You can open some accounts for minors online, but not all banks allow it, and the process varies by age and bank

Most major banks let you open a custodial account for a child under 18 through their website or app, but the rules differ. Some banks require you to finish the account in person or by mail even if you start online. Others have age limits — many won't let you open an account for a child under 13 online at all. A few banks, like Fidelity Youth and some credit unions, offer fully online accounts for younger children, but you'll need to verify your identity as the parent first, and the bank will verify the child's Social Security number.

The fastest route is usually to check your current bank's website first. If they don't offer online accounts for minors, you have two other options: open an account at a bank that does, or open one in person at a branch. Online-only banks rarely offer custodial accounts for children, so if you're looking for a full online process, stick with traditional banks or credit unions that explicitly say they support it.

Key Takeaways

  • Most banks allow you to start a custodial account online, but many require you to complete it in person or by mail, especially for children under 13.
  • You will need your own valid ID, Social Security number, and your child's Social Security number to open any account, whether online or in person.
  • Banks that advertise youth accounts online include Fidelity, Greenlight, and some regional credit unions, but terms and fees vary widely.
  • If your bank doesn't offer online accounts for minors, you can open one in person at a branch or switch to a bank that does support the online process.

What you need before you start

Gather these documents before you attempt to open an account online. You'll need your own government-issued ID (driver's license or passport), your Social Security number, and your child's Social Security number. Some banks also ask for proof of address — a recent utility bill or lease works. Have this information ready before you log in, because the process usually won't let you pause and come back.

If your child doesn't have a Social Security number yet, you can request one from the Social Security Administration before opening the account. The process takes about two weeks by mail or can be done in person at a local Social Security office. Some banks will let you complete the account setup without it and add it later, but most require it upfront.

How the online process works at major banks

If your bank supports online account opening for minors, the process usually goes like this: log into your account or visit the bank's website, select "open a new account," and choose the custodial or youth account option. You'll enter your information first, then your child's name, date of birth, and Social Security number. The bank will verify your identity — this might mean answering security questions based on your credit history or confirming recent transactions.

After verification, some banks let you finish immediately and fund the account online. Others send you a form to sign and return by mail, or require you to visit a branch to sign documents in person. This is the most common hold-up: the bank may open the account online but won't activate it until they have your physical signature. Check the bank's website or call before you start to find out whether the entire process is online or whether you'll need to complete a step in person.

Banks that explicitly support fully online account opening for minors include Fidelity Youth (ages 13 and up), Greenlight (ages 6 and up with parental setup), and some credit unions. Each has different features — Greenlight focuses on spending and savings tools for teens, while Fidelity offers investment accounts. Read the fine print on fees, spending limits, and what happens when your child turns 18.

Age limits and what changes at different ages

Most banks won't open an account for a child under 13 online. The reason is regulatory: banks must verify the identity of anyone opening an account, and the process is harder for young children who don't have credit history or extensive documentation. At 13, many banks will let you open an account online if you're the parent. At 16 or 17, some banks let the teen open the account themselves with parental consent, though you'll still need to provide your information.

When your child turns 18, the custodial account automatically converts to a regular account in their name alone. You lose access at that point. Some banks notify you in advance; others don't. Check your account settings or call the bank a few months before your child's 18th birthday to understand what happens and whether you need to take any action.

If your bank doesn't support online accounts for minors

If your current bank doesn't offer online account opening for children, you have three options. First, open an account in person at a branch — bring your ID, your child, and both Social Security numbers. This usually takes 15 to 30 minutes and the account is active the same day. Second, mail in an application if the bank offers one — this takes longer (usually one to two weeks) but requires no branch visit. Third, switch to a bank that does support online accounts for minors.

If you're switching banks, compare fees first. Some youth accounts charge monthly maintenance fees ($5 to $10), while others are free. Check whether the account includes a debit card, what the spending limits are, and whether there are restrictions on withdrawals. A free account with no spending limits might be better for a teenager than a featured account with monthly fees.

Identity verification and security

Banks verify your identity during the online process to prevent fraud. This usually means answering questions about your credit history (previous addresses, loan amounts, credit card issuers) or confirming recent transactions on your account. You'll also provide your Social Security number and driver's license number. The bank cross-checks this information against credit bureaus and government databases.

For your child, the bank verifies the Social Security number against Social Security Administration records. If the number doesn't match or hasn't been issued yet, the account won't open. If this happens, wait a few days and try again — the SSA database updates periodically. If it still fails, you'll need to open the account in person or by mail and provide additional documentation like a birth certificate.

Funding the account and getting started

Once the account is open, you can fund it immediately through an electronic transfer from your own bank account. Most banks let you link an external account online and transfer money the same day or within one business day. Some require you to wait a few days before the first transfer clears. You can also deposit cash at an ATM or branch if the bank has physical locations near you.

If the account comes with a debit card, it usually arrives by mail within 5 to 10 business days. Some banks let you order a card during the online setup; others send it automatically. Check whether the card has spending limits or requires your approval for each transaction — this varies by bank and by your child's age.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I open an account for my 10-year-old online?

Most traditional banks won't let you open an account for a child under 13 online. You'll need to go to a branch in person or mail in an application. A few banks like Greenlight support online accounts for children as young as 6, but they're designed as spending and savings tools rather than traditional bank accounts. Check your bank's website or call to confirm their age policy.

What happens to the account when my child turns 18?

The custodial account converts to a regular account in your child's name, and you lose access. The bank usually sends a notice before this happens, but not always. Contact your bank a few months before your child's 18th birthday to understand the conversion process and confirm whether any action is needed on your part.

Do I need to be a customer of the bank to open an account for my child?

Most banks let you open a custodial account even if you don't have an account with them, though some require you to be an existing customer. Check the bank's website or call before you start. If you're not a customer, you may need to open your own account first or complete the process in person at a branch.

Can my child open the account themselves online?

No, not until they're 18. A parent or legal guardian must open and manage the account. Some banks let teens 16 and older co-sign or help set up the account online with parental consent, but you remain the account owner until they turn 18.

What if the bank asks for documents I don't have?

If the online process gets stuck asking for documents like a birth certificate or proof of address, you'll need to complete the account in person at a branch or by mail. Bring whatever documentation you have and ask the bank what else they need. Some banks are flexible; others have strict requirements that can't be waived online.