> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://docs.kernel.ai/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://docs.kernel.ai/app/actioning/associate.md).

# Associate accounts

[Open Associate accounts in Kernel](https://app.kernel.ai/cleaning/associate?view=cards)

The associate action links child accounts to their parent using your CRM's native hierarchy. It does not delete either record, and you can reverse the link in your CRM.

<figure><img src="/files/tzF3xtjYrVtBQRHcDCCf" alt="Associate accounts queue showing a proposed parent and its child records"><figcaption><p>The Associate accounts queue groups child accounts under their proposed parent and shows the evidence and controls used to review the change.</p></figcaption></figure>

## Association types

Kernel identifies three scenarios:

* **Link to existing parent** - the parent account already exists in your CRM. Kernel populates the native Parent Account field to establish the relationship.
* **Reparent** - the account has an existing parent that is incorrect. Kernel updates the link to the correct parent.
* **Create missing parent** - the parent does not exist in your CRM. Kernel creates the parent account, then links the child to it.

## Creating missing parents

When Kernel identifies a parent that is missing from your CRM, it groups all child accounts that share the same parent together. The parent account is created with the relevant firmographic data, and all children are linked in a single operation. Once complete, the cleaning action for these accounts updates to `None`.

## Taking action

The associate action pane in the Kernel app displays all accounts with identified parents. Completed associations can be reviewed, and rejected associations are flagged for review by the Kernel team.

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