Yes, you can add someone to your Chase account, but the method depends on the account type and your relationship to that person
Chase lets you add another person to a checking or savings account in two main ways: as a joint account holder or as an authorized user. The difference matters because it changes what that person can do with the account and what legal responsibility they carry.
A joint account holder has full ownership rights—they can withdraw money, close the account, and are equally liable for overdrafts or fraud. An authorized user can access the account and make transactions, but does not own it and is not legally responsible for the account. Most people adding a spouse, adult child, or trusted family member choose joint ownership. Authorized user status works better for teenagers or someone who needs limited access.
You can start the process online through Chase's website or mobile app, by phone, or in person at a branch. The exact steps and what documents you need depend on which option you choose and whether the other person already has a Chase account.
Key Takeaways
- Joint account holders own the account equally and can do anything with it, including closing it or withdrawing all funds, while authorized users can transact but do not own the account.
- You can add someone online through the Chase app or website, by calling Chase customer service, or by visiting a branch in person with the other person present.
- The person you are adding must provide identification and agree to the account terms, and Chase may run a background check or verify their identity through ChexSystems.
- Adding a joint owner or authorized user does not affect your existing account number, routing number, or direct deposits—the account stays the same.
- If you want to remove someone later, you can do so online or at a branch, though removing a joint owner may require both signatures depending on the account type.
Adding a joint account holder online or through the app
The fastest way to add a joint owner is through Chase's website or mobile app if both of you already have Chase accounts. Log into your account, go to Settings or Account Management, and look for an option to add an account owner or authorized user. Chase will ask for the other person's name, date of birth, and the last four digits of their Social Security number. They will then send a request to that person's Chase account asking them to confirm.
If the other person does not have a Chase account yet, you will need to go to a branch or call Chase to complete the process. Chase requires the new account holder to verify their identity in person or through a video call before they can be added to an existing account. This is part of Chase's fraud prevention and account verification process.
Once the other person confirms the request, they will have immediate access to the account through their own Chase login. Both of you will see the account in your respective apps and online portals, and both names will appear on the account statements and debit cards.
Adding someone in person at a Chase branch
If you prefer to handle this face-to-face, or if the other person does not have a Chase account, visit a branch together. Bring a valid government-issued photo ID for both of you—a driver's license, passport, or state ID card. The branch representative will verify both identities and explain the account terms and responsibilities.
The person being added will need to sign account documents and may be asked to provide their Social Security number so Chase can run a background check through ChexSystems, which is a banking history database. This check typically takes a few minutes and does not affect credit scores. If there are issues with the ChexSystems report, Chase will tell you on the spot.
After both of you sign, the account is updated immediately. The new account holder can start using the account right away, either through the Chase app if they have one or by setting up online access at a branch computer.
Adding an authorized user instead of a joint owner
If you want someone to access the account but not own it, add them as an authorized user. This is common for teenagers, adult children who help with finances, or caregivers. An authorized user can use the debit card, make transfers, and pay bills, but cannot close the account or change account settings.
To add an authorized user, go to your Chase account online or in the app and look for "Manage Authorized Users" or similar language in the account settings. You will enter their name and relationship to you. Chase does not always require the authorized user to have their own Chase account or to sign documents, depending on their age and your account type.
If the authorized user is a minor, Chase may have additional restrictions—for example, they might not be able to make online transfers or set up bill pay without your approval. Check your specific account type or ask at a branch about age-related limits.
What happens to your account when someone is added
Adding a joint owner or authorized user does not change your account number, routing number, or existing direct deposits. Your employer, creditors, and other organizations sending money to your account will not be affected. The account continues to work exactly as it did before.
Both account holders will receive their own debit cards with their names on them. If you order a card for the new account holder, it typically arrives within 7 to 10 business days. You can request expedited delivery at a branch if you need it faster.
All transactions—deposits, withdrawals, transfers, and bill payments—will show up on the shared account statements. Both of you will see the same transaction history in your Chase apps and online portals. If you want to keep some transactions private, a joint account is not the right choice; you would need separate accounts instead.
Removing someone from your account later
If you need to remove a joint owner, the process varies by account type. For some accounts, either owner can remove the other by going online or calling Chase. For others, both owners must agree and sign a form. Call Chase or visit a branch to find out what applies to your account.
Removing an authorized user is simpler—you can do it online or by calling Chase, and the authorized user does not need to agree. Their debit card will stop working immediately, though they may still see the account in their Chase app until they log out and back in.
If there is money in the account when you remove a joint owner, that money stays in the account. The removed person does not get their share unless you transfer it to them separately. Make sure you and the other person agree on how to handle the balance before you remove them.
What Chase needs from you and the other person
| Information or Document | Who Provides It | When It Is Needed |
|---|---|---|
| Valid government photo ID | Both people | Always, whether online or in person |
| Social Security number or ITIN | Person being added | Always, for background check and tax reporting |
| Date of birth | Person being added | Always |
| Proof of address (utility bill, lease, or government mail) | Person being added | Sometimes, depending on account type and verification method |
| Signed account agreement | Both people (joint owner) or account holder only (authorized user) | In person or by video verification |
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I add someone to my Chase account if they do not have a Chase account?
Yes. You will need to visit a branch or complete a video verification call with Chase. The person being added does not need an existing Chase account, but they will need to provide identification and go through Chase's verification process before they can be added as a joint owner. Authorized users do not always need their own Chase account.
What is the difference between a joint owner and an authorized user?
A joint owner has full legal ownership of the account and can do anything with it, including closing it or changing account settings. They are also liable for overdrafts and responsible for the account. An authorized user can make transactions and access the account but does not own it and is not legally responsible for it.
Can I add someone to my account without them knowing?
No. Chase requires the person being added to verify their identity and agree to the account terms. If you are adding a joint owner, they must confirm the request through their own Chase account or in person at a branch. You cannot add someone without their knowledge or consent.
Will adding someone to my account affect my credit score?
No. Adding a joint owner or authorized user does not appear on credit reports and does not affect your credit score. Chase runs a background check through ChexSystems, which is a banking history database, not a credit bureau.
Can I remove a joint owner if they do not agree?
It depends on your account type. Some Chase accounts allow either owner to remove the other unilaterally; others require both owners to sign. Call Chase or visit a branch to find out what applies to your account. You can always remove an authorized user without their consent.