Yes, you can open a joint account online, but the process depends on which bank you choose and what documents you have ready
Most major banks and many smaller ones let you start a joint account entirely online. You won't need to visit a branch. The catch is that both account holders usually need to verify their identity during the process, and some banks require one person to be an existing customer. A few banks still require at least one signature on paper, which means one of you will need to sign and mail something back — but this is becoming less common.
The online process typically takes 10 to 20 minutes per person, though approval can take a few business days. You'll need your Social Security number, a government-issued ID, and proof of address (usually a recent utility bill or lease). Some banks ask for these upfront; others ask for them only if something doesn't match their records.
Key Takeaways
- Most banks allow you to open a joint account online without visiting a branch, though both account holders must complete identity verification.
- You will need a government-issued ID, Social Security number, and proof of address for each person on the account.
- Some banks require one account holder to already be a customer, while others let two complete strangers open an account together online.
- The entire process usually takes 10 to 20 minutes per person, with final approval arriving within a few business days.
- A small number of banks still require a wet signature on paper, meaning you'll mail a form back after completing the online steps.
What banks typically ask for during online signup
When you start the process, the bank will ask for basic information about both people: full legal names, dates of birth, Social Security numbers, and current addresses. They'll also ask how you want to own the account — this matters legally and affects what happens to the money if one person dies. Most joint accounts are "joint with rights of survivorship," meaning the surviving person automatically owns everything. Some are "tenants in common," meaning each person's share goes to their own estate. The bank will explain the difference and let you choose.
Next comes identity verification. The bank will ask you to upload or photograph your government ID — a driver's license, passport, or state ID card. Some banks use software that reads the ID automatically; others have a person review it. A few banks ask you to verify your identity through a video call with a representative, which adds time but is still faster than going to a branch.
Finally, the bank will check your address. They usually do this by asking you to confirm the address on file, or by sending a verification code to your mailing address that you enter online. If you've moved recently or the address in their system is wrong, this step can add a few days.
Banks that let two people open an account together online without existing customers
Some banks make it straightforward for two people who have no relationship with them to open a joint account together online. Chase, Bank of America, Wells Fargo, and Ally all allow this. You can both start the process at the same time from different devices, or one person can start and invite the other to complete their part. The bank will send a link or code to the second person's email or phone.
Smaller banks and credit unions vary. Some require one person to already be a member; others don't. Before you start, check the bank's website or call and ask: "Can two people who aren't currently customers open a joint account together online?" This one question will save you time.
Online-only banks like Ally, Charles Schwab, and Discover also offer joint accounts online, though they may have different rules about who can be the primary account holder or whether both people need to live in the same state.
When the bank might ask for a signature on paper
A small number of banks, especially regional ones and some credit unions, still require at least one signature on a physical form. If this is the case, the bank will tell you during the online process. Usually, one person completes the online steps, and the bank mails a form to that person's address. That person signs it and mails it back. The account is usually active before the signed form arrives, so you can start using it right away.
This adds about one to two weeks to the timeline, depending on mail speed. If you're in a hurry, ask the bank whether you can sign electronically instead — many banks now offer this as an alternative to mailing a paper form.
What happens if one person already banks there
If one of you is already a customer, the process is usually faster. That person can log into their existing account and request to add the other person as a joint owner. The bank will send a link to the second person's email, they'll verify their identity online, and the account is converted or a new joint account is opened. This can happen in as little as a few hours, though most banks take a business day or two.
The existing customer's information is already verified, so the bank only needs to check the new person's identity. This is why some banks prefer this route — it's lower risk for them.
Documents you'll need ready before you start
| Document | What it's for | Acceptable options |
|---|---|---|
| Government-issued ID | Verify your identity | Driver's license, passport, state ID card, military ID |
| Social Security number | Check your credit history and prevent fraud | Your actual SSN (the bank will verify it matches your ID) |
| Proof of address | Confirm where you live | Utility bill, lease, mortgage statement, or bank statement dated within the last 60 days |
Have these documents for both people before you start. If you don't have proof of address, some banks will let you use your ID address instead, but this varies. A few banks ask for additional information like your employer's name or your phone number, but this is less common.
What to expect after you submit everything
Once both people have completed their part, the bank reviews everything. This usually takes one to three business days. You'll get an email or text saying the account is open, and you can start using it right away — you can set up direct deposit, transfer money in, or order a debit card.
Some banks send the debit card within three to five business days; others take up to two weeks. If you need to use the account when ready, you can transfer money online or set up direct deposit without waiting for the card. Most banks also let you use the account through their mobile app or website before the physical card arrives.
If the bank needs more information — for example, if your address doesn't match their records or if they can't verify your identity — they'll contact you by email or phone. This is why it's important to check your email and answer calls from unknown numbers during the first week after you explore.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do both people have to explore at the same time?
No. Usually one person starts the process and the bank sends a link to the other person's email. The second person can complete their part hours or days later. Some banks let you start together from different devices, but most don't require it. Check with your bank about their specific process.
What if we live in different states?
Most major banks let you open a joint account online even if you live in different states. Some smaller banks and credit unions have state restrictions, so ask before you start. The bank will use the address of whoever is the primary account holder for mailing purposes, but both people's addresses will be on file.
Can we open a joint account if one person doesn't have a Social Security number?
It depends on the bank. Most require a Social Security number or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) for both people. Some banks have workarounds for people without either, but this is rare. Call the bank and explain your situation — they may be able to help or refer you to a branch that handles these cases differently.
What if the bank rejects one person's identity verification?
This usually means the ID didn't scan clearly, or the information didn't match what's in the bank's system. The bank will contact you and ask you to resubmit — you can usually retake the photo or upload a clearer image. If the problem is that your address is outdated, you may need to update it with the DMV or other issuing agency first, then try again.
Can we change the account to a single-owner account later if we want to?
Yes. You can contact the bank and ask to remove one person from the account. Both people usually need to agree, and the bank may ask for written consent. The remaining person becomes the sole owner. The process is simpler than opening the account was — usually just a phone call or a visit to a branch.