Adding an authorized user to your Regions checking account

You can add another person to your Regions checking account in two ways: as a joint account holder who has equal ownership and access, or as an authorized user who can use the account but does not own it. Joint account holders can withdraw money, write checks, and make decisions about the account. Authorized users can typically access funds and make transactions, but the account owner retains full control and responsibility. Regions lets you start this process online, by phone, or in person at a branch.

The person you want to add must provide identification and agree to the account terms. If you are adding a joint owner, both of you will be liable for any overdrafts or disputes. If you are adding an authorized user only, you remain the sole owner and responsible party.

Key Takeaways

  • Joint account holders have equal ownership and full access; authorized users can transact but you remain the sole owner.
  • The person you add must provide a valid ID and sign account documents, whether you do this online, by phone, or at a branch.
  • Adding someone online through Regions' digital banking may be faster than visiting a branch, but some account types require in-person verification.
  • Once added, the new person can use a debit card, access online banking, and make transfers immediately or within one business day.
  • You can remove an authorized user or close a joint account at any time, but closing a joint account requires agreement from both owners.

Adding someone online through Regions digital banking

Log into your Regions online banking account and look for an option labeled "Manage Account," "Account Settings," or "Add User"—the exact label varies by account type. Select the checking account you want to modify. You will see options to add an authorized user or, in some cases, convert to a joint account. Choose the option that matches what you need.

Enter the person's full name, date of birth, and Social Security number. Regions will verify this information against their records. The person you are adding may receive a notification or email asking them to confirm their identity or accept the account terms. Some accounts allow you to complete this step entirely online; others will ask you or the new user to visit a branch or provide additional documents.

If the system approves the addition online, the new person can usually access the account within one business day. They may need to set up their own online banking login or link the account to their existing Regions profile. Ask your Regions representative whether a new debit card will be issued automatically or whether you need to order one.

Adding someone by phone or at a branch

Call Regions customer service at the number on the back of your debit card or visit your local Regions branch. Tell them you want to add a joint owner or authorized user to your checking account. A representative will ask for the person's name, date of birth, Social Security number, and current address. They will also ask whether this person is already a Regions customer.

If you are doing this by phone, Regions may mail documents for both of you to sign, or they may ask you to visit a branch to complete the process in person. In-person verification is often required for joint account conversions or when adding someone who is not yet a Regions customer. Bring a valid government-issued ID (driver's license, passport, or state ID) and have the other person do the same.

At the branch, a representative will review the account terms with both of you, answer questions about liability and access, and have you both sign the necessary paperwork. The account change typically takes effect the same day or within one business day. If a new debit card is needed, the branch can order it on the spot, and it will arrive by mail within 7 to 10 business days.

What documents and information you will need

Have the following ready before you start the process:

  • Your Regions account number and routing number (on your checks or in online banking)
  • A valid government-issued photo ID for yourself
  • The other person's full legal name, date of birth, and Social Security number
  • The other person's current mailing address
  • A valid government-issued photo ID for the person you are adding (required in person; may be verified by phone)

If the person you are adding does not have a Social Security number, ask Regions whether they accept an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) or other identification. Some account types or situations may require additional documents, such as proof of address or a copy of a lease or utility bill.

Understanding joint account versus authorized user

A joint account means both people own the account equally. Both of you can withdraw all the money, close the account, or change the terms. Both of you are responsible for overdrafts, fees, and any legal claims against the account. If one person dies, the surviving owner usually inherits the full balance (this is called "right of survivorship" and is the default for most joint accounts at Regions). Joint accounts are common for spouses, domestic partners, or family members who share finances.

An authorized user is someone you give permission to use the account, but you remain the sole owner. The authorized user can make deposits, withdrawals, and transfers, and they receive a debit card and online access. However, you control whether they stay on the account, and you are the only one who can close it or change the terms. The authorized user is not responsible for overdrafts or fees—you are. This setup is common when a parent adds a teenager, when someone manages finances for an elderly relative, or when a business owner adds an employee to a company account.

Think carefully about which option fits your situation. If you want equal control and shared responsibility, choose joint. If you want to give someone access without giving them ownership or liability, choose authorized user.

What happens after someone is added

Once the person is added to your account, they can usually access it within one business day. If they are a new Regions customer, they will need to set up online banking and mobile app access. They can do this by visiting Regions.com, calling customer service, or going to a branch. If they already have a Regions account, the new checking account will appear in their existing online banking profile.

A debit card will be issued in the new person's name. If you added them online or by phone, the card will be mailed to the address on file, usually within 7 to 10 business days. If you added them in person at a branch, ask whether they can issue a temporary card or expedite the order. Until the card arrives, the person can still access the account online and make transfers or bill payments.

Both of you will receive statements and transaction notifications. If you have set up alerts for the account, you may want to adjust them so both people receive important notifications. Check your online banking settings to see whether you can add the new person's email or phone number to the alert list.

Removing someone from your account

You can remove an authorized user at any time by logging into online banking, calling customer service, or visiting a branch. Tell Regions you want to remove the person's access. Their debit card will stop working, and they will lose online access to the account. This usually takes effect within one business day.

Removing a joint account owner is more complicated. Both owners must agree to the removal, or you must close the account entirely and open a new one in your name alone. If you and a joint owner disagree about removing someone, contact Regions to understand your options—they may require a court order or written consent from both owners.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

Regions may accept an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) or other government-issued ID in place of a Social Security number. Call your local branch or customer service to ask whether this is possible for your specific account type. Requirements vary, and some accounts may not allow it.

Will adding someone to my account affect their credit score?

Adding someone as an authorized user typically does not affect their credit. Adding them as a joint owner may show up on their credit report if Regions reports the account to credit bureaus, but it usually does not lower their score. Ask Regions whether they report joint accounts to credit bureaus.

What if the person I want to add is not a U.S. citizen?

Regions can add non-citizens to accounts, but they will need a valid ID and may need to provide an ITIN or passport number instead of a Social Security number. Visit a branch or call customer service to confirm what documents are required for your situation.

Can I add someone to my account without them knowing?

No. Regions requires the person you are adding to provide their own identification and sign account documents. They will also receive notification that they have been added to the account. Both of you must consent to the change.

How long does it take to add someone to my account?

If you do it online and the system approves it immediately, the person can access the account within one business day. If you do it by phone or in person, it typically takes one business day. If additional verification or documents are needed, it may take longer.