Yes, you can open a joint account online, but the bank will require both account holders to verify their identity in real time
Most major banks and many online-only banks let you start a joint account through their website or app. The process is faster than going to a branch, but it is not fully automated—you will need to complete identity verification together, usually through a video call or by uploading documents. The second account holder cannot simply sign up on their own; the bank requires both of you to consent and prove who you are before the account becomes active.
The timeline varies by bank. Some complete the whole process in one business day. Others take two to five business days to verify both identities and fund the account. A few banks still require at least one person to visit a branch in person, even if you start the application online.
Key Takeaways
- Both account holders must verify their identity through the bank's online process, usually by video call or document upload, before the account opens.
- You will need a valid government ID, Social Security number, and proof of address for each person on the account.
- Most banks let you start the application online but may require one visit to a branch or a video call with a representative to complete it.
- The second account holder does not need to be present when you begin the application, but the bank will contact them directly to confirm consent before finalizing the account.
What documents and information you need from both account holders
Each person opening the joint account must provide a valid government-issued ID—a driver's license, passport, or state ID card. The bank will scan or photograph this during the online process. You will also need a Social Security number for each account holder, which the bank uses to run a background check and verify identity through the Social Security Administration.
Proof of address is the third requirement. This can be a recent utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, or bank statement showing your name and current address. The document must be dated within the last 60 to 90 days, depending on the bank. If you have moved recently and your ID does not reflect your current address, bring both the old ID and a proof-of-address document.
Some banks also ask for a phone number and email address for each account holder. This is how they contact the second person to confirm they actually want to open the account—the bank will not proceed without direct confirmation from both of you.
How the identity verification process works online
When you start the application, the bank will ask you to upload or photograph your ID and proof of address. Their system scans these documents and checks them against databases to confirm they are real and match your name. This usually takes a few minutes.
Next comes the live verification step. Some banks do this through a video call with a representative, who watches you hold up your ID and asks you a few security questions. Others use automated video verification, where you film yourself holding your ID and answering prompts on screen. A few banks let you skip the video step if you upload documents that pass their automated checks, though this is less common.
The second account holder will receive an email or text from the bank asking them to complete their own identity verification. They log into the bank's website or app, upload their documents, and complete the video or automated verification. The bank will not open the account until both people have finished this step.
Banks that let you open joint accounts entirely online
Large national banks like Chase, Bank of America, and Wells Fargo let you start a joint account application online, but most still require at least one video call or branch visit to complete it. Chase and Bank of America offer video verification, so you may not need to visit a branch at all if both account holders can do a video call.
Online-only banks like Ally, Charles Schwab, and Discover have streamlined the process further. Ally and Discover let you complete the entire application online with video verification and no branch visit required. Charles Schwab requires a video call but no branch visit. Credit unions vary widely—some offer full online joint account opening, while others require at least one person to visit a branch or mail in documents.
Before you choose a bank, call or check their website for their specific joint account process. Ask whether both account holders can complete everything online or whether a branch visit is required. This matters if you and the other account holder live in different states or cities.
What happens if the second account holder refuses or cannot verify their identity
If the second person does not complete their identity verification within the timeframe the bank sets—usually 7 to 14 days—the application will expire and the account will not open. You will need to start over and contact the second account holder again.
If the second person's identity verification fails because their documents do not match their name or address, or because the video verification system cannot confirm their identity, the bank will reject the application. This can happen if someone has recently changed their name, moved, or has an ID that is expired or damaged. In this case, the second account holder should contact the bank directly to ask what documents they can provide instead, or whether they can visit a branch to verify in person.
If the second account holder simply does not want to open the account, they can refuse to complete their verification. The bank will not open a joint account without consent from both people. You would need to open a single account in your name only, or find a different account holder.
Timing: how long it takes from application to usable account
The fastest timeline is one business day. Some online banks like Ally can verify both account holders and activate the account on the same day if both people complete their verification quickly. More commonly, it takes two to three business days because the bank needs time to process both verifications and run background checks.
If either account holder's documents do not pass the initial scan, or if the video verification is unclear, the bank may ask for additional documents or a second verification attempt. This can add another two to five business days.
Once the account is open, you can usually start using it immediately—transferring money in, setting up direct deposit, or ordering a debit card. Some banks hold new accounts for a few days before allowing transfers, especially large ones, as a fraud prevention measure.
What to do if you and the other account holder live far apart
Distance is not a barrier if the bank offers video verification. Both of you can complete the entire process from home, on separate video calls with the bank or through automated video verification. You do not need to be in the same room or even in the same state.
If the bank requires a branch visit, you have a few options. One person can visit a branch in their area while the other completes their verification online. Some banks will accept this mixed approach. Alternatively, you can choose a bank that does not require a branch visit—online-only banks are your best bet here.
If one of you travels frequently or lives overseas, check with the bank about their policy on non-U.S. addresses and international verification. Some banks will not open joint accounts if one account holder does not have a U.S. address, while others will accept a foreign address as long as you have a valid U.S. ID and Social Security number.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I open a joint account if the other person is not present?
Yes. You can start the application online on your own, but the bank will contact the second account holder separately to verify their identity and confirm they want to open the account. Both of you must complete identity verification before the account opens, but you do not need to do it at the same time or in the same place.
What if the other account holder does not have a Social Security number?
Most U.S. banks require a Social Security number for each account holder. If the second person does not have one, they may not be able to open a joint account at a traditional bank. Some banks accept an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) instead, but this is rare. Contact the bank directly to ask whether they can work with an ITIN or alternative identification.
Do both account holders need to be U.S. citizens?
No, but both need to be able to verify their identity through the bank's process. A non-citizen with a valid U.S. ID, Social Security number, and proof of address can usually open a joint account. A non-citizen without a Social Security number will have more difficulty. Check with the specific bank about their policy on non-citizens before you start the application.
Can I change the account to single-holder later if the other person wants out?
No. You cannot convert a joint account to a single-holder account. If the other person wants to remove themselves, the bank will close the account and you will need to open a new single account. You can withdraw your money before the account closes, but the process takes time and may involve fees depending on the bank.
What if one account holder's identity verification fails?
The bank will contact that person and explain why the verification failed—usually because documents do not match, are expired, or are unclear. They can resubmit documents or request a second video verification attempt. If verification fails twice, the application will be rejected and you will need to start over or choose a different bank.