You cannot open a bank account in someone else's name without their permission and presence
Banks require the person whose name goes on the account to be physically present or to sign documents themselves. This is a legal requirement, not a bank policy. The account holder must verify their identity and agree to the account terms in person or through a documented process the bank controls.
What you can do depends on your relationship to the person and what you are trying to accomplish. A parent can open an account for a minor child. A guardian can open an account for someone under their legal guardianship. An attorney-in-fact with a power of attorney document can open an account on behalf of an adult. But in each case, the bank will verify the legal relationship and may require the other person's signature or presence.
If someone asks you to open an account "for them" without their involvement, that is a sign something is wrong. Banks will not allow it, and attempting it could expose you to fraud liability.
Key Takeaways
- The person whose name is on the account must be present or must sign documents themselves — banks verify identity directly.
- Parents can open accounts for minor children, but the child's name and Social Security number go on the account.
- A power of attorney document allows you to open an account on behalf of an adult, but you will need the original document and the person's Social Security number.
- Joint accounts require both people to be present or to sign separately, depending on the bank.
- If someone cannot come to the bank, some banks allow remote account opening through video call or notarized documents, but the person must still participate.
Opening an account for a minor child
If you are a parent or legal guardian, you can open a savings or checking account for a child under 18. The child's name and Social Security number go on the account. You will be the account manager while the child is a minor, meaning you can deposit money, withdraw money, and make decisions about the account.
The bank will ask you to bring proof of your identity and your relationship to the child — usually a birth certificate or custody documents. Some banks require the child to be present; others do not. Call ahead to ask what the bank needs before you go in.
When the child turns 18, the account becomes theirs to control. You can no longer withdraw money or make changes without their permission, though you may remain a co-owner if the account was set up that way. Some banks automatically convert the account; others ask you both to come in and update it.
Using a power of attorney to open an account for an adult
A power of attorney is a legal document that gives you the authority to act on someone else's behalf. If you have a power of attorney from an adult, you can open a bank account in their name.
The bank will ask to see the original power of attorney document. They will verify that it is valid — that it is signed, dated, and notarized or witnessed according to your state's law. Some banks will make a copy for their records. You will also need the person's Social Security number and a form of identification for them (even though they are not present).
Not all powers of attorney allow you to open bank accounts. Some are limited to specific tasks, like paying bills or managing investments. Read the document carefully, or ask the person who created it whether it covers banking. If it does not, the bank will refuse to open the account.
Opening a joint account with someone
A joint account is owned by two or more people. Both owners can deposit and withdraw money. Both owners' names appear on the account.
To open a joint account, both people must come to the bank together, or both must sign separate documents that the bank witnesses or has notarized. The bank will verify both people's identities and will ask both to agree to the account terms. You cannot open a joint account by yourself, even if the other person has given you permission.
If the other person cannot come to the bank in person, ask whether the bank offers remote account opening. Some banks allow one person to start the process online and send a find link to the other person to sign and verify their identity through video. This still requires the other person's active participation.
What happens if someone asks you to open an account without their involvement
If a family member, friend, or anyone else asks you to open a bank account in their name without them being present or signing anything, do not do it. Banks will not allow it. If you try, the bank will ask for the person's signature or presence, and the account will not be opened.
If you somehow manage to open an account using someone else's name and Social Security number without their knowledge, that is identity theft. It is a crime, and it exposes you to criminal charges and civil liability. The person whose name is on the account can sue you and report you to police.
If someone is asking you to do this, they may be trying to use you to commit fraud. Step back and ask why they cannot open the account themselves. If the answer does not make sense, it probably is not a legitimate request.
Remote account opening when someone cannot visit the bank
If the person lives far away or cannot leave home, some banks offer remote account opening. The process varies by bank, but it usually works like this: you or the other person starts the account online. The bank sends a find link to the other person's email or phone. That person verifies their identity through a video call with a bank representative or by uploading documents. They review and sign the account agreement electronically. The account is then opened.
Remote opening still requires the other person to participate actively. You cannot complete it for them. The bank needs to confirm their identity and get their signature on the agreement.
Not all banks offer remote opening, and not all account types can be opened remotely. Call the bank and ask what options are available for your situation. If the bank does not offer remote opening, you may need to ask the person to visit in person, or to authorize you with a power of attorney if they are unable to do so themselves.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I add someone to my account without them being present?
No. If you want to add someone as a co-owner or authorized user, both of you must go to the bank together or sign separate documents. The bank will verify both people's identities. Some banks allow one person to sign remotely through video, but the other person must still participate.
What if the person has dementia or is unable to sign their name?
If someone is unable to manage their own finances, you will need legal authority. A power of attorney signed while the person was still able to understand it gives you that authority. If no power of attorney exists, you may need to go to court to become their legal guardian or conservator. A lawyer can advise you on what your state requires.
Can I open a savings account for my grandchild without my child's permission?
No. If the child is a minor, the parent or legal guardian must be involved. You can give money to the parent to deposit into the child's account, or you can ask the parent to add you as an authorized user so you can deposit money. But you cannot open an account in the child's name without the parent's knowledge and consent.
Do I need the other person's Social Security number to open a joint account?
Yes. Banks use Social Security numbers to verify identity and to report account activity to the IRS. Both account holders' Social Security numbers will be on file with the bank.
What if I have a notarized letter saying I can open an account for someone?
A notarized letter is not the same as a power of attorney. Banks will not accept it as legal authority to open an account. You need a power of attorney document that is signed, dated, and notarized according to your state's law. Ask a lawyer to prepare one if you need it.