Yes, you can add an authorized user, but the rules depend on your bank and account type
Most banks let you add an authorized user to a checking account — someone who can withdraw money, write checks, and use the debit card without owning the account. The person you add does not have to be a spouse or family member. However, not every account type supports this, and the process and restrictions vary by bank.
Some banks call this role a "joint owner" or "co-owner" if the person has full control, or an "authorized signer" if they have limited access. The distinction matters because it affects liability, tax reporting, and what happens to the account if one person dies. Before you add someone, confirm with your bank whether they are adding a co-owner (equal rights) or an authorized user (limited rights).
Key Takeaways
- Most banks allow you to add an authorized user to a checking account, but some require the person to be a family member or meet other conditions.
- An authorized user can typically withdraw money and use the debit card, but may not have the right to close the account or change the account holder's contact information.
- Adding someone as a co-owner gives them equal legal rights to the account, while an authorized user has only the permissions you set.
- Your bank will need the authorized user's Social Security number, date of birth, and address before they can be added to the account.
- Some banks report authorized user activity to credit bureaus, which can help or hurt the authorized user's credit score depending on the account history.
What an authorized user can and cannot do
An authorized user can typically withdraw cash at an ATM or teller window, write checks (if the account has checkbook access), use a debit card, and make transfers. They cannot usually close the account, change the account holder's mailing address, remove themselves from the account, or add another authorized user. Some banks restrict authorized users from changing the account's overdraft settings or linking external accounts.
The exact permissions depend on your bank's rules. Call your bank or check your account agreement to see what restrictions apply. If you need the authorized user to have broader control — such as the ability to close the account or change settings — you may need to make them a co-owner instead, which gives them equal legal rights.
How to add an authorized user at your bank
The process usually starts by visiting your bank in person, calling their customer service line, or logging into your online banking portal. Some banks let you add an authorized user entirely online; others require a visit to a branch. You will need the authorized user's full legal name, date of birth, Social Security number, and current address.
At a branch, a banker will verify your identity, confirm the authorized user's information, and have both of you sign paperwork. Over the phone or online, the bank may send a form by mail or email for you to sign and return. The process typically takes a few days to a week. Once approved, the authorized user will receive their own debit card and can access the account immediately, though some banks delay card activation by one business day.
Differences between authorized users and co-owners
| Right or Responsibility | Authorized User | Co-Owner |
|---|---|---|
| Withdraw money | Yes | Yes |
| Write checks | Usually yes | Yes |
| Close the account | No | Yes |
| Change account settings | No | Yes |
| Legally own the money | No | Yes |
| Liable for overdrafts | No (usually) | Yes |
| Account passes to them if you die | No | Yes (with survivorship) |
A co-owner has equal legal claim to all money in the account and equal responsibility for any debt or overdrafts. If you die, the account passes to the co-owner automatically if it is set up with survivorship rights. An authorized user has no legal ownership and no liability for overdrafts — the account holder remains responsible. When the account holder dies, the authorized user loses access.
Banks that restrict who can be an authorized user
Most large banks (Chase, Bank of America, Wells Fargo, Citibank) allow any adult to be an authorized user. However, some banks and credit unions require the authorized user to be a family member, spouse, or domestic partner. A few banks restrict authorized users to people aged 18 and older, while others allow minors with parental consent.
Online banks and smaller regional banks vary widely. Before you open an account or try to add someone, check the bank's website or call to confirm their policy. If your current bank does not allow the person you want to add, switching to a bank with fewer restrictions may be worth considering.
Credit reporting and the authorized user's credit score
Some banks report authorized user activity to the three major credit bureaus (Equifax, Experian, TransUnion). If the account has a positive history — regular deposits, no overdrafts, on-time payments — this can help the authorized user's credit score. If the account has overdrafts or late payments, it can hurt their score.
Not all banks report authorized user accounts to credit bureaus, so ask your bank before adding someone if credit reporting is a concern. If your bank does report, the authorized user should know that their credit report will show the account, and they can request a copy of their credit report to verify it appears correctly.
Removing an authorized user
You can remove an authorized user at any time by contacting your bank in person, by phone, or online. The bank will cancel their debit card and revoke their access to the account. Some banks require the account holder to visit a branch in person; others allow removal over the phone or through online banking. The process usually takes one to three business days.
If the authorized user is also a co-owner, removal is more complicated and may require both parties to agree or may require a court order, depending on your state's laws. If you are unsure whether someone is an authorized user or a co-owner, call your bank to confirm before attempting to remove them.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I add a minor as an authorized user?
Many banks allow minors as authorized users with parental consent, but some require the authorized user to be 18 or older. A few banks offer teen checking accounts with a parent as the primary account holder and the teen as an authorized user. Contact your bank to confirm their age policy.
Will adding an authorized user affect my credit score?
Adding an authorized user should not directly affect your credit score. However, if your bank reports the account to credit bureaus and the account has negative activity (overdrafts, late payments), it could appear on your credit report. Ask your bank whether they report authorized user accounts before you add someone.
What happens to the account if I die?
If the authorized user is not a co-owner, they lose access to the account when you die. The account becomes part of your estate and goes through probate or passes according to your will. If you want the authorized user to inherit the account, you need to make them a co-owner with survivorship rights instead.
Can an authorized user see my account balance and transaction history?
Yes, authorized users can typically see the full account balance and all transactions. If you want to keep some information private, you may need to use a separate account or speak with your bank about limiting what the authorized user can view.
Do I need the authorized user's permission to remove them?
No. As the account holder, you can remove an authorized user without their consent. However, if the person is a co-owner rather than an authorized user, removal may require their agreement or a court order depending on your state's laws.