without their consent. The account stays in your name on statements and tax documents. This is the right choice if you want to give someone access to funds—a teenager, a caregiver, or a family member—but keep full control.

A joint owner has equal legal rights to the account. Both names appear on the account, both can withdraw all the money, both can close the account, and both are responsible for overdrafts or fees. If you add a joint owner, they can remove you or change account settings without asking. This is appropriate only for a spouse, partner, or someone you fully trust with complete control. Once you make someone a joint owner, removing them is more complicated than removing an authorized user.

Chase does not charge a fee to add either type of user to a checking account. The person you add does not need to be a Chase customer already—Chase will create a profile for them during the process.

Step-by-step: adding someone through the Chase app

Open the Chase mobile app and sign in to your account. Tap the checking account you want to modify. Scroll down and look for "Account Services," "Manage Account," or a settings icon (usually three dots or lines). Tap "Add User" or "Manage Users."

Chase will ask you to choose: authorized user or joint owner. Select the option that matches what you want. Enter the person's full name, Social Security number, date of birth, and current mailing address. Make sure the information is exact—Chase will verify it against their records, and mismatches can delay the process.

Review the information and confirm. Chase will send a confirmation email to your registered email address and, within a day or two, will send a separate confirmation to the person you added. They will receive instructions on how to set up their own Chase login if they do not have one already. The new debit card ships to the address you provided and typically arrives within 7 to 10 business days.

Adding someone through Chase.com on a computer

Log into Chase.com and click on the checking account you want to modify. Look for "Account Services" or "Manage Account" in the left menu or under a settings option. Click "Add User" or "Manage Users."

Follow the same steps as the app: choose authorized user or joint owner, enter the person's full name, Social Security number, date of birth, and address, and confirm. The process is identical to the mobile app, and you will receive the same confirmations. Some people find the website easier to use for entering information on a larger screen, but both methods work equally well.

What happens after you add someone

The person you added will receive an email from Chase asking them to confirm their identity and set up online access if they do not have a Chase login already. They should click the link in that email and follow the prompts. If they do not receive an email within 24 hours, ask them to check their spam folder or contact Chase at 1-800-935-9935 to confirm their email address is correct.

Once they log in, they can see the account balance, transaction history, and set up alerts. They can also transfer money, pay bills, and use mobile check deposit. If you added them as an authorized user, they cannot change account settings, add or remove other users, or close the account—only you can do those things. If you added them as a joint owner, they have the same permissions you do.

The new debit card will arrive at the address you provided. The person should activate it by calling the number on the back of the card or through the Chase app. Once activated, they can use it at ATMs, stores, and online. If the card does not arrive within 12 business days, they can request a replacement through the app or by calling Chase.

Removing someone from your account

You can remove an authorized user at any time through the Chase app or website. Go to "Manage Users," select the person's name, and click "Remove User." Chase will deactivate their debit card immediately, and they will lose access to the account. You do not need their permission or consent.

Removing a joint owner is more involved. Both of you must agree to the change, or you will need to close the account and open a new one in your name alone. If you and a joint owner disagree about removing them, contact Chase to discuss your options—the bank may require both signatures or a court order in some situations.

If the person's debit card is lost or stolen, you can freeze or cancel it immediately through the app without removing them from the account. They can request a replacement card, which will arrive in 7 to 10 business days.

Troubleshooting common problems

If Chase rejects the person's Social Security number or date of birth, the information you entered does not match their records. Ask them to verify their legal name, birth date, and the address on file with the Social Security Administration. Typos are common—double-check spelling and make sure you used their full legal name, not a nickname. If the problem persists, have them contact Chase directly at 1-800-935-9935 with their Social Security card and ID.

If the person does not receive a confirmation email, check that you entered their email address correctly. Ask them to check their spam and promotions folders. If they still do not see it after 24 hours, they can log into Chase.com and update their email address in account settings, or call Chase to confirm the address on file.

If the debit card does not arrive within 12 business days, the person can request a replacement through the Chase app by going to "Cards" and selecting "Request a Card." They can also call 1-800-935-9935. Replacement cards usually arrive within 7 to 10 business days. In the meantime, they can still use the account online and through the app.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I add someone who does not have a Social Security number?

No. Chase requires a Social Security number to verify identity and comply with federal banking rules. If the person has an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) instead, contact Chase directly to ask whether they can use that—policies vary by branch and situation.

What if I want to add someone who lives outside the United States?

Chase can add someone with a U.S. address, but if they live abroad, you will need to contact Chase directly. International addresses may not work through the online process, and Chase may have additional verification requirements.

Can I add someone under 18 to my account?

Yes, as an authorized user. Chase allows minors to be authorized users on a parent's or guardian's account. A minor cannot be a joint owner. The adult account holder retains full control and can set spending limits or remove the minor at any time.

Will adding someone to my account affect their credit score?

No. Adding an authorized user or joint owner to a checking account does not appear on a credit report and does not affect credit scores. Credit bureaus only track credit accounts like credit cards and loans, not checking accounts.

Can I add someone to my account if they are not a U.S. citizen?

Yes, as long as they have a valid Social Security number or ITIN and a U.S. address. Citizenship is not required to be added to a Chase checking account. However, if they do not have either number, contact Chase to discuss other options.