To remove a parent from your Wells Fargo account, all joint owners involved typically need to meet with a banker at a Wells Fargo branch to formally process the change. This ensures all parties consent to the modification of the joint account.
Why an In-Person Visit is Required
Wells Fargo, like most financial institutions, requires the presence of all joint account holders when making significant changes, such as removing an owner. This policy helps prevent fraud and ensures that all parties agree to the account's modification, safeguarding everyone's financial interests.
Steps to Remove a Joint Owner
Follow these steps to successfully remove a parent from your Wells Fargo account:
- Schedule an Appointment: It's highly recommended to schedule an appointment with a Wells Fargo banker in advance. This ensures a banking professional is available to assist you without a long wait.
- You can often make an appointment online through the official Wells Fargo website or by calling their customer service. Find a branch and schedule your visit here: Wells Fargo Branch Locator
- Gather Necessary Documentation: Before your appointment, ensure all parties involved have their required identification and account details.
- Government-Issued Photo ID: Each joint owner (both the one being removed and any remaining on the account) will need a valid government-issued photo ID (e.g., driver's license, passport).
- Account Information: Have your Wells Fargo account number readily available.
- All Joint Owners Must Be Present: All joint owners remaining on the account, as well as the parent being removed from the account, must meet with a banker at the Wells Fargo branch.
- Alternative for Absent Joint Owners: If a joint owner is unable to visit the branch, they can provide the required notarized documentation to the person who will be present at the branch. This documentation must clearly state their consent to be removed from the account and typically requires a notary public's seal to verify its authenticity.
- Complete the Necessary Forms: At the branch, the banker will provide you with the appropriate forms to remove a joint owner. All present parties will need to sign these documents.
- Confirmation: Once the process is complete, the banker will confirm that the parent has been successfully removed from the account. You may receive updated account information or new debit cards if applicable.
Important Considerations
- Impact on Account Access: After a joint owner is removed, they will no longer have access to the account, its funds, or any linked services.
- Direct Deposits/Automatic Payments: If the parent being removed had any direct deposits or automatic payments linked to the account, these will need to be updated with their new banking information to avoid disruptions.
- Account Type: While the general process is similar for most joint deposit accounts (checking, savings), there might be slight variations depending on the specific account type.
By following these steps, you can ensure a smooth process for removing a parent from your Wells Fargo account.
