You can add an authorized user or joint owner to most Santander accounts through online banking, but the process and what you can do afterward depends on which type of account you have and your relationship to the person.

Santander offers two main ways to give someone access to your account: adding them as an authorized user (they can use the account but don't own it) or making them a joint owner (they have equal rights and responsibility). Authorized users can typically be added online through your Santander dashboard. Joint owners usually require a visit to a branch or a phone call, because Santander needs both people to sign documents and verify their identity in person.

The fastest route is online if you're adding an authorized user to a checking or savings account. Log into your Santander account, find the account settings or account management section, and look for "add user," "authorized user," or "account access" — the exact label varies by account type. You'll need the person's full name, date of birth, and Social Security number. Santander will verify their identity and send them a notification. The whole process usually takes a few minutes to set up, though it can take a day or two for the change to show up in their online access.

Key Takeaways

  • Authorized users can be added online through Santander's website or mobile app in most cases, and they can use the account immediately after verification.
  • Joint owners require a branch visit or phone call because both people must sign documents and provide identity verification in person.
  • An authorized user can make transactions but cannot close the account, change ownership, or remove other users — the original owner retains full control.
  • A joint owner has the same rights as you do, including the ability to withdraw all funds, close the account, or remove you without your permission.
  • Santander may require the person you're adding to be at least 18 years old and a U.S. citizen or permanent resident.

The difference between authorized user and joint owner

An authorized user is someone you give permission to use your account. They can deposit checks, withdraw money, pay bills, and use a debit card in your name — but they cannot change account settings, add or remove other users, close the account, or change the ownership structure. If you die or become incapacitated, an authorized user loses access to the account. The account still belongs entirely to you, and you remain liable for all activity.

A joint owner is a co-owner with equal legal rights. They can do everything you can do, including withdrawing all the money, closing the account, or removing you as an owner. Both joint owners are responsible for overdrafts and any debt tied to the account. If one joint owner dies, the account typically passes to the surviving owner automatically. Joint ownership is appropriate for spouses, long-term partners, or family members you fully trust with complete control.

Most people adding a teenager or adult child choose authorized user status to keep control of the account. Spouses or partners usually become joint owners. If you're unsure which fits your situation, Santander's customer service can walk you through the differences.

How to add an authorized user online

Log into your Santander account through the website or mobile app. Navigate to the account you want to modify — this works for most checking and savings accounts. Look for a menu option labeled "Account Settings," "Manage Account," "Account Access," or "Add User." The exact wording depends on your account type and which Santander platform you're using.

Select the option to add an authorized user. You'll be asked to provide the person's full legal name, date of birth, and Social Security number. Double-check the spelling of the name — it must match their government ID exactly. Santander will run a verification check, which usually takes a few minutes to a few hours.

Once verified, Santander will send the new authorized user a notification — usually by email or text, depending on their contact information in the system. They may need to accept the invitation or set up their own login credentials. The authorized user can then access the account through their own Santander login. Some accounts allow the authorized user to see transactions immediately; others may have a one-day delay before full access is active.

Adding a joint owner requires a branch visit or phone call

Santander does not allow you to make someone a joint owner entirely online. You must either visit a branch in person or call Santander's phone line and request a joint owner addition. A representative will mail you the required documents or guide you through a phone-based verification process.

If you visit a branch, bring your ID and the ID of the person you want to add as a joint owner. Both of you must be present and sign the paperwork. The bank will verify both identities and confirm that both people consent to the joint ownership. This usually takes 15 to 30 minutes. The account will be updated within one to two business days.

If you call instead, Santander will verify your identity and the identity of the person being added. They will mail you the required forms, which both of you must sign and return. This process takes longer — typically one to two weeks from the time you call until the joint ownership is finalized. Some Santander locations may offer video verification as an alternative to a branch visit; ask when you call.

What happens after someone is added

An authorized user will receive a debit card in the mail within 7 to 10 business days, unless you request otherwise. They can use this card to make purchases and withdraw cash. They can also access the account online or through the mobile app once they set up their login. Transactions made by an authorized user appear on the account statement under their name or a designation like "Auth User 1."

A joint owner will also receive a debit card and full online access. Their name will appear on all account documents and statements. Both owners receive statements and can see all transactions. If either owner closes the account or makes a large withdrawal, the other owner will see it reflected immediately.

You can remove an authorized user at any time through your account settings online — no branch visit or paperwork required. Removing a joint owner is more complicated and usually requires a branch visit or phone call, because both owners must consent or the remaining owner must provide legal documentation (like a divorce decree) showing they have the right to remove the other person.

Age and identity requirements

Santander requires the person you're adding to be at least 18 years old. If you want to add a minor to your account, you can make them an authorized user on a custodial or teen account, but the process and rules differ from a standard account. Contact Santander directly to discuss options for minors.

The person being added must be a U.S. citizen or permanent resident with a valid Social Security number. Santander will verify this information during the authorization process. If the person does not have a Social Security number, they may not be able to be added as an authorized user or joint owner on a standard account, though Santander may have alternative options — call to ask.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I add someone to my account if they don't live near a Santander branch?

Yes. For authorized users, the entire process is online and requires no branch visit. For joint owners, you can call Santander and request that documents be mailed to you. Both people sign and return them by mail, which takes longer but avoids a branch visit. Some Santander locations also offer video verification — ask when you call.

What if the person I want to add doesn't have a Santander account yet?

They don't need one. You can add them as an authorized user or joint owner on your account, and they will gain access to that specific account. They can use a debit card and online banking without opening their own separate account with Santander.

Can an authorized user see my other accounts?

No. An authorized user can only access the specific account you added them to. If you have multiple accounts at Santander, they cannot see or access the others unless you add them to those accounts separately.

What if I want to remove someone later?

Removing an authorized user is simple — log into your account online and delete them from the account settings. Removing a joint owner is harder and usually requires a branch visit or phone call, because Santander needs consent from both owners or legal proof that you have the right to remove them.

Does adding someone to my account affect their credit score?

Adding an authorized user does not affect their credit score. Adding a joint owner may appear on their credit report because they now have legal responsibility for the account, but it typically does not lower their score unless the account goes into overdraft or default.