Yes, you can open a joint account online, but both account holders must be present
Most banks let you start a joint account entirely online, but there is one hard requirement: both people on the account must verify their identity during the process. You cannot open a joint account alone and add someone later. The bank needs to confirm who both of you are before the account exists.
The actual steps happen on your computer or phone. You fill out forms with both names, Social Security numbers, and addresses. Then each person completes identity verification — usually by uploading a photo ID and answering security questions, or by video call with a bank employee. After that, the account opens, and you can fund it online.
The whole process typically takes 15 minutes to an hour per person, depending on the bank and whether the verification goes smoothly. Some banks finish the same day. Others take one to three business days before the account is active.
Key Takeaways
- Both account holders must be present and verify their identity online before the account opens — you cannot open it alone.
- You will need a valid photo ID and Social Security number for each person, plus a current address for each account holder.
- Most online banks complete the process in hours or one to three business days, though some require a phone call to finish.
- Joint accounts opened online work the same way as those opened in a branch — both people can deposit, withdraw, and manage money.
What documents and information you need from both people
Each person opening the account needs to have a valid photo ID ready — a driver's license, passport, or state ID card. The bank will ask you to photograph it or upload a digital copy. Some banks also accept a video call where you hold up the ID to the camera.
You will also need each person's Social Security number and current mailing address. If either person has moved recently, use the address where they currently receive mail. Some banks ask for a phone number and email address for each account holder as well.
A few banks ask for additional information depending on your situation — for example, if one person is not a U.S. citizen, they may ask for an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) instead of a Social Security number. Check the bank's website before you start to see what they specifically require.
How the identity verification step works online
Identity verification is the part that requires both people to be involved at the same time. Most banks offer two methods: document upload or video verification.
With document upload, you photograph your ID with your phone or scan it on a computer, then upload the image through the bank's website or app. The bank's system checks that the ID is real and matches the name and date of birth you provided. This usually takes a few minutes, though the bank may review it manually afterward.
With video verification, you schedule a short call with a bank employee or use an automated video system. You show your ID to the camera, answer a few questions to confirm your identity, and you are done. This method is faster for some people because there is no waiting for the bank to review documents.
Some banks let you choose which method you prefer. Others require video verification for joint accounts specifically, because a real person can confirm that both account holders are actually present and consenting to the account.
Banks that let you open joint accounts fully online
Most large national banks and online-only banks allow joint account opening online. Chase, Bank of America, Wells Fargo, and Citibank all offer this option. Smaller regional banks vary — some do it entirely online, while others require at least one person to visit a branch or complete a phone call.
Online banks like Ally, Charles Schwab, and Discover typically have the fastest online process because they have no physical branches. They are built for remote account opening and often finish verification in minutes.
Credit unions vary widely. Some credit unions let you open joint accounts online if you are already a member. Others require both people to visit a branch in person, or they may require one person to be a member first. Call your credit union or check their website before you start.
If you are opening an account at a bank where neither of you has ever banked before, online opening is usually available. If one of you is already a customer, some banks let that person start the process and add the second person more quickly.
What happens after you submit everything online
Once both people have completed identity verification, the bank processes the information. This usually takes a few hours to three business days. You will receive an email or text confirming that the account is open.
The bank will send you account details — your account number, routing number, and information about how to access the account online. You can usually log in and see the account when ready, even if a debit card has not arrived yet.
Some banks let you fund the account right away by linking it to another bank account you own, transferring money from an existing account, or depositing a check through your phone. Others require you to wait until the account is fully activated, which can take an extra day or two.
Both account holders will have equal access to the account. You can both log in, see the balance, make transfers, and withdraw money. The bank will send statements and notices to both people unless you ask them to send everything to one address.
Why some banks still require a branch visit or phone call
A few banks require at least one step to happen over the phone or in person, even though most of the process is online. This usually happens when the bank's system flags something unusual — for example, if one person's address is very new, or if the identity verification system cannot confirm the information automatically.
Some banks also require a phone call if you want to add special features to the account, like overdraft protection or a higher withdrawal limit. These are not required to open the account, but if you want them, you may need to call.
A few older or very traditional banks straightforward do not offer full online joint account opening yet. They may let you start online but require a final step in a branch or on a phone call with a banker. If you are opening an account at a smaller bank or credit union, ask first whether the entire process can happen online.
What to do if the online process gets stuck or rejected
If identity verification fails, the bank will usually tell you why — for example, the photo of your ID was too blurry, or the information did not match their records. You can usually try again when ready with a clearer photo or corrected information.
If the system rejects you multiple times, call the bank's customer service line. A real person can review your documents manually and often approve the account over the phone. This usually takes one business day.
If one person cannot complete the process online for any reason — for example, they do not have a smartphone or reliable internet — ask the bank whether you can do part of it in a branch. Many banks will let one person verify in person while the other does it online, as long as both people are present at some point.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do both people have to be online at the exact same time to open the account?
Not necessarily. Most banks let each person complete their part of the process separately, as long as you both finish within a certain time window — usually 24 to 48 hours. However, if the bank requires video verification, you may need to schedule a call when both people can be present together.
Can I open a joint account online if one person does not have a Social Security number?
Yes, if that person has an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN). Some banks also accept a passport number or other government ID. Call the bank before you start to confirm what they will accept for someone without a Social Security number.
What if we live in different states?
You can open a joint account online even if you live in different states. The bank will use the mailing address for each person as it is. You may both receive statements and cards at different addresses, which is normal.
Will opening a joint account online affect my credit score?
No. Opening a checking or savings account does not affect your credit score. Banks may do a soft credit check to verify your identity, but this does not show up on your credit report or lower your score.
Can I change a joint account to a single account later if we break up?
Yes, but the process varies by bank. Usually one person can close the account and open a new one in their name alone, or the bank can remove one person from the account. Contact your bank to ask what options they offer.