The minimum age depends on whether you open alone or with a parent

You must be at least 18 years old to open a checking account by yourself at most banks and credit unions. If you are under 18, you can open a joint account with a parent or guardian, who will be the account owner and you will be an authorized user. Some banks allow children as young as 6 or 7 to have their own accounts if a parent co-owns it, though the parent controls the account until you turn 18.

The exact age rules vary by bank. Some institutions set the minimum at 16 for solo accounts if you have a Social Security number and a form of ID. Others require you to be 18 no matter what. A few banks and credit unions offer teen checking accounts specifically designed for younger users, with parental oversight built in. You will need to contact your bank directly to learn their specific policy.

Key Takeaways

  • You can open a checking account alone at 18 years old at nearly all banks and credit unions in the United States.
  • If you are under 18, you can open a joint account with a parent or guardian, who retains legal control until you reach 18.
  • Some banks allow accounts for children as young as 6 or 7 with parental co-ownership, though rules vary widely by institution.
  • Teen checking accounts often come with parental controls like spending limits and transaction alerts that disappear when you turn 18.
  • You will need a Social Security number, proof of identity, and proof of address to open any account, whether solo or joint.

What you need to bring when you are 18 or older

Once you turn 18, you can walk into a bank or credit union and open an account on your own. Bring a government-issued photo ID (driver's license, passport, or state ID card), your Social Security number, and proof of your current address. Proof of address can be a utility bill, lease, or recent bank statement with your name and address on it. Some banks accept a cell phone bill or insurance document instead.

You do not need to have a job or a minimum deposit to open most checking accounts, though some banks require you to deposit a small amount (often $25 to $100) on the day you open the account. Online banks sometimes waive this requirement entirely. If you do not have a Social Security number, some banks will open an account using an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) instead, though options are more limited.

Opening a joint account if you are under 18

If you are under 18, your parent or legal guardian must come with you to open the account. Both of you will need to bring ID and proof of address. The parent's name will be on the account as the primary owner, and your name will be listed as a joint owner or authorized user. The exact setup depends on the bank's policies.

In a joint account, both the parent and the child can usually deposit and withdraw money, though some banks let parents set limits on what the younger person can do. When you turn 18, you can ask the bank to remove your parent from the account or convert it to a solo account in your name. Some banks do this automatically; others require you to request it. Check with your bank about their process before you open the account.

Teen checking accounts with parental controls

Many large banks and online banks offer teen checking accounts designed for users under 18. These accounts often come with features like spending limits, transaction alerts sent to the parent's phone, and the ability for parents to freeze the card if needed. The parent sets up the account and controls the settings until the teen turns 18.

Examples include Bank of America's SafeBalance account (for ages 13 and up with a parent), Chase First Banking (ages 6 to 17), and Greenlight (a debit card app for kids and teens with parental controls). These accounts are not checking accounts in the traditional sense—most are debit card accounts without check-writing—but they serve the same purpose of teaching money management. When you turn 18, you can convert to a full checking account or move to a different bank.

What happens when you turn 18

When you reach 18, you have the right to take full control of any joint account you share with a parent. You can ask the bank to remove your parent as a co-owner, though the bank may require your parent to sign off on this change. Alternatively, you can close the joint account and open a new solo account in your name only.

If your account has parental controls (like spending limits or alerts), those will remain in place until you or your parent requests that they be removed. Some banks remove them automatically when you turn 18; others require you to ask. Contact your bank to confirm what will change on your 18th birthday and what steps you need to take if you want to make changes yourself.

Opening an account without a parent present

If you are under 18 and your parent cannot come to the bank in person, some institutions allow you to open a joint account online or by mail with a parent's signature. The parent will need to verify their identity and sign documents electronically or by mail. This process takes longer than opening an account in person—usually one to two weeks—because the bank must confirm the parent's identity through other means.

Not all banks offer this option, so call ahead to ask. Online banks are more likely to allow remote account opening for minors than traditional brick-and-mortar banks. If the bank requires both of you to be present, you may need to wait until your parent can visit a branch with you, or consider switching to a bank that offers remote opening.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I open a checking account at 16?

Some banks allow 16-year-olds to open solo accounts, but most require you to be 18. A few credit unions and online banks have lower age minimums. Call your bank to ask about their specific policy. If they require you to be 18, you can open a joint account with a parent at any age.

What if I do not have a Social Security number?

You can open an account using an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) instead. Not all banks accept ITINs, so you may need to contact several institutions to find one that does. Bring the same documents you would for a Social Security number, plus documentation of your ITIN status.

Can my parent remove me from a joint account without my permission?

Yes, in most cases a parent can remove you from a joint account they own. Once you turn 18, you have the right to remove your parent or close the account. If you are concerned about access to your money, ask the bank about converting to a solo account in your name on your 18th birthday.

Do I need a job to open a checking account?

No, you do not need employment to open a checking account. You need a Social Security number, ID, proof of address, and sometimes a small deposit. The bank does not check whether you have income or a job.

What is the difference between a checking account and a teen debit card account?

A checking account lets you write checks, set up automatic bill payments, and access a debit card. Teen debit card accounts (like Greenlight or Chase First Banking) are debit-only with no check-writing and include parental controls. Teen accounts teach money management but offer fewer features than a full checking account.