Yes, you can open a joint bank account online, but the process depends on whether both account holders are new to the bank or one already has an account there
Most major banks and many online-only banks let you start a joint account through their website or app without visiting a branch. However, the exact steps and what you'll need differ based on your situation. If both of you are new customers, you'll typically both need to verify your identity online using a government ID and Social Security number. If one person already banks there, that person can often add the other as a joint owner through their existing account, though the second person may still need to verify their identity.
The speed varies. Some banks complete the process in minutes; others take a few business days to verify both account holders and activate the account. A few banks still require at least one person to visit a branch or mail in documents, so you'll want to check your specific bank's requirements before starting.
Key Takeaways
- Most online banks and large national banks allow you to open a joint account entirely online if both account holders can verify their identity with a government ID and Social Security number.
- If one person already has an account at the bank, they can usually initiate adding a joint owner from their existing account, though the second person will need to verify their identity.
- You will need both Social Security numbers, current addresses, and government-issued IDs for both account holders to complete the process.
- Activation times range from minutes to several business days depending on the bank, and some banks still require a branch visit or mailed documents for joint accounts.
What you need before you start
Gather these items for both account holders before you begin: a valid government-issued ID (driver's license, passport, or state ID), a Social Security number, and a current mailing address. Some banks also ask for a phone number and email address. Have this information ready for both people before you log in or open the bank's app.
If you're adding a joint owner to an existing account, the person already at the bank will need their login credentials. The second person will need their ID and Social Security number to verify their identity when prompted.
The two main paths: both new customers or one existing customer
Both of you are new to the bank: Start the account opening process on the bank's website or app. When you reach the account type selection, choose "joint account" or "multiple owners." You'll enter information for the first account holder, then the system will prompt you to add the second owner. Both people will need to verify their identity—usually by uploading a photo of their ID and confirming their Social Security number. Some banks use third-party verification services like Socure or Mitek to confirm identity instantly; others may take a day or two to verify manually.
One of you already has an account: The existing customer logs into their account and looks for an option like "Add authorized user," "Add joint owner," or "Manage account access." This is usually in account settings or the account details section. They'll enter the second person's name, Social Security number, and other identifying information. The second person will then receive a notification (by email or text) asking them to verify their identity. Once they do, the account becomes joint.
Identity verification online: what actually happens
Most banks use one of two methods to verify you're who you say you are. The first is knowledge-based verification: the system asks you questions only you would know, like details from your credit report or past addresses. You answer a few questions, and if you pass, you're verified in seconds. The second is document verification: you photograph your driver's license or passport with your phone, the bank's app reads it, and you confirm the information matches what you entered. Some banks do both.
A few banks still use older methods: they may mail you a code to your address, ask you to call a phone number on file, or require you to visit a branch. Check your bank's website before you start to see which method they use for joint accounts. If your bank requires a branch visit or mailed verification, you'll need to factor that into your timeline.
Banks that let you open joint accounts entirely online
Most large national banks—including Chase, Bank of America, Wells Fargo, and Citibank—allow online joint account opening if both account holders can verify their identity. Online-only banks like Ally, Charles Schwab Bank, and Discover also support online joint accounts. Credit unions vary; some allow it, others require a branch visit or mailed documents. Check your specific bank or credit union's website or call their customer service line to confirm they support online joint account opening before you start.
If your bank doesn't support online joint account opening, you have two options: open individual accounts and link them for transfers, or visit a branch together to open the joint account in person. Some couples also choose to keep separate accounts and use a shared savings account for joint expenses instead.
Timeline: how long it actually takes
If both account holders are new and use instant identity verification, the account can be open and ready to use within minutes. You may be able to set up direct deposit or transfers the same day. If the bank uses manual verification or requires a mailed code, add two to five business days. If one person is already a customer and adds a joint owner, the timeline is usually one to three business days once the second person verifies their identity.
Some banks activate the account immediately but hold transfers or large deposits for a few days while they complete their verification process. Ask your bank whether you can use the account right away or if there are any restrictions during the verification period.
What happens after the account opens
Once the account is active, both owners have equal access and control. Both can deposit money, withdraw money, close the account, or change account settings. Both names appear on the account, and both Social Security numbers are on file with the bank. If one owner dies, the account passes to the survivor (in most states, unless you've specified otherwise in writing). If you later want to remove one owner or change the account to individual ownership, you'll need to contact the bank; some allow this online, others require a branch visit or phone call.
The bank will send statements and tax documents (like 1099 forms for interest earned) to the address on file. Make sure both owners know how statements will be delivered and who will monitor the account.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do both people have to be present when opening a joint account online?
Not physically, but both people need to verify their identity at some point during the process. If you're opening together, you can do this on separate devices at the same time. If one person is adding a joint owner to an existing account, the second person verifies their identity when they receive the notification from the bank, which can happen at a different time.
What if one person doesn't have a Social Security number?
You'll need to contact the bank directly. Some banks accept an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) instead, but policies vary. A few banks may require a branch visit if one account holder doesn't have a Social Security number or ITIN.
Can I open a joint account online if we live in different states?
Yes. Most banks don't require both account holders to live in the same state or even the same country. You'll each verify your identity using your current address, and the account will be mailed to the address on file (usually the primary account holder's address, though you can update this).
What if the identity verification fails online?
If the system can't verify you instantly, the bank will usually offer an alternative method—mailing a code, calling a phone number, or scheduling a branch visit. You can also call the bank's customer service line and ask them to verify you manually over the phone, though this may take longer.
Can I set up online banking and bill pay right away?
Usually yes, but some banks restrict certain features during the first few days while verification is complete. You can typically set up online banking and view your balance immediately, but transfers or bill payments may be delayed. Ask your bank about any temporary restrictions when the account opens.