Most banks let you open an account for a minor online, but you have to be the parent or guardian doing it — the minor cannot open it alone
You can open a checking or savings account for a child under 18 through most major banks' websites without visiting a branch. The process takes 10 to 20 minutes and requires your own valid ID, Social Security number, and the minor's Social Security number. However, the account is a custodial account, meaning you control it until the child reaches the age of majority (usually 18 or 21, depending on your state and the bank).
Not every bank offers online account opening for minors. Some require you to visit a branch in person or complete part of the process by mail. A few banks have age restrictions — for example, some will not open accounts for children under 13 online. Before you start, check your bank's website or call to confirm they support online opening for the age of your child.
The minor does not need to be present during the online opening, and they do not need their own ID or to sign anything. You provide their information, you verify your own identity, and the account is created under both names.
Key Takeaways
- You (the parent or guardian) open the account online using your ID and the minor's Social Security number; the minor does not open it themselves.
- Most major banks support online custodial account opening, but some have age minimums (often 13) or require a branch visit for children under a certain age.
- The account is jointly owned but you have full control until the minor reaches the age of majority, which varies by state and bank.
- The entire process typically takes 10 to 20 minutes and can be completed from home without the minor present.
- You will need your own government-issued ID, your Social Security number, and the minor's Social Security number to complete the opening.
What you need to open the account online
Gather these items before you start: your own valid government-issued photo ID (driver's license, passport, or state ID), your Social Security number, the minor's full legal name, the minor's date of birth, and the minor's Social Security number. Some banks also ask for a phone number and email address associated with the account.
You do not need the minor's ID, signature, or consent. The bank verifies your identity as the parent or guardian and creates the account in both your names. If you do not have the minor's Social Security number, you can request one from the Social Security Administration before opening the account, though this adds time.
How the online opening process works
Go to your bank's website and look for "open an account" or "minor account" in the navigation menu. Select the account type (usually "Youth Savings" or "Teen Checking") and follow the prompts. You will enter your personal information, verify your identity (usually by answering security questions or uploading a photo of your ID), and then enter the minor's information.
The bank will ask you to review the account terms and agree to them. Some banks require you to e-sign the account agreement; others send it by email after the account is created. Once you submit, the account is usually active within minutes to a few hours, though some banks take up to one business day to process.
You will receive login credentials (username and password, or a link to set them up) by email or text. You can then access the account online or through the bank's mobile app. The minor can be given access to view the account once they are old enough, but you retain control over withdrawals and account changes until they reach the age of majority.
Banks that support online opening for minors
Chase, Bank of America, Wells Fargo, Citibank, and most regional banks offer online custodial account opening. Credit unions often do as well, though policies vary by institution. Online-only banks like Ally and Marcus generally do not offer accounts for minors at all, so check before you apply.
Each bank sets its own age minimum. Chase allows online opening for children as young as 13; Bank of America has no stated minimum but recommends a branch visit for children under 13. Wells Fargo opens accounts for minors 13 and older online. If your child is younger than 13, call your bank to ask whether they can open an account online or whether you need to visit a branch.
Some banks offer special teen checking accounts with features like debit cards, spending limits, and parental controls. Others offer basic savings accounts only. Review what each bank offers before you open, because switching later means closing one account and opening another.
What happens when the minor turns 18 or 21
When the minor reaches the age of majority (18 in most states, 21 in a few), the custodial account automatically converts to a regular account in their name alone. You lose access and control. The bank will notify you and the minor before this happens, usually 30 to 60 days in advance.
Some banks allow you to set up the transition in advance — for example, by scheduling a conversation with the minor about how to manage the account independently. Others require no action from you; the conversion is automatic. Check your bank's policy so you know what to expect.
If you want to close the account before the conversion, you can do so at any time. Any remaining balance will be paid to you (the custodian) unless the bank requires the minor's signature to withdraw funds. Ask your bank about their policy before you open the account.
Alternatives if your bank does not support online opening
If your bank requires a branch visit, you can usually schedule an appointment online and complete the account opening in person in 15 to 30 minutes. Bring your ID, the minor's Social Security number, and the minor (though some banks do not require the minor to be present). The account is created the same day.
If you use a credit union, call ahead to ask about their process. Some credit unions open accounts for minors by mail if you cannot visit a branch. You will mail in a signed form, a copy of your ID, and the minor's Social Security number. This takes longer — usually one to two weeks — but avoids a branch visit.
If you want an account for a very young child (under 13) and your bank does not support online opening, a savings account at a credit union or a smaller regional bank may be easier to open in person. These institutions often have fewer restrictions on age and are more flexible about the process.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does the minor need to be present when I open the account online?
No. You open the account as the parent or guardian using your own ID and the minor's Social Security number. The minor does not need to be present, does not need an ID, and does not need to sign anything. They can find out about the account after it is created.
Can a teenager open a bank account by themselves online?
Not through a custodial account. A parent or guardian must open it. Some banks allow teenagers 16 or older to open their own independent account (not custodial) if they have a job and a Social Security number, but this varies by bank. Call your bank to ask about independent teen accounts if you want your teenager to have full control.
What if I do not have the minor's Social Security number yet?
You can request one from the Social Security Administration online or by visiting a local office. The process takes about two weeks. Some banks will hold your application while you obtain the number, but most require it before they open the account. Plan ahead if your child is newborn or newly adopted.
Will opening an account for a minor hurt their credit?
No. A custodial savings or checking account does not appear on a credit report and does not affect credit score. Credit accounts (credit cards, loans) do affect credit, but a basic bank account does not.
Can I transfer money into the account after it is opened?
Yes. Once the account is open, you can transfer money from your own account, deposit cash at a branch or ATM, or set up direct deposit. There are usually no limits on deposits into a custodial account, though some banks cap the number of withdrawals per month.