Yes, you can add someone to your bank account, but the process and what they can do depends on how you set it up
Most banks let you add another person to an existing account. The person you add can usually deposit money, withdraw money, and see the account balance — they have the same access you do. But you need to decide upfront whether you want them to have full control or limited access, because different account types give different permissions, and changing it later can be complicated.
The most common way to add someone is to make them a joint account holder. This means both of you own the account equally, both names appear on the account, and both of you can do almost anything with the money. A second option is to add them as an authorized user, which gives them a debit card and access to withdraw money but keeps you as the sole owner — this option is less common at banks but more common at credit unions.
Key Takeaways
- You can add someone to your account by visiting your bank in person with that person's ID, or sometimes online through your bank's app or website.
- A joint account holder has equal ownership and can withdraw all the money, close the account, or remove you — so only add someone you fully trust.
- An authorized user can use the account but you remain the sole owner, though not all banks offer this option.
- The person you add will need a government-issued ID and may need to provide their Social Security number so the bank can verify their identity.
- Adding someone takes a few minutes in person or a few hours online, but the account change may not show up on statements or debit cards for one to two business days.
What a joint account holder can actually do
When you make someone a joint account holder, you are giving them ownership of the account. That means they can deposit money, withdraw money, write checks if it is a checking account, set up automatic transfers, and see the full transaction history. They can also close the account entirely or remove you from it — the bank treats both owners as having equal authority.
This matters because if you add someone as a joint holder and later disagree, you cannot simply lock them out. If they withdraw all the money or close the account, you have a dispute with that person, not a dispute with the bank. The bank has done nothing wrong. For this reason, only add someone as a joint holder if you trust them completely and you are comfortable with them having full control of the money.
Joint accounts are most common between spouses, between parents and adult children, or between siblings who share finances. They are less common between friends or between parents and minor children, because the legal and financial risks are higher.
What an authorized user can do
An authorized user is a person who can use the account but does not own it. They can usually deposit money and withdraw money using a debit card or at an ATM, but you remain the sole owner. You can remove them at any time without their permission, and they cannot close the account or remove you.
Not all banks offer authorized user accounts — some banks only offer joint accounts. Credit unions are more likely to have this option. If your bank does offer it, an authorized user is a safer choice than a joint holder if you want to give someone access without giving them full control. For example, a parent might add a teenager as an authorized user so they can use the account but cannot drain it or close it.
The downside is that an authorized user usually cannot do everything a joint holder can. They may not be able to set up automatic transfers, change account settings, or see the full transaction history depending on the bank. Ask your bank what permissions an authorized user has before you decide.
How to add someone in person at the bank
The fastest way to add someone is to go to your bank branch with that person and speak to a banker. Bring your ID and ask them to bring their government-issued ID as well — a driver's license, passport, or state ID card. The banker will ask which type of account you want (joint holder or authorized user, if your bank offers both) and will have you both sign paperwork.
The paperwork is usually a form called an Account Change Form or Authorized Signer Agreement, depending on your bank and what you are doing. The banker will explain what each person can do and will ask you to confirm that you want to proceed. The whole process takes about 15 minutes.
After you sign, the change usually takes effect immediately in the bank's system, but it may take one to two business days for the new debit card to be ordered, for the account to show both names on statements, or for online access to be set up. Ask the banker when you can expect to see the change.
How to add someone online or by phone
Many banks let you add someone to your account through their mobile app or website without visiting a branch. Log into your account, look for a section called "Account Settings," "Manage Account," or "Add Authorized User," and follow the prompts. You will usually need to enter the other person's full name, date of birth, and Social Security number so the bank can verify their identity.
Some banks will send you a link to share with the other person, and they will need to verify their identity separately using their own ID or by answering security questions. Other banks will verify them on your behalf using the information you provide. The process usually takes a few hours to a few days, and you will get an email or notification when it is complete.
If your bank does not offer online account changes, you can call the customer service number on the back of your debit card and ask to add someone. They will verify your identity, take the other person's information, and mail you paperwork to sign. This route is slower — it usually takes one to two weeks — but it works if you cannot visit a branch.
What information you will need to provide
To add someone to your account, you will need their full legal name (the name on their ID), their date of birth, and usually their Social Security number. Some banks also ask for their phone number, email address, or current address. Have this information ready before you start the process, whether you are doing it in person, online, or by phone.
The person you are adding will also need to bring or provide a government-issued ID. This can be a driver's license, passport, state ID card, or military ID. The bank uses this to verify that the person is who they say they are and to check for fraud or identity theft. If the person does not have an ID, ask your bank whether they have an alternative process — some banks will accept other documents, but it varies.
What happens if you want to remove someone later
If you added someone as a joint holder and want to remove them, you will need to visit your bank or call them and ask to remove that person from the account. The bank will usually require you to sign a form, and the change takes effect immediately or within one to two business days. However, if the other person disagrees, they can dispute the removal — the bank may require both of you to agree, or they may require a court order.
If you added someone as an authorized user, removing them is simpler. You can usually do it online, by phone, or in person, and the bank does not need the other person's permission. Their debit card will stop working within a few hours to a few days, depending on the bank.
The safest approach is to think carefully before you add someone, because removing a joint holder can become complicated if that person does not want to be removed. If you are unsure, ask the banker to explain what happens if you change your mind.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I add someone to my account without them being present?
Yes. Most banks let you add someone online or by phone without them being there, though the bank will still verify their identity using their Social Security number and other information. Some banks send a verification link to the person's email or phone. You do not need them to visit the branch with you.
What is the difference between a joint account and being added as an authorized user?
A joint account holder owns the account equally with you and can do anything with it, including closing it or removing you. An authorized user can use the account but you remain the sole owner and can remove them anytime. Not all banks offer authorized user accounts — ask yours which option is available.
Can I add a minor to my bank account?
Yes, but the rules vary by bank and by the minor's age. Most banks let you add a teenager as an authorized user or joint holder, but some require the minor to be at least 13 or 16. A younger child usually cannot be added to an account — instead, you would open a separate account in their name with you as the custodian. Ask your bank what age they require.
Will adding someone to my account affect my credit score?
No. Adding someone to a checking or savings account does not affect your credit score or theirs. Credit scores are based on borrowing and repayment history, not on bank account ownership. However, if the account is a credit card, the rules are different — ask your bank.
What happens to the account if the other person dies?
If you have a joint account and the other person dies, the account usually becomes yours automatically — the bank will remove their name and you keep the money. If you have an authorized user and they die, the account remains yours and their access is removed. In either case, tell your bank as soon as you know so they can update their records.