You can add someone to your Chase checking account in person, by phone, or through the Chase mobile app—but the method depends on whether you want them to have full access or limited authority

Chase offers two main ways to share account access: adding an authorized user (who can use the debit card and make withdrawals but cannot close the account or change settings) or adding a joint account holder (who has equal legal ownership and can do everything you can). The person you add must be at least 18 years old and present a valid government ID if you go in person. Chase does not charge a fee to add someone to an existing account.

The fastest route is usually the Chase mobile app if you already have it set up, since you can initiate the request without leaving home. If you prefer to speak to someone or need to add a minor (which requires a different account type), you will need to visit a branch or call Chase directly.

Key Takeaways

  • You can add an authorized user through the Chase app, by phone, or in person at a branch; a joint account holder requires an in-person visit or phone call with verification.
  • An authorized user can use the debit card and withdraw money but cannot change account settings or close the account; a joint account holder has equal ownership and full control.
  • The person you add must be at least 18 years old and have a valid government ID ready if you meet in person.
  • Chase does not charge a fee to add someone to your account, but the new person may need to enroll in online banking separately.

Adding an Authorized User Through the Chase App

Open the Chase mobile app and go to the account you want to share. Tap the menu icon (three horizontal lines), then select "Account Services" or "Settings," depending on your app version. Look for an option labeled "Add Authorized User" or "Manage Account Access." Chase will ask for the person's full name, date of birth, Social Security number, and address. You will also need to confirm their relationship to you (spouse, family member, employee, and so on).

After you submit the request, Chase will send a confirmation to both you and the person you added. They may receive a separate notice in the mail with instructions to activate their debit card. The whole process usually takes one to three business days. If the app does not show an "Add Authorized User" option, your account type may not support it through the app—call Chase at the number on the back of your card to confirm.

Adding Someone by Phone or at a Chase Branch

Call Chase at 1-800-935-9935 (the number on the back of your debit card) and tell the representative you want to add an authorized user or joint account holder. Have the other person's full name, date of birth, Social Security number, and address ready. The representative will verify your identity by asking security questions, then process the request over the phone. This method takes the same one to three business days as the app.

If you prefer to meet in person, visit any Chase branch with your ID and the ID of the person you are adding. Bring both Social Security numbers and current addresses. A banker will walk you through the paperwork and can answer questions about whether an authorized user or joint account holder makes sense for your situation. In-person visits often complete faster—sometimes the same day—but you will need to coordinate schedules.

The Difference Between Authorized User and Joint Account Holder

An authorized user receives a debit card linked to your account and can withdraw money, make purchases, and check the balance. They cannot change the account password, add or remove other users, close the account, or change the mailing address. This option works well if you want to give someone spending access without giving them full control—for example, a teenager, an employee, or a caregiver who needs to make purchases on your behalf.

A joint account holder is a legal co-owner of the account. They can do everything you can: withdraw all the money, change the password, add or remove other users, close the account, and change settings. Both of you are equally liable for overdrafts or disputes. This option is typically used for spouses, long-term partners, or family members you fully trust with complete access. Chase requires you to visit a branch or call to set up a joint account holder, not just through the app.

What Happens After You Add Someone

If you added an authorized user, Chase will mail them a debit card within 7 to 10 business days. They can start using the account immediately through online banking or by phone transfer, but they will not be able to use a debit card until it arrives. If you added a joint account holder, both of you will receive new debit cards in the mail, and the account statements will now show both names.

The person you added should enroll in Chase online banking and the mobile app separately using their own login credentials. This lets them check the balance and transaction history on their own device. If they do not set up online access, they can still use the debit card and call Chase customer service to check the balance.

Removing Someone From Your Account

If you need to remove an authorized user, log into the Chase app, go to "Account Services," and select "Manage Authorized Users." Choose the person you want to remove and confirm. Their debit card will stop working immediately, though Chase may take one to three business days to process the removal officially. You can also call Chase or visit a branch to remove someone.

Removing a joint account holder is more complicated because they have legal ownership. You cannot unilaterally remove them—both of you must agree, and you will typically need to close the account and open a new one in your name alone, or the joint account holder must voluntarily agree to step away. If there is a dispute, contact Chase to discuss your options.

Security and Fraud Protection

Both authorized users and joint account holders are covered by Chase's fraud protection. If someone uses the debit card fraudulently, Chase will investigate and typically refund unauthorized charges within one to two business days. However, you are responsible for anyone you add to the account—if they make legitimate purchases or withdrawals, you cannot dispute those transactions as fraud.

Before adding someone, make sure you trust them completely. If you are concerned about fraud or misuse, consider setting up a separate savings account with limited access, or use Chase's spending controls (available on some account types) to set daily withdrawal limits on the debit card. You can also monitor all transactions through online banking or the mobile app and receive alerts for large purchases.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I add someone who does not have a Social Security number?

Chase requires a Social Security number or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) to add an authorized user or joint account holder. If the person does not have either, they cannot be added to your account. They could open their own account if they have an ITIN and a valid ID.

What if the person I want to add is under 18?

You cannot add a minor as an authorized user or joint account holder to a standard Chase checking account. However, Chase offers a Chase First Banking account designed for minors ages 6 to 17, which allows a parent or guardian to manage the account. Visit a Chase branch to learn about this option.

Will adding someone to my account affect their credit score?

No. Adding an authorized user or joint account holder to a checking account does not appear on credit reports and does not affect credit scores. Credit bureaus only track credit accounts like credit cards and loans, not checking accounts.

Can I add someone if I have a joint account with someone else?

Yes, but both joint account holders must agree. If you want to add an authorized user, you can do it on your own. If you want to add another joint account holder, the existing joint account holder should be present or give permission, since they have equal authority over the account.

What if the person I added wants to remove themselves?

An authorized user can call Chase and ask to be removed from the account. A joint account holder can also call Chase, but since they have equal ownership, both parties may need to agree or the account may need to be closed and reopened. Have the person contact Chase directly to discuss their options.