You can add an authorized user to most TD Bank accounts online through your profile settings, but adding a joint owner requires a visit to a branch or a call to customer service.
TD Bank distinguishes between two types of account access: authorized users and joint account owners. An authorized user can use the account to make purchases and withdrawals but does not own it legally. A joint owner has equal rights to the account and can close it, change terms, or remove other users. Which one you need determines whether you can do this online.
If you want to add an authorized user—someone who can use a debit card or access the account but does not own it—you can often do this through TD Bank's online banking portal or mobile app. If you want to add a joint owner, you will need to visit a TD Bank branch in person or call customer service, because the bank requires a signature and verification of identity for joint ownership changes.
Key Takeaways
- Adding an authorized user to a checking or savings account can usually be done online through your TD Bank account settings, but adding a joint owner requires a branch visit or phone call.
- An authorized user can make purchases and withdrawals but does not own the account; a joint owner has equal legal rights and can change or close the account.
- To add someone online, log into your TD Bank account, navigate to account settings or user management, and follow the prompts to invite the person by email or phone number.
- If you add a joint owner, both of you will be responsible for any overdrafts or fees, and either person can remove the other without permission.
- The person you are adding will need to verify their identity, which may require a Social Security number, date of birth, and government-issued ID.
Adding an Authorized User Through Online Banking
Log into your TD Bank online account and look for a section labeled "Account Settings," "Manage Users," "Account Access," or "Authorized Users"—the exact name varies by account type. Once you find it, select the account you want to modify and choose the option to add a user or send an invitation.
You will need the person's email address or phone number to send them an invitation. TD Bank will send them a link or code to set up their access. They will be asked to verify their identity, usually by providing their Social Security number, date of birth, and sometimes a government-issued ID number. Once they complete verification, they can access the account through their own online banking login or receive a debit card linked to the account.
The timeline for this process is usually same-day to 24 hours. If the invitation expires before the person accepts it, you can resend it from your account settings.
Adding a Joint Owner: Branch Visit or Phone Call Required
If you want to add a joint owner instead of an authorized user, you cannot complete this online. TD Bank requires both the current owner and the new joint owner to sign paperwork in person at a branch, or you can initiate the process by phone and complete it in branch.
Call TD Bank customer service at the number on the back of your debit card or visit your local branch. Bring a government-issued ID and ask to add a joint owner to your account. The other person will need to be present or will need to visit the branch separately with their own ID to sign the paperwork. The bank will verify both identities and confirm Social Security numbers before finalizing the change.
This process typically takes one to three business days after both signatures are collected. Once complete, both account owners will have full access and equal responsibility for the account.
What Happens After You Add Someone
If you added an authorized user, they will receive a notification and can begin using the account immediately after verification. They can make purchases with a debit card, withdraw cash, and view transaction history. However, they cannot change account settings, close the account, or remove themselves—only the account owner can do that.
If you added a joint owner, both of you will see the account in your online banking and mobile app. Either of you can make changes to the account, including removing the other person, changing the mailing address, or closing the account. Both of you are equally liable for overdrafts, fees, and any debt tied to the account. If one joint owner passes away, the surviving owner typically retains full access, though you should notify the bank immediately.
Removing an Authorized User or Joint Owner
To remove an authorized user, log into your TD Bank account, go to account settings or user management, find the person's name, and select the option to remove or revoke access. This usually takes effect immediately, and the person will lose access to the account and any debit card linked to it.
Removing a joint owner is more complicated. You cannot do this unilaterally online. You must visit a branch or call customer service and provide identification. The bank may require both owners to agree to the removal, or it may allow one owner to remove the other depending on the account type and state law. Contact TD Bank directly to understand your options before attempting removal.
Identity Verification and Security
TD Bank will ask the person you are adding to verify their identity before granting access. This typically requires their full name, date of birth, Social Security number, and sometimes a government-issued ID number such as a driver's license or passport number. The bank uses this information to check against credit bureaus and identity verification services to confirm the person is who they claim to be.
If verification fails, the person will be notified and can try again or contact TD Bank customer service for help. Do not share your account password with the person you are adding—they should create their own login credentials once they receive their invitation.
Account Types That Support Online User Addition
Most TD Bank checking and savings accounts allow you to add authorized users online. However, some account types—such as certain investment accounts, retirement accounts (IRAs), or business accounts—may have different rules. Before you attempt to add someone, check your account type in your online banking settings or call customer service to confirm whether online user addition is available.
If your account type does not support online addition, you will need to visit a branch or call customer service to add anyone, whether as an authorized user or joint owner.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I add someone to my account if they don't have a Social Security number?
TD Bank requires a Social Security number or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) for identity verification. If the person does not have one, they may not be able to be added as an authorized user or joint owner. Contact TD Bank customer service to discuss alternative options.
What's the difference between an authorized user and a joint owner?
An authorized user can use the account but does not own it and cannot change account settings or remove themselves. A joint owner has equal legal rights, can make any change to the account, and is equally liable for overdrafts and fees. Joint owners can remove each other without permission.
If I add a joint owner, can they close the account without telling me?
Yes. A joint owner has the same rights as you and can close the account, change the address, or remove you without your permission. Only add someone as a joint owner if you trust them completely.
How long does it take for an authorized user to get access after I add them?
Usually same-day to 24 hours after they complete identity verification. If they do not verify within a few days, the invitation will expire and you can resend it.
Can I add someone to my account if they live in another state?
Yes, for authorized users. You can send them an invitation online and they can verify from anywhere. For joint owners, one or both of you will need to visit a TD Bank branch or complete the process by phone and mail.