Yes, you can open a joint checking account online, but the bank will require both account holders to verify their identity in real time
Most major banks and many credit unions now let you start a joint account application online. However, the process stops short of completion until both people on the account have proven who they are. Banks use video calls, in-person visits, or third-party identity verification services to confirm that both account holders are real people and that they consent to the joint account. You cannot finish the account opening with just one person's identity verification, even if that person has power of attorney over the other.
The timeline depends on the bank and which verification method you choose. Video verification with a bank representative typically takes 10 to 15 minutes per person and can happen the same day you apply. In-person verification at a branch takes as long as you need to get there. Some banks use automated identity verification through a third party, which can happen within minutes but may ask you to upload documents like a driver's license or passport.
Key Takeaways
- Both account holders must verify their identity before the account opens, and this verification usually happens online through video call or automated document upload.
- You can start the application online, but you cannot complete it without the second person's participation and consent.
- The entire process from application to account opening usually takes one to three business days if both people are available to verify at the same time.
- Banks require both Social Security numbers, dates of birth, and addresses for both account holders before they will open the account.
- If one account holder cannot verify their identity online, most banks offer in-person verification at a branch as an alternative.
What information you need before you start
Gather documents and information for both people before either of you begins the application. You will need each person's Social Security number, date of birth, current address, and a government-issued photo ID (driver's license, passport, or state ID). If either person has moved in the last 30 days, the bank may ask for proof of the new address, such as a utility bill or lease.
Some banks also ask for employment information or the source of funds you plan to deposit. This is standard anti-money-laundering screening, not a judgment about your income. Have this information ready so the application does not stall halfway through. If either account holder has had fraud or identity theft issues in the past, bring documentation showing that the issue was resolved.
How the online application and verification actually work
The first person logs into the bank's website or app and selects "open a joint account." They enter their own information and then provide the second account holder's name, email, and phone number. The bank sends the second person an email or text with a link to complete their part of the application. The second person enters their own information and consents to the joint account.
After both people have submitted their information, the bank initiates identity verification. This usually happens through one of three methods: a video call with a bank representative, an automated system that scans your ID and takes a selfie, or a request to upload documents. The bank will tell you which method they use and whether both people need to verify at the same time or can do it separately. Video verification typically requires both people to be available within a specific window, often 24 to 48 hours after you apply.
Once both identities are verified, the bank reviews the application for fraud and compliance. This review usually takes one to two business days. If everything clears, the account opens and you receive your account number, routing number, and debit cards by mail within 5 to 10 business days. Some banks offer temporary digital debit cards you can use immediately while you wait for the physical cards.
Banks that let you open joint accounts entirely online
Major national banks including Chase, Bank of America, Wells Fargo, and Citibank all allow joint account applications to start online. Credit unions such as Navy Federal, Alliant, and Connexus also offer online joint account opening. Online-only banks like Ally, Charles Schwab, and Discover have online joint account options, though some require at least one person to verify through video call rather than document upload.
The specific verification method varies by bank. Chase uses video verification with a representative. Bank of America offers both video calls and automated document scanning. Ally uses an automated system that scans your ID and takes a selfie. Call your bank or check their website before you apply to confirm which method they use and whether both people can verify from home or if one person needs to visit a branch.
What happens if one person cannot verify online
If the second account holder does not have reliable internet, a working camera, or a valid government ID, the online path stops. Most banks will let that person verify in person at a branch instead. You can complete your part of the application online, and the second person can go to a branch with their ID and sign the account paperwork there. The branch representative will verify their identity and submit it to complete the account opening.
This in-person option usually adds one to three business days to the timeline, depending on branch hours and how quickly the second person can get there. Some banks allow one person to verify online and the other in person on the same day if you coordinate with the branch. Call ahead to confirm the branch has the paperwork ready and to schedule a time if the bank requires an appointment.
What you cannot do online
You cannot open a joint account with only one person's identity verification, even if one person has a power of attorney document for the other. Banks treat joint accounts as requiring consent from both owners, and a power of attorney does not override that requirement. If the second person is incapacitated or unavailable, you would need to open a separate account in your name only or explore guardianship or conservatorship through the court, which is a different legal process entirely.
You also cannot use a joint account application to add someone to an existing account you already own. That is a separate process called adding an authorized user or converting to a joint account, and it usually requires a visit to the branch or a phone call to the bank's account services team. The online application process is only for opening a brand-new joint account from scratch.
Timeline from application to first use
| Step | Time Required | What Happens |
|---|---|---|
| Online application submitted by first person | 5 to 10 minutes | Bank sends verification link to second person |
| Second person completes application | 5 to 10 minutes | Both applications are now in the system |
| Identity verification (video or document upload) | Same day to 48 hours | Bank confirms both people are who they say they are |
| Fraud and compliance review | 1 to 2 business days | Bank checks for red flags and approves the account |
| Account opens and debit cards ship | 5 to 10 business days | You can use temporary digital cards immediately; physical cards arrive by mail |
The fastest timeline is when both people verify their identity on the same day using video call or automated document scanning. If one person is unavailable or chooses in-person verification, add one to three business days. Weekends and bank holidays pause the clock, so applying on a Friday afternoon may not see movement until Monday.
Most banks will send you email updates at each stage of the process. You can also log into your online banking portal to check the status of your application once it has been submitted. If the application stalls for more than 48 hours after both people have verified, contact the bank's customer service line to ask what is holding up the review.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do both people have to be present at the same time to open the account?
Not necessarily. You can submit your part of the application whenever you want, and the bank will send the second person a link to complete theirs on their own schedule. However, both people must verify their identity before the account opens, and depending on the bank's verification method, that may need to happen within a certain timeframe (usually 24 to 48 hours). Video verification often requires both people to be available at the same time, but automated document scanning usually lets each person verify separately.
What if the second person does not have a Social Security number?
Banks require a Social Security number or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) for both account holders to comply with federal anti-money-laundering rules. If the second person has an ITIN, you can use that instead. If they have neither, most banks will not open the account online. You would need to visit a branch in person and speak with a manager about alternative options, though many banks have strict policies against accounts without an SSN or ITIN.
Can I open a joint account online if we live in different states?
Yes. The bank does not care where you live as long as both of you can verify your identity and the bank operates in at least one of your states. If you use an online-only bank or a national bank, state lines are not a barrier. If you use a regional bank, confirm it has branches or services in both states before you apply.
What if the application gets rejected after we both verify?
Rejection usually happens during the fraud and compliance review, often because of a mismatch in personal information, a history of fraud, or a name that appears on a government watchlist. The bank will send you a letter explaining the reason. You can call the bank to ask for details and sometimes to correct information if the rejection was based on an error. If the rejection stands, you would need to apply at a different bank or resolve the underlying issue (such as identity theft) before trying again.
Can we use the account before the debit cards arrive?
Yes. Most banks issue temporary digital debit cards that you can add to your phone's wallet and use immediately for online purchases and contactless payments. You can also set up direct deposit or transfer money from another account using the account number and routing number the bank provides as soon as the account opens. Physical debit cards usually arrive within 5 to 10 business days.