Yes, you can open a bank account for your son, but the rules depend on his age and the bank
Most banks allow you to open an account for a child under 18, but you will be the account owner and your son will be an authorized user until he reaches the age of majority (18 in most states). Some banks let you open a joint account where you both own it; others require you to be the sole owner with your son as a signer. A few banks have accounts designed specifically for minors, with features like spending limits or parental controls. The exact rules vary by bank and by state, so you will need to call or visit the bank you want to use and ask what they offer for minors.
If your son is 16 or 17, some banks will let him open his own account with your permission or co-signature, though you will still have access to the account. If he is under 16, you will almost certainly be the account owner. Either way, you will need to bring identification, proof of address, and your son's Social Security number or tax ID.
Key Takeaways
- You can open an account for a child under 18 in most cases, but you will be the owner and your son will be an authorized user until he turns 18.
- Some banks offer accounts designed for minors with parental controls or spending limits; others require a standard joint account.
- You will need your son's Social Security number, your identification, and proof of address to open the account.
- At age 18, your son can convert the account to his own name or open a separate account, depending on the bank's policy.
- Banks have different rules about who can access the account and make withdrawals, so ask the bank directly what permissions you will have.
What documents you need to bring
Bring a government-issued photo ID for yourself (driver's license, passport, or state ID card). You will also need proof of your current address—a utility bill, lease, mortgage statement, or bank statement dated within the last 60 days usually works. Bring your son's Social Security number or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) if he has one.
Some banks also ask for your son's birth certificate or a copy of it, though not all do. Call the bank before you go in and ask what they need; this saves a trip back home. If you do not have your son's Social Security number yet, you can request one from the Social Security Administration online or by mail, though the process takes a few weeks.
The difference between being the owner and an authorized user
If you are the account owner and your son is an authorized user, the account legally belongs to you. You can withdraw money, close the account, or change the terms without his permission. Your son can make deposits and withdrawals using a debit card or checks, but he cannot change account settings or close it. This is the most common setup for young children.
If the account is a true joint account, you both own it equally and can both make most decisions about it. Some banks treat joint accounts this way; others do not. Ask the bank whether a joint account means you both have equal rights or whether one person is still the primary owner. The difference matters if you ever need to close the account or dispute a transaction.
When your son turns 18
At 18, your son becomes a legal adult and can own his own bank account. Most banks will let him convert the existing account to his own name, removing you as an owner or authorized user. Some banks require him to open a new account instead. A few banks automatically convert accounts when the minor turns 18; others require him to come in and sign new paperwork.
Call your bank before your son's 18th birthday and ask what happens automatically and what he will need to do. If the bank requires a new account, ask whether they will transfer the balance for free or whether there are any fees. Some banks offer accounts designed for young adults (usually ages 18 to 25) with lower minimum balances or fewer fees, so ask whether your son is now old enough for one of those.
Banks that offer accounts designed for minors
Some banks market accounts specifically for children and teenagers, often with parental controls or spending limits. Chase offers Chase First Banking for ages 6 to 17, which includes a debit card and lets you set daily spending limits. Bank of America has a similar product called BankAmericard for Students. Credit unions often have youth accounts as well, sometimes with lower or no monthly fees.
These accounts are not required—a standard checking account works fine—but they can be useful if you want to set spending limits or monitor your son's transactions closely. Compare the monthly fees, minimum balance requirements, and what parental controls each bank offers. Some charge a monthly fee ($5 to $15) if you do not maintain a minimum balance; others are free. Ask whether the account converts automatically to an adult account at 18 or whether your son will need to open a new one.
What happens if your son is 16 or 17
At 16 or 17, some banks will let your son open his own account with your permission or your co-signature. This means he is the account owner, not you, though you may still have access depending on the bank's rules. Other banks will not let anyone under 18 be the sole owner, no matter the age. Call the bank and ask what their policy is for 16- and 17-year-olds.
If your son opens his own account at 16 or 17, he will need his own ID (a driver's license, state ID, or passport) and his Social Security number. You may need to co-sign or provide permission in writing. At 18, the account remains his with no changes needed. This route gives your son more independence than being an authorized user on your account, but you lose some ability to monitor or control spending.
How to open the account in person or online
Most banks let you open an account for a minor in person at a branch. Bring the documents listed above, and a bank employee will walk you through the process. It usually takes 15 to 30 minutes. You will sign paperwork, your son may need to sign as well (depending on the bank), and you will choose a PIN and set up online banking if you want it.
Some banks also let you open an account online, though the process varies. You may need to upload photos of your ID and your son's birth certificate, then visit a branch in person to verify your identity before the account is activated. A few banks will mail you a debit card and activation instructions without requiring an in-person visit, but this is less common for minors. Call the bank or check their website to see whether online opening is an option and what steps you will need to take.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need my son's permission to open an account for him?
No, you do not need his permission if he is under 16. If he is 16 or 17 and the bank is opening an account in his name (rather than yours), he will need to sign paperwork. For accounts in your name with him as an authorized user, his permission is not legally required, though it is a good idea to explain what you are doing.
Can I set spending limits on my son's debit card?
It depends on the bank and the type of account. Some banks with youth accounts let you set daily spending limits through their app or website. Standard checking accounts usually do not have this feature. Ask the bank whether parental controls are available before you open the account.
What if my son loses his debit card or forgets his PIN?
Call the bank and report the card lost or stolen. They will cancel it and mail a replacement, which usually arrives in 5 to 10 business days. If he forgets his PIN, he can reset it at an ATM, through the bank's app, or by calling customer service. You can also help him reset it if you are listed as an authorized user on the account.
Can I add my son to my existing account instead of opening a new one?
Yes, most banks let you add a minor as an authorized user on your existing account. This is faster than opening a new account and your son can use the same account number. Ask your bank whether they charge a fee to add an authorized user and whether they will issue a separate debit card in your son's name.
What happens if my son overdraws the account?
If the account is linked to overdraft protection, the bank may cover the overdraft and charge a fee (usually $25 to $35). If there is no overdraft protection, the transaction will be declined. Most banks do not charge overdraft fees on accounts for minors, but ask before you open the account. You can also set up alerts so the bank texts or emails you if the balance drops below a certain amount.