The basic steps to add an account holder online
Most banks let you add someone to your account through their website or mobile app without visiting a branch. The process usually takes 10 to 15 minutes, though the other person may need to verify their identity before the change takes effect — that can add a day or two.
Log into your online banking, find the account settings or account management section (often under "Profile," "Settings," or "Account Details"), and look for an option like "Add User," "Manage Authorized Users," or "Add Account Holder." The bank will ask for the other person's full name, date of birth, and usually their Social Security number or tax ID. Some banks also ask for their address. You'll confirm the information, and the bank sends them a verification link or code.
The other person then confirms their identity — usually by clicking a link in an email, entering a code sent to their phone, or answering security questions the bank already has on file for them. Once they verify, they're added to the account and can see it in their own online banking.
Key Takeaways
- You can add someone to your account online through your bank's website or app by going to account settings and selecting an option to add a user or account holder.
- The bank will ask for the other person's name, date of birth, and Social Security number, and they will need to verify their identity through email, text, or security questions.
- The whole process usually takes 10 to 15 minutes, but the new account holder won't have access until they complete verification, which can take a few hours to a day.
- Different banks use different names for this feature — look for "Add User," "Manage Authorized Users," "Add Account Holder," or "Manage Signers."
- If you can't find the option online, your bank may require you to add someone in person at a branch, or they may have a phone number for account changes.
Where to find the add-user option in your bank's app or website
The location varies by bank, but it's almost always in account settings. Start by logging in and looking for a gear icon, a menu labeled "Settings," "Profile," or "Account," or a link that says "Manage Account." Some banks put it under "Security" because adding a user is treated as a security change.
Once you're in settings, scan for anything that says "Users," "Account Holders," "Authorized Users," "Signers," "Joint Account," or "Add Person." If you don't see it after a quick look, use the search function — most banking apps and websites have one. Type "add user" or "add account holder" and it will take you there.
If you still can't locate it, call your bank's customer service number (usually on the back of your debit card or on their website). They can either walk you through it or tell you whether your bank requires you to visit a branch or call a specific department to make this change.
What information you'll need to have ready
Before you start, gather the other person's information. You'll need their full legal name (the name on their ID or Social Security card), their date of birth, and their Social Security number. Have their current address ready too — some banks ask for it, and it helps if there's any confusion during verification.
If the person you're adding doesn't have a Social Security number — for example, if they're a non-citizen with a tax ID number — tell the bank that when you start. They may ask for an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) instead, or they may have a different process. It's worth calling ahead if you know this will be the case.
How the other person verifies their identity
After you enter their information, the bank sends them a verification request. This usually arrives as an email with a link they click, or a text message with a code they enter. Some banks also let them verify by answering security questions — things like "What was the name of your first pet?" — if the bank already has that information on file from a previous account or credit process.
The other person needs to complete this step for the addition to go through. If they don't verify within a certain time — usually 24 to 48 hours — the request may expire and you'll need to start over. Let them know to expect the verification message and to complete it promptly.
Once they verify, they can usually see the account in their own online banking when ready, or within a few hours. Some banks send a confirmation email to both of you when the process is complete.
What happens if the other person doesn't have online banking yet
If the person you're adding doesn't already have an account with your bank, they may need to set one up before they can be added to your account. Some banks let you add them first and they create their login afterward; others require them to open an account with the bank first.
Ask your bank's customer service which order they require. If they need to open an account first, the other person can do that online in a few minutes — they'll need their Social Security number, address, and a valid ID. Once their account is open, you can then add them to your existing account.
When you might need to visit a branch instead
Some banks don't offer online account-holder additions, or they limit it to certain account types. If you don't see the option in your app or website, or if the system tells you this account type isn't may be able to access, you'll need to visit a branch or call a special number.
Bring a photo ID and have the other person's information ready. If the other person is coming with you, they should bring their ID too — the bank may ask to see it. The process at the branch is usually faster than online because you can complete it all in one visit without waiting for verification emails.
Some banks also have a phone line specifically for account changes. Call the number on the back of your card and ask if they can add an account holder over the phone. You may need to verify your own identity first, and the other person may still need to verify theirs separately.
What access the new account holder will have
Once someone is added to your account, they can usually see the full balance, transaction history, and account details. They can make transfers, pay bills, and withdraw money — essentially, they have the same access you do. This is different from giving someone limited power of attorney or read-only access, which some banks offer as separate options.
Before you add someone, be clear about what you're comfortable with them being able to do. If you want them to see the account but not move money, ask your bank whether they offer a "view-only" option or a limited-access user type. Not all banks do, so this is worth checking before you add them.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I add someone to my account if they bank at a different bank?
Yes. The other person doesn't need to have an account at your bank already, though they may need to open one to verify their identity and access the shared account. Your bank will tell you whether they need to do this before or after you add them.
What if the person I'm adding doesn't have a Social Security number?
Tell your bank when you start the process. They may accept an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) instead, or they may have a different verification method. Call ahead if you know this will be the case, so you don't get stuck mid-process.
How long does it take for the new account holder to see the account?
Usually a few hours to a day after they verify their identity. Some banks show it when ready; others update overnight. You'll both get a confirmation email when it's complete.
Can I remove someone from the account later if I change my mind?
Yes. You can remove them through the same account settings where you added them, or by calling your bank. The removal is usually when ready, and they'll lose access to the account right away.
What if the verification email or text doesn't arrive?
Ask the other person to check their spam or junk folder. If it's still not there after 10 minutes, contact your bank's customer service — they can resend it or help troubleshoot. Make sure you entered their phone number or email address correctly when you started.