Yes, you can add someone to your Wells Fargo account, but the method depends on whether you want them to have full access or limited control
Wells Fargo offers two main ways to share account access: adding an authorized user (who can use the account but you remain the owner) or making someone a joint account holder (who owns the account equally with you). The difference matters legally and financially. An authorized user can make transactions but cannot close the account or change its terms. A joint account holder has the same rights as you do, including the ability to withdraw all funds or close the account without your permission.
You can start the process online through Wells Fargo's website, by phone, or in person at a branch. The person you're adding will need to provide identification and may need to be present, depending on which method you choose. There is no fee to add someone to an existing account.
Key Takeaways
- Authorized users can make transactions but cannot change account terms or close the account; joint account holders have equal ownership and full control.
- You can add someone online, by phone at 1-800-869-3557, or at a Wells Fargo branch in person.
- The person you're adding will need a valid ID and may need to sign documents or appear in person depending on your chosen method.
- Joint account holders can withdraw all funds or close the account without your permission, so choose this option only for people you trust completely.
- Adding an authorized user does not affect their credit report, but opening a joint account may appear on both credit reports.
Adding an authorized user online or by phone
If you want to add an authorized user, you can do this through Wells Fargo's online banking portal. Log in to your account, go to the account settings or account management section, and look for the option to add an authorized user. You will need the person's full name, date of birth, and Social Security number. Wells Fargo will verify their identity before completing the process.
Alternatively, call Wells Fargo customer service at 1-800-869-3557 and ask to add an authorized user to your account. Have the person's identifying information ready. The authorized user does not need to be present for this call, but they will receive notification from Wells Fargo that they have been added. The authorized user can then request a debit card or online access to the account.
This process typically takes one to three business days. The authorized user will not appear as an owner on the account, and their credit report will not be affected.
Creating a joint account in person or by phone
To make someone a joint account holder, you will need to visit a Wells Fargo branch together or call and request a joint account conversion. In person is faster and clearer—both of you will sign the necessary documents, and the branch can verify both IDs at once. Bring a valid government-issued ID (driver's license, passport, or state ID).
If you call 1-800-869-3557 to convert to a joint account, Wells Fargo will mail documents for both of you to sign. You will both need to return the signed documents, and the bank will verify both signatures before finalizing the change. This method takes longer—usually one to two weeks.
Once the account becomes joint, both account holders have equal legal rights. Both names appear on the account, and both credit reports may be affected. Either person can withdraw funds, change account settings, or close the account without the other's permission.
What happens to your account when you add someone
Adding an authorized user does not change the account's legal structure. You remain the sole owner, and the account continues to work as it did before. The authorized user simply gains the ability to make transactions—deposits, withdrawals, transfers, and bill payments. They cannot change the account's interest rate, add or remove other users, or close the account.
Creating a joint account is a bigger change. The account becomes owned by both people equally. Both names appear on statements, checks, and debit cards. Both account holders can see all transaction history. If one person dies, the surviving joint account holder typically retains full access to the account (this is called "right of survivorship" and is the default for Wells Fargo joint accounts).
If you later want to remove an authorized user, you can do so through online banking or by calling customer service. Removing a joint account holder requires both people's agreement and a trip to the branch or a signed written request.
Tax and liability considerations
Adding an authorized user does not create a tax reporting issue. The account remains in your name for tax purposes, and you report all interest income on your tax return.
With a joint account, both account holders are responsible for any overdrafts or fees. If the account goes negative, both people's credit can be affected. If one joint account holder is sued or has a judgment against them, creditors may be able to freeze or seize funds in the joint account—even funds the other person deposited.
For these reasons, joint accounts work best between spouses or between a parent and a minor child. For other relationships, an authorized user arrangement is often safer.
Adding a minor to your account
Wells Fargo allows you to add a minor as an authorized user on your account, though the minor cannot be a joint account holder until they reach the age of majority (18 in most states). A minor authorized user can use a debit card and access online banking, but you retain full control and responsibility for the account.
To add a minor, you will need to visit a branch in person or call customer service. You will need the minor's full name, date of birth, and Social Security number. Some branches may require the minor to be present with a parent or guardian.
Once the minor turns 18, you can convert their status to a joint account holder if you both agree, or they can open their own account.
Removing someone from your account
To remove an authorized user, log into your Wells Fargo online account and navigate to account settings, or call 1-800-869-3557. You can remove an authorized user at any time without their permission. The removal takes effect immediately, and they will lose access to the account.
Removing a joint account holder is more complicated. Both account holders must agree to the change. You will need to visit a branch together or submit a signed written request from both parties. The branch can convert the account back to a single-owner account or split the funds into two separate accounts.
If you and a joint account holder disagree about removing someone, you may need to close the account and open a new one, or seek legal advice about your options.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I add someone to my account without them knowing?
You can add an authorized user without them present, but Wells Fargo will notify them that they have been added. You cannot add a joint account holder without their knowledge—both people must sign documents and consent to the change. If you are trying to hide account access from someone, that is a sign the arrangement is not appropriate.
What if the person I want to add doesn't have a Social Security number?
Wells Fargo requires a Social Security number or ITIN (Individual Taxpayer Identification Number) to add someone to an account. If the person does not have either, they cannot be added as an authorized user or joint account holder. They may be able to open their own account if they have an ITIN and valid ID.
Does adding someone to my account affect their credit score?
Adding an authorized user does not affect their credit. Creating a joint account may appear on both credit reports, but it typically does not lower either person's score unless the account goes into overdraft or default.
Can I add someone to my account if they live out of state?
Yes. You can add an authorized user by phone or online without the person being present. For a joint account, you can mail documents for both of you to sign, though visiting a branch together is faster and clearer.
What happens to a joint account if one person dies?
Wells Fargo joint accounts include right of survivorship by default, meaning the surviving account holder retains full access to all funds in the account. The account does not go through probate. The surviving person should notify Wells Fargo of the death and may need to provide a death certificate.