What Age You Need to Open a Bank Account

You can open a bank account at any age, but the rules depend on whether you're a minor or an adult

A child under 18 can have a bank account, but it must be opened and managed by a parent or legal guardian. The account is in the child's name, but the adult controls it until the child reaches the age of majority—usually 18, though some states set it at 19 or 21. Once you turn 18, you can open and manage your own account without a guardian's permission.

The specific rules vary by bank and by state. Some banks allow accounts for children as young as infants; others set a minimum age of 13 or older. A few states have different ages of majority for different purposes, which can affect when you gain full control of the account. The bank's own policies matter more than state law in most cases.

Key Takeaways

Children under 18 need a parent or legal guardian to open and manage a bank account on their behalf, though the account is in the child's name.
Most banks allow accounts for children as young as infants, but some require the child to be at least 13 years old.
You gain full control of your account when you turn 18 in most states, though a few states set the age of majority at 19 or 21.
The bank's own policies determine the minimum age and what documents are required, so requirements differ between institutions.

How a minor's account works

When a parent or guardian opens an account for a child, the account is called a custodial account or minor account. The child's name and Social Security number appear on the account, but the parent or guardian has legal authority to deposit money, withdraw funds, and make decisions about the account. The child can use a debit card linked to the account once they reach an age the bank sets—often 7 or 8 years old, though some banks wait until 13.

The parent or guardian remains the account owner until the child reaches the age of majority. At that point, the account automatically converts to a standard adult account, and the young adult takes full control. Some banks send a notice before this happens; others do it silently. You should contact your bank around your 18th birthday to confirm the account has converted and to understand any changes to fees or features.

What documents you need to open an account as a minor

The parent or guardian opening the account will need to bring their own identification—usually a driver's license or passport—plus proof of the child's identity. Most banks accept a birth certificate or Social Security card for the child. Some banks also require proof of address, such as a utility bill or lease in the guardian's name.

A few banks ask for the child to be present in person when the account opens; others allow the guardian to open it alone. Call the bank ahead of time to ask what documents to bring and whether the child needs to come to the branch. Requirements vary widely, and showing up with the wrong papers wastes a trip.

Opening your own account at 18

Once you turn 18, you can walk into a bank and open an account in your own name without a parent or guardian. You will need a government-issued photo ID—a driver's license, state ID card, or passport—and your Social Security number. Most banks also ask for proof of address, such as a utility bill, lease, or bank statement in your name. If you don't have one yet, some banks accept a student ID or a letter from an employer.

You can open an account online with many banks without visiting a branch. The process is faster, but you will still need to provide the same information: your ID number, Social Security number, and proof of address. Some online banks have lower fees or higher interest rates on savings accounts than traditional banks, so it's worth comparing a few options before you choose.

What happens when a minor account converts to an adult account

The conversion happens automatically on your 18th birthday or shortly after. The account number usually stays the same, and any money in the account remains yours. However, the parent or guardian's access ends. They can no longer see the account balance, make withdrawals, or receive statements unless you add them as an authorized user—which you can do at any time if you choose.

Some banks change the account type when you turn 18, which can mean different fees, different interest rates, or different features. A student checking account, for example, might have no monthly fee while you're in school but switch to a standard account with a fee once you graduate or turn 25. Read any notice the bank sends you around your birthday, or call and ask what changes explore to your account.

Joint accounts and authorized users

A joint account is different from a minor account. In a joint account, two or more people—usually adults—each have equal legal rights to the money and the account. Both can deposit, withdraw, and make decisions. Joint accounts are common between spouses, business partners, or adult family members who want to share finances.

An authorized user is someone you add to your account after you turn 18. They can use a debit card and make withdrawals, but you remain the account owner and retain full control. You can remove an authorized user at any time. Some parents add themselves as authorized users to an adult child's account to help manage it, or adult children add aging parents to help with bills and medical expenses.

Age of majority by state

Most states set the age of majority at 18, meaning you gain full legal rights at that age. However, a few states differ. In Alabama, Nebraska, and Wyoming, the age of majority is 19. In Mississippi, it is 21. These differences can affect when you gain control of a custodial account, when you can sign contracts, and when you can make medical decisions.

If you live in one of these states and turn 18, check with your bank about when your account will convert to an adult account. The bank may follow state law and wait until you reach the state's age of majority, or it may convert at 18 anyway. The bank's policy determines the answer, not state law alone.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can a child under 13 have a bank account?

Yes, but the bank must allow it. Many banks permit accounts for children of any age, including infants, as long as a parent or guardian opens and manages the account. Other banks set a minimum age of 13. Call your bank or check its website to learn its policy before visiting a branch.

What happens to money in a minor's account when the child turns 18?

The money stays in the account and remains yours. The account converts to an adult account, and you gain full control. The parent or guardian loses access unless you add them as an authorized user after the conversion.

Can I open a bank account online if I'm under 18?

No. Online banks require you to be 18 or older to open an account in your own name. A parent or guardian must open a minor account in person or by mail, depending on the bank's process.

Do I need my Social Security number to open a bank account at 18?

Yes. Banks use your Social Security number to verify your identity and to report interest earned on the account to the IRS. If you don't have a Social Security number, you can request one from the Social Security Administration before opening an account.

Can a parent remove money from a child's account without permission?

Yes, while the child is a minor. The parent or guardian has full legal control of a custodial account and can withdraw money at any time. Once the account converts to an adult account at age 18, the parent can no longer withdraw money unless you add them as an authorized user.

This guide is for general information only and is not medical, financial, legal, or other professional advice. For decisions specific to your situation, consult a qualified professional. See our Editorial Policy.