One name appearing first on a joint account is normal. Having to use that person’s login depends on the bank’s setup, and another bank may give you separate access.

A joint account should make you both account holders. The bank may name one person as “primary” for correspondence or administration without giving them greater ownership rights. [Chase, for example, says each joint owner has complete control over the funds.](https://www.chase.com/personal/personal-account/faqs/joint-owner)

Online access is a separate matter. It depends on the bank’s systems: [Nationwide says both holders of a joint savings account can manage it through their own online banking.](https://www.nationwide.co.uk/savings/help/joint-savings-accounts)

The greeting you see probably comes from his online banking profile, so it doesn’t establish who legally owns the account. Having to answer his security questions is a reason to check how the bank has set you up.

Ask the bank: “Am I recorded as a joint owner, or merely authorised to access his account? Can I register for online banking under my own customer identity, with my own security questions and phone number?” If they repeat that separate logins are impossible, ask for that policy in writing.

Before switching, ask the prospective bank to confirm that you’ll each have your own login, security and verification details. Check any limits on text banking too. The precise rules depend on your country and bank; other banks may handle access differently.