Step-by-Step Guide:
Opening Your Joint Account
Complete English instructions to help you and your partner open a joint account in just a few minutes
Go directly to account opening →Complete Step-by-Step Instructions
Follow these steps to open your Commerzbank joint account online. Both account holders must verify their identity.
Start the Online Application Together
Start the Online Application Together
Click "Open Joint Account" to begin. The primary account holder fills in their personal details first: name, date of birth, nationality, and German address from Anmeldung. Then enter the second account holder's details.
Tip: Both account holders need a valid passport or EU ID card and a German registration certificate (Anmeldung).
Choose Your Account Type
Choose Your Account Type
Select the Gemeinschaftskonto (joint account) option. Decide whether you want an "Und-Konto" (both must authorize) or "Oder-Konto" (either can authorize). Most couples choose the Oder-Konto for convenience.
Tip: The Oder-Konto is more practical for daily use — either account holder can make transactions independently.
Receive Confirmation & Documents
Receive Confirmation & Documents
After submitting the application, Commerzbank sends confirmation emails to both account holders. You'll receive: your shared IBAN, Ident-IDs for both holders, pre-contractual information, and order confirmation.
Tip: Check spam folders if emails don't arrive within a few minutes. Save all documents securely.
Both Holders Verify Identity
Both Holders Verify Identity
Each account holder must complete identity verification separately. Use the Video Chat (IDENT app) for fastest verification (5-10 min each) or visit a Deutsche Post office with PostIdent. Both verifications must be completed for account activation.
Tip: You can verify at different times — one holder doesn't need to wait for the other. But both must complete verification.
Activate photoTAN for Both Holders
Activate photoTAN for Both Holders
Within 1-2 business days after both identities are verified, each holder downloads the photoTAN app. Log in with your individual participant numbers and PINs. Follow on-screen instructions to complete activation.
Tip: Each holder gets their own participant number and PIN. Activate photoTAN within 3 hours to avoid needing a postal activation letter.
Receive Cards & Start Banking
Receive Cards & Start Banking
Both account holders receive their own Girocard with separate PINs by mail. Activate each card at any ATM. You can now both access the shared account for withdrawals, payments, and transfers.
Open Joint Account Now
Follow these steps to open your Commerzbank Gemeinschaftskonto online. Both account holders need to complete the process.
Open Joint Account Now →Helpful Tips for Joint Accounts
Before You Start
Have both holders' documents ready (passports, Anmeldung). Decide on Und-Konto vs. Oder-Konto beforehand. Both need a valid email address and phone number.
Managing Your Joint Account
Set up standing orders for shared expenses (rent, utilities). Both holders can set up their own online banking access. Consider linking individual accounts for personal spending.