You can open a bank account at any age, but the rules depend on whether you're a minor or an adult

If you're under 18, you'll need a parent or legal guardian to open an account with you or on your behalf. Most banks allow minors as young as infants to have accounts, though the adult must be the account owner or co-owner until the child reaches the age of majority—usually 18, though some states set it at 19 or 21. If you're 18 or older, you can open an account on your own with just an ID and proof of address.

The specific rules vary by bank and by state. Some banks have a minimum age of 13 for a teen checking account; others have no stated minimum. Some require the parent to remain on the account indefinitely; others let you remove the parent once you turn 18. A few banks let minors open accounts without a parent present, though this is rare. The best approach is to call the bank you're interested in and ask what their policy is for your age.

Key Takeaways

  • Minors under 18 need a parent or legal guardian to open a bank account, though the bank must be present or give written consent.
  • Some banks allow accounts for children of any age; others set a minimum age of 13 or older for teen checking accounts.
  • Once you turn 18, you can open your own account without a parent's involvement, using a government ID and proof of address.
  • The parent's name stays on the account until you remove them, which usually happens at 18 but varies by bank and state.
  • Rules about who can withdraw money, who receives statements, and when the parent can be removed differ between banks—ask before opening.

What happens when a minor opens an account with a parent

When you open a joint account as a minor, the parent or guardian is typically listed as the account owner or co-owner. This means the bank treats the parent as responsible for the account, even if the child uses it. The parent can usually see all transactions, set spending limits, and close the account. The child may receive a debit card and online access, but the parent retains control.

Some banks call this a "teen checking account" or "youth account" and market it as a way for parents to teach money management. Others simply open a regular joint account. The difference is mainly in marketing and features—teen accounts often have lower or no monthly fees, and some come with parental controls that let you set daily spending limits or require approval for certain transactions.

When the child turns 18, the parent can usually be removed from the account, though you'll need to go to the bank in person or call to make this change. Some banks remove the parent automatically; most require you to ask. If the parent stays on the account, they retain access to all transactions and can still withdraw money, so removing them is important if you want privacy.

Opening an account at 18 or older without a parent

Once you turn 18, you're legally an adult and can open a bank account on your own. You'll need a government-issued photo ID (a driver's license, passport, or state ID card) and proof of your current address. Proof of address can be a utility bill, lease, mortgage statement, or a government document with your name and address on it. Some banks accept a recent bank statement or credit card statement instead.

You can open an account in person at a branch, by phone, or online, depending on the bank. Online and phone applications are usually faster—many take 10 to 15 minutes—and you can start using the account the same day. In-person applications may take longer if the branch is busy, but you can ask questions and get a debit card on the spot at some banks.

At 18, you have access to all account types: checking, savings, money market accounts, and certificates of deposit (CDs). You can also open a joint account with someone else if you choose, though this is optional.

What to bring if you're opening an account as a minor

If you're under 18, both you and your parent or guardian must be present at the bank, or the parent must give written consent. Some banks require both of you to sign documents in person; others let the parent sign online or by mail. Bring your ID (a school ID, passport, or state ID if you have one) and the parent's government-issued photo ID.

You may also need proof of address, though banks often waive this for minors if the parent provides it. Ask the bank ahead of time what documents to bring—requirements vary. Some banks also ask for a Social Security number, which you should have from birth; if you don't have it, you can request one from the Social Security Administration before opening the account.

If you're opening the account online or by mail, the bank will send forms for both you and your parent to sign. Return them with copies of IDs and proof of address. This process usually takes a few days longer than an in-person application.

Removing a parent from your account at 18

Once you turn 18, you can ask the bank to remove the parent from your account. This is done by visiting a branch in person, calling the bank, or using online banking if the option is available. You'll need to provide your ID and may need to answer security questions to verify your identity.

Some banks remove the parent automatically on your 18th birthday; most do not. If you don't remove them, they retain full access to the account and can see all transactions. This matters if you want financial privacy or if your relationship with the parent has changed. Removing them is free and takes a few minutes.

If the parent is the primary account owner and you're listed as an authorized user, the process may be different—you may not be able to remove them, or you may need to close the account and open a new one in your name only. Ask the bank what your options are.

Age requirements for specific account types

Most banks have no age restriction for savings accounts or joint accounts opened with a parent. Checking accounts for minors are common, though some banks set a minimum age of 13. Money market accounts and CDs typically require you to be 18, though some banks allow them for minors with a parent's consent.

Credit cards have a strict age requirement: you must be 18 to open one in your own name. If you're under 18, you can be added as an authorized user on a parent's card, which means you can use the card but the parent is responsible for the bill. Some banks offer teen debit cards instead, which work like credit cards but draw from a checking account rather than borrowing money.

Investment accounts and retirement accounts (like a Roth IRA) have different rules. You can open a custodial Roth IRA at any age if you have earned income, but a parent or guardian must control the account until you turn 18 or 21, depending on state law.

What to do if you're under 18 and don't have a parent available

If your parent is unavailable, deceased, or unable to consent, you may be able to use a legal guardian, grandparent, or other adult with legal authority over you. The bank will ask for documentation of this relationship—usually a court order or custody agreement. If you're in foster care, your caseworker or foster parent can often serve as the consenting adult.

If no adult is available to open an account with you, some banks offer alternatives. A few allow minors to open accounts with a school official or social worker present. Others require you to wait until you turn 18. Call the bank directly and explain your situation; they may have options you're not aware of.

If you're homeless or in a crisis situation, some nonprofits and community banks have programs to help minors open accounts without a parent. The 211 helpline (dial 2-1-1 or visit 211.org) can connect you to banking resources in your area.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I open a bank account at 16 or 17?

Yes. Most banks allow minors of any age to open accounts with a parent or guardian present. Some banks specifically market teen checking accounts starting at age 13. Call your bank to ask about their minimum age and what documents you'll need.

What if I turn 18 but my parent won't let me remove them from the account?

Once you're 18, you have the legal right to remove a co-owner from your account. The bank will honor your request without the parent's permission. Go to a branch in person or call the bank and ask to speak with an account manager about removing the co-owner.

Do I need a Social Security number to open a bank account as a minor?

Most banks require a Social Security number, but some accept an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) instead. If you don't have either, ask the bank whether they can open the account without one or what alternatives they offer. You can request a Social Security number from the Social Security Administration if you're a U.S. citizen or authorized resident.

Can I open an account online if I'm under 18?

Some online banks allow minors to open accounts with a parent's consent, but the process usually requires the parent to verify their identity online and sign digital documents. Other online banks require you to be 18. Check the bank's website or call to ask whether they offer accounts for minors and what the process is.

What happens to my account if my parent dies?

If you're a minor and your parent is the primary account owner, the bank may freeze the account pending instructions from your legal guardian or the estate. Contact the bank immediately and provide a copy of the death certificate and documentation of who your new guardian is. The bank will help you transfer the account or access the funds according to state law.