Adding a person to your bank account is easy with the proper identification. The process varies depending on your financial institution, but can be accomplished within a matter of minutes. Banks like Bank of America and US Bank even allow you to add someone to your account online, saving you a trip to your local branch. With this method, it may take one or two business days before all the necessary information can be verified to finalize your joint account.

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     Verify your bank's policy. Call your local branch or visit your bank's website. Most major banks have a toll-free number you can call to speak with a bank representative. Ask a customer service representative what information is necessary to add someone to your bank account. Most banks will allow you to establish a joint account in person, online or over the phone.

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With the recent increase in home foreclosures, the federal government has taken steps to increase the availability of loan modifications for troubled homeowners. The downside of the government's help is that a number of fraudulent loan-modification companies and foreclosure rescue scams have appeared, causing consumers further financial hardship. If you're considering using a particular company's services, know what steps to take to ensure it is legitimate.

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     Verify the company's credentials and accreditation, if any. You can contact your local Better Business Bureau, the Federal Trade Commission or the attorney general's office in your home state to see whether there are any consumer complaints on file online mortgage loans. These same agencies will be able to verify affiliations, licensing and memberships in professional organizations within the industry.

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