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. However, you cannot sign a legal contract on your own until you reach the age of majority in your state — usually 18. This means that anyone under 18 who wants a bank account needs a parent or guardian to open it with them and co-sign the paperwork.

Some banks will open accounts for children as young as infants, though the account is technically owned and controlled by the parent until the child turns 18. Other banks set their own minimums, typically starting at age 13 or 14. A few banks have no stated minimum at all. The key is that a parent or legal guardian must be present and must agree to the account terms.

The specific rules depend on which bank you choose and which state you live in. Some states have laws about when a minor can take control of their own account; others leave it entirely to the bank's policy. If you are under 18 and want to open an account, start by calling or visiting the bank directly to ask what they require.

Key Takeaways

  • There is no federal minimum age to open a bank account, but you must have a parent or guardian co-sign if you are under 18.
  • Different banks set different minimum ages, ranging from infancy to age 13 or 14, so you will need to check with your specific bank.
  • Until you turn 18, the parent or guardian on the account has legal control over it, though many banks offer teen accounts with limited independence.
  • Some states allow minors to take control of their accounts before age 18 if certain conditions are met; ask your bank what applies in your state.

What happens when you turn 18

At age 18, you become a legal adult in all states and can open and control your own bank account without a parent's signature. You can also remove a parent from an existing account, though the process varies by bank. Some banks will do this automatically on your 18th birthday; others require you to visit in person or call to request the change.

If you have been using a teen account or a joint account with a parent, check with your bank about what happens when you turn 18. Some accounts automatically convert to a standard adult account. Others stay the same unless you ask to change them. It is worth having this conversation with your bank a few weeks before your birthday so there are no surprises.

Teen accounts and accounts with limited control

Many banks offer accounts specifically designed for people under 18. These accounts often come with restrictions: a parent can see all transactions, there may be limits on how much money you can withdraw per day, and you might not be able to overdraft. The exact restrictions depend on the bank and the account type.

Some teen accounts also come with financial education tools, like spending trackers or savings goals. Others are simply regular checking or savings accounts with parental oversight built in. If you are interested in a teen account, ask your bank what features and restrictions come with it. This can help you decide whether it fits what you need.

Opening an account in person versus online

Most banks require you to open an account in person if you are under 18, because the parent or guardian needs to be present to sign. A few banks allow online account opening for minors, but they still require the parent to verify their identity and consent, usually through a video call or by uploading a photo of an ID.

If your bank offers online opening for minors, it is usually faster than going to a branch. However, you will still need a parent or guardian to complete the process. If your bank requires an in-person visit, bring both your ID and your parent's ID, as well as proof of address (like a utility bill or lease). Call ahead to ask what documents you need.

What you need to bring to open an account

You will need a form of identification, usually a state ID, driver's license, or passport. Your parent or guardian will need their ID as well. You may also need proof of address, such as a utility bill, lease, or bank statement in your name or your parent's name. Some banks also ask for a Social Security number.

Requirements vary by bank and by state, so call your bank before you go in. Ask specifically what documents they need from you and what they need from your parent. Having everything ready will make the process faster and reduce the chance that you will have to make a second trip.

Removing a parent from your account after you turn 18

Once you turn 18, you can ask your bank to remove the parent or guardian from your account. This is usually a simple process — you can often do it online, by phone, or in person. Some banks do it automatically; others require you to request it in writing or to visit a branch.

If you want to remove a parent but keep the same account, most banks will do that without closing anything. However, if your account is set up as a joint account where both people have equal rights, removing one person may require both of you to agree. Check your account paperwork or call your bank to understand how your specific account works.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can a child open a bank account without a parent?

No. Anyone under 18 must have a parent or legal guardian co-sign and be present when opening an account. The parent or guardian becomes a co-owner of the account and has legal control over it until the child turns 18.

What is the youngest age a bank will accept?

There is no federal minimum, so it depends on the bank. Some banks accept infants (with a parent opening the account), while others start at age 13 or 14. Call your bank directly to ask what their policy is.

Can I use my parent's bank account instead of opening my own?

Yes, but it means your parent has full control and can see all your transactions. Opening your own account with your parent as a co-signer gives you more independence while still keeping your parent informed. A teen account offers a middle ground with parental oversight but some control for you.

Do I need a Social Security number to open an account as a minor?

Most banks require a Social Security number, but some will accept an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) instead. Call your bank to ask what they accept. If you do not have either, ask whether the bank can open an account without one.

What happens to my account if my parent passes away?

This depends on how the account is set up and your state's laws. If you are the sole owner and your parent is just a co-signer, the account stays yours. If it is a joint account, the rules vary by state and by bank. Talk to your bank about how your account would be handled in this situation.