Yes, you can add another person to your bank account online at most banks

Most banks let you add an authorized user or joint account holder to an existing account through their website or mobile app. The exact process and what you can do online depends on your bank — some banks handle the entire thing digitally, while others require you to sign a form in person or by mail.

The fastest way to find out what your bank offers is to log into your account and look for a link labeled "Add User," "Manage Account Access," "Account Holders," or "Authorized Users." If you cannot find it online, call your bank's customer service number on the back of your card. They can tell you whether the bank supports online addition and what documents you will need.

Key Takeaways

  • Most banks allow you to start adding someone online, but many still require a signature on a form — either in person at a branch or mailed to the bank.
  • An authorized user can use the account but does not own it; a joint account holder owns it equally and can make all decisions about the account.
  • You will need the other person's full legal name, date of birth, and Social Security number or tax ID before you begin.
  • The person you are adding may need to verify their identity with the bank, either online or by visiting a branch.
  • Some banks complete the process in minutes; others take several business days after you submit the request.

What information you need before you start

Gather these details about the person you want to add before you log in. You will not be able to complete the request without them.

You will need their full legal name exactly as it appears on their government ID — first name, middle name or initial, last name, and any suffix like Jr. or III. You will also need their date of birth and their Social Security number or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN). Some banks also ask for their current address and phone number. If the person does not have a Social Security number, ask your bank whether an ITIN or passport number will work instead.

The difference between authorized users and joint account holders

Before you add someone, understand what level of access you are giving them. An authorized user can withdraw money and use the debit card, but the account still belongs to you alone. You remain responsible for overdrafts and fees. A joint account holder owns the account equally — they can close it, change the terms, or remove you without your permission.

Most banks let you choose which type you want when you add the person. If you are adding a spouse or partner and want them to have full control, choose joint account holder. If you are adding a teenager or an adult child and want to keep control yourself, choose authorized user. If you are unsure which one your bank calls these roles, ask customer service — the names vary by bank.

Steps to add someone online

The exact steps differ by bank, but the general process is the same. Log into your account on your bank's website or app and look for an option to manage account holders or users. This is usually in a section called "Account Settings," "Account Management," or "Profile."

Click the option to add a user or account holder. Enter the person's full legal name, date of birth, and Social Security number or ITIN. Select whether you want them to be an authorized user or joint account holder. Review the information for accuracy — mistakes here can delay the process. Then submit the request.

At this point, your bank will either ask you to sign a form or will send one to you by mail. Some banks let you sign electronically on the screen; others require your physical signature. If your bank requires a signature, they will either email you a form to print and sign, or they will mail it to you. Sign it and return it to the bank by the method they specify. Do not skip this step — the request will not be completed without it.

What happens after you submit the request

Your bank will verify the other person's identity. They may do this by sending them a verification code by email or text, or by asking them to answer security questions. Some banks require the person to visit a branch in person with a government ID. Ask your bank what to expect so you can let the person know what they need to do.

Processing time varies. Some banks complete the request within hours; others take three to five business days. A few banks take longer if they need to mail documents back and forth. Your bank will send you a confirmation email or letter once the person has been added. The new account holder or authorized user will also receive confirmation, usually by email.

What to do if you cannot add someone online

If your bank does not offer online addition, you have two options. You can visit a branch in person with the other person and a government ID for each of you. A banker will complete the paperwork on the spot, and the change usually takes effect when ready. This is the fastest route if a branch is near you.

If you cannot visit a branch, call your bank's customer service number and ask them to mail you the form. Fill it out, have both people sign it if required, and mail it back to the address they provide. Include a copy of the other person's government ID if the bank asks for it. Mail it certified or with tracking so you know it arrived. Processing usually takes five to ten business days after the bank receives it.

Removing someone from your account later

If you need to remove an authorized user or joint account holder in the future, you can usually do this online through the same account management section where you added them. Look for an option to "Remove User" or "Delete Account Holder." Some banks require you to call or visit a branch to remove a joint account holder, since that person has equal ownership rights.

If you remove a joint account holder, they may still have access to the account until they remove themselves from their own banking app or until the bank processes the removal. Call your bank to confirm the person no longer has access once you have submitted the removal request.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can the person I am adding see my account history and past transactions?

Yes. Once someone is added as an authorized user or joint account holder, they can see all transactions on the account, including past ones. If you want to hide certain transactions, you will need a separate account that only you can access.

What if the person I want to add does not have a Social Security number?

Ask your bank whether they accept an ITIN, passport number, or other government ID number instead. Some banks require a Social Security number and cannot add someone without one. If your bank cannot help, you may need to open a new account with them that does not require a Social Security number.

Can I add someone to my account if they bank at a different bank?

Yes. The person does not need to bank at your bank to be added to your account. They just need to provide their legal name, date of birth, and Social Security number or ITIN. They will receive their own debit card or access code from your bank once they are added.

Does adding someone to my account affect their credit score?

No. Adding someone as an authorized user or joint account holder does not appear on their credit report or affect their credit score. However, if the account goes into overdraft or is reported to collections, it may affect both of your credit reports if they are a joint account holder.

What if my bank says they cannot add someone online?

Visit a branch in person with both people and government IDs, or ask the bank to mail you a form. Some smaller banks and credit unions do not offer online addition but can complete it in person or by mail. The process takes longer, but the end result is the same.