Bank of America's Age Requirements for Checking Accounts

Bank of America lets minors open a checking account starting at age 13, but only with a parent or guardian present. You cannot open an account online or by yourself at that age — you have to go into a branch in person with an adult who will be the account owner or co-owner. The adult's name and Social Security number go on the account, and they have full access to it.

At age 18, you can open a checking account on your own without a parent or guardian. You can do this online, by phone, or in a branch. You will need a valid ID, a Social Security number, and an initial deposit (the amount varies, but Bank of America typically requires $25 to $100 to open).

Bank of America also offers accounts specifically designed for teens and students, which have different features and rules than standard adult checking accounts. These accounts are meant to teach money management while keeping parental oversight built in.

Key Takeaways

  • Minors aged 13 and older can open a Bank of America checking account only with a parent or guardian present in a branch.
  • The parent or guardian becomes the account owner or co-owner and has full control and visibility into the account.
  • At age 18, you can open your own checking account without parental involvement, online or in person.
  • Bank of America's teen and student accounts come with features like spending limits, parental controls, and lower or no monthly fees.
  • You will need a valid ID, Social Security number, and an opening deposit to start any account.

What Happens When You Open an Account as a Minor

When a minor opens a checking account at Bank of America with a parent or guardian, the account is technically owned by the adult. The minor's name may appear on the account, but the parent or guardian has the legal right to access, monitor, and control all transactions. This means the parent can see every deposit, withdrawal, and purchase made with a debit card linked to the account.

The parent or guardian is also responsible for any overdraft fees, minimum balance requirements, or other account charges. If the account goes negative, the adult's credit and banking history can be affected, not the minor's. The adult is also the one who receives statements and can make changes to the account settings.

Most Bank of America branches can complete this process in one visit. You will need the minor's birth certificate or passport, the adult's valid ID, and the adult's Social Security number. Bring a debit card application if you want the minor to receive a card right away — some branches issue them on the spot, while others mail them within 7 to 10 business days.

Teen and Student Account Features

Bank of America offers accounts specifically for teens and young adults that come with built-in tools for learning money management. These accounts typically have no monthly maintenance fee if you meet certain conditions, such as setting up direct deposit or maintaining a low balance. The exact features and fee structure depend on which product you choose — Bank of America has updated its offerings over time, so ask at your branch or check their website for current options.

Many teen accounts include a debit card with spending controls that parents can set through an app or online portal. Parents can set daily spending limits, block certain types of transactions (like online purchases), or require approval for purchases over a certain amount. Some accounts also send alerts to the parent's phone whenever the card is used.

Student accounts often waive fees that would normally apply to adult accounts, such as overdraft protection fees or out-of-network ATM fees. However, these waivers usually expire once you graduate or reach a certain age, so read the terms carefully to know when your account will change.

Documents You Need to Bring

For a minor opening an account with a parent or guardian, bring the following to any Bank of America branch:

  • The minor's birth certificate, passport, or state ID
  • The adult's valid government-issued photo ID (driver's license, passport, or state ID)
  • The adult's Social Security number
  • Proof of address for the adult (utility bill, lease, or mortgage statement dated within the last 60 days)
  • An opening deposit (typically $25 to $100, though this can vary by account type)

If you are opening an account at age 18 or older on your own, you will need your valid photo ID, Social Security number, and proof of address. You can bring a utility bill, lease, or recent bank statement as proof of address.

Bank of America may also ask for additional information depending on your situation, such as employment details or the source of your opening deposit. Call your local branch ahead of time to confirm what they need — requirements can vary slightly by location.

When the Account Transitions to Your Name Alone

When you turn 18, you have the option to convert your account to one in your name alone, but Bank of America does not do this automatically. You will need to visit a branch and request the change. At that point, the parent or guardian's name comes off the account, and you become the sole owner with full control.

Some parents and teens choose to keep the account in both names even after the teen turns 18, which allows the parent to continue monitoring spending and helping with financial decisions. This is entirely up to you and the parent — there is no requirement to change it. However, if you want the parent's name removed, the branch can process that request in one visit.

Once you are the sole owner, you are also responsible for any fees, overdrafts, or minimum balance requirements. Your account will be treated like any other adult checking account, and the parent will no longer have access unless you give them permission through the online banking system.

Opening an Account Online vs. In Person

If you are 18 or older, you can open a Bank of America checking account online without visiting a branch. The process takes about 10 to 15 minutes and you can do it from your phone or computer. You will need your Social Security number, a valid ID, and proof of address. Bank of America will verify your information electronically, and your account can be active the same day.

However, if you are under 18, you must go to a branch in person with your parent or guardian. Bank of America does not offer an online option for minors because the adult needs to be present to sign documents and agree to the account terms. Some branches may allow you to start the process online and finish it in person, but this varies by location.

If you prefer to open an account in person at any age, you can do that too. Walk into any Bank of America branch during business hours with the required documents and an opening deposit. The process usually takes 15 to 30 minutes, and you may receive a debit card on the spot or have one mailed to you.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I open a Bank of America checking account at age 12?

No, Bank of America requires you to be at least 13 years old. If you are younger than 13, you will need to wait until your 13th birthday to open an account with a parent or guardian.

What if my parent does not want their name on the account?

Bank of America requires the parent or guardian's name to be on the account for minors under 18. The adult must be present and agree to the account terms. This is a legal requirement, not a Bank of America choice, because minors cannot enter into binding contracts on their own.

Can I use a school ID or learner's permit instead of a real ID?

No, Bank of America requires a government-issued photo ID such as a passport, state ID, or driver's license. School IDs and learner's permits are not accepted as primary identification for opening an account.

How long does it take to get a debit card after I open my account?

If you receive a debit card in the branch on the day you open the account, you can use it right away. If the card is mailed, it typically arrives within 7 to 10 business days. You can also request a temporary digital card through the Bank of America app to use online or with your phone while you wait for the physical card.

Will opening a checking account affect my credit score?

No, opening a checking account does not affect your credit score. Bank of America may check your banking history through ChexSystems, which is a banking record system, but this is not the same as a credit check and does not impact your credit.