If you opened a bank account under the age of 18, you likely needed a cosigner or joint account holder such as a parent. Cosigners are partly responsible for the bank account, and they have access to funds in the account. But if you're the primary account holder, you may wish to remove your cosigner's name and gain full control of the account. Several methods can help you achieve this goal.
Step
Wait until the account is in good standing. The bank will not remove a cosigner's name if the account is overdrawn and you owe the bank fees. Pay the necessary bank fees before submitting your request.
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Step
Talk to a banker to see if you can remove a cosigner or joint account holder without closing the account. Modifying an account may require closing the bank account and opening a new account with the funds.
Step
Make the request in-person or show a notarized letter from the cosigner. Banks will not remove names from an account over the phone. You'll need to visit your bank branch to make this request. Bring along the cosigner, or have this person submit a written statement requesting removal of his name. Have this statement signed and notarized.
Step
Provide proof of identification. The bank will need to see proof of ID before removing a name or closing the account. Depending on the bank, you might need two forms of identification, such as a driver's license or bank card.
