What a Sub Checking Account Is and Who Can Have One
A sub checking account (or secondary account) is a checking account opened in someone else's name but controlled by you, or opened in your name but with another person authorized to use it. Banks handle this differently depending on the structure you choose and the account holder's age.
If you want to open an account for a minor, you will be the account owner and the child is the account holder — you control the money and the account, though the child can use the debit card and make deposits. If you want to add an adult to your existing account, that person becomes an authorized user or joint account holder, with varying levels of access depending on what the bank allows.
Some banks also offer custodial accounts specifically for minors, which have age restrictions and transfer rules built in. The rules vary by bank and by state, so what one institution calls a sub account another might call a linked account or a secondary account.
Key Takeaways
- A parent or guardian can open a checking account for a minor child, with the parent as the legal owner and the child as the account holder.
- You can add an adult to your checking account as an authorized user (limited access) or joint account holder (full access), depending on what your bank offers.
- Custodial accounts for minors often have automatic transfer rules when the child reaches a certain age, usually 18 or 21.
- Both the account owner and any authorized users are responsible for overdrafts and fees, even if only one person made the transaction.
- You will need the other person's Social Security number, date of birth, and address to add them to an account or open one in their name.
Opening a Checking Account for a Minor Child
Most banks allow a parent or legal guardian to open a checking account for a child under 18. You will be the account owner on the paperwork, and the child's name appears as the account holder. The parent controls the account, can see all transactions, and is responsible for any overdrafts or fees.
To open the account, bring your ID, Social Security number, and the child's birth certificate or Social Security card. Some banks require the child to be present; others do not. Ask your bank whether they offer a youth checking account or teen account, as these often have lower minimum balances, no monthly fees, or limited overdraft options designed for learning.
When the child reaches the age of majority (usually 18, sometimes 21 depending on your state and the bank), the account may automatically convert to a standard account in the child's name alone, or the bank may require you to remove yourself. Read the account agreement before opening it so you know what happens at that transition.
Adding an Adult as an Authorized User or Joint Account Holder
If you already have a checking account and want to give another adult access, you have two main options. An authorized user can use the debit card and make withdrawals but cannot close the account or change the account holder. A joint account holder has equal legal rights to the account and can do everything the original owner can do, including removing the other person.
To add someone, contact your bank and ask which option they offer. You will need the other person's Social Security number, date of birth, and current address. Some banks require both people to be present; others allow you to add someone over the phone or online. The process usually takes one to three business days.
Both the original account owner and any authorized users or joint holders are liable for overdrafts, fees, and any negative balance. If one person overdraws the account, the bank can pursue either person for payment. Make sure you trust anyone you add to your account with full knowledge of this shared responsibility.
Custodial Accounts and Age-Based Transfers
Some banks offer custodial checking accounts designed specifically for minors. These accounts have built-in protections: the parent controls the account until the child reaches a certain age (often 18 or 21), at which point the account automatically transfers to the child's sole control.
Custodial accounts may also limit what the child can do — for example, preventing large withdrawals without parental approval, or blocking wire transfers. The exact rules depend on your bank and your state's laws. Ask your bank whether they offer a custodial option and what the transfer age is before you open the account.
When the transfer happens, you will lose access to the account. If you want to maintain oversight or keep money in a shared account, you may need to open a separate joint account instead of a custodial one.
What Information You Need to Add Someone to Your Account
To open a sub checking account or add someone to an existing account, you will need the following information for the other person: their full legal name, date of birth, Social Security number, current mailing address, and a valid government-issued ID (driver's license, passport, or state ID).
If the person is a minor, you will also need proof of their identity — usually a birth certificate or Social Security card. Some banks ask for additional information like a phone number or email address. Have this information ready before you visit the bank or call, as it speeds up the process.
If you are opening an account for someone who does not have a Social Security number (such as a non-citizen), ask your bank whether they accept an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) instead. Not all banks do, so you may need to call ahead.
Fees and Overdraft Responsibility for Sub Accounts
Both the account owner and any authorized users or joint holders are responsible for all fees and overdrafts on the account. If the account goes negative, the bank can charge overdraft fees to the account itself, and both parties are liable if the bank pursues collection.
Some banks offer overdraft protection, which links your checking account to a savings account or credit line and automatically transfers money if you overdraw. This can prevent overdraft fees, but both the account owner and any authorized users can trigger the transfer. Make sure you understand how overdraft protection works on your account before adding someone.
Monthly maintenance fees, ATM fees, and other charges apply to sub accounts the same way they apply to regular accounts. Ask your bank whether they waive fees for youth accounts or accounts with authorized users, as some do.
Removing Someone from a Sub Checking Account
To remove an authorized user from your account, contact your bank and ask them to remove that person. You will need to provide the person's name and the account number. The bank will usually process this within one to three business days, and the person's debit card will stop working immediately.
If the other person is a joint account holder (not just an authorized user), removing them is more complicated. Both people may need to agree to the removal, or the bank may require the joint holder to remove themselves. Some banks allow only the original account owner to remove a joint holder; others require both signatures. Call your bank and ask what their policy is before you try to remove someone.
If a minor's account converts to their sole control when they reach the age of majority, you will automatically lose access. You cannot reverse this, so plan ahead if you want to maintain a shared account with that person.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I open a checking account for someone without their permission?
No. If the person is an adult, they must consent and usually must be present or sign documents. If the person is a minor, a parent or legal guardian can open an account, but once the child reaches the age of majority, the account becomes theirs alone and you lose control.
What happens if someone I added to my account takes all the money?
Legally, they have the right to withdraw money from a joint account or as an authorized user. If you believe the withdrawal was theft or fraud, you can report it to the bank and to police, but the bank will not reverse the transaction simply because you did not authorize it. This is why you should only add people you trust completely.
Can a minor have their own checking account without a parent?
No. Minors cannot open a checking account on their own. A parent or legal guardian must open the account and be the account owner. Some banks allow minors to open accounts at age 16 or 17 with parental consent, but the parent is still the legal owner.
Do I need to report a sub account to the IRS or for taxes?
If you open an account for a minor child and you are the account owner, the account is yours for tax purposes. Interest earned on the account may be taxable to you or to the child depending on your situation — ask a tax professional. If you add someone as a joint holder, the account is still yours for tax purposes unless you have formally transferred ownership.
Can I set spending limits on a sub account?
Some banks allow you to set daily withdrawal limits or transaction limits on a debit card linked to a sub account, especially for youth accounts. Others do not. Ask your bank what controls they offer before you open the account. Limits are usually set through the bank's app or website.