Children can have checking accounts, but the rules depend on their age and the bank
Most banks allow children to open checking accounts, but they handle it differently based on age. Children under 18 typically cannot open an account alone—a parent or guardian must be on the account with them. Some banks set a minimum age (often 13 or 16), while others have no age floor and let parents open accounts for infants. The account itself works like any other checking account: the child gets a debit card, can make deposits and withdrawals, and receives statements. The main difference is that the parent retains legal control and responsibility until the child reaches the age of majority (usually 18).
The specific rules depend on where you bank. National chains like Chase, Bank of America, and Wells Fargo have published minimum ages and clear policies about parental controls. Credit unions and smaller regional banks sometimes offer more flexibility—some will open accounts for children younger than 13 if a parent requests it. Before you visit a branch or go online, call your bank or check their website to confirm what age your child needs to be and what documents you will need to bring.
Key Takeaways
- Children under 18 need a parent or guardian on the account; they cannot open a checking account independently.
- Most banks allow children as young as 13 to have a debit card and checking account, though some have no age minimum.
- A parent on the account can see all transactions, set spending limits, and close the account if needed.
- When a child turns 18, they can convert to a solo account or stay on the joint account with the parent.
- Some banks offer accounts specifically designed for teens with built-in parental controls and lower or no monthly fees.
How joint accounts work when a child is under 18
A checking account for a child under 18 is a joint account in the parent's and child's names. The parent is the account owner and the child is typically listed as an authorized user or co-owner, depending on the bank. Both names appear on the debit card, checks, and statements. The parent can see every transaction the child makes and usually has the power to freeze the card, set daily spending limits, or close the account.
The parent is legally responsible for the account. If the child overdrafts or the account goes negative, the parent's credit and banking history can be affected. Some banks allow parents to set up alerts—text or email notifications when the child spends above a certain amount or when the balance drops below a threshold. This setup lets a child learn to manage money while the parent maintains oversight. The parent can also review the transaction history online or through the bank's mobile app at any time.
Age requirements and what different banks offer
Age requirements vary by bank. Large national banks like Chase, Bank of America, and Wells Fargo typically allow children as young as 13 to have a debit card on a parent's account or to open a teen checking account. Some regional banks and credit unions have no age minimum and will open accounts for younger children if a parent requests it. A few banks set the minimum at 16. The best way to find out your bank's policy is to call the customer service line or visit a local branch.
Many banks now offer teen checking accounts designed specifically for children and young adults. These accounts often come with parental controls built in, no monthly maintenance fees, and educational tools to teach money management. Examples include Chase First Banking (for ages 6 and up), Bank of America's Teen Checking (ages 13 and up), and Capital One's 360 Checking for Teens (ages 8 and up). Credit unions often have similar products under different names. Call your bank or visit their website to ask what options they offer for children in your child's age group.
What happens when a child turns 18
When a child reaches 18, they become a legal adult and can take control of the account. The parent can remain on the account as a co-owner if both agree, or the child can convert it to a solo account in their name alone. Some banks do this automatically; others require the young adult to visit a branch or call to make the change. The child's credit history typically begins at this point, so the account becomes part of their credit file.
If the parent stays on the account after the child turns 18, both parties can still see transactions and either can withdraw funds. If the child wants the parent off, they can request removal, though some banks require both parties to agree. It is worth having a conversation with your child before their 18th birthday about what they want the account to look like going forward. Some young adults prefer to keep a parent on the account for a few more years as they build financial independence; others want full control immediately.
Documents and information you will need to open an account
To open a joint checking account for a child, bring the parent's government-issued photo ID (driver's license or passport) and Social Security number. You will also need the child's full name and Social Security number. Some banks ask for proof of address, such as a recent utility bill or lease in the parent's name. A few banks may ask for the child's birth certificate, though this is less common.
If you are opening the account in person at a branch, bring these documents with you. If you are opening it online, you will upload images of the ID and enter the information directly. The process usually takes 10 to 15 minutes in a branch or 5 to 10 minutes online. The account is typically active the same day or within one business day, and the debit card arrives by mail within 7 to 10 business days. Some banks offer rush card delivery for a small fee if you need the card sooner.
Debit cards, spending limits, and parental controls
Most children's checking accounts come with a debit card in the child's name. The parent can usually set a daily spending limit—for example, $25 per day or $100 per week—that the child cannot exceed. If the child tries to spend more than the limit, the transaction is declined. Some banks let parents turn the card on and off remotely through a mobile app, which is useful if the card is lost or if the parent wants to restrict spending temporarily.
Parental controls vary by bank. Common features include purchase notifications (text or email alerts when the child spends), merchant category blocking (preventing purchases at certain types of stores, like bars or gas stations), and transaction history that the parent can review online. A few banks allow parents to set rules like "no ATM withdrawals after 9 p.m." or "no online purchases." Check your bank's app or website to see what controls are available, or ask a banker at your branch which features matter most to you.
Fees and minimum balance requirements
Many banks waive monthly maintenance fees for teen or children's checking accounts, especially if a parent is also a customer. Some charge a small fee—typically $5 to $10 per month—but this is less common for accounts designed for young people. A few banks charge a fee only if the account falls below a minimum balance, such as $100 or $500. Before you open an account, ask the bank whether there are any monthly fees and whether they apply to your situation.
Overdraft fees can apply if the child spends more than the account balance. Most banks charge $25 to $35 per overdraft. Some banks offer overdraft protection, which links the checking account to a savings account or credit line and automatically transfers money if the account goes negative, though this may come with a small fee. Ask your bank about their overdraft policy before opening the account, and consider whether you want to allow overdrafts or set the account to decline transactions if there are insufficient funds.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can a child have a checking account without a parent on it?
No. Children under 18 cannot open or maintain a checking account without a parent or legal guardian. Banks require an adult to be the account owner and take legal responsibility. Once the child turns 18, they can open an account in their name alone.
What if I want to give my child money but do not want them to have a debit card?
You can open a savings account instead of a checking account, which typically does not come with a debit card. Alternatively, you can open a checking account and request that the bank not issue a debit card. You can also give your child cash or transfer money to their account and have them ask you before they spend it.
Can a child have a checking account at a different bank than the parent?
No. The account must be at the same bank where the parent holds an account or is willing to open one. The parent and child both need to be customers of that bank. You cannot open a joint account across two different banks.
Will a child's checking account affect their credit score?
A checking account alone does not affect credit score because it is not a credit product. Credit scores are based on borrowing and repayment history. However, if the account is overdrawn and sent to collections, or if the bank reports the negative balance to a credit bureau, it could harm the child's credit. Most banks do not report checking account activity to credit bureaus unless there is a serious problem.
What if my child loses the debit card or it gets stolen?
Contact the bank immediately. Most banks can freeze or cancel the card within minutes through their app or by phone. You can request a replacement card, which usually arrives within 7 to 10 business days. The bank will investigate any unauthorized charges made after you report the card lost or stolen and typically refund fraudulent transactions within 10 business days.