Can I remove a joint-owner from my consumer account? (2024)

FAQs

Can I remove a joint-owner from my consumer account? ›

Once a person has agreed to become a joint owner or signer on a checking, savings, or credit card, they can't be removed from the account. If you want an account in your name only, you'll need to close the account and apply for a new one.

Take care of your joint accounts

In some cases, your bank will need to speak to both you and your partner before they can remove someone from an account. If the other person is refusing to give authorisation, you could freeze the account.

While most banks won't let you remove the other joint account holder without their permission, many will allow you to remove yourself. Your bank can walk you through removing yourself from a joint bank account. You may need to submit a written request or go in person for a scheduled appointment.

Talk to a bank employee and let them know you want to take someone off your joint account. Complete and sign the form they give you. You'll just have to fill out basic info like the account number and the account holders' names and addresses. Some banks have this form available to download online.

In Most States, Banks Do Not Let You Remove a Spouse Without Their Consent.

By my signature below, I request that my name, _____________________________________, be removed from the below referenced account(s). I understand that by being removed from the account I can no longer transact business on this account. I also relinquish my rights to any and all assets held in this account.

Your options

You cannot take your spouse's name off the joint account without his or her permission. Even if you've banked with the same bank or credit union for years, a financial institution is not allowed to help you cut your spouse off from an asset that is legally theirs.

If your ex-partner takes money from your joint account or runs up debt on your joint credit card without your permission, you may be able to sue them in court. However, it can be difficult to win these cases. You should consult with an attorney to discuss your legal options.

Either person on the joint account generally has the right to move funds or close the account. Check your account agreement to see if this is the case for your account. State law may also provide you some protection in this situation.

Can you close a joint bank account without the other person? ›

Can one party with a joint bank account close the account? Generally, no. Banks require that both account holders consent to closing the account. It may be possible in some cases for one account holder to remove themselves from the account, though, without the explicit consent of both parties.

Primary account holders are legally responsible for the account. Primary account holders can name others as "authorized users" on the account, but they remain responsible for it. Joint account holders share responsibility for that account and both are considered primary account holders.

Dear Bank Manager, I am writing to request the conversion of a joint account to a single account, effective [DATE]. The account in question is account number [ACCOUNT NUMBER], which was previously held jointly by [PREVIOUS ACCOUNT HOLDERS]. I, [YOUR NAME], would like to become the sole owner of this account.

Ensure your new account is in joint names before completing your switch. You can't switch a joint account into a sole account until the second party has been removed from the account.

It's not uncommon for customers to have both individual and joint accounts under their name within the same bank. This could be a mix of current accounts, savings accounts, and other specialized accounts, depending on the bank's criteria and the customer's financial goals.

You cannot take your spouse's name off the joint account without his or her permission. Even if you've banked with the same bank or credit union for years, a financial institution is not allowed to help you cut your spouse off from an asset that is legally theirs.

Primary account holders are legally responsible for the account. Primary account holders can name others as "authorized users" on the account, but they remain responsible for it. Joint account holders share responsibility for that account and both are considered primary account holders.