Yes, you can open a joint bank account online with most major banks
Most banks let you open a joint account entirely online without visiting a branch. You and the other account holder can both sign up from home, though the process varies slightly by bank. Some require one person to open the account first and then add the second person; others let both of you start together. The whole process usually takes 10 to 20 minutes per person.
The main catch is that both account holders need to verify their identity during signup. Banks use different methods—some ask you to upload a photo ID and answer security questions, others use third-party verification services that check your Social Security number and credit history. A few banks still require at least one person to verify in person at a branch, though this is becoming less common.
Key Takeaways
- Most banks complete joint account setup online, but both people must verify their identity using a photo ID and Social Security number.
- Some banks let both account holders start the process together; others require one person to open the account first and invite the second person.
- You will need to decide upfront whether both people have equal access to the account or whether one person is the primary owner.
- Joint accounts created online work the same way as those opened in a branch—both people can deposit, withdraw, and see all transactions.
What you need before you start
Gather these items for both account holders before you begin: a valid photo ID (driver's license, passport, or state ID), a Social Security number, and a current mailing address. You will also need an email address and phone number for each person, since the bank will use these to send account confirmations and security codes during signup.
Have your employer's name and your current job title ready—banks ask this during identity verification. If either person has moved in the last year, have both the old and new address available. Some banks also ask about your income range, though this is usually optional for checking accounts.
How the online signup process works
The process differs depending on whether the bank lets both people start together or requires one person to go first. Chase, Bank of America, and Wells Fargo typically have one person create the account, then add the second person afterward. Ally Bank and Charles Schwab let both account holders begin the application at the same time.
The person starting the account enters their personal information, chooses the account type (usually checking, savings, or both), and completes identity verification. This verification step is where most delays happen—the bank may ask you to upload a photo of your ID, answer questions about your credit history, or confirm recent transactions. Once that person is verified, they receive a link or invitation code to send to the second account holder.
The second person then enters their own information and completes their own identity verification. Both people will receive confirmation emails with the account number and login details. You can usually start using the account within a few hours, though some banks hold new accounts for 24 hours before allowing transfers.
Deciding who owns what on a joint account
Before you open the account, decide whether both people will have equal ownership or whether one person will be the primary owner. This matters for taxes, liability, and what happens if one person dies. Most banks let you choose during signup, though the exact options vary.
A joint tenancy with rights of survivorship means both people own the account equally, and if one person dies, the surviving person automatically inherits the full balance. A tenancy in common means both people own the account, but each person's share goes to their own estate when they die—not automatically to the other person. Some banks use different names for these arrangements, so ask the bank directly which option you are choosing.
For tax purposes, the bank will report interest earned on the account to both people's Social Security numbers. If you are opening the account with a spouse, this usually does not matter. If you are opening it with an adult child, a parent, or a friend, understand that both people will receive tax documents and both are responsible for reporting the interest on their own tax return.
Banks that make joint accounts easiest online
Chase lets you open a joint checking or savings account online in about 15 minutes. One person creates the account, then sends an invitation to the second person. Both people need a Chase online login afterward, which requires separate usernames and passwords. You can fund the account immediately with a transfer from another bank.
Bank of America follows a similar process—one person opens the account, then adds the second person. Both people can access the account online once the second person completes verification. Bank of America also lets you open a joint account at a branch if you prefer.
Ally Bank and Charles Schwab both let both account holders start the application together, which can feel faster. Ally has no monthly fees and no minimum balance, which makes it popular for joint accounts used to split household expenses. Charles Schwab charges no fees but requires a higher opening deposit at some account types.
Credit unions often have simpler joint account rules than big banks, though they may require at least one person to be a member. If you already belong to a credit union, check whether they let you open a joint account online—many do, and the process is often faster than at a national bank.
What happens after the account is open
Once both people are verified and the account is active, you can both log in with your own usernames and passwords. You will see all transactions, balances, and transfers—there is no way to hide activity from the other person. Both people can deposit checks, make withdrawals, set up automatic payments, and change account settings.
If you need a debit card, most banks mail one to each account holder automatically. Some let you order cards online immediately after opening the account; others wait a few days. Check your bank's website or call to see whether you can expedite the card or pick one up at a branch.
You can also set up direct deposit to the joint account from either person's employer. The bank will provide routing and account numbers during signup. If you are splitting household bills, you might set up automatic transfers between the joint account and each person's individual account on payday.
Closing or changing a joint account later
If you need to remove one person from the account later, most banks require both people to agree. You typically cannot do this online—you will need to visit a branch or call and speak to a representative. Some banks let you convert a joint account to a single-person account if one person wants out, though this usually requires the other person's signature.
If the account is in joint tenancy with rights of survivorship and one person dies, the surviving person can usually access the account immediately. Bring a death certificate to the bank, and they will transfer the account to the survivor's name. This process is faster than probate and does not require a lawyer.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I open a joint account online if one person does not have a Social Security number?
Most banks require a Social Security number for both account holders. If one person is a non-citizen without an SSN, some banks will accept an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) instead. Call the bank before you start the application to confirm they accept ITINs, since not all do.
What if one person's identity verification fails online?
If the bank cannot verify someone's identity online, they will usually ask that person to visit a branch in person with a photo ID. This can delay the account opening by a few days. Some banks also let you call and complete verification over the phone with a representative.
Can I open a joint account online if we live in different states?
Yes. Banks do not require both account holders to live in the same state or even the same country. You can both complete the online signup from wherever you are. The bank will mail debit cards and statements to the addresses you provide during signup.
Do both people need to be present when opening the account?
No. One person can start the application and complete their verification, then send an invitation link to the second person to complete their part. You do not need to be at the same computer or even online at the same time.
Will opening a joint account affect either person's credit score?
Opening a checking or savings account does not affect your credit score. Banks may do a soft credit check during identity verification, but this does not show up on your credit report. A hard inquiry only happens if you are opening a credit product like a credit card or line of credit.