How to Add a Name to Checks

You should add the name of any new account holder to your checks.

Keeping a checking account as long as possible is convenient because closing a checking account and opening a new one can be a long process full of paperwork. In some cases, you may want to add another person to a checking account if you get married or decide to add a family member to the account. In some cases, people may be hesitant to accept a check from a person whose name is not listed on the check, and when you add a person to your bank account you should add her name to the check as well.

Instructions

1. Make an appointment to go to the bank and add the person to your account. You must call the bank to schedule a time that is acceptable for both you and the person who is being added to the account and whose name will be added to the checks. This avoids unnecessarily waiting at the bank.

2. Provide the required documents to the customer service representative and request that the new account holder be added to the account. You must provide your account number to the customer service representative. The new account holder must bring proper identification, which in many cases is a driver's license, state-issued photographic identification card, passport, Social Security card or any combination of these documents.

3. Order new checks. After you have added the new account holder to the account, tell the customer service representative that you wish to order new checks with her name on them.

References

• UI Employees Credit Union: Checking FAQ
• Financial Web: How to Open a Joint Bank Account