You cannot add another person to an existing Chime checking account, but you can set up a joint account or give someone access to manage it
Chime does not allow you to convert a single-owner account into a joint account after it has been opened. If you want another person to have full ownership rights and the ability to use the account, you will need to open a new joint account together. If you want to give someone temporary access to manage the account without making them an owner, Chime offers a different tool called authorized user access, though this feature is limited compared to what a full account holder can do.
The path you choose depends on what you actually need the other person to do: whether they need to own the account equally with you, whether they just need to see the balance and transaction history, or whether they need to move money in and out.
Key Takeaways
- Chime does not allow you to add a co-owner to an account that already exists; you must open a new joint account if you want shared ownership.
- A joint account requires both people to be present during the opening process and to provide their own identification and Social Security number.
- Authorized user access lets someone view the account and make transfers, but they cannot change account settings or close the account.
- If you only need to share money with someone temporarily, you can send funds directly through Chime's transfer feature instead of giving them account access.
Opening a new joint account with Chime
If you and another person both want to own the account equally, you will need to open a fresh joint account together. Both of you must be present and use the Chime mobile app or website to start the process at the same time. Each person will need to provide their own legal name, date of birth, Social Security number, and a government-issued ID (a driver's license or passport).
Chime will verify both identities before the account opens. Once the account is active, both owners have the same rights: either person can deposit money, withdraw funds, set up direct deposit, change the account PIN, and close the account. There is no primary owner and secondary owner — the account belongs to both of you equally.
If you already have a Chime account and the other person does not, they will need to create their own Chime profile first before you can open a joint account together. This means you will end up with two accounts: your original single account and the new joint account.
What authorized user access lets someone do
If you want to keep your account in your name only but give another person some ability to use it, you can add them as an authorized user. This is less common than a joint account, and Chime's authorized user feature is more limited than what you might find at a traditional bank.
An authorized user can typically view the account balance, see transaction history, and make transfers. However, they cannot change the account PIN, add or remove other users, close the account, or modify account settings. The account still belongs to you, and you remain responsible for all activity on it.
To add an authorized user, you will need to contact Chime customer service through the app or website. You will provide the other person's name and information, and Chime will send them a notification. They will need to accept the invitation to gain access.
Why you might not want to share account access
Before you add another person to your account in any way, consider whether you actually need them to have access to the account itself. If you only want to give them money, you can send a transfer directly through Chime without giving them any ongoing access. This is safer because they cannot see your full transaction history or account balance unless you tell them.
Sharing account access — whether as a joint owner or authorized user — means the other person can see every deposit, withdrawal, and transfer you make. They will also know your account balance at any time. If you value privacy or if the relationship is new or uncertain, a direct transfer is often the better choice.
Joint accounts also create legal and financial complications if the relationship ends or if one person faces debt or legal trouble. Creditors or courts can sometimes freeze or claim money in a joint account, even if only one owner owes the debt. Talk to the other person about these risks before opening a joint account.
The difference between a joint account and authorized user access
| Ability | Joint Account Owner | Authorized User |
|---|---|---|
| View balance and transactions | Yes | Yes |
| Deposit or withdraw money | Yes | Yes |
| Change account PIN | Yes | No |
| Add or remove other users | Yes | No |
| Close the account | Yes | No |
| Own the account equally | Yes | No |
What happens if you want to remove someone later
If you added someone as an authorized user and later want to remove them, you can do this through the Chime app or by contacting customer service. Once they are removed, they lose all access to the account when ready.
Removing someone from a joint account is more complicated. You cannot straightforward remove a joint owner — instead, you would need to close the joint account and open a new single account in your name. This means moving any remaining balance to the new account and updating any direct deposits or automatic payments. The other joint owner will also need to open their own separate account if they want to keep banking with Chime.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I add my spouse to my existing Chime account?
No, you cannot convert your current account. You and your spouse would need to open a new joint account together. Your original account will remain separate unless you close it.
What if the other person doesn't have a Social Security number?
Chime requires a Social Security number to open any account, whether single or joint. If the other person does not have one, they cannot be added as a joint owner or authorized user. They would need to obtain an ITIN (Individual Taxpayer Identification Number) or Social Security number first.
Can I give someone access to my Chime account without them knowing?
No. Chime sends a notification to anyone you add as an authorized user, and they must accept the invitation. For a joint account, both people must actively participate in opening it. You cannot add someone without their knowledge or consent.
If I open a joint account, can the other person close it without me?
Yes. Because both owners have equal rights, either person can close a joint account at any time. This is one reason to think carefully before opening a joint account with someone.
Is there a fee to add someone to my Chime account?
Chime does not charge a fee to add an authorized user or to open a joint account. However, if you close your original account and open a new joint account, you may lose any benefits tied to your original account, such as early direct deposit or specific card features.