You can open a bank account at any age, but the rules depend on whether you're a minor or an adult
If you're under 18, you'll need a parent or guardian to open an account with you or for you. Most banks offer youth accounts or minor accounts designed for children and teenagers, and a parent or guardian must be listed as the account owner or co-owner. If you're 18 or older, you can open an account on your own without anyone else involved.
The specific rules vary by bank. Some banks let parents open accounts for children as young as newborns. Others set a minimum age of 13 or 16 for youth accounts where the child can use a debit card. A few banks require the minor to be present in person; others let the parent handle everything online or by mail.
Key Takeaways
- Minors under 18 need a parent or guardian to open a bank account, either as a co-owner or account owner.
- Many banks offer youth accounts starting at age 13 or younger, with debit cards and online access for the child.
- At 18, you can open your own account without parental involvement, though some banks may ask for proof of identity and address.
- The rules about who can access the account, whether the child can make withdrawals alone, and what fees explore differ between banks.
What happens when a minor turns 18
When you turn 18, your youth account doesn't automatically convert to an adult account. You'll need to contact your bank and ask them to update the account status. Some banks do this automatically once they see your birthday has passed; others require you to request it in writing or visit a branch.
During the conversion, the parent or guardian's name may be removed from the account, depending on the bank's policy. Some banks keep both names on the account unless you specifically ask to remove the parent. Ask your bank what happens on your 18th birthday so you're not surprised by a change in access or fees.
What you'll need to open an account as a minor
The parent or guardian will need to bring a government-issued ID (driver's license, passport, or state ID) and proof of address, such as a utility bill or lease. The bank will also ask for the minor's name, date of birth, and Social Security number. Some banks require the minor to be present; others don't.
If you're opening the account online, the parent will upload photos of their ID and address proof through the bank's website. Some banks won't let you open a youth account online and require an in-person visit to a branch. Call or check the bank's website before you go.
What you'll need to open an account as an adult
Once you're 18, you'll need a government-issued ID (driver's license, passport, or state ID) and proof of address. Proof of address can be a utility bill, lease, mortgage statement, or bank statement in your name. If you don't have a current address on your ID, bring a second document showing where you live.
You'll also need your Social Security number. If you don't have one, some banks will still open an account but may require an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) instead. A few banks ask for a second form of ID, such as a student ID or work badge, but most don't.
Differences between youth accounts and regular accounts
| Feature | Youth Account | Regular Adult Account |
|---|---|---|
| Who owns the account | Parent or guardian, or both parent and child | You alone |
| Who can withdraw money | Parent, child, or both (depends on bank) | You alone |
| Debit card | Usually yes, often with spending limits | Yes, no limits set by the bank |
| Monthly fees | Usually $0 to $5 | $0 to $15, varies by bank and account type |
| Overdraft protection | Often limited or not available | Available, but may cost money |
| Online and mobile banking | Yes, sometimes with parental controls | Yes, full access |
Banks that let you open accounts at different ages
Most major banks (Chase, Bank of America, Wells Fargo, Citibank) offer youth accounts for children as young as 13, though some let parents open accounts for younger children. Credit unions often have similar programs. Online banks like Ally and Charles Schwab have higher minimum ages—usually 18—because they don't have branches and require everything to happen online.
If you're under 13 and want a bank account, call your local bank or credit union and ask whether they offer accounts for younger children. Some regional banks and credit unions do, even if the major national banks don't. The rules also vary by state, so a bank in one state may have different age requirements than the same bank in another state.
What to do if you're 18 but don't have an ID
If you don't have a driver's license or passport, you can use a state ID card, which you can get from your state's Department of Motor Vehicles. The process usually takes a few weeks. In the meantime, some banks will open an account if you bring a school ID, work badge, or other photo ID along with proof of address, though this is less common.
If you're homeless or don't have a permanent address, some banks will accept a letter from a shelter, social services agency, or other organization confirming where you're staying. Call ahead and ask what documents the bank will take instead of a traditional address proof.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can a 16-year-old open a bank account without a parent?
No. Banks require a parent or guardian to open or co-own the account for anyone under 18. Some banks let 16-year-olds use a debit card and online banking on a youth account, but the parent's name must be on the account.
What if my parent won't let me access my own money?
If the account is in your parent's name alone, they have legal control over the money. If your name is on the account as a co-owner, you may have the right to withdraw money, but this depends on how the account was set up and your state's laws. Contact the bank and ask what rights you have on the account.
Do I need a Social Security number to open a bank account?
Most banks require a Social Security number. If you don't have one, you can use an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) instead, though fewer banks accept this. Call the bank before you visit to confirm they'll open an account with an ITIN.
Can I open a bank account if I'm not a U.S. citizen?
Yes. You'll need a valid government-issued ID (passport or visa) and an ITIN or Social Security number. Some banks are stricter about non-citizens than others, so call ahead and ask what documents they need.
What happens to a youth account if the parent dies?
The account doesn't close automatically. The bank will likely freeze the account until the estate is settled or a new guardian is named. Contact the bank and explain the situation; they can tell you what happens next and what documents you'll need to provide.