Yes, but with a parent or guardian involved

You can open a bank account at 13, but you cannot do it alone. Every bank requires a parent or guardian to co-own the account with you until you turn 18. This is a legal requirement, not a bank choice — minors cannot sign binding contracts, and a bank account is a contract.

The account will have both your name and your parent's or guardian's name on it. Your parent can see all transactions, set spending limits, and close the account. You get a debit card and online access in your own name, but the adult is the legal account holder. This setup exists to protect both you and the bank.

The specific rules vary slightly by bank and by state, so it is worth calling ahead or checking the bank's website before you go in. Some banks have accounts designed specifically for teenagers, while others use their standard savings account with a parent added as a co-owner.

Key Takeaways

  • You need a parent or guardian to open an account with you at 13 — you cannot open one by yourself.
  • Both names go on the account, and the adult has full access to see and control the money.
  • You will get your own debit card and online login, but the parent remains the legal owner until you turn 18.
  • Different banks offer different teen account options, so comparing what is available near you can save money on fees.
  • Bringing your Social Security number and a form of ID (like a school ID or passport) speeds up the process.

What documents you need to bring

You and your parent will both need to bring identification. For you, a school ID, passport, or state ID works. Your parent will need a government-issued ID like a driver's license or passport. You will also need your Social Security number — have it written down or memorized before you go.

Some banks ask for proof of address, which can be a recent utility bill, lease, or mortgage statement in your parent's name. A few banks also ask for a second form of ID for the adult, though most do not. Call the specific bank branch before you visit to confirm what they need — this saves a wasted trip.

If you do not have a Social Security number yet, you can still open an account in most cases, but the bank will ask for an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) or will issue you a temporary number. This is rare but possible, so ask the bank directly if this applies to you.

Teen accounts versus regular accounts

Many banks offer accounts designed for teenagers, often called "teen checking" or "youth accounts." These usually come with lower or no monthly fees, a debit card, and online banking. Some include features like spending limits that the parent can set, or alerts when the balance drops below a certain amount.

A regular savings account with a parent as co-owner works too, but it may have higher fees or require a minimum balance. Teen accounts are usually cheaper and come with more features aimed at teaching money management. Compare what your local banks offer — the differences in fees and features can add up over time.

Some accounts also offer a small interest rate on the balance, meaning the bank pays you a tiny amount for keeping money there. At 13, this is usually a few cents per month, but it is a real feature worth asking about. Teen accounts sometimes offer higher rates than regular accounts to encourage saving.

What happens when you turn 18

When you turn 18, the account automatically converts to a regular adult account in your name alone. Your parent's name comes off, and you become the sole owner. The bank will send you paperwork to sign, usually a few weeks before your birthday, explaining the change.

You keep the same account number, debit card, and online login — nothing disrupts your access to the money. Your parent loses the ability to see transactions or control spending, but you keep full control. This transition is routine and happens at every bank.

If you want your parent to stay involved after 18 — for example, if they are helping you manage money — you can add them back as an authorized user. This is optional and requires both of you to agree. Many people keep the account solo once they turn 18.

How to choose between banks

Start by checking what banks are near you or that you can access online. Big national banks like Chase, Bank of America, and Wells Fargo all offer teen accounts, as do smaller regional banks and credit unions. Each has different fees, features, and minimum balances.

Compare three things: monthly fees (many teen accounts have none), whether there is a minimum balance required to avoid fees, and what features come with the account. Some banks offer free overdraft protection, meaning they will not charge you if you spend slightly more than you have. Others charge a fee every time you overdraw.

Credit unions often have lower fees and higher interest rates than big banks, but you have to be a member to open an account. Membership usually means living or working in a certain area, or having a family member who is already a member. Ask your parent if they belong to a credit union — if they do, you may be able to join too.

What you can and cannot do with the account

You can deposit money, withdraw it, use the debit card to buy things, and check your balance online. You can set up direct deposit if you have a job, and you can transfer money between accounts. You cannot take out a loan, open a credit card, or make large transfers without your parent's approval — the account is designed for basic banking, not borrowing.

Your parent can set limits on how much you can spend per day or per transaction. Some accounts let them turn the debit card on and off remotely, which is useful if the card is lost. You will see all your transactions online, which is a good way to learn where your money goes.

The account is yours to use, but it is not fully private. Your parent can see everything, and they can withdraw money or close the account. This is normal for accounts held by minors — it is part of the legal protection that comes with having a parent as co-owner.

Getting started: the next steps

Talk to your parent about opening an account and decide together which bank to use. You can visit a branch in person, call ahead to confirm what documents to bring, and go together. The whole process usually takes 15 to 30 minutes.

Alternatively, some banks let you start the process online and finish it in the branch, or finish it entirely online with your parent's digital signature. Check the bank's website to see what options they offer. Online opening is faster, but in-person gives you a chance to ask questions and get a debit card on the spot.

Once the account is open, set up online banking so you can check your balance and see transactions. Ask your parent to show you how to use the app or website. Learning to track your money now builds habits that will serve you well once you turn 18 and the account is fully yours.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I open a bank account at 13 without a parent?

No. Every bank requires a parent or legal guardian to co-own the account with you. You cannot open an account by yourself until you turn 18. The parent's name will be on the account and they will have full access.

Do I need a job to open a bank account at 13?

No. You do not need income or employment to open an account. Banks open accounts for teenagers whether or not they have a job. If you do get a job later, you can set up direct deposit into the account.

What is the difference between a teen account and a savings account?

Teen accounts are designed for younger people and usually have lower fees, no minimum balance, and features like spending limits. A regular savings account works too but may cost more. Ask your bank what teen options they offer — the features and costs vary.

Can my parent see all my transactions?

Yes. Because your parent is a co-owner, they can see every transaction, check the balance, and control spending. This is normal for accounts held by minors. Once you turn 18, the account becomes yours alone and your parent loses access.

What happens if I lose my debit card?

Call the bank when ready and report it lost. They will cancel the card and send you a new one, usually within 5 to 10 business days. Your parent can also report it lost if you cannot reach the bank. In the meantime, you can still access your money through online banking or by visiting a branch.