You can add another person to your Chase checking account in a few minutes through the Chase mobile app or website, or by visiting a branch in person

The person you add becomes an authorized user or account owner, depending on what you choose. An authorized user can use the account and make transactions but cannot close it or change account settings. An account owner has the same full control you do. Chase lets you decide which level of access fits your situation — whether you're adding a spouse, an adult child, or someone else you trust with shared finances.

The fastest way is through the Chase mobile app or website if both of you are already Chase customers. If the other person doesn't have a Chase account yet, you can still add them, but the process takes longer because Chase needs to verify their identity first.

Key Takeaways

  • You can add someone through the Chase app, website, or by visiting a branch, and the process takes minutes if they already have a Chase account.
  • The person you add can be an authorized user (can use the account but not change settings) or a joint owner (has full control like you do).
  • If the other person doesn't have a Chase account, Chase will need to verify their identity, which usually takes a few business days.
  • Both of you will need to provide your Social Security number and other identifying information so Chase can confirm who you are.
  • Once added, the other person can use a debit card, online banking, and mobile app access to the account right away.

Adding someone through the Chase app or website

Log into your Chase account on the mobile app or at chase.com. Look for the account you want to add someone to, then find the option labeled "Manage account" or "Account settings." From there, select "Add authorized user" or "Add account owner" — the exact wording depends on which app version you have, but the option will be in that section.

Enter the other person's name, date of birth, and Social Security number. Chase will ask whether you want them to be an authorized user or a joint owner. If you're unsure, authorized user is the safer choice for most situations because it limits what they can do without your permission. After you submit the information, Chase will send them a notification and may ask them to verify their identity online.

If the other person already has a Chase account, the process usually finishes within minutes. If they don't, Chase will need to confirm their identity through additional steps, which can take a few business days. You'll receive a confirmation once they're officially added.

Adding someone in person at a Chase branch

Visit any Chase branch with the person you want to add. Bring a government-issued photo ID for both of you — a driver's license, passport, or state ID card all work. The banker will ask for the same information: the other person's name, date of birth, and Social Security number.

The banker can explain the difference between authorized user and joint owner and help you decide which makes sense for your situation. They can also answer questions about what each person will be able to do with the account. This route is helpful if you want to talk through the decision before committing or if the other person doesn't have online access yet.

What happens after someone is added

Once the person is officially added, they can log into Chase online banking or the mobile app using their own username and password. They'll see your shared account listed alongside any other accounts they own. They can check the balance, see transaction history, transfer money, and set up bill pay — the exact permissions depend on whether they're an authorized user or a joint owner.

Chase will mail a debit card to the address on file within 7 to 10 business days. The card will have their name on it and will work at Chase ATMs and anywhere else that accepts debit cards. If they need access faster, they can use their phone to make contactless payments through the Chase app before the physical card arrives.

The difference between authorized user and joint owner

An authorized user can use the account day-to-day — they can spend money, check the balance, and see all transactions. They cannot close the account, change the account holder's name, remove themselves, or adjust settings like overdraft protection. If you want someone to have access without full control, this is the right choice.

A joint owner has equal control. They can do everything you can do, including closing the account, changing settings, and removing other users. Use this option only for people you completely trust with full authority — typically a spouse or long-term partner. If you add someone as a joint owner and later want to remove them, you'll need to close the account and open a new one, because Chase does not allow you to downgrade a joint owner back to authorized user status.

What information you'll need to provide

You'll need the other person's full legal name, date of birth, and Social Security number. Chase uses this information to verify their identity and check for fraud. Have this information ready before you start, whether you're using the app, website, or visiting a branch.

If the person you're adding is not a U.S. citizen or does not have a Social Security number, contact Chase directly at 1-800-935-9935 to discuss your options. Some accounts can be set up with an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) instead, but the process is different and requires a branch visit.

Removing someone from your account

If you added someone as an authorized user and want to remove them later, you can do this through the app or website. Go to account settings, find the authorized user's name, and select the option to remove them. The change takes effect when ready, and they lose access to the account right away.

If you added someone as a joint owner, you cannot remove them through the app or website. You'll need to visit a branch or call Chase at 1-800-935-9935. The only way to fully separate the account is to close it and open a new one in your name alone. This is an important reason to think carefully before making someone a joint owner.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

Yes. Chase will send them a notification and ask them to verify their identity online, which usually takes a few business days. They don't need to open their own separate account — they just need to confirm who they are so Chase can add them to yours.

Will adding someone to my account affect their credit?

No. Adding someone as an authorized user or joint owner does not show up on their credit report or affect their credit score. Chase does not report checking account activity to credit bureaus.

What if I want to add a minor to my account?

Chase has a separate product called Chase First Banking for customers under 18. If you want to add a minor to your existing adult checking account, contact Chase at 1-800-935-9935 to discuss whether that's possible, as policies vary by account type.

Can someone be added to my account if they live in a different state?

Yes. You can add someone who lives anywhere in the United States through the app or website. If you prefer to do it in person, you can both visit any Chase branch, regardless of which state you live in.

How long does it take for someone to have full access after I add them?

If they already have a Chase account, they can access your shared account within minutes. If they don't have a Chase account yet, it usually takes a few business days for Chase to verify their identity. The debit card takes 7 to 10 business days to arrive by mail.