Joint bank accounts
Opening a joint account
A joint bank account works the same way as a sole current account except that either of the account holders can use it. They’re also each responsible, for example, for the whole of any overdraft on the account.
What’s a joint bank account?
A joint bank account is a current account you share with another person. Many share a joint account with their spouse or partner. Some people open a joint account to share bills. You can manage a joint account using our app, Online Banking, Telephone Banking, or branches.
How does a joint account work?
Both people can:
- Have their income paid into the account
- Have their own debit cards and make debit card or contactless payments
- Apply for an arranged overdraft
- Pay their bills with regular Direct Debits and standing orders
- Get statements for the account, online or on paper
- Use Online Banking, the Barclays app, Telephone Banking and our branches.
For a full list please visit barclays.co.uk/RCA
One of you can sign up for Blue Rewards.
You'll both need to go through a credit check to open a new joint account.
Joint account holders' credit files are financially linked
When you set up a joint bank account, a financial link is created between the account holders. So when you apply for credit, such as a mortgage or credit card, the lender could choose to view the credit files of the person you're linked to as well as yours. If they have a poor credit history, this could affect your ability to borrow.
Is a joint account right for you?
It’s important to make sure you trust the other person before applying. If money is owed on the account, each of you is responsible for the whole debt no matter who spent the money.
It's a good idea to agree how you plan to use the account together, and to be open and honest about how you’ll work with joint finances to avoid misunderstanding later. For example, you might choose to have separate bank accounts for your personal spending and a joint one for household bills, such as your rent or mortgage, utility bills and the weekly shop.
It might be an awkward conversation, but it can be worth deciding what would happen to the account if you were to split as a couple or go your separate ways as friends.
Either of you can make withdrawals, set up arranged overdrafts or close the account independently, without the other person agreeing to that.
Alternatives to a joint account
You can add someone to your account in different ways. We have different options for different situations – for example:
- A third-party authority lets you give someone you trust temporary access to your bank accounts with us
- You can sign up someone you trust as an account supervisor or additional cardholder – you’ll stay in control and can set limits on what they can do.
Find out more about alternatives to a joint account.
How to close your joint bank account or remove a party from it
Before you contact us, agree how you’re going to manage any regular payments from the account. You’ll need to cancel any Direct Debits or standing orders, or move these to another account.
How to remove yourself from a joint account
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Can both people register a joint account with the Barclays app?
Yes, both joint account holders can register their account on the Barclays app on different phones, as long as the other account holder is happy for them to do so.
Will both account holders be able to view joint account statements online and in the Barclays app?
Providing you’re registered for Online Banking or the Barclays app, you’ll be able to view recent transactions for the joint account. Both account holders will be able to view joint account bank statements at any time.
Can I join Barclays Blue Rewards with my joint account?
Only one person can choose a joint account to join Barclays Blue Rewards. If the other person has already chosen your account, we'll let you know and tell you when you try to select it.
You can join Barclays Blue Rewards if you have another current account that's suitable and meets the eligibility criteria.
Can joint bank accounts have overdrafts?
You can apply for an arranged overdraft on a joint account. If you do, we’ll make a decision based on your financial circumstances and borrowing history. Please remember that both account holders are liable for money borrowed as an arranged overdraft.
Do I have to be married to apply for a joint account?
No – you can apply with any other person , provided they’re over 18 and living full-time in the UK. You’ll both need to meet the eligibility criteria for the account.
Can we each have our own debit card?
Yes – both account holders will receive their own debit card.
Can I have my own separate bank account as well as a joint bank account?
Yes, providing you meet the eligibility criteria for each account.
Can I switch my old account to Barclays?
If you're moving your account from another UK bank, it'll also help if you can provide statements from the past 6 months – we'll look to match any existing features such as overdraft limits.
Find more information on the current account switching service
