You can add an authorized user or joint owner to your Chase checking account in minutes, either online or at a branch
Chase lets you add someone to your account in two ways: as an authorized user (they can use the account but don't own it) or as a joint owner (they have equal rights and responsibility). The person you add must be at least 18 years old. If you're adding them as a joint owner, you'll both be liable for any overdrafts or fees. The fastest route is through Chase's mobile app or website if you're adding an authorized user; adding a joint owner usually requires a visit to a branch or a call to Chase, because the bank needs to verify the new owner's identity and get their signature on account documents.
The process takes different amounts of time depending on which route you choose and whether Chase needs to verify information. Online or app-based additions for authorized users can happen within hours. Joint owner additions typically take one to three business days after you complete the paperwork, because Chase has to process the change and update their systems.
Key Takeaways
- Authorized users can access the account and make transactions, but the original account holder remains the legal owner and is responsible for overdrafts.
- Joint owners have equal legal rights to the account, can close it, and share liability for fees and negative balances.
- You can add an authorized user through the Chase app or website; adding a joint owner requires a branch visit or phone call with identity verification.
- The person you add must be at least 18 years old and will need to provide their Social Security number and other identifying information.
- Once added, the new person can use a debit card, set up online banking access, and make transfers immediately or within one business day.
Adding an authorized user online or through the Chase app
Log into your Chase account on the website or mobile app and go to the account settings or account details section. Look for an option labeled "Add authorized user," "Manage account access," or "Account users"—the exact wording varies by app version. You'll enter the person's full name, date of birth, and Social Security number. Chase will verify this information against their records.
Once you submit the request, Chase sends a notification to the authorized user's email or phone number (whichever you provide). The new user can then set up their own online banking login and access the account. They'll be able to see the full transaction history, make transfers, pay bills, and use a debit card if Chase issues one. The authorized user cannot close the account, change the account type, or remove themselves—only the original account holder can do that.
Adding a joint owner at a Chase branch
Visit any Chase branch with the person you want to add as a joint owner. Bring your ID and ask to speak with an account representative about adding a joint owner. The representative will need the new owner's ID, Social Security number, and date of birth. Both you and the new owner will sign new account documents that reflect the joint ownership.
Chase will verify the new owner's identity in the system and may run a ChexSystems check (a banking history report). Once the paperwork is processed, usually within one to three business days, both owners will have full access to the account. A new debit card will be issued to the joint owner, and they can set up their own online banking login. Both owners are equally responsible for any overdrafts, fees, or negative balances on the account.
Adding a joint owner by phone
Call Chase customer service at the number on the back of your debit card and ask to add a joint owner. The representative will verify your identity and then ask for the new owner's information: full name, date of birth, Social Security number, and current address. Chase will send documents to both you and the new owner to sign.
You'll need to return the signed documents to Chase by mail or upload them through your online account. Processing typically takes five to ten business days from the time Chase receives the signed paperwork. Once approved, the new owner can access the account online and request a debit card. If you need this done faster, visiting a branch in person is usually quicker than the phone-and-mail route.
What the new person can and cannot do
| Action | Authorized User | Joint Owner |
|---|---|---|
| Make deposits and withdrawals | Yes | Yes |
| Use a debit card | Yes | Yes |
| Set up online banking access | Yes | Yes |
| Pay bills and make transfers | Yes | Yes |
| Close the account | No | Yes |
| Change account type or features | No | Yes |
| Remove themselves from the account | No | Yes |
| Liable for overdrafts and fees | No | Yes |
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 the option to remove or delete the authorized user. The change takes effect immediately. The person loses access to the account and cannot make further transactions, though Chase will keep a record of all activity while they were authorized.
Removing a joint owner is more complicated because they have equal legal rights to the account. You cannot unilaterally remove a joint owner; both owners must agree. You'll need to visit a Chase branch or call customer service, and both owners will need to sign paperwork authorizing the removal. If the joint owner refuses to cooperate, you may need to close the account and open a new one, or consult a lawyer about your options.
What happens to the account if a joint owner dies
If a joint owner dies, the surviving owner retains full access to the account and all funds in it. Chase will freeze the account briefly while they verify the death through a death certificate, but the surviving owner can usually access it within a few business days. The account does not automatically go into probate or get divided among heirs—it belongs entirely to the surviving joint owner.
If you want to prevent this outcome (for example, if you want the account to pass to your estate instead), you should not add someone as a joint owner. An authorized user arrangement, or a separate account, may better suit your situation. Talk to a lawyer or financial advisor if you're unsure which structure fits your goals.
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 ITIN (Individual Taxpayer Identification Number) to add someone to an account. If the person doesn't have either, they cannot be added as an authorized user or joint owner. They can still access the account as a power of attorney if you set that up separately, but that requires different paperwork.
What if the person I want to add is under 18?
Chase does not allow anyone under 18 to be added as an authorized user or joint owner on a standard checking account. If you want to give a minor access to money, you can open a Chase student checking account or a custodial account designed for minors, where a parent or guardian maintains control.
Does adding someone to my account affect their credit score?
No. Adding an authorized user or joint owner to a checking account does not show up on a credit report and does not affect credit scores. Checking accounts are not reported to credit bureaus. Only credit products like credit cards, loans, and lines of credit appear on credit reports.
Can I add someone to my account without them knowing?
For an authorized user, Chase sends a notification to the email or phone number you provide, so the person will know they've been added. For a joint owner, both parties must sign documents in person or by mail, so they will definitely know. You cannot secretly add someone to your account.
What if I want to add someone but keep their transactions private from me?
You cannot. Both authorized users and joint owners can see the full transaction history of the account. If you need privacy, you'll need separate accounts. Chase does not offer a way to hide transactions from other account holders on the same checking account.