What you need to bring and who has to be present
Both account holders must visit the bank in person or complete the application together online, depending on the bank's rules. Most banks require both people to be there at the same time for in-person accounts, though some allow one person to start the account and the other to be added later by mail or video call.
Bring a government-issued photo ID for each person—a driver's license, passport, or state ID card. You will also need proof of your current address, usually a utility bill, lease, or mortgage statement dated within the last 60 days. Some banks accept a government document with your address instead.
If either account holder does not have a Social Security number, bring an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) or passport instead. The bank will ask for this to verify your identity and meet federal reporting rules.
Key Takeaways
- Both account holders must be present in person or complete the application together online, though some banks allow one person to add the other remotely after opening.
- Bring a photo ID and proof of current address for each person; the bank will verify your identity before opening the account.
- Decide in advance whether you want equal access to the account or different permission levels, because some banks offer limited-access options.
- The account is usually open within one business day if you apply in person, or three to five business days if you apply online.
- Ask the bank about overdraft protection, fraud monitoring, and what happens to the account if one owner dies, because these rules vary by bank.
Choosing between equal access and limited access
Most joint accounts give both owners full access to all the money and the ability to make any transaction—deposits, withdrawals, transfers, or closing the account. This is called equal access, and it is the default at most banks.
Some banks offer limited-access options where one person can deposit and withdraw but cannot close the account, or where one person can only view the balance without moving money. Ask the bank what options they offer before you open the account, because you cannot always change the access level later without closing and reopening.
If you are opening an account with a minor, the bank will usually set it up so the adult has full control and the minor can use a debit card with limits you set. The minor's access may expand automatically at a certain age, typically 18.
What happens during the application
The bank will run a background check through ChexSystems, a database that tracks banking history and fraud. This check does not affect your credit score. If either account holder has a history of unpaid overdrafts or fraud at another bank, the application may be denied or delayed.
The bank will also ask about the source of your money and the purpose of the account. This is a federal requirement called Know Your Customer (KYC). Answer honestly—they are not judging you, they are documenting the account for tax and anti-money-laundering purposes.
You will receive a routing number and account number on the spot or within one business day. Some banks issue a debit card immediately; others mail it within five to seven business days. Ask whether you can use the account for transfers or bill pay before the card arrives.
Timing: how long it takes to use the account
If you open the account in person at a branch, you can usually start using it the same day for transfers and bill pay, though the debit card will arrive by mail. Some banks allow you to use a temporary digital card in their mobile app right away.
If you open the account online, the bank will verify your identity through a video call or by uploading documents. This process usually takes one to three business days. Once approved, the account opens within 24 hours, and you can use it for transfers immediately.
Deposits made in person or through mobile deposit clear within one business day. Transfers from another bank take one to three business days, depending on whether you use ACH (slower, free) or wire transfer (faster, usually costs $15 to $30).
Understanding what you are signing
The bank will give you a deposit agreement that explains the account rules, fees, and what happens if there is a dispute. Read the section on account ownership—it will say whether the account is held as "joint tenants with rights of survivorship" or "tenants in common." This matters if one owner dies.
With rights of survivorship, the surviving owner automatically owns the entire account. With tenants in common, the deceased owner's share goes to their estate, which can delay access to the money and create tax complications. Most banks default to rights of survivorship unless you ask otherwise.
Ask the bank about overdraft protection and whether they charge overdraft fees. Some banks link your joint account to a savings account so that overdrafts are covered automatically; others charge $35 per overdraft. This is negotiable at some banks if you maintain a minimum balance.
After the account opens: what to do next
Set up online banking for both owners immediately. Each person should create their own login and password, not share credentials. Most banks allow you to set up alerts so that both owners are notified of large transactions or low balances.
Decide how you will manage the money: will one person handle deposits and the other handle bills, or will you both have full responsibility? Write this down or discuss it clearly, because the bank cannot enforce an agreement between you—they will honor any transaction either owner makes.
If you are moving money from another bank, ask about the bank's transfer limits. Some banks cap transfers at $10,000 per day for new accounts and raise the limit after 30 days. If you need to move more, ask the bank to increase your limit in advance.
What to do if the application is denied
If the bank denies your application, ask why. The most common reasons are a ChexSystems record (unpaid overdrafts or fraud at another bank), insufficient ID, or an address that cannot be verified. You can request a copy of your ChexSystems report and dispute errors on it.
If you were denied because of a ChexSystems record, you can try a different bank—not all banks use ChexSystems, and some specialize in second-chance accounts. Credit unions often have more flexible policies than large banks.
If you were denied because of an address issue, bring a second form of proof (a lease, utility bill, and a government document together often work). If one person has no address history, some banks will accept a letter from an employer or a recent tax return.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can we open a joint account if we are not married?
Yes. Banks do not require marriage or any legal relationship. You can open a joint account with a family member, business partner, friend, or anyone else. Both people must be present or complete the application together, and both must provide ID and proof of address.
What if one person does not have a Social Security number?
They can use an ITIN (Individual Taxpayer Identification Number) or a passport. The bank will ask for this during the application. If neither document is available, some banks will not open the account; others may accept a combination of documents like a lease and a foreign passport.
Can we add a third person to the account later?
Most banks allow you to add a third owner, but you usually have to go to a branch in person or call and complete a form. Some banks charge a small fee to add an owner. Ask your bank about their policy before you open the account if you think you might need this later.
What happens to the account if one owner dies?
If the account has rights of survivorship, the surviving owner owns the entire account automatically and can access it right away. If it is set up as tenants in common, the deceased owner's share goes to their estate, and the surviving owner may not be able to access or withdraw money until the estate is settled.
Do both owners have to be present to close the account?
No. Either owner can close a joint account without the other's permission. The bank will distribute the balance according to the account agreement. If you are concerned about this, discuss it with the other owner before opening the account, or ask the bank about limited-access options.