How to Add Another Person to Your Chase Checking Account

You can add someone to your Chase checking account in person at a branch, by phone, or through Chase's online banking portal, depending on the type of account and your relationship to the person

Chase offers two main ways to bring another person onto your account: as a joint account holder or as an authorized user. A joint account holder has equal ownership and full access to the account—they can deposit, withdraw, and make decisions about the account. An authorized user can access the account and make transactions, but does not own it and cannot close it or change account terms. Which one you choose depends on whether you want to share ownership or straightforward give someone transaction access.

The process itself takes between 10 minutes and a few business days, depending on which method you use and whether Chase needs to verify the other person's identity. You will need the other person's Social Security number, date of birth, and government-issued ID present at the time you add them.

Key Takeaways

Joint account holders own the account equally and can make all decisions; authorized users can transact but cannot own the account or change its terms.
You can add someone at a Chase branch in person, by calling Chase customer service, or through the Chase mobile app or website if your account type supports online changes.
Chase will verify the other person's identity using their Social Security number, date of birth, and government-issued ID.
Adding someone as a joint holder may trigger a new account opening, which means a new account number and routing number.
If you are adding a minor, Chase has specific rules about age and account type that vary by state.

Adding someone in person at a Chase branch

Walking into a branch with the other person present is the fastest and most straightforward method. Bring your debit card or account number, the other person's government-issued ID, and both Social Security numbers. Tell the banker you want to add someone to your account and whether you want them as a joint holder or authorized user.

The banker will verify both identities, pull up your account, and process the change on the spot. If you are converting an existing account to a joint account, Chase may open a new account with a new account number and routing number—this happens because joint accounts are treated as new accounts in Chase's system. If this occurs, the banker will provide you with the new account details before you leave. The change is active when ready, though it may take a few hours for the new debit card to be ordered and mailed to the other person.

Adding someone by phone

Call Chase customer service at the number on the back of your debit card. You will need to verify your identity first, then explain that you want to add someone to your account. The representative will ask for the other person's full name, date of birth, Social Security number, and current address. They will also ask whether you want the person as a joint holder or authorized user.

Chase will verify the information and process the request over the phone. This method typically takes 24 to 48 hours to complete, and you will receive confirmation by email or mail. The other person will not need to be on the call, but you will need to have their information ready and accurate. If Chase cannot verify the person's identity through their records, they may ask you to come to a branch in person to complete the process.

Adding someone through the Chase app or website

Not all Chase account types support adding someone online, but many do. Log into Chase.com or the Chase mobile app, navigate to your account settings, and look for an option to manage account holders or authorized users. The exact location varies depending on your account type and whether you are using the app or website.

If the option is available for your account, you will enter the other person's name, date of birth, Social Security number, and address. Chase will verify this information in real time. If verification succeeds, the change takes effect within a few hours. If verification fails, you will be directed to call customer service or visit a branch. This method works best when you are adding someone who already has a relationship with Chase—for example, another Chase customer or someone whose Social Security number is already in Chase's records.

What happens when you convert an account to joint ownership

If you are converting an existing individual account to a joint account, Chase treats this as opening a new account. You will receive a new account number and routing number. Any automatic payments, direct deposits, or transfers linked to your old account number will need to be updated with your employer, creditors, or other institutions. Chase will send you written notice of the new account number, and you should update your records before the old account is closed.

The old account typically remains open for 30 days to allow time for any outstanding checks or transfers to clear. After that period, Chase closes it. Your funds are transferred to the new joint account automatically. If you have checks printed with the old account number, stop using them and order new ones with the new joint account number.

Adding a minor to your account

Chase allows minors on checking accounts, but the rules depend on the minor's age and your state. Generally, a minor under 18 can be added as an authorized user or joint holder, but a parent or legal guardian must be present and must also be on the account. Some states have specific age thresholds—for example, a minor may need to be at least 13 to have their own debit card, or at least 16 to be a joint holder without a parent on the account.

Visit a Chase branch with the minor, their government-issued ID (such as a school ID or state ID), and your own ID. The banker will explain Chase's rules for minors in your state and help you set up the account accordingly. If you are adding a minor remotely, call Chase customer service to confirm what documents and information you will need.

Removing someone from your account later

If you need to remove a joint account holder, you must visit a Chase branch in person or call customer service. You cannot remove a joint holder online. The person being removed does not need to be present, but Chase will require you to verify your identity and may ask why you are removing them. Once removed, that person loses access to the account when ready, and their debit card will stop working.

Removing an authorized user is simpler—you can often do this online through the Chase app or website, or by calling customer service. The authorized user loses access within a few hours. If the account is jointly owned and you want to convert it back to an individual account, you must visit a branch, and Chase will likely open a new account with a new account number.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do both people need to be present when I add someone to my account?

Only if you are doing it in person at a branch. For phone or online methods, you need the other person's information but they do not need to be with you. However, Chase will verify their identity using their Social Security number and other records, so the information must be accurate.

Will adding someone change my account number?

Only if you are converting an individual account to a joint account. Chase treats this as opening a new account, so you will receive a new account number and routing number. If you are adding an authorized user to an existing account, your account number stays the same.

Can I add someone who does not have a Social Security number?

Chase requires a Social Security number or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) to add someone to an account. If the person does not have either, you will not be able to add them through standard methods. Contact Chase customer service to discuss other options.

How long does it take for the other person to access the account?

If you add them in person at a branch, they can access the account when ready, though their debit card will be mailed and arrive within 7 to 10 business days. If you add them by phone or online, access is typically active within 24 to 48 hours. They can use the account online or through mobile banking before their physical debit card arrives.

What is the difference between a joint account holder and an authorized user for taxes?

Chase reports joint account activity to both owners' credit reports and tax records. An authorized user's activity is reported only to the account owner. If you are concerned about tax implications or liability, speak with a tax professional or Chase banker before deciding which type to choose.

This guide is for general information only and is not medical, financial, legal, or other professional advice. For decisions specific to your situation, consult a qualified professional. See our Editorial Policy.