You can add someone to your Chase checking account in three ways: as an authorized user, as a joint account holder, or by giving them power of attorney

The method you choose depends on how much control you want to give them and whether you want their name on the account legally. An authorized user can use a debit card and make transactions but their name does not appear on the account documents — Chase still lists you as the owner. A joint account holder has equal legal ownership, their name appears on all statements and tax forms, and either person can close the account or remove the other. Power of attorney lets someone manage the account on your behalf without owning it, and it can be limited to specific transactions or ongoing access.

The fastest route is adding an authorized user online through Chase's mobile app or website, which takes minutes. Adding a joint account holder requires a visit to a Chase branch or a phone call, takes longer, and may involve opening a new account. Power of attorney requires legal paperwork and is the most formal option.

Key Takeaways

  • Authorized users can spend from your account and receive a debit card, but the account remains in your name only and they have no legal ownership.
  • Joint account holders own the account equally, their name appears on statements, and either person can access or close the account without the other's permission.
  • You can add an authorized user online through the Chase app or website in a few minutes, but adding a joint holder requires a branch visit or phone call.
  • The person you add must be at least 18 years old, and Chase will verify their identity before completing the change.
  • Removing someone from your account works differently depending on their status: authorized users can be removed online, but joint holders may require both signatures or a branch visit.

Adding an authorized user online

Log into your Chase account on the website or mobile app and navigate to the account settings or account details section. Look for an option labeled "Manage authorized users," "Add authorized user," or "Account access." You will need the person's full name, date of birth, Social Security number, and address. Chase will verify their identity, which usually takes a few minutes to a few hours.

Once approved, Chase will mail a debit card to the address you provide. The card arrives within 7 to 10 business days. The authorized user can begin making purchases and withdrawals as soon as the card arrives, and they can also access the account online if you give them the login credentials — though Chase recommends setting up a separate login for security.

An authorized user does not receive statements in their name, does not have legal ownership of the account, and cannot add other authorized users or change account settings. If you close the account or remove them, they lose access immediately.

Adding a joint account holder at a Chase branch

Visit a Chase branch with the person you want to add. Bring a government-issued photo ID for both of you. Tell the banker you want to add them as a joint account holder on your existing checking account. Some branches will add them to your current account; others will open a new joint account and transfer your balance. Ask which option applies before you start.

The banker will collect the new account holder's information, verify their identity, and explain that both of you will have equal access and legal responsibility for the account. They may ask about the reason for the change and may run a ChexSystems check (a banking history report). The process takes 15 to 30 minutes in the branch.

Once complete, both names appear on the account, both receive statements, and both can make withdrawals, add authorized users, or close the account. If one person wants to remove the other later, it typically requires both signatures or a return visit to the branch — Chase does not allow one joint holder to unilaterally remove the other online.

Adding a joint account holder by phone

Call Chase customer service at the number on the back of your debit card. Tell them you want to add a joint account holder to your checking account. They will verify your identity and ask for the other person's full name, date of birth, Social Security number, and address. Chase will then contact the other person to verify their identity as well.

This process takes longer than a branch visit — usually 3 to 5 business days — because Chase must confirm both parties' identities separately. You may be asked to sign documents and mail them back, or to visit a branch to complete the change in person. Chase will tell you which step is required when you call.

Once both identities are verified, the account is converted to a joint account and both names appear on all documents going forward.

Using power of attorney to manage the account

If you want someone to handle transactions on your behalf without giving them ownership, you can grant them power of attorney. This requires a legal document — either a general power of attorney (which covers all financial matters) or a limited power of attorney (which covers only your Chase account or only certain types of transactions). You create this document outside of Chase, usually with a lawyer or through a legal document service.

Once the document is signed and notarized, bring it to a Chase branch along with a government-issued ID. The banker will review it, make a copy for the account file, and notify the person you named that they can now manage the account. They will not own the account and their name will not appear on statements, but they can deposit, withdraw, and transfer money on your behalf.

Power of attorney is useful if you are elderly, ill, or traveling and need someone to pay bills or handle transactions temporarily. It can be revoked at any time by you, and it automatically ends if you pass away.

What happens to the account if you add someone

If you add an authorized user, your account type and features do not change. You keep the same account number, routing number, and statements. The authorized user simply gets access and a card.

If you add a joint account holder, Chase may convert your account to a joint account or open a new one. If a new account is opened, your old account is closed and your balance is transferred. Your direct deposits, automatic payments, and recurring transfers may need to be updated if the account number changes — Chase will tell you whether this applies. Both account holders receive statements, and both are responsible for overdrafts or fees.

If you grant power of attorney, the account remains in your name only and nothing changes visibly on statements or account settings. The attorney-in-fact simply has the legal right to act on your behalf.

Removing someone from your account

To remove an authorized user, log into your Chase account online or through the app, go to account settings, and select "Remove authorized user." The removal is immediate and the card stops working right away. You do not need the authorized user's permission.

To remove a joint account holder, you typically need to visit a Chase branch or call customer service. Because both parties own the account equally, Chase usually requires both signatures or both parties to be present. If the joint holder refuses to cooperate or is unreachable, you may need to close the account and open a new one in your name only — ask a banker about your options.

To revoke power of attorney, bring a written revocation to a Chase branch or send it by certified mail. The revocation takes effect once Chase receives and processes it, usually within a few business days.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I add someone to my account if they don't have a Social Security number?

Chase requires a Social Security number or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) to add someone as an authorized user or joint account holder. If the person does not have either, they cannot be added to your account. They could potentially use a different bank that accepts alternative identification, or they could apply for an ITIN through the IRS.

What's the difference between an authorized user and a joint account holder?

An authorized user can spend money and access the account, but you remain the sole owner and their name does not appear on statements or legal documents. A joint account holder owns the account equally with you, their name appears on all documents, and either person can close the account or remove the other. Joint holders also share liability for overdrafts and fees.

Can I add someone to my account without them knowing?

Chase requires identity verification for both authorized users and joint account holders, which means the person must provide their Social Security number and date of birth. For authorized users, Chase may contact them to confirm. For joint holders, Chase will definitely contact them separately. You cannot add someone without their knowledge or consent.

What if I want to add my child to my account?

Chase requires account holders to be at least 18 years old. If your child is under 18, you cannot add them as an authorized user or joint holder. You can open a Chase teen checking account in their name instead, which you can monitor and control until they turn 18.

Does adding someone to my account affect my credit score?

Adding an authorized user or joint account holder does not directly affect your credit score. Chase does not report checking account activity to credit bureaus. However, if the account goes into overdraft or is sent to collections, that could appear on your credit report.