You can add an authorized user or joint owner to your Chase checking account through the Chase mobile app or website in about five minutes

The process differs depending on whether you want to add someone as a joint owner (who has equal rights to the account and can make all decisions) or an authorized user (who can access the account but you retain primary control). Chase lets you do both online without visiting a branch, though joint ownership requires more verification steps because it's a legal change to the account.

You'll need the other person present with a valid ID, their Social Security number, and their date of birth. If you're adding a joint owner, Chase will also run a credit check and verify their identity through their own records or by asking security questions. The whole process takes between five and fifteen minutes if you're both ready with the information.

Key Takeaways

  • Authorized users can use the account but you keep full control; joint owners have equal rights and can close the account or remove you.
  • You can add either type of user through the Chase app or website without visiting a branch.
  • Chase will ask for the other person's Social Security number, date of birth, and a valid ID for verification.
  • Joint ownership requires a credit check and takes longer to process than adding an authorized user.
  • Once added, the other person can see the account balance and transaction history when ready, but debit cards may take three to five business days to arrive.

Adding an authorized user through the Chase app

Open the Chase mobile app and sign in to your account. Tap the checking account you want to modify, then look for "Account Services" or "Settings" (the exact label varies by app version). Select "Add Authorized User" or "Manage Account Access."

Chase will ask for the other person's full name, date of birth, Social Security number, and phone number. Have them ready before you start. You'll also need to confirm their relationship to you—the app asks whether they're a spouse, family member, or other. Enter their information exactly as it appears on their ID.

Chase will verify their identity by asking security questions or checking their records. If they're already a Chase customer, this step is faster. Once verified, they'll receive a notification that they've been added to your account. They can log into their own Chase account and see the shared account when ready.

Adding a joint owner through the Chase website

Go to chase.com and sign in. Click on the checking account you want to modify, then select "Account Services" or "Settings." Look for "Add Joint Owner" or "Manage Owners."

Chase will walk you through a multi-step process. First, you'll enter the other person's name, date of birth, and Social Security number. Then Chase will run a credit check and ask them to verify their identity—this might happen through their own Chase account, or Chase may send them a verification code by text or email.

The joint owner will need to accept the change. Chase sends them a notification with a link to confirm. Once they accept, both of you have equal access to the account. This process typically takes one to three business days to complete, even though the online steps finish in minutes.

What happens after you add someone

An authorized user can when ready see the account balance, transaction history, and transfer money. They can also set up bill pay and mobile deposits. However, they cannot close the account, remove themselves, or change account settings like the overdraft protection status.

A joint owner has all the same access as an authorized user, plus the ability to close the account, remove other users, and change all settings. This means a joint owner can lock you out of decisions about your own money. Only add someone as a joint owner if you fully trust them with that level of control.

Both authorized users and joint owners will receive their own debit card in the mail within three to five business days. The card will have their name on it. They can use it when ready at ATMs and in stores once it arrives, even if they haven't activated it yet.

When you need to visit a Chase branch instead

Most additions happen online, but Chase requires a branch visit if the person you're adding doesn't have a Social Security number or valid ID that Chase can verify. This includes some non-U.S. citizens and people without a driver's license or passport.

You also cannot add someone online if you're trying to add them to a joint account that already has multiple owners, or if there's a dispute or legal hold on the account. Call Chase at the number on the back of your card to ask whether your situation requires a branch visit.

Removing someone from your account

You can remove an authorized user through the app or website the same way you added them. Go to Account Services, select "Manage Account Access," and choose the person you want to remove. Click "Remove" and confirm. They lose access when ready.

Removing a joint owner is more complicated because they have equal rights. You cannot remove them unilaterally—both of you must agree, or you must close the account and open a new one without them. If a joint owner refuses to cooperate, you may need to contact Chase directly or speak with a lawyer about your options.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I add someone who doesn't have a Chase account?

Yes. They don't need an existing Chase account to be added as an authorized user or joint owner. Chase will verify their identity using their Social Security number and ID, whether or not they bank with Chase. If they want to access the account online later, they'll need to create a Chase login.

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

An authorized user can spend money and see transactions but cannot close the account or change settings. A joint owner has complete control, including the ability to remove you or close the account without your permission. Only make someone a joint owner if you trust them completely.

Will adding someone affect my credit score?

Adding an authorized user does not affect your credit. Adding a joint owner may trigger a hard credit inquiry, which can lower your score by a few points temporarily. The impact is usually small and recovers within a few months.

Can I add someone if I have a business checking account?

Business accounts have different rules than personal accounts. Contact Chase directly or visit a branch to discuss adding signers or authorized users to a business account, as the process and options vary.

What if the person I'm adding is a minor?

Chase does not allow minors to be joint owners or authorized users on standard checking accounts. However, Chase offers teen checking accounts designed for people under 18, which allow a parent or guardian to monitor activity. Ask about this option at a branch or by calling Chase.