Article: Many people are surprised to know that, with the necessary information, anyone can be added as an authorized user on a bank account. However, adding someone to your account gives them access to your finances and that puts you in an incredibly vulnerable position. It is not recommended you add anyone if you have not firmly established a personal or professional relationship with that person.   You should select someone you can fully trust or someone who is as invested on keeping the account's integrity intact as you are. The majority of authorized user relationships are couples, parent/child, and employer/employee. Remember, the more established your relationship with the person the better. Most of the time, you can add authorized users over the phone or online. Bank policies do vary and your specific bank might have special requirements depending on your circumstances.   Call your bank and ask them how to add a user. Some banks can do this over the phone or online, but you may have to go in to discuss the issue in person or fill out a paper application. Any questions you have should be addressed with the bank. Ask them how to remove an authorized user or joint account holder and what your exact financial responsibilities are in regards to the card's use. Remember, you're taking a risk by giving someone access to your finances. You should go in with as much information as possible. Make sure you have all the information necessary before attempting to add the user. Most banks require the following information to add a user to your account:   The user's name Their date of birth Their social security number Your bank might want other information depending on their policies. Check their requirements beforehand to make sure you have everything you need before setting things up.

What is a summary?
Know who can be added to an account. Find out your bank's policy. Gather the needed information.