What you need to open an account as a minor

Most banks let you open a savings or checking account before age 18, but you will need a parent or guardian to co-sign or be a joint owner on the account. The bank treats this account as belonging to both of you until you turn 18 or 21, depending on the bank's rules. You cannot open an account entirely in your own name until you reach the age of majority in your state — usually 18.

The specific documents and steps vary by bank, but the pattern is the same everywhere: you show up with your parent or guardian, bring identification, and sign paperwork together. Some banks let you start this process online, but most require at least one in-person visit to verify your identity and your parent's identity.

The account itself works like any other checking or savings account. You get a debit card, online banking access, and the ability to deposit and withdraw money. The main difference is that your parent or guardian can see all transactions and has legal control over the account until you reach the age when the bank converts it to an adult account.

Key Takeaways

  • You need a parent or guardian to co-sign your account; no bank will open an account for a minor without an adult present or involved.
  • Bring a government-issued ID (school ID, passport, or state ID) and your Social Security number to the bank appointment.
  • Your parent or guardian must bring their own ID and proof of address, usually a recent utility bill or bank statement.
  • Most banks convert your account to a standard adult account automatically when you turn 18 or 21, with no action required from you.
  • Some banks offer accounts designed specifically for teens, with lower fees and parental controls built in.

Documents you and your parent need to bring

Before you go to the bank, gather these items. You will need a form of government-issued identification — a school ID with your photo, a state ID, a passport, or a learner's permit all work. You will also need your Social Security number, which you can find on documents your parents have or by calling the Social Security Administration if you do not know it.

Your parent or guardian needs their own government-issued ID (driver's license or passport) and proof of their current address. A recent utility bill, lease agreement, or bank statement dated within the last 60 days usually works. Some banks accept a mortgage statement or property tax bill instead. Call the specific bank branch before you go to confirm what they accept, because requirements can differ slightly between branches.

If you are opening the account online or by mail, the bank will tell you which documents to photograph or scan. In-person appointments are faster because the bank can verify everything on the spot and you can start using the account the same day.

Where to open an account: banks versus credit unions

You have two main choices: a traditional bank or a credit union. Banks are for-profit institutions with many branches and ATMs, while credit unions are member-owned nonprofits that usually have fewer locations but sometimes lower fees. Both offer accounts for minors, and both require a parent or guardian to co-sign.

Large national banks like Chase, Bank of America, and Wells Fargo all have teen or minor accounts. These accounts usually come with a debit card, online banking, and mobile app access. Some charge a monthly fee ($5 to $15) unless you meet certain conditions, like keeping a minimum balance or setting up direct deposit. Others waive fees for accounts under 18.

Credit unions often have lower or no monthly fees, but you have to be a member to open an account. Membership usually requires living in a certain area, working for a specific employer, or being related to someone who is already a member. If you may have access to, credit unions can be cheaper in the long run. You can search for credit unions near you at CO-OP.org or Alliant.org, which show shared branching networks where you can withdraw cash even if there is no credit union branch nearby.

Teen accounts with parental controls

Some banks offer accounts designed specifically for teenagers, with features that let your parent monitor spending and set limits. These accounts usually have no monthly fee, come with a debit card, and let your parent see every transaction in real time through a mobile app.

Examples include Greenlight, which is a debit card and app designed for families; Fidelity Youth Account, which pairs a debit card with investment education; and accounts from banks like Chase (Chase First Banking) and Bank of America (BankAmericard for Students). Each one works slightly differently — some let your parent set spending limits by category, others just show transactions after they happen. Read the details on each bank's website to see which features matter to you and your parent.

These accounts are not required; a standard joint account works just as well. But if your parent wants to monitor your spending or teach you about money management, a teen-specific account can make that easier. The trade-off is that these accounts sometimes charge a small monthly fee ($5 to $10) or require your parent to have an account at the same bank.

What happens when you turn 18

When you reach 18, your account does not automatically close or change without your knowledge. Most banks let the account stay open as a joint account if both you and your parent want it to. Your parent can stay on the account, or they can remove themselves and convert it to an account in your name alone. Some banks do this automatically; others require you or your parent to contact the bank and request the change.

If your parent wants to remove themselves from the account, they can usually do this online or by visiting a branch. Once they are off, the account is yours alone, and they no longer have access to see transactions or move money. You keep the same account number, debit card, and online banking login unless you choose to change them.

A few banks have a different rule: they automatically convert the account to your name alone when you turn 18 or 21, and your parent is removed without needing to do anything. Ask your bank what their policy is when you open the account, so you know what to expect.

How to start the process at your bank

Call or visit the bank branch closest to you and ask to speak with someone about opening a minor account. Tell them your age and that you want to open a checking or savings account. They will tell you what documents to bring and whether you can start online or need to come in person. Some banks let you begin the application on their website, fill in basic information, and then schedule an appointment to finish in person.

If you are doing this in person, go during a time when the branch is not busy — mid-morning on a weekday is usually quieter than Friday afternoon. Bring all the documents listed above, plus your parent or guardian. The appointment usually takes 15 to 30 minutes. You will sign paperwork, verify your identity, and set up online banking and a PIN for your debit card. If you are opening a checking account, ask whether checks come with the account or cost extra.

Once everything is signed, the bank will issue you a debit card. Some banks print it on the spot; others mail it to you within 5 to 10 business days. Your online banking access usually starts the same day, so you can check your balance and set up bill pay right away even if your physical card has not arrived yet.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I open a bank account without my parent present?

No. Every bank requires a parent or legal guardian to be involved — either present in person, or signing documents electronically if the bank offers online account opening. You cannot open an account in your own name until you turn 18.

What if I do not have a Social Security number?

You need a Social Security number to open a bank account. If you do not have one, contact the Social Security Administration at ssa.gov or call 1-800-772-1213. Getting a number takes about two weeks. Bring your birth certificate and proof of identity to a local Social Security office.

Do I need a minimum balance to open an account?

Most banks do not require a minimum balance to open an account for a minor, but some do. The minimum is usually $25 to $100. Ask the bank before you go in. Even if there is a minimum, you can deposit money during your first visit and meet it right away.

Can my parent see all my transactions?

Yes, as long as they are a co-owner or joint owner of the account, they can see all deposits and withdrawals. This is true for standard joint accounts and for teen-specific accounts with parental controls. Once you turn 18 and your parent removes themselves from the account, they no longer have access.

What if I want to switch banks later?

You can close your account and open a new one at a different bank anytime. Ask your current bank how to close the account — they will usually let you do this online or by phone. Transfer any remaining money to your new account, and keep the old account open for a few weeks in case any pending transactions come through.