You can receive money from someone else's account, but the account holder must authorize it

The person whose account the money is in has to give permission — either by sending the money themselves, or by giving you access to move it. Banks do not allow you to take money from an account you do not own or have written permission to use. The method depends on your relationship to that person and what they are comfortable with.

If someone wants to send you money, the simplest path is usually for them to initiate the transfer from their own bank. If you need to move money from their account yourself — perhaps you manage finances for an elderly parent or handle bills for a family member — you will need to be added to that account or have a power of attorney document that gives you legal authority.

Key Takeaways

  • The account owner must authorize any transfer, either by sending it themselves or by giving you legal access to their account.
  • If someone is sending you money, ask them to use their bank's transfer service, which is faster and safer than cash or checks.
  • If you need to move money from someone else's account regularly, you may need to be added as an authorized user or joint account holder.
  • A power of attorney document gives you legal authority to manage someone's finances if they cannot do so themselves, but it requires their signature while they are still able to make decisions.

When someone wants to send you money from their account

The easiest method is for them to send it themselves using their bank's transfer tools. Most banks offer online transfers to other banks, which usually take one to three business days. They log into their account, enter your name and bank details, and authorize the transfer. You do not need to do anything except provide your account information — your bank routing number and account number.

If they want to send money faster, many banks offer same-day transfers through services like Zelle, FedNow, or their own when ready payment systems. These typically work between accounts at different banks and complete within minutes or hours. The account holder initiates the transfer from their phone or computer using your email address or phone number, depending on the service.

If the person is not comfortable with online transfers or does not have online banking set up, they can visit their bank branch in person and ask a teller to send money to your account. They will need your name, your bank's name, and your account number. This method is slower — usually three to five business days — but it works the same way.

When you need regular access to someone else's account

If you manage finances for someone else — paying their bills, handling medical expenses, or managing their money day-to-day — you need formal authorization. The simplest method is to be added as a joint account holder or authorized user on their existing account. The account owner goes to their bank with you, and both of you sign paperwork giving you access to move money in and out.

Being an authorized user means you can transfer money and make withdrawals, but the account remains in the original owner's name. A joint account holder has equal ownership and equal responsibility for the account. Which one you need depends on your situation and what the account owner prefers. Ask the bank which option is right for your circumstances.

This process usually takes a few days to a week. You will need to bring a photo ID and the account owner will need to bring theirs. Some banks allow you to add an authorized user online if you are already a customer of that bank, but most require an in-person visit or a phone call with both people present.

Using power of attorney when someone cannot manage their own finances

If the account owner is unable to make decisions — due to illness, injury, or cognitive decline — you may need a power of attorney document. This is a legal paper that gives you authority to manage their finances, including moving money from their accounts. It must be signed by the account owner while they are still mentally able to understand what they are signing, and it usually needs to be notarized (certified by a notary public).

There are different types of power of attorney. A durable power of attorney stays in effect even if the person becomes unable to make decisions. A limited power of attorney gives you authority for a specific purpose or time period. You will need to decide which type fits your situation, and you may want to consult a lawyer to make sure the document is valid in your state.

Once you have the power of attorney document, take it to the bank along with your ID and the account owner's ID. The bank will make a copy and add you to the account with the authority to move money. This process can take one to three weeks because the bank's legal department reviews the document to make sure it is valid.

What happens if you try to move money without permission

Taking money from an account you do not own or have no authorization to use is theft, even if the person is a family member. Banks have security systems that flag unauthorized access, and the account owner can report the transfer as fraudulent. This can result in criminal charges, civil lawsuits, and damage to your relationship with that person.

If you are concerned about someone's finances or suspect they need help managing money, talk to them directly. If they are unable to have that conversation, speak with other family members or consult a lawyer about the right legal steps to take. Banks and courts have processes specifically designed for situations where someone needs help managing their money.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use someone else's debit card to transfer money from their account?

Using someone else's debit card without permission is theft. If the account owner gives you their card and PIN and tells you to use it, that is different — but it is safer for both of you to be added to the account officially so there is a clear record that you have permission.

What if the person is in the hospital and I need to pay their bills?

Contact their bank and explain the situation. Many banks have emergency procedures for situations like this. You may be able to make payments on their behalf with a power of attorney, or the bank may allow you to set up bill pay temporarily. If you do not have power of attorney, ask the bank what documentation they need.

Does the account owner get notified when I transfer money?

Yes. If you are an authorized user or joint account holder, transfers show up in their account history just like any other transaction. If you have power of attorney, the bank may send statements to both you and the account owner. The account owner should always know what is happening with their money.

Can I transfer money from a deceased person's account?

Not without going through the court. Once someone dies, their bank account is frozen until the estate is settled. You will need to work with an executor or administrator (named in the will or appointed by the court) to access the account. This process varies by state and by the size of the estate.

What if someone claims I stole money from their account?

Contact the bank when ready and explain your authorization. Provide any documentation you have — power of attorney papers, joint account agreements, or written permission from the account owner. If there is a dispute, the bank will investigate. Having clear, documented authorization protects both you and the account owner.