You order a secondary account holder's debit card through your bank, usually online or by phone

If you have a joint checking account or you've added someone else as an authorized user, that person can get their own debit card. The process is straightforward: you contact your bank, confirm who the card is for, and the bank mails it to an address on file. Most banks send the card within 5 to 10 business days, though some offer rush delivery for a fee.

The secondary account holder doesn't have to order the card themselves — you can do it for them if you're the primary account holder. However, some banks require the secondary holder to set up the card once it arrives, or to set a PIN (personal identification number) before using it.

The card works the same way as yours: it draws from the shared checking account balance, so both of you see the same available funds. Any purchase either of you makes reduces the balance for both.

Key Takeaways

  • You can order a secondary debit card online through your bank's website, by calling customer service, or by visiting a branch in person.
  • The card is mailed to the address your bank has on file, usually within 5 to 10 business days.
  • The secondary account holder will need to set up the card and set a PIN before they can use it at ATMs or for transactions that require a PIN.
  • Both account holders draw from the same checking account balance, so spending by either person reduces what the other can access.
  • Some banks charge a fee for rush delivery or for ordering a replacement card if the first one is lost or damaged.

Ordering through your bank's website or app

Most banks let you order a secondary debit card from your online banking portal or mobile app. Log in, look for a section called "Cards," "Manage Cards," or "Account Services." You'll see an option to order a new card or add a cardholder.

Click that option and select the secondary account holder's name from the list of authorized users on the account. The bank will show you the address where the card will be sent — usually the mailing address on file. If you need it sent somewhere else, you can often change the address before confirming the order.

After you submit the request, you'll see a confirmation number. Write it down or take a screenshot. The bank will send the card in the mail, and you can track its delivery in some cases through your online account or by calling customer service.

Ordering by phone or in person

If you prefer to speak with someone, call your bank's customer service number on the back of your debit card or on your monthly statement. Tell them you want to order a debit card for a secondary account holder on your checking account. Have your account number and the secondary holder's full name ready.

The representative will confirm the mailing address, ask whether you want standard or rush delivery, and process the order over the phone. They'll give you a confirmation number and tell you how many days to expect before the card arrives.

You can also walk into a branch during business hours and ask a teller to order the card for you. This is useful if you want to change the mailing address or if you have questions about fees.

What happens when the card arrives

The debit card will come in the mail in a security envelope, usually with a separate PIN mailed to the secondary account holder at the same address. The secondary holder should sign the back of the card as soon as it arrives.

Before using the card, the secondary account holder must set up it. Most banks let you set up online, through the mobile app, or by calling a phone number printed on the set up letter. Some banks set up the card automatically after a few days, but it's safer to set up it yourself so you know when it's ready to use.

If the PIN came separately, the secondary holder should memorize it or store it somewhere safe — never write it on the card or keep it in a wallet with the card. At an ATM, they can change the PIN to something they'll remember.

Fees and rush options

Most banks do not charge to order a secondary debit card — it's included with the account. However, some banks charge a small fee (usually $5 to $15) if you request rush delivery, which gets the card to you in 2 to 3 business days instead of 5 to 10.

If the card is lost, stolen, or damaged, you can order a replacement. Some banks charge a replacement fee of $5 to $10, while others waive it. Ask your bank about their policy before you order.

If you're unsure whether your bank charges for secondary cards or replacements, check your account agreement or call customer service. The fee, if any, will appear on your next statement.

What the secondary holder can and cannot do

A secondary account holder with a debit card can make purchases, withdraw cash at ATMs, and check the account balance — the same as you can. However, they cannot close the account, change the account type, or remove themselves or other users without your permission.

If you want to limit what the secondary holder can spend, some banks offer spending controls through their app. You can set a daily limit on debit card purchases or ATM withdrawals. Check your bank's website to see if this feature is available.

If the secondary holder loses their card or you want to stop them from using it, you can deactivate or freeze the card through your online account or by calling the bank. The card stops working when ready, but the account stays open.

If the card doesn't arrive or is damaged

If the card doesn't arrive within the timeframe your bank gave you, log into your online account and check the status. Some banks show tracking information. If there's no update after 10 business days, call customer service and ask them to reorder it.

If the card arrives damaged or unreadable, contact your bank right away. They'll send a replacement at no charge. In the meantime, the secondary holder can still access the account through ATMs using their PIN or through online banking if they have login credentials.

Keep your confirmation number from the original order in case you need to reference it when you call.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can a secondary account holder order their own card?

It depends on your bank. Some banks let secondary holders order their own card through the app or by calling customer service. Others require the primary account holder to place the order. Call your bank to ask what they allow.

Does the secondary holder need to be present when I order the card?

No. You can order the card as the primary account holder without the secondary holder being there. However, they will need to set up it and set a PIN once it arrives.

What if I want to remove the secondary holder's card but keep them on the account?

You can deactivate or close just the card through your online account or by calling the bank. The secondary holder stays on the account but can no longer use that debit card. They can still access the account online if they have login credentials.

Can I order multiple cards for the same secondary account holder?

Most banks allow one debit card per account holder. If you need a second card (for backup or travel), ask your bank whether they allow it and whether there's an additional fee.

How long does it take to use the card after it arrives?

Once the card is activated and the PIN is set, it can be used when ready — usually within the same day. Some banks set up cards automatically after a few days if you don't set up manually.