Yes, you can open a joint bank account online, but both account holders must be present and verified
Most banks now let you start a joint account entirely online without visiting a branch. However, the process requires both people to be involved at the same time — you cannot open an account alone and add someone later. Each person must verify their identity using a government ID, answer security questions, and electronically sign the account agreement. The whole process typically takes 15 to 30 minutes once you both sit down together.
The catch is that not every bank offers full online joint account opening. Some require at least one person to verify in person or by video call, especially if either account holder is new to that bank. Before you start, check the specific bank's website to see whether they support joint accounts online or if they have restrictions based on your state or the type of account you want.
Key Takeaways
- Both account holders must participate in the online opening process at the same time, and each must verify their identity with a government ID.
- Most major banks support full online joint account opening, but some require video verification or an in-person visit for at least one person.
- The process usually takes 15 to 30 minutes and results in an account you can use immediately, though debit cards may take 5 to 10 business days to arrive.
- You will need to decide on account ownership structure — whether both people own the account equally or one person is the primary account holder.
What information and documents you need before you start
Gather these items before either of you logs in. Each account holder will need a valid government-issued ID (driver's license, passport, or state ID card), a Social Security number, and a current email address and phone number. Have your most recent address ready — the bank will verify it against public records or ask you to confirm it.
You will also need to decide on the account structure before you open it. Most banks offer two options: joint tenants with rights of survivorship (both people own the account equally, and if one dies, the other automatically inherits the balance) or tenants in common (each person owns a specific percentage, and their share goes to their estate if they die). Some banks call these options by different names or may not offer both. Clarify which one you want before you start, because changing it later usually requires a trip to the branch or a phone call.
Step-by-step process for opening online
Start on the bank's website and look for the option to open a new account. Select "joint account" if that option appears separately from individual accounts. You will be asked to enter basic information: names, dates of birth, Social Security numbers, and addresses for both people. One person typically enters this information while the other watches or confirms it.
Next comes identity verification. The bank will ask each person to upload or photograph both sides of a government ID. Some banks use automated verification software that reads the ID and compares it to your face using your device's camera. Others send a link to each person's email asking them to complete verification separately, though usually within a few hours of each other. If the automated system cannot verify either person, the bank may ask you to schedule a video call with a representative.
After verification, you will review the account agreement and fee schedule, then sign electronically. Both people must sign — the bank will send each person a separate link or ask you both to sign on the same screen. Once both signatures are complete, the account opens immediately. You can log in and see the account number right away, though the bank may place a temporary hold on deposits until the account fully activates, which usually happens within one business day.
Timeline from start to usable account
The online opening itself takes 15 to 30 minutes if both people are ready and identity verification goes smoothly. If either person's ID does not scan clearly or the automated verification fails, add 24 to 48 hours for a video call or manual review.
Once the account is open, you can transfer money into it immediately in most cases. Debit cards typically arrive within 5 to 10 business days. If you need to make payments or withdrawals before the card arrives, you can use the bank's mobile app or website to transfer money out, or visit a branch to withdraw cash using your account number.
Setting up direct deposit or automatic transfers may require additional verification steps. Some banks ask you to confirm a small test deposit (usually $0.01 to $0.99) before allowing large recurring transfers. This can add 1 to 3 business days to the process.
Banks that support full online joint account opening
Major national banks including Chase, Bank of America, Wells Fargo, and Citibank all support opening joint checking and savings accounts online. Most online-only banks like Ally, Charles Schwab, and Discover also offer this option. Credit unions vary — some support it fully, while others require at least one person to visit a branch or complete a video call.
The fastest option is usually an online-only bank, because they have no branch requirement and their verification process is often automated. Traditional banks with branches may require video verification if you are a new customer or if your ID does not scan clearly. Before you choose a bank, visit their website and search for "open a joint account" or call their customer service line to confirm they support the method you prefer.
What happens if one person cannot participate in real time
If both people cannot sit down together at the same time, you have limited options. Some banks allow one person to start the account and send a link to the other person to complete their part within 24 or 48 hours. However, this is not standard — most banks require both people to verify and sign during the same session.
If timing is a real problem, consider opening the account with just one person first, then visiting a branch together to add the second person as an authorized user or convert it to a joint account. This takes longer overall but may be easier to coordinate. Alternatively, one person can open an individual account and the other person can open their own, then you can link them for transfers if the bank supports it.
Fees and account minimums to check before opening
Joint accounts are usually subject to the same fees and minimums as individual accounts at the same bank. Check whether the account has a monthly maintenance fee (many banks waive it if you maintain a minimum balance, set up direct deposit, or use the debit card a certain number of times per month). Some banks charge a fee to add a second person to an account, though this is rare for joint accounts opened together.
Ask about overdraft fees, out-of-network ATM fees, and whether the bank charges to close the account. If one person wants to remove themselves later, confirm whether the remaining person can keep the account or whether it must be closed and reopened as an individual account.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do both people need to use the same device to open the account?
No. Most banks send each person a separate verification link via email, so you can each use your own phone or computer. However, some banks ask you both to be on the same screen during the signing step. Check the bank's instructions before you start — they will tell you whether you need to be together or can do it separately.
What if one person does not have a Social Security number?
If one person is a non-citizen without an SSN, most banks will ask for an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) instead. Some banks accept ITINs for joint accounts; others do not. Call the bank before you try to open the account, because this cannot be changed during the online process.
Can I open a joint account if we live in different states?
Yes. Banks do not restrict joint accounts based on where the account holders live. However, some banks have different rules for accounts opened by residents of certain states. If you live in different states, make sure both of you are in states where the bank operates, or choose a bank that serves both states.
What if the online verification fails for one person?
The bank will usually offer a video call with a representative as an alternative. This typically happens within 24 hours. If video verification is not available or fails, you may need to visit a branch in person with your ID to complete the opening.
Can I change the account ownership structure after opening?
Changing from joint tenants with rights of survivorship to tenants in common (or vice versa) usually requires visiting a branch or calling the bank to amend the account agreement. It is not typically available online. Make your choice before you open the account to avoid this extra step.