You cannot open a bank account in someone else's name without their presence and consent
Banks require the person whose name appears on the account to be physically present or to sign documents themselves. They will ask for a government-issued ID, a signature, and proof of address from that person. If you show up alone with someone else's documents, the bank will turn you away. This is a fraud prevention rule that every bank enforces.
The only exceptions are narrow: a parent or legal guardian opening an account for a minor child, or a power of attorney holder acting under a signed legal document that specifically authorizes account opening. In both cases, the bank will verify the relationship and the authority before proceeding.
If someone asks you to open an account for them because they cannot get to a branch, there are faster routes than trying to work around the requirement.
Key Takeaways
- The account holder must sign documents and provide ID in person or through a verified video call at the bank's discretion.
- Parents can open accounts for minor children, but the child's name and Social Security number must appear on the account.
- A power of attorney document must specifically authorize account opening, and the bank will verify it before proceeding.
- If someone cannot reach a branch, online banks and video account opening may be available, or a mobile banker can visit them.
- Opening an account using someone else's name without their knowledge or consent is identity theft and wire fraud.
When a parent can open an account for a minor
A parent or legal guardian can open a custodial account or minor account for a child under 18. The child's name, date of birth, and Social Security number go on the account. The parent's name also appears, usually as the custodian or co-owner. The bank will ask for the parent's ID and proof of address, and the parent signs the paperwork.
The parent controls the account while the child is a minor. Once the child reaches the age of majority (18 in most states, 19 in Alabama and Nebraska, 21 in Mississippi), the account converts to a standard account in the child's name alone, or the child must open a new account and move the money. Some banks allow the child to take control earlier if they visit the branch with ID.
The parent cannot open an account for someone else's child, or for an adult, even if they have permission. The account holder must be present or must authorize the opening in writing through a power of attorney.
Using a power of attorney to open an account on someone's behalf
A power of attorney is a legal document signed by the account holder that gives another person the authority to act on their behalf. If the document specifically authorizes "opening and managing bank accounts," a power of attorney holder can open an account without the account holder present.
The bank will ask to see the original power of attorney document or a certified copy. They will verify that it is valid, that it has not been revoked, and that it covers account opening. Some banks will send the document to their legal team for review, which can add a week or more to the process. You will still need to provide the account holder's information: full name, date of birth, Social Security number, and proof of address.
A power of attorney must be signed by the account holder in front of a notary public in most states. It is not something you can create on your own or forge. If the bank suspects the document is not legitimate, they will refuse to open the account and may report the attempt.
What happens if someone cannot visit a branch in person
Many banks now offer video account opening, where the account holder signs on a video call with a bank employee. The employee watches them provide ID, verifies their identity, and has them sign documents electronically. This works for people who are homebound, out of state, or unable to reach a branch during business hours. Chase, Bank of America, Wells Fargo, and most online banks offer this option.
Some banks also send mobile bankers to homes or workplaces to open accounts. This is less common but available at larger regional banks and credit unions. Call the branch and ask whether a banker can visit.
Online banks like Ally, Charles Schwab, and Discover have no physical branches. They complete account opening entirely online using video verification, electronic signatures, and document uploads. The account holder needs a computer or phone, a government ID, and a way to verify their address (usually a utility bill or lease).
Why banks require the account holder to be present
Banks verify identity to prevent fraud and to comply with federal law. The Bank Secrecy Act and Know Your Customer (KYC) rules require banks to confirm who is opening an account and to watch for suspicious activity. If a bank opens an account for someone who is not present, they cannot verify that the person actually authorized it. That account could be used to launder money, commit fraud, or hide stolen funds.
If you open an account using someone else's name without their knowledge, you are committing identity theft. If you move money through that account, you are also committing wire fraud. Both are federal crimes with prison time and fines. Banks report suspicious account openings to law enforcement.
If someone is asking you to open an account for them
If a friend or family member is asking you to open an account in their name, the legitimate reason is usually that they cannot reach a branch or do not have transportation. In that case, suggest video account opening or a mobile banker visit. Most banks can complete the process within a few days.
If someone is asking you to open an account in a false name, or to use their name without their knowledge, do not do it. This is fraud, and you will be the one prosecuted if the bank or the person discovers it. The person asking may be trying to hide money from a spouse, creditor, or law enforcement, or they may be testing whether you will commit a crime for them.
If you are the account holder and need someone else to manage your account, you have safer options: add them as an authorized user, give them power of attorney, or set up a joint account where both names appear and both people sign the paperwork.
Joint accounts and authorized users as alternatives
A joint account has two or more names on it. Both people must be present to open it, both must sign, and both must provide ID. Once open, both can deposit and withdraw money. If one person dies, the account usually passes to the surviving owner automatically (depending on how the account is titled). If one person wants to close the account, they can do so without the other's permission at most banks.
An authorized user is someone you add to your existing account after it is open. You go to the bank with the other person, provide their ID, and sign a form. The authorized user can then use a debit card and withdraw money, but their name does not appear on the account statements or the account title. You remain the account holder and the person responsible for any overdrafts or fraud.
Both options require the other person to be present or to sign documents. Neither allows you to open an account without their involvement.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I open a bank account for my adult child?
No. Your adult child must open the account themselves or sign a power of attorney authorizing you to do it. If they cannot visit a branch, they can open an account online or through a video call with the bank. You can offer to help them gather documents or walk through the process, but they must be the one to sign.
What if I have a power of attorney but the bank says it does not cover account opening?
The power of attorney must specifically list "opening and managing bank accounts" or "financial transactions" as an authorized power. If it does not, the bank cannot use it. You would need a new power of attorney document that includes this language, signed by the account holder and notarized. Ask the bank what language they need to see.
Can I open an account for someone who is in the hospital or unable to leave home?
Yes, through video account opening or a mobile banker visit. Call the bank and explain the situation. Most banks can send a banker to a hospital or home, or can complete the account opening over a secure video call within a few days. The person still needs to provide ID and sign documents, but they do not need to travel to a branch.
What if someone opened a bank account in my name without my permission?
Contact the bank immediately and tell them the account was opened without your consent. Ask them to close it and freeze any transactions. Then file a report with the Federal Trade Commission at IdentityTheft.gov and with your local police department. Check your credit report for other fraudulent accounts. You may also want to place a fraud alert with the three credit bureaus: Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion.
Can I use someone else's Social Security number to open an account?
No. Using someone else's Social Security number without their permission is identity theft. Banks verify Social Security numbers against government records, and mismatches trigger fraud alerts. If you do this, you can be prosecuted federally.