You can remove an authorized user or account owner through Chase online banking, by phone, or in person at a branch
The steps depend on whether the person is an authorized user (someone you added to help manage the account but who doesn't own it) or a joint account owner (someone whose name is on the account itself). Chase treats these differently, and removing a joint owner is more complicated than removing an authorized user.
If the person is an authorized user, you can remove them yourself through your Chase account in minutes. If they're a joint owner, you'll need to close the account and open a new one in your name alone, or contact Chase to explore other options — the bank cannot straightforward remove a joint owner at one person's request.
Key Takeaways
- Authorized users can be removed by the primary account holder through Chase online banking, the mobile app, or by calling Chase customer service.
- Joint account owners cannot be removed; you must close the account and open a new one, or both owners must agree to change the account structure.
- Removing someone takes effect when ready, but they may still see pending transactions or receive statements for a short time afterward.
- If you're unsure whether someone is an authorized user or joint owner, check your account documents or call Chase to confirm before attempting removal.
How to remove an authorized user online or through the app
Log into your Chase account at chase.com or open the Chase mobile app. Go to your checking account settings — this is usually labeled "Account" or "Settings" depending on which platform you're using. Look for a section called "Authorized Users," "Account Access," or "Manage Users."
Find the authorized user you want to remove and select the option to delete, remove, or revoke access. Chase will ask you to confirm the removal. Once you confirm, the person loses access to the account when ready. They will no longer be able to see the account balance, make transfers, or use a debit card linked to that account.
If you cannot find this option in your account settings, your account may not support online removal, or the person may be set up differently than you think. In that case, call Chase or visit a branch.
Removing someone by phone or at a branch
Call Chase customer service at the number on the back of your debit card. Tell them you want to remove an authorized user from your checking account. They will verify your identity by asking for your Social Security number, account number, or other security information. Have the authorized user's full name and, if you have it, their Social Security number or date of birth ready.
You can also visit a Chase branch in person with a photo ID. A banker can remove the authorized user while you're there. This takes about 10 to 15 minutes. If you go in person, bring your ID and be prepared to answer security questions.
Removal takes effect the same day you request it, whether you do it online or by phone. The person will lose access to the account and any debit cards or digital access tied to it.
What happens if the person is a joint account owner instead
Joint account owners are different from authorized users. A joint owner's name is on the account itself, and they have equal legal rights to the money in it. Chase cannot remove a joint owner at the request of only one owner — both owners must agree, or the account must be closed.
If you want to remove a joint owner, you have two main options. The first is to close the account entirely and open a new checking account in your name alone. This means the joint owner will no longer have access, but you'll need to set up direct deposit, update bill payments, and get a new debit card. The second option is to contact Chase and ask whether the joint owner can voluntarily remove themselves from the account, converting it to a single-owner account. Some banks allow this; Chase's policy may vary by account type.
If you and the joint owner disagree about removing them, or if they refuse to cooperate, you may need to speak with a lawyer. Removing someone from a joint account without their consent can have legal consequences, and a lawyer can explain your options based on your situation.
What the person can still see or do after removal
Once removed, the person cannot log into the account, see the balance, make transfers, or use any debit card linked to it. However, they may still receive statements or transaction notifications for a few days if those were already in the mail or queued to send. This is normal and does not mean they still have access.
If the person had a debit card, that card will stop working when ready for new transactions. Existing pending transactions — like a charge that hasn't cleared yet — may still go through, because the merchant already has the card number. Once those clear, no new charges will be possible.
If you're concerned about fraud or unauthorized use after removal, contact Chase right away. You can also place a fraud alert on your credit report or freeze your credit if you believe the person might misuse your information.
Removing someone who has power of attorney
If the person has power of attorney over your account — meaning you gave them legal authority to act on your behalf — removing them is more involved. Power of attorney is a legal document, not just account access, so you may need to revoke it formally or provide Chase with a new document showing the power of attorney has ended.
Call Chase and explain that you want to revoke power of attorney. They will tell you what documents they need. You may have to sign a form or provide a notarized letter stating that the power of attorney is no longer valid. Keep a copy of whatever you send Chase for your records.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I remove a joint owner without their permission?
No. Chase cannot remove a joint owner at one person's request because both owners have equal legal rights to the account. You can close the account and open a new one in your name alone, but you cannot force removal of a joint owner while the account stays open.
Will the person know when ready that they've been removed?
They will notice when they try to log in or use their debit card and find they no longer have access. Chase does not send a notification to the removed person, so they may not know until they attempt to use the account.
What if I remove someone by mistake?
Call Chase right away. If you catch it within a short time, they may be able to restore access. The sooner you call, the better your chances. Have your account number and the person's information ready.
Do I need to remove someone if I'm closing the account anyway?
No. When you close a checking account, all access ends for everyone, including authorized users and joint owners. You don't need to remove them first.
Can I remove someone and keep them as a beneficiary?
Yes. Removing someone from the account and naming them as a beneficiary are separate things. You can remove their access now and still have the account pass to them if you die. Talk to Chase about your beneficiary options.