Most banks let you open an account at any age, but you need a parent or guardian to sign
There is no federal minimum age to open a bank account in the United States. A child of any age can have an account — even a newborn — as long as a parent or legal guardian opens it with them and is listed as a joint owner or custodian. The bank controls the account until the child reaches the age of majority, which is 18 in most states.
The catch is that you cannot walk into a bank alone and open an account yourself until you are old enough to sign a binding contract. That age varies by state and by bank, but it typically falls between 16 and 18. Some banks allow 16-year-olds to open accounts independently; others require you to be 18. A few banks have no minimum age for independent accounts but require parental consent in writing.
The type of account you want also matters. A basic savings account for a young teenager is easier to open than a checking account with a debit card, because checking accounts carry more risk of overdraft fees and fraud. Some banks offer teen checking accounts specifically designed for 13- to 17-year-olds, with parental oversight built in.
Key Takeaways
- Children of any age can have a bank account if a parent or guardian opens it as a joint account or custodial account.
- Most banks allow teenagers to open their own accounts independently between ages 16 and 18, depending on the bank and your state.
- Teen checking accounts, offered by many banks, are designed for ages 13 to 17 and include parental monitoring features.
- You will need a Social Security number, proof of identity, and proof of address to open any account, whether you are a minor or an adult.
- Some online banks have different age rules than brick-and-mortar banks, so check your bank's specific policy before you visit.
What you need to bring when a parent opens an account for you
If you are under the age your bank sets for independent accounts, a parent or guardian must be present and sign the account agreement. Bring the following documents:
- Your Social Security number (or your parent's, if you do not have one yet)
- Proof of your identity — a birth certificate, passport, or state ID
- Proof of address — a utility bill, lease, or mortgage statement in your parent's name
- Your parent's or guardian's ID and proof of address
Some banks also ask for a phone number and email address. If you are opening the account online, the bank may ask you to verify your identity through a video call or by uploading photos of your documents. Call your bank ahead of time to ask what they need — requirements vary.
How independent accounts work once you turn 16 or 18
Once you reach your bank's minimum age for independent accounts, you can open a new account on your own, or your parent can remove themselves from your existing account. At that point, you become the sole owner and are fully responsible for the account. Your parent no longer has access to see your balance or transactions, and you can make all decisions about the account without their permission.
Some banks automatically convert a teen account to an adult account on your birthday. Others require you to visit the bank or call to make the change. Check with your bank to understand what happens on the day you turn 16 or 18, so you are not surprised by a change in fees or features.
Teen checking accounts and what makes them different
Many banks offer checking accounts designed specifically for teenagers, usually ages 13 to 17. These accounts come with a debit card and online banking access, but with built-in safeguards. Your parent can set spending limits, see all transactions in real time, and receive alerts when you use the card. Some accounts block certain types of purchases, like alcohol or gambling.
Teen accounts often have no monthly fee, no minimum balance requirement, and no overdraft fees — the bank simply declines the transaction if you do not have enough money. This protects you from the surprise charges that catch many young adults off guard. The tradeoff is that you have less privacy; your parent can monitor your spending.
Examples include Chase First Banking (ages 6 to 17), Bank of America Teen Checking (ages 13 to 17), and Greenlight (ages 6 and up, with parental app). Each has different features and fee structures, so compare them before you choose.
Opening an account online versus in person
Online banks often have looser age requirements than traditional banks because they do not need to verify your identity in person. Some online banks let you open an account at 13 or 14 with parental consent, while others require 18. A few, like Greenlight and Step, are built specifically for minors and have no traditional minimum age.
The advantage of online accounts is speed — you can open one in minutes from home. The disadvantage is that you may not have access to a physical branch if you need to deposit cash or speak to someone in person. If you plan to deposit checks or cash regularly, a bank with local branches may be more practical, even if the age requirement is higher.
If you are opening an account online as a minor, your parent will need to verify their own identity through the app or website, usually by uploading a photo of their ID and sometimes by answering security questions. The process is similar to what an adult would do, but with an extra step to confirm parental consent.
What happens to your account when you turn 18
On your 18th birthday, you become a legal adult in most states, and your bank account transitions to an adult account. If your parent is listed as a joint owner, they can remain on the account if you both agree, or they can remove themselves. If they are listed as a custodian, the account automatically becomes yours alone.
Some banks send you a notice before your birthday explaining what will change. Others make the change automatically without telling you. Check your bank's policy or call ahead so you know what to expect. If your account has overdraft protection or other features tied to your parent's credit, those may be removed when you turn 18.
Once you are 18, you can open additional accounts, apply for a credit card, and make all financial decisions without parental consent. Your parent will no longer have access to your account information unless you add them as an authorized user.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can a baby or toddler have a bank account?
Yes. A parent or guardian can open a custodial account for a child of any age. The account belongs to the child legally, but the parent controls it until the child reaches 18 (or 21 in some states). Many families use these accounts to save for a child's future or to teach money habits early.
What if my bank does not offer teen accounts?
You can open a regular savings or checking account with a parent as a joint owner. Your parent will have full access to the account and can monitor your spending. Once you reach your bank's age requirement for independent accounts — usually 16 or 18 — you can remove them from the account.
Do I need my own Social Security number to open an account?
Most banks require a Social Security number for anyone whose name is on the account. If you do not have one yet, your parent can use theirs temporarily, but you will need to provide yours before the account is fully set up. You can request a Social Security number from the Social Security Administration if you do not have one.
Can I open an account if I do not have a state ID?
Yes. A birth certificate or passport works as proof of identity. If you are opening the account in person, bring one of those documents plus proof of address (your parent's utility bill or lease). Online banks may have different requirements, so check before you start the process.
What if I want to open an account without my parent knowing?
If you are under your bank's minimum age for independent accounts, you cannot open an account without a parent or guardian present. If you are old enough to open one on your own, you can do so without telling your parent, but they may learn about they help you with taxes or financial aid forms later. If you are concerned about your safety or have questions about your family situation, talk to a school counselor or trusted adult.