Most banks let you open a minor account online, but a parent or guardian must be present and verify their identity

You can open a bank account for a minor through most major banks' websites without visiting a branch. The process is faster than going in person, but it requires a parent or legal guardian to complete the application alongside the minor. The adult will need to verify their own identity using a government ID and sometimes answer security questions or provide a Social Security number.

The exact steps and what you'll need depend on which bank you choose. Some banks let you finish the entire process on a phone or computer in 10 to 15 minutes. Others require a video call with a bank representative to confirm the adult's identity. A few still require at least one person to visit a branch, even if you start online.

Key Takeaways

  • A parent or guardian must be present during the online account opening and will need to verify their identity with a government ID.
  • Most online applications take 10 to 20 minutes and can be completed on a phone or computer, though some banks require a video call.
  • You will need the minor's Social Security number, date of birth, and address, plus the parent's ID and contact information.
  • The account is usually active within one business day, though some banks take up to three days to send debit cards or set up online access.
  • Banks that offer online minor accounts include Chase, Bank of America, Wells Fargo, Ally, and many regional banks and credit unions.

What you need to have ready before you start

Gather these documents before opening the account online. You'll need the minor's full legal name, date of birth, and Social Security number. You'll also need a current mailing address for the account.

The parent or guardian will need a valid government-issued ID—a driver's license, passport, or state ID card. Some banks also ask for a phone number and email address for the adult. A few banks request the last four digits of the adult's Social Security number or ask them to answer security questions based on their credit history.

If the minor is opening their first account, the bank may ask whether they have any existing accounts at other institutions. Have that information ready if it applies.

How the online verification process works

When you start the application on the bank's website or app, you'll enter the minor's information first. The form will then ask for the parent's or guardian's details. At this point, the bank will direct the adult to verify their identity.

Most banks use one of three methods. The first is instant verification through a third-party service that checks the ID number against government records—this usually takes seconds. The second is a video call with a bank employee who watches the adult hold up their ID and answer a few questions. The third is a mail-in verification, where the bank sends a code to the address on file and the adult mails it back, though this is less common for online accounts.

Once the adult's identity is confirmed, the account opens immediately or within one business day. The bank will send a debit card and login information by mail, which typically arrives within 5 to 10 business days.

Which banks offer online minor accounts and what they include

Chase offers the Chase First Banking account online for minors ages 6 to 17. A parent must be present and verify their ID. The account includes a debit card, online and mobile banking, and no monthly fee. Chase usually activates the account the same day.

Bank of America offers the BankAmericard for Students for ages 13 to 17, opened online with a parent present. It includes a debit card, no monthly fee, and access to over 4,600 ATMs. Activation takes one business day.

Wells Fargo offers the Way2Save Savings Account for minors, which can be opened online with a parent or guardian. It has no monthly fee and includes online banking. The account opens the same day, though the debit card arrives by mail.

Ally Bank allows online account opening for minors ages 13 to 17 with a parent present. There is no monthly fee, and the account includes online and mobile banking. Ally does not issue a debit card but allows transfers to and from other banks.

Credit unions often have their own minor account options and may allow online opening if you're a member or live in their service area. Check with your local credit union for their specific process and requirements.

Timeline from start to first use

The online application itself takes 10 to 20 minutes to complete. Identity verification happens during or immediately after the application and usually takes less than five minutes if done through instant verification or a video call.

The account opens on the same day or the next business day in most cases. However, you cannot use the account until you receive the debit card by mail, which takes 5 to 10 business days from the time the account opens. Some banks allow online transfers before the card arrives, but you cannot withdraw cash or make purchases in stores.

If you need the account to be active faster, opening in person at a branch may be quicker—you can sometimes get a debit card the same day or within 1 to 2 business days.

What happens if the parent cannot be present during the application

If the parent or guardian is not available to complete the application at the same time as the minor, most banks will not let you finish the process online. Some banks allow the adult to complete their portion of the application separately, but they still need to do it before the account can open.

A few banks offer a workaround: you can start the application online and then complete it in person at a branch with both the minor and parent present. This is slower than a fully online process but faster than starting from scratch in the branch.

If neither option works for your situation, opening the account by phone with a bank representative is sometimes possible, though you may still need to visit a branch or use video verification for the parent's identity check.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can a minor open a bank account online without a parent present?

No. Federal law requires a parent or legal guardian to be involved in opening an account for a minor under 18. The adult must verify their own identity as part of the process. Some banks allow the adult to complete their portion separately, but both must participate before the account opens.

What if the minor doesn't have a Social Security number yet?

Most banks require a Social Security number to open an account. If the minor does not have one, you can apply for one at the Social Security Administration website or your local Social Security office. The process takes about two weeks. Some banks may allow you to start the application without one and add it later, but this is rare.

Can a grandparent or other relative open the account instead of a parent?

Yes, if that person is the legal guardian. You will need to show proof of guardianship, which usually means a court order or custody document. If the person is not a legal guardian, most banks will not allow them to open the account. Contact the bank directly to ask what documents they need.

What if the online application is denied?

Banks rarely deny minor accounts, but it can happen if there is an issue with the adult's identity verification or if there is a problem with the information provided. The bank will send a letter explaining the reason. You can usually resolve the issue by visiting a branch in person or calling the bank to clarify the information.

Do I need to link the minor's account to the parent's account?

No, but many banks offer the option. Linking accounts lets the parent monitor spending and transfer money easily. This is optional and can usually be set up during the application or later through online banking.