Yes, you can open a bank account online at 16, but the account will be a minor account tied to a parent or guardian
Most banks and credit unions allow you to open an account online at 16, but it will not be a fully independent account. Instead, it will be a minor account — meaning a parent or guardian must be listed as a co-owner or custodian. The parent or guardian will have access to the account, can see all transactions, and may be able to withdraw money. Some banks require the adult to sign documents in person or electronically; others allow the entire process online if the adult verifies their identity through the bank's app or website.
The specific rules depend on the bank or credit union. Some institutions let you open an account at 13 with a parent; others require you to be 16 or 18. A few banks offer accounts designed for teens that give you more control as you get older — for example, the adult can gradually reduce their oversight or the account can convert to a standard account when you turn 18. Before you start, check the bank's website or call to confirm the minimum age and what documents you and your parent will need.
Key Takeaways
- You can open a minor account online at 16 with most banks and credit unions, but a parent or guardian must be a co-owner or custodian.
- The adult on the account will have full visibility into your transactions and may be able to withdraw money or close the account.
- Some banks allow the entire process online; others require the adult to sign documents in person or verify their identity separately.
- When you turn 18, you can usually convert the account to a standard account in your name alone, or open a new account without a co-owner.
- Credit unions often have lower fees and simpler teen account options than large banks, so compare both before deciding.
What documents you and your parent will need
You will need a form of government-issued ID — a driver's license, state ID card, or passport. If you do not have one yet, some banks will accept a school ID plus a birth certificate or Social Security card as proof of identity. Your parent or guardian will need their own government-issued ID and will usually have to verify their Social Security number.
The bank will also ask for proof of address — a utility bill, lease, mortgage statement, or bank statement in the adult's name, dated within the last 60 days. If you live at the same address, one document in the parent's name is usually enough for both of you. Some banks skip this step if you verify your identity through their mobile app using facial recognition or other digital methods.
Have your Social Security number ready. The bank needs it to run a background check and report the account to credit bureaus. If you do not have a Social Security number, you can still open an account at some banks and credit unions, but the process takes longer and you may not build a credit history until you have one.
How the online process works
Start on the bank's website or mobile app and look for a link that says "open an account" or "teen account." You will enter your name, date of birth, address, and Social Security number. The bank will ask you to create a username and password and set up security questions. At this point, the system will prompt you to add a parent or guardian — you will enter their name, email, and phone number.
The bank will then send a link or code to your parent's email or phone. Your parent logs in, verifies their identity (usually by answering security questions, uploading a photo of their ID, or confirming recent transactions on an existing account), and agrees to be the co-owner or custodian. Some banks require the adult to sign documents electronically through a service like DocuSign; others just need a digital checkbox.
Once your parent completes their part, the bank reviews both applications — this usually takes a few minutes to a few hours. You will receive a confirmation email, and the account opens. The debit card typically arrives by mail within 5 to 10 business days. Some banks let you use a temporary digital card in their app immediately while you wait for the physical card.
What happens when you turn 18
When you reach 18, you have options. Many banks automatically convert the minor account to a standard account in your name alone — the parent is removed as co-owner, and you gain full control. This usually happens on your 18th birthday or shortly after, and the bank will send you a notice. You keep the same account number and routing number, so any direct deposits or automatic payments do not change.
Some banks require you to take action — you may need to log into your account, confirm your identity again, and approve the conversion. A few banks do not offer automatic conversion; instead, you open a new standard account and transfer the money yourself. Check your bank's policy now so you are not surprised later. You can find this information in the account agreement or by calling customer service.
If you want to remove the parent before 18, policies vary. Some banks allow it if you request it in writing and the parent agrees; others do not allow it until you are 18. If the relationship with your parent is unsafe or you need privacy, talk to a trusted adult — a school counselor, relative, or social worker — about your options. Some credit unions and community banks are more flexible on this than large national banks.
Banks and credit unions that offer teen accounts online
Large national banks like Chase, Bank of America, Wells Fargo, and Citibank all offer minor accounts that you can open online at 16 with a parent. Chase's "Chase First Banking" and Bank of America's "BankAmericard for Students" are designed specifically for teens and include features like spending limits and parental controls. These accounts typically have no monthly fee if you maintain a minimum balance or set up direct deposit.
Credit unions often have simpler teen accounts and lower fees. Many credit unions let you open an account at a younger age and offer better rates on savings accounts. If you are not already a member of a credit union, you may be able to join through your parent's employer, a community organization, or by living in a specific area. Use the CO-OP Network or Alliant Credit Union locator to find one near you.
Online-only banks like Chime, SoFi, and Ally have different policies — some offer teen accounts, others do not. Chime allows you to open an account at 16 with a parent and has no monthly fees. Check the bank's website directly, because policies change and vary by state.
Fees and features to compare
Most teen accounts have no monthly maintenance fee, but some charge a small fee ($5 to $10 per month) if you do not meet certain conditions — like maintaining a minimum balance or receiving a direct deposit. Compare this across banks before you decide. A free account is better if you are just starting out and do not have steady income yet.
Look at whether the account includes a debit card, how many free ATM withdrawals you get per month, and whether there are overdraft fees. Some banks charge $35 if you spend more than you have; others decline the transaction instead. Overdraft protection — where the bank covers the overage from a linked savings account — can prevent fees, but only if you set it up in advance.
Consider whether the account reports to credit bureaus. If it does, using the debit card responsibly (staying in the positive, not overdrawing) will not build your credit score, because debit cards are not credit. However, some banks offer a linked credit-builder product or a secured credit card for teens, which does report to credit bureaus and helps you start building credit history.
What your parent can and cannot do
As a co-owner or custodian, your parent can see all deposits, withdrawals, and transfers. They can typically withdraw money from the account, set spending limits on your debit card, and receive alerts when you use the card. They can also close the account if they choose. This is by design — the account is meant to teach you about money while your parent maintains oversight.
However, your parent cannot use the account to commit fraud or theft. If your parent takes money from the account without your permission and you are concerned, you can report it to the bank or to local law enforcement. This is rare, but it is important to know that the law protects you even though your parent is on the account.
Talk to your parent about what they will and will not monitor. Some parents check the account weekly; others only look if there is a problem. Setting expectations early prevents surprises and helps you build trust. If you want privacy for certain purchases, ask your parent about a spending limit or a separate savings account that they do not monitor as closely.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I open an account online without my parent knowing?
No. The bank requires a parent or guardian to be listed as a co-owner or custodian, and the bank will contact them to verify their identity and sign documents. Your parent will receive emails and notices from the bank. If you are in an unsafe situation, talk to a school counselor, trusted teacher, or social worker about your options — they can help you find resources.
What if my parent does not have a bank account?
Your parent does not need their own bank account to be a co-owner on yours. They just need a government-issued ID and proof of address. However, some banks make the process easier if the parent already has an account with them, because the bank already has their information on file. Call the bank to ask whether your parent can open an account at the same time you do.
Can I use the account for direct deposit from a job?
Yes. Once the account is open, you can give your employer the account number and routing number, and your paycheck will deposit directly. Your parent will see the deposit in the account, but they cannot prevent it from going in. Direct deposit is faster and safer than getting a paper check.
What if the bank denies my application?
Banks rarely deny applications from minors with a parent co-owner, but it can happen if there is a problem with your identity verification or if your parent has a history of fraud or unpaid debts. If you are denied, ask the bank why. If it is a verification issue, you may be able to provide additional documents. If it is because of your parent's history, you could ask a different parent or guardian to co-own the account instead.
Do I need a Social Security number to open an account?
Most banks require a Social Security number to open an account and report it to credit bureaus. However, some banks and credit unions will open an account using an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) if you do not have a Social Security number yet. Call ahead to confirm the bank's policy, because this varies.