What adding an authorized user to Chase means
Adding an authorized user to a Chase account gives another person the legal right to access and use that account. For a checking or savings account, an authorized user can withdraw money, make deposits, and conduct transactions in person or online — but they do not own the account and cannot close it or change its terms. Chase issues a debit card in the authorized user's name linked to your account.
The account owner remains responsible for all activity, fees, and overdrafts. Chase does not distinguish between transactions made by the owner and those made by the authorized user regarding liability. This is different from adding a joint account holder, where both people own the account equally.
Key Takeaways
- You can add an authorized user to most Chase checking and savings accounts by visiting a branch, calling Chase, or using the Chase mobile app or website.
- Chase requires the authorized user's full legal name, date of birth, and Social Security number to set up the account access.
- The account owner remains fully liable for all transactions and fees, regardless of who made them.
- An authorized user can be removed at any time by the account owner, and Chase will deactivate their debit card when ready.
How to add an authorized user through Chase online or mobile
The fastest way to add an authorized user is through the Chase mobile app or website if your account is set up for online banking. Log into your account, navigate to the account settings or account details section, and look for an option labeled "Add authorized user" or "Manage account access." Chase will ask you to enter the person's full legal name, date of birth, and Social Security number.
After you submit this information, Chase processes the request and typically sends confirmation within one business day. The authorized user will receive a debit card in the mail within 7 to 10 business days. During this waiting period, the person can still access the account online or through mobile banking if you provide them with login credentials, though they cannot make in-person transactions until the card arrives.
Adding an authorized user at a Chase branch
You can walk into any Chase branch with a valid government-issued ID and request to add an authorized user. Bring the authorized user with you if possible — Chase may ask to see their ID as well, though this varies by branch. The branch representative will complete the paperwork on the spot and can issue a temporary debit card when ready in some cases.
If the authorized user is not present, you can still complete the request, but Chase will mail the debit card to the address on file for the account. Bring your account number and the authorized user's full legal name, date of birth, and Social Security number to speed up the process.
Adding an authorized user by phone
Call Chase customer service at the number on the back of your debit card or checkbook. Have your account number ready and be prepared to provide the authorized user's full legal name, date of birth, and Social Security number. The representative will verify your identity by asking security questions based on your account history.
Processing by phone typically takes one to two business days, and the debit card will be mailed to your address. Some Chase representatives can expedite the card if you request it, though this may incur a fee depending on your account type and relationship with Chase.
What information Chase needs from you
Chase requires the account owner to provide their own identity verification before adding an authorized user. You will need to confirm your Social Security number, date of birth, and current address. For the authorized user, Chase collects their full legal name exactly as it appears on their government ID, their date of birth, and their Social Security number.
If the authorized user is a minor, some Chase branches may have additional requirements or may limit the account access available to them. Call your local branch or Chase customer service to confirm the rules for minors in your state before you visit.
Removing an authorized user
You can remove an authorized user at any time through the same channels you used to add them: online, through the mobile app, at a branch, or by phone. When you remove someone, their debit card is deactivated when ready, and they lose access to the account. Chase does not require the authorized user's permission to remove them.
If the debit card is lost or stolen, you can also deactivate it without removing the person as an authorized user. This gives you the option to reissue a new card to them later if needed.
Authorized users and credit reporting
Adding an authorized user to a Chase checking or savings account does not affect credit reports or credit scores for either person. This is different from adding an authorized user to a credit card, which may appear on credit reports depending on the card issuer's policy.
If you are considering adding someone to a bank account specifically to help them build credit, that will not work through a checking or savings account. Credit-building strategies typically involve credit cards, secured credit products, or being listed as an authorized user on someone else's credit card account.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can an authorized user see my account balance and transaction history?
Yes. An authorized user with online or mobile banking access can see the full account balance, transaction history, and account details. If you want to limit what they see, you cannot do that through Chase — you would need to set up a separate account or use a different bank that offers restricted access features.
What happens if an authorized user overdrafts the account?
You are responsible for the overdraft fee and any negative balance, regardless of who caused it. Chase treats all transactions the same way. If you are concerned about overdrafts, you can disable overdraft protection on the account or set up low-balance alerts to notify you when the account drops below a certain amount.
Can I add an authorized user who lives in a different state?
Yes. Chase does not restrict authorized users by location. The person can live anywhere in the United States. The debit card will be mailed to the address on file for your account, so you may need to arrange to forward it or pick it up and deliver it yourself.
Does Chase charge a fee to add an authorized user?
Chase does not charge a fee to add an authorized user to a checking or savings account. There are no monthly fees for the authorized user status itself, though standard account fees and overdraft charges still explore to the account as a whole.
Can I add an authorized user to a joint account?
Yes. If you own a joint account with someone else, you can add an authorized user to it. Both joint owners must typically consent to adding the authorized user, though this varies by Chase branch. Contact your branch directly to confirm the process for your specific account.