You can remove an authorized user or account owner from a Chase checking account, but the method depends on who they are and whether they opened the account with you
If the person is an authorized user (added to your account but not an owner), you can remove them yourself through Chase's website or mobile app, or by calling Chase. If the person is a joint account owner (someone who opened the account with you), removal is more complicated—Chase typically requires both owners to agree, or you may need to close the account and open a new one in your name alone.
The steps and timeline differ based on your relationship to the account and which removal method you choose. This guide covers both scenarios and what happens after someone is removed.
Key Takeaways
- Authorized users can be removed by the primary account owner through the Chase app, website, or by phone without the user's permission.
- Joint account owners cannot be removed unilaterally; Chase requires consent from all owners or closure of the account.
- Removal takes effect immediately online but may take one to two business days to process for debit cards and checks.
- The removed person loses access to the account but remains liable for any overdrafts or outstanding transactions made before removal.
- If you are a joint owner wanting to leave an account, you can request removal, but the other owner must consent or you must close the account.
Removing an authorized user through the Chase app or website
Log into your Chase account online or open the Chase mobile app. Navigate to the account settings or account details section—this is usually labeled "Account" or "Settings" in the main menu. Find the option for "Authorized Users" or "Account Access," then select the person you want to remove and choose "Remove" or "Delete."
Chase will ask you to confirm the removal. Once you confirm, the authorized user loses access to the account immediately in the system. However, if they have a debit card linked to the account, that card will continue to work for up to 24 hours while the system processes the removal. If you need the card blocked faster, call Chase to request immediate card cancellation.
After removal, the person will no longer see the account in their Chase login, and any mobile wallet access (Apple Pay, Google Pay, Samsung Pay) tied to their card will stop working within one to two business days.
Removing an authorized user by phone
Call the number on the back of your Chase debit card or visit a Chase branch in person. Tell the representative you want to remove an authorized user from your account. Have the account number and the full name of the person you are removing ready.
The representative will verify your identity by asking security questions or requesting a PIN. Once verified, they will process the removal immediately. Ask the representative to confirm whether the person's debit card will be deactivated right away or within 24 hours, and request that they note in the account that the card should not be honored after removal.
You will receive a confirmation number for the removal. Keep this for your records in case there are any disputes about transactions after the removal date.
What happens when you remove a joint account owner
If the person is a joint owner (not just an authorized user), Chase does not allow you to remove them unilaterally. Both owners must consent to the removal, or the account must be closed. This is because joint owners have equal legal rights to the account and its funds.
If the other owner agrees to removal, both of you can visit a Chase branch together or call Chase with both owners on the line to authorize the change. Chase will convert the account to a single-owner account in the name of the remaining owner. This process typically takes one to three business days.
If the other owner does not agree to removal, your only option is to close the account and open a new one in your name alone. You can do this at a branch or by calling Chase. Any automatic payments or direct deposits linked to the old account will need to be updated with the new account number.
Debit cards and access after removal
When you remove an authorized user, their debit card becomes invalid, but the timing varies. In most cases, the card stops working within 24 hours of removal. However, transactions already in progress (such as pending charges at a gas pump or restaurant) may still post to the account.
If you need the card blocked immediately, call Chase and request emergency card cancellation. The representative can flag the card as lost or stolen, which blocks it right away. This is useful if you are concerned about unauthorized use between the time of removal and when the card naturally expires.
The removed person will not be able to use online banking, the mobile app, or any linked digital wallets after removal. If they attempt to log in, they will see an error message saying they do not have access to that account.
What the removed person can still see and do
After removal, the person cannot access the account, make transactions, or see the account balance. However, they may still receive statements or tax documents (like 1099 forms) if they were on the account for part of the year. Chase sends these to the address on file, which is typically the primary account holder's address.
The removed person remains liable for any overdraft fees or negative balances that occurred while they were on the account. If the account goes into overdraft after their removal, they are not responsible for those new charges—only the primary account owner is.
If the removed person disputes a transaction that occurred while they were on the account, they can still file a dispute claim with Chase, even after removal. Chase will investigate based on the transaction date, not the removal date.
If you are the one being removed from a joint account
If you are a joint owner and want to leave the account, you cannot remove yourself unilaterally. You must contact Chase and request removal, but the other owner must consent. Call Chase or visit a branch and explain that you want your name removed from the account.
Chase will contact the other owner to confirm they agree. Once both parties consent, the account is converted to a single-owner account. If the other owner refuses, you can close the account, but this affects both owners—the account will be shut down and any pending transactions may be delayed.
Before requesting removal, make sure all automatic payments, direct deposits, and recurring charges are updated to a different account. If you close the account without updating these, payments may fail or be returned.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I remove someone from a Chase account without their knowledge?
Yes, if they are an authorized user. You can remove them through the app, website, or by phone without notifying them first. However, if they are a joint owner, Chase requires both owners to consent to removal.
What if the removed person has pending transactions?
Transactions that were authorized before removal will still post to the account, even if the person is no longer authorized. The primary account owner remains responsible for paying any overdrafts or fees. Transactions initiated after removal will be declined if the person tries to use the debit card.
How long does it take for a debit card to stop working after removal?
Usually 24 hours, but it can be immediate if you request emergency card cancellation. Transactions already in progress (like a pending charge at a store) may still go through even after the card is deactivated.
Can I remove someone and then add them back later?
Yes. If you remove an authorized user, you can add them back at any time by going to account settings and selecting "Add Authorized User." You will need their name, date of birth, and Social Security number.
What if I close the account instead of removing someone?
Closing the account ends it for everyone, including you. Any pending transactions may be delayed, and automatic payments or direct deposits will fail. You will need to open a new account and update all recurring payments with the new account number.