How to Change a Joint Bank Account to a Single: 7 Easy Steps (2024)

FAQs

How to Change a Joint Bank Account to a Single: 7 Easy Steps? ›

Fill out a form to request the removal of someone from the account. 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.

Removing someone from your account means your account will change from a 'joint account' to a 'sole account'. You can do this by submitting a request online. The person remaining on the account will need to start the request. If you are looking to remove a third party, you can also follow the below digital process.

How do I write a letter to a bank manager to change a joint account to a single account? Just make it simple and straight forward. State the names of the people listed currently on the account, and which name you want removing. You will - at some point, need to go into the bank to sign paperwork authorising the change.

Many banks and credit unions offer online transfers from joint to individual accounts if both accounts are at the same bank.

It's also possible to remove yourself from a joint bank account without closing it. All account holders need to agree to any changes in the account's ownership. You may both need to be present at a bank to request these changes.

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.

You cannot take your spouse's name off the account without their permission, but here's what you can do. If you and your ex are still on speaking terms, ask them to close the account together and split the funds. If they agree, take the money and immediately open a new account in your name only.

The letter provides the account number, customer ID, names of current joint account holders and address. It asks the bank manager to convert the joint account to a single account under the applicant's name alone, citing a reason for the requested change.

Joint bank accounts

Couples may also have joint bank or building society accounts. If one dies, all the money will go to the surviving partner without the need for probate or letters of administration. The bank may need the see the death certificate in order to transfer the money to the other joint owner.

Each account owner can get a debit card, write checks and make purchases. Both account holders can also add funds or withdraw them from the account. The money in joint accounts belongs to both owners. Either person can withdraw or spend the money at will — even if they weren't the one to deposit the funds.

How do I remove a joint account holder from my account? ›

To remove someone from a joint account, initiate contact with your bank, obtain the necessary forms, provide identification and secure consent from all account holders. Follow your bank's procedures and be prepared for potential account closure and reopening if required.

Generally, no. In most cases, either state law or the terms of the account provide that you usually cannot remove a person from a joint checking account without that person's consent, though some banks may offer accounts where they explicitly allow this type of removal.

To remove someone, you'll need their consent. You'll both need: A selfie (front and side profile) Photo ID (e.g. passport, driving licence or EU ID card)

The letter provides the account number, customer ID, names of current joint account holders and address. It asks the bank manager to convert the joint account to a single account under the applicant's name alone, citing a reason for the requested change.

Most joint bank or credit union accounts are held with “rights of survivorship.” This means that when one account owner dies, the money passes to the surviving owner, or equally to the rest of the owners if there are multiple people on the 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.