You can add an authorized user or joint owner to a Chase savings account, but the process and permissions differ between the two
Chase offers two ways to give someone else access to your savings account: as a joint owner or as an authorized user. A joint owner has full control—they can withdraw money, close the account, and make changes. An authorized user can only withdraw funds and view the account; they cannot close it or change account settings. Both must be added in person at a Chase branch with valid ID, and both require your Social Security number and theirs.
The person you are adding must be at least 18 years old. Chase does not allow you to add someone remotely through the app or website, so you will need to visit a branch together or have the other person present when you go. If you want to add a minor to your account, you would need to open a different account type designed for that purpose, such as a Chase First Banking account for children.
Key Takeaways
- Joint owners have full account control and can withdraw, transfer, or close the account; authorized users can only withdraw and view balances.
- Both joint owners and authorized users must visit a Chase branch in person with a valid ID and provide their Social Security number.
- You cannot add someone to an existing account online or through the Chase app—the change must happen at a physical branch.
- If you want to add a minor, you will need to open a youth account instead of adding them to your current savings account.
What you need to bring to the branch
Bring your own valid government-issued ID (driver's license, passport, or state ID card) and your account number or debit card. The person you are adding must also bring a valid government-issued ID. Chase will ask for both Social Security numbers during the process, so have those ready or know them by heart.
If you are adding someone who does not yet have a Chase account, they do not need one—Chase will link them to your account without requiring them to open their own. If they already have a Chase account, that does not prevent them from being added to yours.
The difference between joint owner and authorized user
A joint owner is legally responsible for the account and has the same rights you do. They can deposit money, withdraw any amount, transfer funds between accounts, add or remove other authorized users, change the account settings, and close the account entirely. If the account goes negative or is involved in a dispute, both of you are liable. A joint owner's name appears on the account and on any debit card issued.
An authorized user can withdraw money and view the account balance and transaction history, but cannot change account settings, add other users, or close the account. They can receive a debit card in their name linked to your account. An authorized user is not legally responsible for the account, and the account remains in your name only.
Choose joint owner if you want to share full responsibility and control—for example, with a spouse or adult child managing household finances. Choose authorized user if you want to give someone access to withdraw money without giving them the power to make permanent changes—for example, a caregiver or trusted family member.
Steps to add someone at a Chase branch
Go to any Chase branch during business hours with the other person and both IDs. Tell the teller you want to add someone to your savings account and specify whether you want them as a joint owner or authorized user. The teller will pull up your account and ask for the other person's Social Security number, date of birth, and current address.
You will sign paperwork confirming the change. The teller will explain what permissions the person will have and ask you to confirm. If you are adding a joint owner, you will both sign the document. If you are adding an authorized user, you typically sign alone, though Chase may ask the authorized user to sign as well depending on the branch.
The change takes effect immediately. If you ordered a debit card for the new person, it will arrive in the mail within 7 to 10 business days. They can use the account online or through the Chase app right away using your account number, even before the card arrives.
What happens if you want to remove someone later
You can remove an authorized user on your own by visiting a branch, calling Chase customer service at the number on the back of your debit card, or using the Chase app if that option is available. Removal is usually immediate, and the person's debit card will stop working right away.
Removing a joint owner is more complicated because they have equal legal rights to the account. You cannot unilaterally remove a joint owner. Instead, you would need to close the account and open a new one, or the joint owner would need to agree to remove themselves. If there is a dispute, you may need to contact Chase directly or seek legal advice.
Online and app access for the new person
Once someone is added to your account, they can log into Chase.com or the Chase mobile app using their own login credentials and see your shared account. They do not need to use your username or password. If they do not already have a Chase online account, they can create one and link it to the shared savings account using the account number.
Both joint owners and authorized users can set up alerts for the account, such as notifications when the balance drops below a certain amount or when a large withdrawal occurs. These alerts go to their own phone or email address, so you will not see them unless you set up your own alerts separately.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I add someone to my Chase savings account without going to the branch?
No. Chase requires both you and the person being added to visit a branch in person with valid ID. You cannot complete this process online, through the app, or over the phone.
What if the person I want to add does not have a Social Security number?
Chase requires a Social Security number or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) for anyone added to an account. If the person does not have one, you will not be able to add them. Contact Chase directly to ask about exceptions or alternative options.
If I add someone as a joint owner, can they remove me from the account?
Yes. A joint owner has the same legal rights you do, including the ability to remove you, withdraw all the money, or close the account. Only add someone as a joint owner if you fully trust them with complete control.
Can I add someone to my savings account if they live in a different state?
Yes, but they must still visit a Chase branch in person with you or separately. If they live far away, you may need to coordinate a time when you can both be at a branch, or they can visit a Chase branch near them while you visit one near you on the same day.
Does adding someone to my account affect their credit score?
No. Adding someone as a joint owner or authorized user to a savings account does not appear on credit reports and does not change anyone's credit score. It is different from being added to a credit card account.