Yes, you can open a joint checking account online at most banks

Most major banks and many credit unions let you open a joint checking account entirely online. You will need both account holders present (or able to sign electronically), valid ID for each person, and a way to verify your identity—usually a phone call, video chat, or answers to security questions. The whole process typically takes 15 to 30 minutes, and the account can be ready to use within one business day, though some banks take up to five days to fully activate it.

The catch is that both people must be physically present or able to complete the process remotely at the same time. You cannot open a joint account by yourself and add someone later through an online form. One person starts the application, but the second person must verify their identity and consent to the account before it exists.

Key Takeaways

  • Both account holders must verify their identity online using government ID, a phone number, or answers to security questions—the bank will not open the account without both people confirming.
  • You need a Social Security number for each person, a valid ID (driver's license, passport, or state ID), and proof of current address for at least one account holder.
  • The application takes 15 to 30 minutes, but the account may not be fully active for one to five business days depending on the bank.
  • Some banks require a minimum opening deposit (often $25 to $100), while others have no minimum; check before you start the application.
  • If you already have an account at the bank, opening a joint account online is usually faster because the bank already has your information on file.

What you need to have ready before you start

Gather these documents and information for both account holders before either of you begins the online application. You will need a valid government-issued ID (driver's license, passport, or state ID card) for each person, the Social Security number for each person, and a current address for at least one of you. If you are opening the account at a bank where one of you already has an account, have that account number handy—it will speed up the process.

You will also need a phone number where the bank can reach you during the application, because most banks call to verify your identity before activating the account. Some banks use a video chat instead of a phone call; if that is an option, make sure you are in a place where you can take a video call on your phone or computer. Have your ID visible and ready to show on camera.

The step-by-step process most banks use

Start on the bank's website or mobile app and look for "Open an Account" or "New Accounts." Select "Joint Checking" or "Checking for Two People." The first account holder enters their name, address, phone number, email, and Social Security number. The bank will ask which type of account you want (usually "joint tenants with rights of survivorship" or "tenants in common"—ask the bank which is standard for your situation if you are unsure). Then you choose a username and password for online banking.

At this point, the bank will ask for the second account holder's name and contact information. Some banks send a link or code to that person's email or phone; they click the link and enter their own ID information and Social Security number. Other banks let the first person enter everything, then call both people to verify. Once both people have verified their identity (by phone, video, or security questions), the bank approves the account and assigns an account number.

You may be asked to make an opening deposit right away, either by debit card, ACH transfer from another bank account, or wire transfer. Some banks waive the deposit if you set up direct deposit. The account is usually available for online banking within a few hours, but checks and debit cards take five to ten business days to arrive by mail.

Which banks let you open a joint account fully online

Chase, Bank of America, Wells Fargo, Citibank, and most regional banks allow online joint account opening. Credit unions vary—some let you open online, others require at least one person to visit a branch. Online-only banks like Ally, Charles Schwab, and Discover also offer joint checking, often with no minimum deposit and lower fees.

Before you start, check the bank's website for "joint account" or call their customer service line to confirm they support online opening for two people. Some banks have different rules depending on whether you are both existing customers or whether one of you is new to the bank. A five-minute phone call can save you from starting an application that will not work.

What happens if you and the other person are not available at the same time

If you cannot both be online at the same time, you have two options. First, ask the bank whether they allow asynchronous opening—meaning the second person can complete their part of the application hours or even days after the first person starts. Some banks do allow this; others require both people to finish within 24 hours or the application expires.

Second, if the bank requires you to be simultaneous, one of you can visit a branch in person while the other completes the online part. This is slower but works if scheduling a joint video call or phone verification is not realistic. Call the bank ahead to ask whether a branch visit can substitute for the online verification step.

Identity verification methods and how long they take

Banks use three main ways to verify your identity online: a phone call from an automated system or a representative, a video chat where you show your ID to a bank employee, or security questions based on your credit history. Phone verification is fastest—usually five to ten minutes per person. Video verification takes longer (10 to 20 minutes) because the bank employee needs to see your ID clearly, but it is more secure and some people find it less intrusive than a phone call.

Security questions are the slowest method because the bank has to pull your credit file first, which can take a few minutes. You will be asked questions like "Which of these addresses have you lived at?" or "Which car have you owned?" Answer based on your actual history, not what you think the bank wants to hear. If you answer incorrectly, the bank may ask you to verify by phone or video instead.

After verification is complete, the account is usually active for online banking within a few hours. Debit cards and checks arrive by mail in five to ten business days. Some banks let you order a temporary digital debit card that works immediately for online purchases and contactless payments.

Minimum deposits and fees to watch for

Opening deposit requirements vary widely. Chase and Bank of America typically require $25 to $100 to open a joint checking account, though some of their accounts have no minimum. Credit unions often have no minimum or ask for $25. Online banks like Ally and Charles Schwab usually have no minimum deposit.

Monthly maintenance fees also vary. Some banks charge $10 to $15 per month for a joint account unless you meet certain conditions (like setting up direct deposit or maintaining a minimum balance). Others charge nothing. Before you open the account, look at the fee schedule on the bank's website or ask a representative whether the account has a monthly fee and what waives it.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do both people have to use the same Social Security number or address?

No. Each person has their own Social Security number and can have a different address. The bank will ask for a current address for at least one of you, but the other person can list a different address if they live elsewhere.

What if one person does not have a Social Security number?

You will need an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) instead. Not all banks accept ITINs for joint accounts; call ahead to confirm. Some banks require an in-person visit if one account holder does not have a Social Security number.

Can I open a joint account online if one person is out of the country?

Most banks require both people to be in the United States for online opening. If one person is abroad, you may need to visit a branch in person or wait until they return. Some banks allow video verification from outside the US, but this is rare—call the bank to ask.

What if the online application gets rejected?

The bank will tell you why—usually a mismatch in your ID information, an issue with your credit history, or a problem verifying your identity. You can correct the information and try again, or visit a branch to open the account in person. The bank will not charge you for a rejected application.

How long does it take to get a debit card for a joint account?

Debit cards arrive by mail in five to ten business days. Some banks offer a temporary digital card that works immediately for online shopping and mobile payments. You can use the account for transfers and bill pay as soon as it is open, even before the physical card arrives.