You can add someone to your Chase checking account in three ways: as an authorized user, as a joint account holder, or by setting up power of attorney

The fastest way is to add them as an authorized user. This takes about 15 minutes at a Chase branch or through the Chase mobile app, and the person gets a debit card linked to your account. They can spend money and withdraw cash, but they don't own the account — you do, and you stay responsible for all activity.

If you want to share full ownership, you can convert your account to a joint account or open a new joint account together. Both people own the money equally, both can close the account, and both are responsible for overdrafts. This is more complicated to undo than adding an authorized user.

A third option is power of attorney, which lets someone manage your account on your behalf without owning it. This is less common for everyday checking and usually used when someone is ill or aging, but Chase does offer it.

Key Takeaways

  • Authorized users can spend and withdraw from your account but don't own it; you can remove them anytime without their permission.
  • Joint account holders own the account equally and can both close it or withdraw all the money; removing someone requires their signature or a court order.
  • You can add an authorized user through the Chase app or at a branch in minutes; the person needs a valid ID and Social Security number.
  • Converting an existing account to joint ownership is slower than adding an authorized user and may require both people to visit a branch.
  • Power of attorney requires legal paperwork and is usually used when you want someone to manage your account but not own it.

Adding an authorized user through the Chase app or online

Log into your Chase account on the mobile app or at chase.com. Go to your checking account, select "Settings" or "Manage Account," and look for an option like "Add Authorized User" or "Manage Authorized Users." You'll enter the person's name, date of birth, and Social Security number. Chase will verify their identity, usually when ready.

The person you're adding doesn't have to be present or agree in advance — you can add them without their knowledge. Once added, they can request a debit card through the app, or you can order one for them. The card typically arrives in 7 to 10 business days. Until it arrives, they can't use the account unless you give them your debit card.

You can remove an authorized user anytime through the same menu, and their debit card stops working when ready. They won't be notified automatically, so you should tell them.

Adding an authorized user at a Chase branch

Visit any Chase branch with your ID and the person's ID (if they're coming with you) or just your ID (if you're adding them without them present). Tell the banker you want to add an authorized user. They'll ask for the person's Social Security number and date of birth, verify their identity, and add them to the account on the spot.

You can order a debit card for them right there, or they can order one themselves later through the app. If you want the card to arrive faster, some branches can issue a temporary card you can give them when ready, though this varies by location — ask the banker.

Converting your account to joint ownership

If you want the other person to own the account equally with you, you'll need to convert your existing account or open a new joint account. Both require a visit to a Chase branch with both people present and both IDs.

Converting an existing account is simpler than opening a new one — the banker removes you as sole owner and adds the other person as a joint owner. Your account number and routing number stay the same, so direct deposits and automatic payments don't break. This usually takes one business day to process.

Opening a new joint account from scratch takes longer because Chase has to verify both people's identities and run background checks. You'll both need to bring ID and Social Security numbers. The new account number won't match your old one, so you'll have to update any direct deposits or automatic payments yourself.

What happens when someone is a joint account holder

Both of you own all the money in the account equally. Either person can withdraw everything, close the account, or open a line of credit against it. If one person dies, the money usually goes to the surviving joint owner automatically, bypassing probate.

Both of you are responsible for overdrafts and fees. If the account goes negative, Chase can pursue either of you for the debt. Both of you can see all transactions and statements.

Removing a joint owner is harder than removing an authorized user. The other person has to sign paperwork agreeing to it, or you have to get a court order. If they refuse, you can close the account and open a new one in your name alone, but you can't force them off without legal help.

Setting up power of attorney for your account

Power of attorney lets someone manage your account without owning it. You stay the owner, but they can withdraw money, pay bills, and handle transactions on your behalf. This is useful if you're ill, aging, or traveling for a long time and want someone to handle your finances.

Chase requires a legal document called a power of attorney or durable power of attorney — not something Chase creates for you. You'll need to have this document drawn up by a lawyer or use a legal service, then bring it to a Chase branch. The banker will review it, make a copy for Chase's records, and add the person to your account.

The person with power of attorney can be removed by you at any time, or the power of attorney document can expire on a date you set. This makes it more flexible than joint ownership if you want to take back control later.

What documents and information you'll need

To add an authorized user or joint owner, you'll need the person's full legal name, date of birth, and Social Security number. If you're doing it in person at a branch, bring your ID and ask them to bring theirs too.

If you're setting up power of attorney, you'll need the legal document itself, signed and notarized. Some states require notarization; others don't. Check your state's rules or have a lawyer prepare the document to make sure it's valid in your state and at Chase.

For all three options, Chase may ask for a phone number and email address for the other person so they can contact them if needed.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I add someone to my account without them knowing?

Yes, you can add an authorized user or convert to a joint account without the other person's knowledge or permission. However, they'll notice when a debit card arrives or when they see the account on their credit report. For joint accounts, it's better to tell them first because they become legally responsible for the account.

What's the difference between authorized user and joint owner?

An authorized user can spend and withdraw money but doesn't own the account — you do. A joint owner owns the account equally with you and can close it or withdraw everything. You can remove an authorized user anytime; removing a joint owner requires their signature or a court order.

If I add someone as an authorized user, are they responsible for overdrafts?

No. You are responsible for all overdrafts and fees, even if the authorized user caused them. The authorized user can spend the money, but you're the account holder and liable for the debt.

Can I set a spending limit for an authorized user?

Chase does not offer spending limits for authorized users on checking accounts. You can monitor their activity through the app and remove them if they overspend, but you can't set a daily or monthly cap on their debit card.

How long does it take to add someone to my account?

Adding an authorized user through the app or at a branch takes minutes. A debit card arrives in 7 to 10 business days. Converting to a joint account takes one business day. Opening a new joint account takes 3 to 5 business days.