First Citizens Bank offers checking accounts for minors, but requires a parent or guardian to open and manage the account

First Citizens Bank does allow minors to have checking accounts through their Youth Checking product, though the account must be opened by a parent or legal guardian. The minor's name appears on the account, but the parent or guardian maintains full control and access until the minor reaches the age of majority in their state (usually 18). This means the adult can see all transactions, set spending limits, and manage the account settings.

The specific rules and features vary depending on which First Citizens Bank location you visit, since the bank operates in multiple states and some regional differences apply. You will need to visit a branch in person to open the account — First Citizens does not currently offer online account opening for youth accounts. Bring the minor's Social Security number, proof of identity (such as a birth certificate or school ID), and the parent or guardian's ID and Social Security number.

Key Takeaways

  • A parent or guardian must open the account and remain the primary account holder until the minor reaches age of majority.
  • You need to visit a First Citizens Bank branch in person with the minor's Social Security number and proof of identity.
  • The parent or guardian has full access to the account and can monitor all transactions and set spending controls.
  • Youth checking accounts typically come with a debit card, online banking access, and no monthly maintenance fees for minors.

What documents you need to bring

Bring the minor's Social Security number and at least one form of identification for the child. A birth certificate, school ID, or state ID all work. If the minor does not have a Social Security number yet, you can apply for one at the same time you open the account, though this will delay the process.

The parent or guardian opening the account will also need to provide their own ID (driver's license or state ID) and Social Security number. Some branches may ask for proof of address, such as a recent utility bill or lease agreement in the adult's name. Call your local First Citizens Bank branch before you go to confirm what documents they want to see, since requirements can differ slightly by location.

Age limits and account features

First Citizens Bank's Youth Checking is designed for minors, typically from age 8 or older, though the exact minimum age can vary by branch. The account remains under parental control until the minor reaches the age of majority in their state. At that point, the minor can take over full control of the account, or the parent can close it and help the young adult open a standard adult checking account.

Youth accounts typically include a debit card, online banking access through First Citizens' website or mobile app, and no monthly maintenance fees as long as the minor is the account holder. Some branches offer additional features like parental controls that let the adult set daily spending limits or block certain types of transactions. Ask your branch what controls are available when you open the account.

How the account transitions when the minor turns 18

When the minor reaches age 18 (or the age of majority in your state), the account automatically converts to a standard adult checking account. The young adult can then manage the account independently, and the parent or guardian's access ends. Some banks require a visit to the branch to complete this transition, while others handle it automatically — ask First Citizens what their process is when you open the youth account.

If the young adult wants to keep the same account number and debit card, they usually can. However, if they want to switch to a different account product (such as a premium checking account with higher interest or different features), they may need to open a new account. The original youth account can typically be closed at that time.

Fees and minimum balance requirements

First Citizens Bank does not charge a monthly maintenance fee on Youth Checking accounts. However, other fees may apply — such as overdraft fees if the account goes negative, out-of-network ATM fees, or fees for stopping a check. The specific fees vary by location and can change, so ask your branch for a complete fee schedule when you open the account.

Most First Citizens youth accounts do not require a minimum balance to open or maintain the account. However, some branches or account types may have different rules. Confirm the minimum balance requirement (if any) with your local branch before you open the account.

Setting up online banking and the debit card

Once the account is open, both the parent or guardian and the minor can set up online banking access through First Citizens Bank's website or mobile app. The adult can use online banking to monitor transactions, set up alerts, and manage spending controls. The minor can also log in to see their balance and transaction history, depending on what permissions the parent sets.

The debit card is usually issued at the time of account opening or mailed to the address on file within 7 to 10 business days. The parent or guardian can typically activate the card online or by phone. Some parents choose to wait until the minor is old enough to use the card responsibly before activating it, while others activate it right away and use online controls to limit spending.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can a minor open a First Citizens checking account without a parent?

No. First Citizens requires a parent or legal guardian to open and sign for any youth account. The minor cannot open an account on their own until they reach the age of majority in their state, which is typically 18.

What happens if the account goes negative?

If the account balance goes below zero, First Citizens will charge an overdraft fee. The amount varies by location but is typically $25 to $35 per overdraft. The parent or guardian can transfer money into the account to cover the negative balance and avoid additional fees.

Can the parent remove money from the minor's account?

Yes. Since the parent or guardian is the primary account holder, they have full access to withdraw money. However, the account is meant to teach the minor about money management, so most parents use this power only in emergencies or with the minor's knowledge.

Do I need to visit the branch in person, or can I open the account online?

First Citizens requires an in-person visit to a branch to open a youth checking account. You cannot open one online. Bring the minor and the required documents to your nearest First Citizens Bank branch during business hours.

What if my state's age of majority is different from 18?

First Citizens follows your state's legal age of majority. If your state sets it at 19 or another age, the account will remain under parental control until that age. Ask your branch what age of majority applies in your state when you open the account.