You can add an authorized user or joint owner to most Santander accounts through online banking, but the process and what you're actually doing depends on which one you choose
Santander lets you add someone to your account in two different ways: as an authorized user (they can use the account but don't own it) or as a joint owner (they have equal rights and responsibility). You can start the process online through Santander's website or mobile app, but you'll likely need to finish it in person or by mail with documents. The person you're adding must be present or provide written consent, and Santander will verify their identity before the change takes effect.
The online step is usually just the beginning. What happens next depends on your account type, whether the other person is already a Santander customer, and which route you choose. This guide walks you through what each option means and what to expect at each stage.
Key Takeaways
- Authorized users can access and use the account but have no ownership rights; joint owners have equal legal claim to all funds and can make any change to the account.
- You'll need the other person's full legal name, date of birth, Social Security number, and current address to start the process online.
- Most Santander accounts require you to complete the addition in person at a branch or by mailing signed documents, even if you begin online.
- The other person must consent in writing, and Santander will verify their identity before finalizing the change.
- Adding a joint owner gives them the same rights you have, including the ability to withdraw all funds or close the account without your permission.
The difference between authorized user and joint owner
An authorized user is someone you give permission to use your account. They can make deposits, withdrawals, and transfers, and they can see the account balance and transaction history. But they don't own the account—you do. You can remove them at any time without their consent, and if you die, the account goes to your estate, not to them. Authorized users are often used for teenagers, caregivers, or business employees who need access but shouldn't have ownership rights.
A joint owner is a co-owner with equal legal rights. Both of you own all the money in the account equally. Either of you can withdraw everything, close the account, add or remove other people, or change account settings without telling the other. If one joint owner dies, the account usually passes to the surviving owner automatically (this is called "right of survivorship"). Joint ownership is common for spouses, long-term partners, or family members who manage finances together.
The choice matters legally and financially. If you're unsure which one fits your situation, talk to the other person first about what control and access they should have.
What you need before you start online
Gather these details about the person you're adding before you log into Santander online banking:
- Their full legal name (as it appears on their ID)
- Date of birth
- Social Security number
- Current mailing address
- Phone number and email address
If they're already a Santander customer, the process may be faster because Santander already has their identity information on file. If they're not, Santander will need to verify their identity, which usually means they'll have to sign documents or appear in person.
Have your own login credentials ready and make sure you're the account owner or have power of attorney. If the account is joint already, some changes may require both owners to consent.
How to start the process through Santander online banking
Log into your Santander account through the website or mobile app. Look for a section labeled "Account Settings," "Manage Account," or "Account Holders"—the exact name varies by account type. Some accounts have this under a "Services" or "Tools" menu.
Select the account you want to modify, then look for an option to add an authorized user or joint owner. Santander will ask you to choose which type of access you're giving. Enter the person's information in the fields provided: name, date of birth, Social Security number, and address.
At this point, Santander will usually tell you what happens next. Many accounts require you to print a form, have both you and the other person sign it, and mail it back to Santander. Some branches let you complete the process in person. A few accounts may let you finish entirely online if both people are existing Santander customers, but this is less common.
Do not assume the process is complete after you submit information online. Santander will send you a confirmation email with next steps. Read it carefully—it will tell you whether you need to visit a branch, mail documents, or wait for Santander to contact you.
Finishing the process in person or by mail
Most of the time, you'll need to complete the addition at a Santander branch or by returning signed documents by mail. If you go to a branch, bring your ID and the other person's ID. A banker will verify both identities, explain what you're doing, and have you both sign the necessary forms. This usually takes 15 to 30 minutes.
If you're mailing documents, Santander will send you a form to sign. You and the other person both need to sign it in front of a notary public or witness (Santander will specify which). Mail the signed form back to the address Santander provides. Keep a copy for your records.
After Santander receives your completed documents, they'll process the change. This typically takes 3 to 5 business days, though it can take longer if there are questions about identity or if the documents are incomplete. Santander will send you a confirmation letter once the change is final.
What happens if you can't meet in person
If the other person lives far away or you can't both visit a branch, ask Santander whether they accept notarized documents by mail. Most do. You'll need to have your signature and theirs notarized, then mail the form to Santander's processing center.
Some Santander branches also offer video verification for certain account changes, though this is not yet standard across all locations. Call your local branch or Santander's customer service line to ask whether this option is available for your account type.
Do not try to forge the other person's signature or submit documents without their knowledge. Santander verifies identity and may contact the other person directly to confirm they consented. Fraud in adding account holders can result in criminal charges.
What to know about removing someone later
If you added an authorized user, you can remove them online or by calling Santander. You don't need their permission. The removal usually takes effect within one business day.
If you added a joint owner, removing them is more complicated. Both owners usually have to agree and sign documents to remove one person. Some accounts let the primary owner remove a joint owner, but this varies. Call Santander to ask what your account allows. If you and the joint owner disagree, you may need a lawyer.
If a joint owner dies, the surviving owner usually keeps the account and all the funds automatically. But if there's a will or estate dispute, the account may be frozen while the estate is settled. Contact Santander when ready if a joint owner passes away.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I add someone to my account if they don't have a Social Security number?
Santander requires a Social Security number or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) for anyone you add to an account. If the person doesn't have one, they'll need to explore for an ITIN through the IRS before you can proceed. This can take several weeks.
Will adding someone to my account affect their credit score?
Adding an authorized user does not affect their credit. Adding a joint owner does not directly affect their credit either, but if the account goes into overdraft or shows negative activity, it may appear on their credit report since they're a co-owner.
What if Santander rejects my request to add someone?
Santander may decline if the person fails identity verification, has a history of fraud, or if there's a legal hold on the account. Call Santander to ask why the request was denied. You may be able to reapply with additional documents or information.
Can I add someone to my account without them knowing?
No. Santander requires the other person's consent and will verify their identity. Adding someone without their knowledge is fraud and is illegal.
How long does it take for the change to show up online?
Once Santander processes your request, the new account holder usually appears in online banking within one to two business days. They may need to set up their own login credentials or be added to an existing login, depending on whether they're already a Santander customer.