What you need to do it

A joint checking account is one that two people own together and can both use. Both account holders can deposit money, write checks, use the debit card, and see all the transactions. Chase lets you open one online, by phone, or in a branch, and the whole process usually takes 10 to 15 minutes if you have what you need ready.

Before you start, gather these items for both people on the account: a valid government-issued photo ID (driver's license, passport, or state ID), your Social Security number, and your date of birth. You will also need a phone number and email address where Chase can reach you. If either of you is not a U.S. citizen, you will need an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) instead of a Social Security number.

Have a starting deposit ready — Chase requires a minimum opening deposit, though the amount varies by account type. Check the current requirement on Chase's website or ask in a branch, since it can change. You can deposit money by transferring it from another bank account, using a debit card, or bringing cash to a branch.

Key Takeaways

  • Both account holders need a valid photo ID, Social Security number or ITIN, and date of birth to open the account together.
  • You can open a joint Chase checking account online, by phone, or in a branch, and the process takes about 10 to 15 minutes.
  • Chase requires a minimum opening deposit that varies by account type — check the current amount before you start.
  • Once the account is open, both people can use the debit card, write checks, and see all transactions and balances.
  • Each person on the account is responsible for the full balance and any overdrafts, even if only one person spent the money.

Opening online through Chase.com

Go to Chase.com and look for the "Open an Account" or "New Accounts" link, usually near the top of the page. Select "Checking" and then choose the account type you want — Chase offers several checking products with different features and fees. Read the details for each one, since some have monthly fees while others waive them if you keep a minimum balance or set up direct deposit.

When you reach the process, you will enter information for the first account holder: name, address, phone number, email, date of birth, and Social Security number or ITIN. Chase will ask security questions to verify your identity. Then you will add the second account holder's information the same way. Make sure both names and Social Security numbers are exactly as they appear on your IDs.

Review the account terms and disclosures, then submit your process. Chase will send a confirmation email to both people. Your account number and temporary debit card information will appear on screen — write these down. Physical debit cards arrive by mail in 7 to 10 business days.

Opening by phone or in a branch

To open a joint account by phone, call Chase at 1-800-935-9935. Have both people's IDs and Social Security numbers ready. A Chase representative will walk you through the same questions as the online form, verify your identities, and set up the account. This route works well if you have questions or want to discuss which account type fits your needs.

Opening in a Chase branch is often the fastest way if you want to deposit cash when ready and get a debit card on the spot. Both account holders should go to the branch together with photo IDs, Social Security numbers, and your opening deposit. A banker will fill out the paperwork, answer questions, and usually issue a temporary debit card before you leave. Your permanent card arrives by mail later.

What happens after you open the account

Once your account is open, both people can log into Chase's website or mobile app using their own username and password. You will see the same account balance and transaction history. Either person can transfer money out, pay bills, or spend using the debit card. Chase sends statements to the email address on file, and both people can set up alerts for large transactions or low balances.

Both account holders are equally responsible for the account. That means if the account goes negative, both people are liable for overdraft fees. If one person writes a bad check or makes an unauthorized transfer, the other person is still responsible. This is different from a power of attorney arrangement, where one person manages money on behalf of another but is not an owner.

If you need to add a third person later, you cannot straightforward add them to an existing joint account — you would need to close this account and open a new one with all three names, or open a separate account. Check with Chase about their policy before you decide.

Removing someone from the account

If the relationship changes and you need to remove one person from the account, you cannot do this online. Both account holders must go to a Chase branch together or call 1-800-935-9935 to request the change. Chase will close the joint account and open a new one in the remaining person's name only. Any pending checks or automatic payments linked to the old account number will need to be updated.

If the two of you cannot agree on closing the account, the situation becomes complicated. Generally, either person can withdraw all the money or close the account unilaterally, since both own it equally. If you are in a divorce or separation, a lawyer can help you understand your rights and options.

Fees and account features

Chase offers several checking accounts with different fee structures. Some have no monthly fee if you maintain a minimum balance (often $500 to $1,500) or set up direct deposit. Others charge a monthly fee regardless. Compare the options on Chase's website to see which fits your situation.

Most Chase checking accounts come with a debit card, online bill pay, mobile check deposit, and access to Chase's ATM network. Some accounts include overdraft protection, which links to a savings account and automatically transfers money if you spend more than your balance. This prevents overdraft fees but costs nothing unless you actually use it.

Things to know before you open

Both people on a joint account can see everything — every deposit, withdrawal, and balance. There is no privacy between account holders. If you want to keep some money separate, you would need individual accounts instead.

If one person dies, the surviving account holder usually keeps the account and all the money in it. This is different from money in a will, which goes through probate. Some people use joint accounts specifically for this reason, but talk to a lawyer or financial advisor about whether it makes sense for your situation.

Chase may freeze or close the account if there is suspicious activity, repeated overdrafts, or if they cannot verify your identity. If this happens, they will contact you by phone or mail. Keep your contact information current so you do not miss important notices.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can we open a joint account if we are not married?

Yes. Chase does not require you to be married or related. Any two people can open a joint account together. You both just need valid IDs and Social Security numbers.

What if one person does not have a Social Security number?

They can use an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) instead. This is a nine-digit number issued by the IRS to people who do not have a Social Security number but need to file taxes or open financial accounts. You can explore for an ITIN through the IRS website.

Do we both have to be present to open the account?

No. You can open a joint account online or by phone without both people present at the same time. However, Chase will verify both people's identities separately, so each person will need to answer security questions or provide information when prompted.

What if we want to close the account later?

Either person can close the account, but Chase prefers that both people request it together. Call 1-800-935-9935 or visit a branch. Make sure any automatic payments are set up elsewhere first, and withdraw or transfer any remaining balance.

Can we set different spending limits for each person?

No. A joint account does not have separate spending limits. Both people have equal access to all the money. If you want to control how much each person spends, you would need separate individual accounts.