What is a Joint Savings Account and Why Should You Care?

Earlier this week I shared a guest post on the benefits of using joint checking accounts.

I thought it might be a good follow up to discuss the joint savings account, one of my favorite financial tools.

What is a Joint Savings Account?

A joint savings account is simply a savings account set up by two individuals in order for those two people to access it and benefit from it.

From a legal standpoint, both parties generally have equal rights to those assets and can use those funds how they like at any time. I’m sure laws vary by jurisdiction though. Therefore, it’s good to have a high level of trust involved in this relationship.

Who Would Want One?

• Couples – These accounts are great for couples who want to build financial stability and trust. Often times in a relationship there is no need for each partner to have their own savings account. A joint savings account is perfect for couples. Mrs. PT and I have several joint accounts. We’re saving for a house down payment right now. Our emergency fund is also a joint savings account.
• Parents and Kids – Parents sometime open a joint savings account for their kids. This past year, I opened one up for little Miss PT. She started saving even before she knows what money is.
• Friends – In rare occasions, friends or other good acquaintances might want to open up joint accounts if saving toward a specific, short-term goal.

The Benefits of a Joint Savings Account

There are plenty of benefits to having a joint savings account versus striking out on your own. The first is the ability to build up savings faster and reach higher limits quicker. With two people storing away funds, you’ll reach your goals quicker and will be more likely to meet minimum balance requirements from some of the higher paying online savings accounts.

Another benefit is the ability for one partner to access the funds if something happens to the other person. The joint savings account also builds up trust and camaraderie towards your financial life. It helps you work as a team. Even if you have separate checking accounts, a joint savings account will provide some relational benefit.

Where to Get a Joint Savings Account

You can open a joint account at a traditional brick and mortar bank or at a cool new startup, like Zeta. Read our review of Zeta. You can also open one up at one of the best online savings accounts.

The process to open the account will generally be a same. Both parties will be required to provide personal information. At a local bank you’ll both likely need to be present at the time of opening the account.

What’s your take? Do you think a joint savings account is a good idea?