Yes, you can open a joint account online, but both account holders must be present and verified
Most banks and credit unions now let you start a joint account through their website or mobile app without visiting a branch. However, the process requires both people on the account to complete identity verification at the same time or in sequence, depending on the bank. You cannot open a joint account with only one person's information — the second account holder must provide their own Social Security number, government ID, and proof of address.
The speed and ease vary by institution. Some banks complete the entire process in 15 minutes; others require a phone call or video chat with a representative to confirm both parties consent. A few still require at least one person to sign documents in person or by wet signature, though this is becoming less common.
Key Takeaways
- Both account holders must verify their identity online using a Social Security number and government ID, usually a driver's license or passport.
- The second account holder typically receives an email or text with a link to complete their portion of the application, which they must do within a set timeframe (often 24 to 72 hours).
- Some banks require a phone or video call with both people present to confirm the account is intentional and both parties understand the terms.
- Funding the account — transferring money in — usually happens immediately after approval, though some banks hold new accounts for 24 to 48 hours before allowing transfers out.
What information you need before you start
Gather these details for both account holders before opening the account online. You will need each person's full legal name, date of birth, Social Security number, current address, and phone number. Have a government-issued ID ready — a driver's license, state ID card, or passport. Some banks also ask for proof of address, which can be a recent utility bill, lease, or mortgage statement dated within the last 60 days.
If either account holder has moved recently, use the current address, not a previous one. Banks verify addresses against public records, and mismatches can delay approval or cause the application to be rejected. If you do not have a Social Security number — for example, if one account holder is not a U.S. citizen — most mainstream banks will not open a joint account online; you will need to visit a branch and speak with a manager about alternatives.
How the online application process works
The first account holder starts the application on the bank's website or app and enters their personal information. They choose the account type (checking, savings, or money market), initial deposit amount, and whether they want debit cards or checks. Then they upload or photograph their ID and proof of address. The bank's system verifies this information in real time or within a few hours.
Once the first person's information is approved, the bank sends an invitation to the second account holder via email or text message. That person clicks the link, enters their own details, and completes the same identity verification process. Some banks allow this to happen immediately; others require a waiting period of a few hours to a day. After both people are verified, the account is created and you can fund it.
A small number of banks — particularly some credit unions and smaller regional banks — require a phone or video call with both account holders before the account is finalized. This call usually lasts 5 to 10 minutes and is meant to confirm that both people want the account and understand that each person has full access to all funds.
Funding the account and when you can use it
After approval, you can transfer money into the joint account immediately at most banks. You can link an external bank account and move funds via ACH (which takes one to three business days) or use a debit card to make an immediate deposit at an ATM if the bank has a network. Some banks let you deposit a check by photograph through the mobile app.
Withdrawals and transfers out of the new account may be restricted for 24 to 48 hours after opening, depending on the bank's fraud prevention policy. This hold does not prevent you from using a debit card to make purchases or withdrawals at ATMs, but it may block transfers to external accounts or large cash withdrawals. The hold lifts automatically after the waiting period.
What happens if one account holder cannot complete the process online
If the second account holder does not have internet access, cannot verify their identity online, or the bank's system rejects their ID, you will need to visit a branch in person. Bring both people, both government IDs, and proof of address for both account holders. A banker can manually verify the information and open the account on the spot, usually in 15 to 30 minutes.
If one person lives in a different state or country, most banks can still open the account online as long as both people can complete identity verification. However, if one account holder is outside the United States, some banks will not open a joint account at all, or will require a phone call with a manager. Call the bank's customer service line before starting the application to confirm whether this is possible.
Age requirements and account restrictions
Both account holders must be at least 18 years old to open a joint account online. If one person is under 18, you will need to open a custodial or minor account instead, which requires a parent or guardian to be the primary account holder. These accounts have different rules and cannot be opened the same way as a standard joint account.
Some banks restrict joint accounts for people with certain banking history issues — for example, if either person has unpaid overdrafts, fraud flags, or accounts closed due to suspicious activity. If the application is denied, the bank will send a notice explaining the reason. You can contact customer service to ask whether you can reapply or whether a branch visit might change the outcome.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I open a joint account online if the other person is not available right now?
Yes. You start the application, and the bank sends the second person an invitation link via email or text. They have a set window — usually 24 to 72 hours — to complete their part. If they do not respond in time, the application expires and you can start over.
What if the bank rejects one person's identity verification?
The bank will notify you of the rejection and may provide a reason — for example, the ID was unclear, the address did not match records, or the Social Security number could not be verified. You can usually reapply with corrected information or visit a branch with original documents for manual verification.
Do both people need to be present when we fund the account?
No. Either account holder can deposit money into the joint account after it is opened. The account is active for both people immediately, so whoever deposits first can do so alone.
Can I open a joint account online if one person does not have a Social Security number?
Most major banks require a Social Security number for both account holders and cannot open joint accounts online without one. You would need to visit a branch and ask a manager whether they offer accounts for non-citizens or whether an ITIN (Individual Taxpayer Identification Number) is accepted as an alternative.
How long does it take to open a joint account online from start to finish?
If both people complete their verification immediately, the account can be open within 15 minutes to a few hours. If the second person waits to respond to their invitation, it can take one to three days. Some banks add a 24 to 48-hour hold before you can transfer money out, so plan for up to a week if you need to move funds quickly.