You can add an authorized user or joint owner through Chase's website, app, or in person at a branch
Chase lets you add someone to your checking account in two ways: as an authorized user (they can use the account but don't own it) or as a joint owner (they have equal rights to the account). The person you add must be at least 18 years old. Which route you choose depends on whether you want to share full control or just give them access to spend and withdraw money.
The fastest method is through the Chase mobile app or website if you're adding an authorized user. Adding a joint owner requires a visit to a branch or a phone call, because Chase needs to verify the new owner's identity and get their signature on account documents.
Key Takeaways
- Authorized users can use the account to spend and withdraw money, but the original account holder remains the legal owner and is responsible for overdrafts.
- Joint owners have equal legal rights to the account, can make changes to it, and share responsibility for any negative balance.
- You can add an authorized user online through the Chase app or website in minutes; adding a joint owner requires a branch visit or phone verification.
- The person you add must provide their Social Security number, date of birth, and address so Chase can verify their identity.
- Chase will issue a debit card to the authorized user or joint owner, usually within 7 to 10 business days.
Adding an authorized user through the Chase app or website
Log into your Chase account on the mobile app or at chase.com. Go to the account settings or account details section — the exact location varies slightly between the app and website, but look for "Manage Account" or "Account Settings." Select the checking account you want to modify, then look for an option like "Add Authorized User" or "Manage Users."
Chase will ask for the person's full name, date of birth, Social Security number, and current address. You'll also choose whether to give them a debit card. Once you submit the information, Chase verifies their identity electronically, which usually takes a few minutes to a few hours. The person you added will receive a debit card in the mail within 7 to 10 business days.
An authorized user can withdraw cash, make purchases, and check the account balance, but they cannot close the account, change the account type, or remove themselves. You remain the account owner and are responsible for any overdrafts or fees.
Adding a joint owner at a Chase branch or by phone
If you want to add a joint owner instead of an authorized user, you'll need to visit a Chase branch in person or call Chase at 1-800-935-9935. The person you're adding must be present at the branch or available for a phone verification call. Chase requires this because a joint owner has legal ownership rights, and the bank needs to confirm both parties understand and consent to the arrangement.
Bring a government-issued ID and have the other person's Social Security number, date of birth, and address ready. At the branch, you'll both sign account documents. Chase will verify the new owner's identity and run a background check. The process usually takes 15 to 30 minutes at a branch.
A joint owner has the same rights as you do: they can withdraw money, make transfers, close the account, or add or remove other users. Both of you are equally responsible for any overdrafts or negative balances. If you want to remove a joint owner later, both of you must visit the branch together or call Chase to authorize the change.
What happens after you add someone
Chase will send a confirmation email to the email address on file for your account. The new authorized user or joint owner will receive a welcome letter and a debit card in the mail. They can start using the account as soon as they receive the card, or they can use it when ready through digital wallet options like Apple Pay or Google Pay if they set those up.
You can monitor activity on the account through your Chase account dashboard. Both the account holder and any authorized users or joint owners can see all transactions, balances, and account history. If you need to remove someone, you can do so through the app or website for an authorized user, but removing a joint owner requires a branch visit or phone call.
Differences between authorized users and joint owners
| Action | Authorized User | Joint Owner |
|---|---|---|
| Spend and withdraw money | Yes | Yes |
| View account balance and history | Yes | Yes |
| Close the account | No | Yes |
| Change account settings | No | Yes |
| Add or remove other users | No | Yes |
| Responsible for overdrafts | No (account owner is) | Yes (both are) |
| Can be removed by account owner alone | Yes | No (both must consent) |
Things to know before adding someone
Adding someone to your account gives them access to all the money in it. If you add a joint owner, they can withdraw everything without your permission. If you add an authorized user, you remain legally responsible for overdrafts, even if the authorized user caused them.
Chase reports authorized users and joint owners to credit bureaus. If the person you add has a poor credit history or is behind on other accounts, it may affect your credit report. Before adding someone, make sure you trust them with full visibility into your account activity and balance.
If you're adding someone temporarily — for example, to help manage finances during a medical situation — consider setting a reminder to remove them later. Removing an authorized user is straightforward and can be done online, but removing a joint owner requires both parties to agree.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I add someone to my account if they don't have a Social Security number?
Chase requires a Social Security number to verify identity and run background checks. If the person doesn't have one, they cannot be added as an authorized user or joint owner. You could open a separate account and transfer money to them as needed, but they would not have direct access to your checking account.
What if I want to remove an authorized user?
Log into your Chase account online or through the app, go to account settings, and select the option to remove the authorized user. The change takes effect when ready. Chase will deactivate their debit card, though it may take a few days for the card to stop working at merchants.
Can a minor be added to my account?
No. Chase requires anyone added to a checking account to be at least 18 years old. If you want to give a minor access to money, you can open a Chase student checking account in their name, or set up a custodial account if your child is younger.
Will adding someone to my account affect my credit score?
Adding an authorized user or joint owner does not directly affect your credit score. However, Chase reports the account activity to credit bureaus, so if the person you add causes overdrafts or the account goes negative, it could appear on your credit report.
Can I add someone to my account without them knowing?
For an authorized user, you can initiate the request online, but Chase will send a confirmation to the email address on file. For a joint owner, both parties must be present or consent to the change. You cannot add a joint owner without their knowledge or signature.