You can open a Chase High School Checking account online, but you'll need a parent or guardian to co-sign

Chase allows minors to open a High School Checking account through their website without visiting a branch, but the process requires a parent or guardian with a Chase account to authorize it. The account holder must be between 13 and 17 years old. The parent logs in to their own Chase account, initiates the minor's account, and completes identity verification for both themselves and the teenager. Once approved, the teen gets a debit card and online access within a few business days.

The online process is faster than opening in person, but it does depend on the parent having an existing Chase account. If the parent doesn't bank with Chase, they'll need to open their own account first or co-sign in a branch instead.

Key Takeaways

  • A parent or guardian with an active Chase account must initiate and co-sign the High School Checking account online.
  • The minor must be between 13 and 17 years old and will need to verify their identity during the process.
  • The parent logs into their Chase account, selects the option to open an account for a minor, and completes verification for both parties.
  • Debit cards and online access typically arrive within three to five business days after approval.
  • If the parent doesn't have a Chase account, opening one first or visiting a branch to co-sign are the alternatives.

What you need before you start

Gather these items before beginning the online process. The parent will need their Chase username and password, a valid government-issued ID (driver's license or passport), and their Social Security number. The teenager will need their Social Security number and a valid ID—a state ID, passport, or school ID typically works, though Chase may ask for additional documents depending on what's available.

You'll also need a phone number and email address for the minor. Chase uses these to send account information and set up online access. Make sure both the parent and teenager have access to the phone number listed, since Chase may send a verification code during the process.

Steps to open the account online

Log into your Chase account as the parent or guardian. Look for the option to "Open an Account" or "Add a User" (the exact wording varies by Chase's current interface). Select "High School Checking" or the account type for minors. Chase will ask you to enter the teenager's name, date of birth, and Social Security number.

Next, you'll verify your own identity by answering security questions or confirming recent transactions. Chase will then ask you to verify the minor's identity. This usually means uploading a photo of their ID or answering questions based on their credit file (though most teenagers won't have one). If Chase can't verify the minor through documents alone, it may ask you to confirm their identity as the parent.

Once both identities are verified, you'll review the account terms, set up online access for the teenager, and choose whether to link the accounts. The system will confirm approval, usually within minutes to a few hours. The debit card ships separately and typically arrives in three to five business days.

What happens if verification stalls

If Chase can't verify the teenager's identity online—because their ID is expired, unclear, or doesn't match their name on file—the process will pause. Chase will send a message explaining what's needed. In some cases, you can upload additional documents through your online account. In others, Chase may ask you to visit a branch with the teenager and original ID to complete verification in person.

This doesn't mean the account is denied; it means the online process hit a step that requires human review or in-person confirmation. Contact Chase customer service through the app or website if you're unsure what document to submit next. They can tell you whether uploading more paperwork will work or whether a branch visit is necessary.

Fees and account features

Chase High School Checking has no monthly maintenance fee and no minimum balance requirement. The account includes a debit card, online banking, mobile app access, and the ability to set up direct deposit. There are no overdraft fees because the account doesn't allow overdrafts—transactions are declined if there aren't enough funds.

The parent can monitor the account through their own Chase login and set spending limits or transaction alerts if they choose. The teenager gets their own login and can see their balance, transaction history, and transfer money between their own Chase accounts. Peer-to-peer transfers to other people typically aren't available on this account type.

If the parent doesn't have a Chase account

If the parent doesn't already bank with Chase, they have two options. They can open their own Chase checking account first—this takes about 10 minutes online—and then follow the steps above to add the teenager's account. Alternatively, both the parent and teenager can visit a Chase branch together, and a banker can open both accounts at the same time and co-sign in person.

The branch route is slower but doesn't require the parent to maintain a separate Chase account afterward. Some parents prefer this if they don't plan to use Chase for their own banking. Call your local Chase branch or check the website to confirm they have the High School Checking product available, since not all branches carry every account type.

Timeline from start to usable account

The online approval process usually takes a few minutes to a few hours. Identity verification is the main variable—if both the parent and teenager's identities verify instantly, you'll see approval the same day. If Chase needs to review documents or contact you for clarification, approval can take one to two business days.

Once approved, the debit card ships separately and arrives in three to five business days. Online access and the mobile app are usually available immediately after approval, so the teenager can start checking their balance and viewing transactions before the physical card arrives. If you need the card faster, some Chase branches can issue a temporary card in person or expedite shipping for a fee.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can a teenager open the account without a parent?

No. Chase requires a parent or legal guardian with an active account to co-sign and authorize the minor's account. The parent must be present in the online process and verify their own identity. A teenager cannot open this account alone.

What if the teenager's ID is expired?

Chase may still accept an expired ID if it's recent and the photo is clear. If the ID is more than a few years expired or the photo doesn't match, Chase will likely ask for an alternative document—a passport, school ID, or state ID. Contact Chase before uploading to ask which documents they'll accept.

Can the teenager use the account right away, or do they have to wait for the debit card?

The teenager can use online banking and the mobile app immediately after approval to check their balance and view transactions. However, they can't make purchases or withdraw cash until the physical debit card arrives, which typically takes three to five business days.

What if the online process asks for documents I don't have?

Call Chase customer service or visit a branch with the teenager and their ID. A banker can review what you have and either accept it, ask for an alternative, or complete the account opening in person. Don't guess at what Chase wants—ask directly.

Can the parent close the account or remove the teenager later?

Yes. The parent can close the account through their Chase login at any time. Once the teenager turns 18, they can convert the account to a standard adult checking account or open a different one. Chase will notify both parties of any changes to the account.