You can add an authorized user or joint owner to most Chase accounts through the mobile app or online banking, but the process and permissions differ by account type
Chase lets you add someone to your account in two ways: as an authorized user or as a joint owner. An authorized user can use the account but does not own it and cannot close it or change account settings. A joint owner has full control, including the ability to close the account or remove you. Most Chase customers start the process through the Chase mobile app or Chase.com, though some account types require a phone call or visit to a branch.
The exact steps depend on whether you have a checking account, savings account, or credit card, and whether you want to add a family member, employee, or someone else. Chase does not allow you to complete all account changes online—some still require verification by phone or in person.
Key Takeaways
- Authorized users can use the account but cannot change settings or close it; joint owners have full control and equal rights to the account.
- Chase checking and savings accounts can be modified online through the mobile app or Chase.com, but you may need to call or visit a branch for final approval.
- Adding someone to a Chase credit card is usually done by calling the number on the back of your card, not through online banking.
- The person you are adding will need to provide their Social Security number and date of birth for identity verification.
- Changes to account ownership or authorized users can take one to three business days to appear in Chase systems.
Adding an authorized user to a Chase checking or savings account
Start in the Chase mobile app or at Chase.com and look for the account settings or account details section. In the app, tap the account you want to modify, then look for a menu option labeled "Manage account," "Account settings," or "Add authorized user." On the website, log in, select the account, and find the settings or profile area. Chase will ask you to enter the person's full name, date of birth, and Social Security number.
After you submit the information, Chase will verify the person's identity. This can happen immediately or take up to one business day. Once verified, Chase will send the new authorized user a notice by mail or email (depending on your account settings) confirming they have been added. The authorized user can then request a debit card or access the account through their own Chase login if they set one up.
If Chase cannot verify the person online—for example, if they have no credit history or if their information does not match Chase's records—you will be asked to call Chase or visit a branch to complete the addition. Have the person's ID and Social Security card available when you call.
Adding a joint owner to a Chase checking or savings account
Adding a joint owner is more restrictive than adding an authorized user because it gives the other person equal legal rights to the account. Chase requires you to either call or visit a branch in person to add a joint owner; you cannot do this entirely online. Call the number on the back of your debit card or visit your local Chase branch with the person you want to add as joint owner.
Both of you will need to provide government-issued ID and your Social Security numbers. Chase will verify both identities and may ask questions about the account and your relationship. Once approved, both of you will have full access to the account, including the ability to withdraw all funds, close the account, or remove the other person. The change typically takes one to three business days to appear in Chase systems.
Adding an authorized user to a Chase credit card
Call the number on the back of your Chase credit card to add an authorized user. You cannot do this through Chase.com or the mobile app. Have the person's full name, date of birth, and Social Security number ready. Chase will verify the information and issue a new card in that person's name, which will arrive by mail in five to seven business days.
An authorized user on a credit card can make purchases and view the account, but the primary cardholder (you) remains responsible for all charges and payments. The authorized user cannot change the credit limit, close the account, or remove themselves. You can remove an authorized user at any time by calling the same number.
What happens after you add someone online
Once you submit the request through Chase.com or the app, Chase will send you a confirmation message. If the person is added immediately, they may receive an email or letter within one to two business days. If Chase needs to verify the person by phone, a representative will contact you or the person you are adding within one business day.
For checking and savings accounts, the new authorized user can access the account through their own Chase login once they are added. They will need to enroll in online banking if they have not already. For credit cards, they must wait for the physical card to arrive before they can use it, though some Chase cards allow temporary digital card access through the mobile app.
If you change your mind, you can remove an authorized user through the same account settings menu where you added them. The removal takes effect immediately in most cases, though it may take one business day for the person to lose access to the account.
When you cannot add someone online
Chase requires a phone call or branch visit if the person you want to add has no Social Security number (such as a non-U.S. citizen without an ITIN), if their identity cannot be verified through Chase's system, or if you want to add a joint owner. You also cannot add someone online if you have a business account, a trust account, or certain specialty accounts—these require a branch visit.
If you are trying to add a minor (under 18), Chase has specific rules depending on your state and the type of account. Some states allow minors to be authorized users; others require a parent or guardian to be a joint owner. Call Chase or visit a branch to discuss options for a minor.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I add someone to my Chase account if they do not have a Social Security number?
No, not online. Chase requires a Social Security number or ITIN to verify identity. If the person does not have one, you will need to call Chase or visit a branch to discuss other options, which may include using an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number if they are may be able to access.
How long does it take for someone to access the account after I add them online?
For authorized users on checking or savings accounts, access is usually available within one to two business days. For credit cards, the person must wait for the physical card to arrive (five to seven business days) before they can use it, though some cards offer temporary digital access.
Can I add someone to my Chase account without their knowledge?
No. Chase requires the person's Social Security number and date of birth, and will send them a notice confirming they have been added. Adding someone without their consent is fraud and illegal.
What is the difference between an authorized user and a joint owner?
An authorized user can use the account but cannot change settings, close it, or remove themselves. A joint owner has full control and equal rights, including the ability to close the account or remove the other person. Joint owners are legally responsible for all account activity.
Can I remove someone from my Chase account online?
Yes. Go to the account settings where you added them and select the option to remove the authorized user. The removal takes effect immediately or within one business day. Removing a joint owner requires a phone call or branch visit.