You can add another person to your USAA checking account by calling USAA or using their online banking platform, but the process depends on whether you want them as a joint owner or an authorized user

A joint owner has full access to the account, can withdraw money, close the account, and make decisions about it. An authorized user can access the account and make transactions, but cannot close it or change account settings. USAA lets you choose which type of access you want to give. The person you're adding must be at least 18 years old and will need to verify their identity during the process.

The fastest way is usually through USAA's online banking portal if you're adding an authorized user. Adding a joint owner typically requires a phone call to USAA's member services line because it involves legal changes to account ownership.

Key Takeaways

  • Joint owners have full control of the account and can close it; authorized users can only make transactions.
  • You can add an authorized user through USAA's online banking platform without calling.
  • Adding a joint owner requires calling USAA member services at 1-800-531-USAA (8722) because it changes the account's legal ownership.
  • The person you're adding must provide their Social Security number and pass identity verification.
  • Changes take effect within one to two business days once USAA processes the request.

Adding an authorized user through online banking

Log into your USAA account on their website or mobile app. Go to the account settings or account management section—the exact location varies slightly between the website and app, but look for a menu option labeled "Manage Account" or "Account Settings." Select the checking account you want to modify.

Look for an option to add a user, authorized signer, or card user. You'll enter the person's full name, date of birth, and Social Security number. USAA will send them a verification email or text message. They must respond to that message to confirm they want access to the account. Once they verify, the change usually takes effect within one business day.

The authorized user will receive a debit card in the mail within 7 to 10 business days, or they can request a temporary card number to use when ready for online purchases. They can also set up mobile check deposit and transfer money from the account, depending on what permissions you grant them.

Adding a joint owner by phone

Call USAA member services at 1-800-531-USAA (8722). Have your account number ready and be prepared to answer security questions to verify you're the account owner. Tell the representative you want to add a joint owner to your checking account.

The representative will ask for the other person's full name, date of birth, Social Security number, and current address. They will explain that a joint owner has equal rights to the account and can withdraw all funds or close the account without your permission. You must both agree to this arrangement. The representative may ask you to confirm this verbally.

USAA will mail documents to both you and the person being added. You both need to sign and return these documents. Once USAA receives the signed paperwork, the joint ownership takes effect. This process typically takes 5 to 10 business days from the time you call.

What happens after someone is added

An authorized user can when ready start using the account once they verify their identity. They can make debit card purchases, withdraw cash from ATMs, transfer money, and deposit checks using the mobile app. They cannot change the account password, add or remove other users, or close the account.

A joint owner has the same access as an authorized user, plus the ability to change account settings, add or remove other users, and close the account. Both joint owners see the same transaction history and account balance. Either one can dispute a transaction or report fraud.

Both authorized users and joint owners will receive their own debit card. You can set daily spending limits on an authorized user's card through the online banking platform, but you cannot set limits on a joint owner's card.

Removing someone from your account

You can remove an authorized user through the online banking platform by going to account settings and selecting the option to remove or delete a user. The change takes effect when ready, and their debit card stops working right away.

Removing a joint owner requires calling USAA member services because it involves a legal change to account ownership. The joint owner must either agree to be removed, or you may need to close the account and open a new one in your name alone. USAA can explain your options when you call.

Identity verification and security

USAA requires the person being added to verify their identity before they gain access to the account. This usually means responding to an email or text message with a verification code. For joint owners, USAA may also ask for a copy of a government-issued ID.

Once someone is added, they can change the account password and set up their own login. You should discuss account security with them and agree on how you'll monitor the account together. If you're concerned about unauthorized access, you can set up account alerts that notify you of large withdrawals or transfers.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I add someone who doesn't have a USAA account?

Yes. The person doesn't need to be a USAA member before you add them to your checking account. Once they're added as an authorized user or joint owner, they can use the account and eventually open their own USAA accounts if they choose to.

What if the person I'm adding lives in a different state?

Location doesn't matter. USAA will mail documents and debit cards to whatever address you provide. The process is the same whether they live next door or across the country.

Can I add a minor to my checking account?

No. USAA requires anyone added to a checking account to be at least 18 years old. If you want to give a minor access to funds, you would need to open a USAA youth savings account or custodial account instead.

What if I want to remove someone but they won't agree?

If someone is an authorized user, you can remove them unilaterally through the online banking platform. If they're a joint owner and won't agree to be removed, your options are limited—you can close the account and open a new one, but the joint owner has equal claim to any funds in the account at the time of closure.

Will adding someone to my account affect their credit score?

No. Adding someone as an authorized user or joint owner to a checking account does not appear on credit reports or affect credit scores. It's different from being added to a credit card account.