What you can do at 13 depends on the bank and what kind of account

Most banks will not open a standard checking or savings account for someone under 18 without a parent or guardian on the account. Some banks require a co-owner to be present at opening and to remain on the account indefinitely. Others allow a teen to become the sole owner at 18, even if a parent started it with them. A few banks and credit unions offer teen-specific accounts designed for younger teenagers, but these are less common and come with restrictions—usually lower withdrawal limits, no overdraft, or limited online access.

The short answer: you can open an account at 13, but almost always with a parent or guardian as a co-owner. The account will be in both your names, and your parent will have full access to it. Some institutions call this a "teen checking account" or "youth savings account." Others straightforward treat it as a joint account.

A few credit unions and online banks have lowered their age requirements in recent years, but they remain exceptions. Your best starting point is to call the bank or credit union where your parent already banks—they often have the fastest path for teens whose parents are customers.

Key Takeaways

  • Most banks require a parent or guardian to be a co-owner on any account opened for someone under 18.
  • Some banks offer teen-specific accounts with features like spending limits or parental controls, but availability varies widely by institution.
  • Your parent will have full access to the account and can see all transactions, deposits, and withdrawals.
  • Credit unions sometimes have lower age requirements than traditional banks, so checking your local credit union is worth a call.
  • The account can usually transfer to your sole ownership at 18, though the process and timing depend on the bank's rules.

How a joint teen account actually works

When you open an account with a parent as co-owner, both of you are legally responsible for the account. Your parent can deposit money, withdraw money, and see every transaction. You can usually do the same, though some teen accounts restrict certain actions—like ATM withdrawals over a set amount per day, or transfers to external accounts.

The account is in both names on the bank's records. If the bank needs to contact someone about the account, they can contact either of you. If there is a dispute about money in the account, both of you have a claim to it. This matters: if your parents divorce or separate, both may have legal rights to the funds, depending on your state's laws.

Most teen accounts do not charge monthly fees, but some do if you do not meet a minimum balance or if you exceed a certain number of transactions per month. Read the account agreement carefully—or ask your parent to—because the rules vary.

Banks and credit unions that have accounts for young teenagers

Large national banks like Chase, Bank of America, and Wells Fargo offer teen checking accounts, though the minimum age and features differ. Chase allows accounts at age 13 with a parent; Bank of America's SafePass account is for ages 8 and up. Wells Fargo has similar offerings. These accounts typically come with a debit card, online access, and parental controls that let your parent set spending limits or receive alerts.

Credit unions often have lower barriers. Many credit unions allow accounts at age 13 or younger, and some do not require a parent to be a co-owner if you meet other conditions—like having a parent as a member. This varies by credit union, so you will need to contact yours directly.

Online banks like Greenlight and GoHenry are designed specifically for teens and younger children. They operate as prepaid accounts or linked accounts rather than traditional bank accounts, meaning a parent loads money onto a card or account that you control within set limits. These are not FDIC-insured bank accounts in the traditional sense, but they do teach money management and come with parental oversight built in.

What documents you will need to bring

To open an account, you and your parent will need to bring government-issued photo ID. For you, this is usually a state ID, school ID, or passport. Your parent will need a driver's license or passport. The bank will also ask for a Social Security number for both of you.

If you are opening the account in person, bring these documents with you. If you are opening it online or by mail, you may need to upload photos of the documents or have them verified another way. Some banks use video verification, where you and your parent speak to a bank representative on video call to confirm your identities.

Bring a small initial deposit if the bank requires one—many teen accounts have no minimum, but some ask for $25 or $100 to open. Ask ahead of time so you are not caught off guard.

What happens when you turn 18

At 18, you become a legal adult, and the account can transition to your sole ownership. How this works depends on the bank. Some automatically convert the account when you turn 18 and notify you by mail. Others require you to visit a branch or call to request the change. A few require your parent to formally remove themselves from the account, which means your parent has to take action too.

Before you turn 18, ask your bank what the process is. Get the answer in writing if you can—an email from the bank or a note from the account agreement. This prevents confusion later and ensures your parent knows what to expect.

Once the account is in your name alone, your parent will no longer have access to it and will not see your transactions. The account rules may change too—you may gain access to overdraft protection, higher withdrawal limits, or other features that were restricted while you were a minor.

Alternatives if your bank says no

If your bank will not open an account for someone your age, your options are limited but real. A local credit union may have different rules—call and ask specifically about their minimum age and whether a parent needs to be a co-owner. Credit unions are member-owned and sometimes more flexible than large banks.

A prepaid debit card or teen money app is another route. These are not bank accounts, but they let you load money onto a card and spend it like a debit card. Greenlight, GoHenry, and Copper are examples. Your parent controls how much money goes on the card and can set rules about where you can spend it. The downside is that prepaid cards do not build a banking relationship or a credit history the way a real bank account does.

You could also ask your parent to open a savings account in their name and let you use it informally—though this does not give you the same legal rights or the same learning experience as having your own account.

Why banks have age limits

Banks require a parent or guardian on accounts for minors because minors cannot legally sign binding contracts in most states. A bank account is a contract between you and the bank, so the bank needs someone who can be held legally responsible if something goes wrong. This is also why your parent has access to the account—they are the legally responsible party.

Age limits also protect against fraud. A bank cannot verify your identity as thoroughly as it can an adult's, so requiring a parent reduces the bank's risk. It also protects you: if someone steals your debit card or your account information, your parent can dispute the charge and help recover the money.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I open a bank account without my parent knowing?

No. Any bank account you open at 13 will require a parent or guardian to be present and to sign documents. The bank will not open an account for a minor without parental consent and involvement. If you are concerned about your parent's reaction, talk to them about why you want an account—most parents support it because it teaches money management.

Will my parent see all my transactions?

Yes, if your parent is a co-owner on the account. They will have full access to the account online or at the bank and can see every deposit, withdrawal, and purchase. Some teen accounts offer limited privacy settings, but these are rare. If privacy is important to you, talk to your parent about what level of oversight feels fair.

Can I get a debit card at 13?

Yes. Most teen checking accounts come with a debit card. Some banks issue the card when ready; others mail it within a few business days. Your parent may be able to set limits on how much you can spend per day or per transaction, depending on the bank's features.

What if I want to move my money to a different bank later?

You can transfer money from one bank to another at any time. You will need to provide the new bank with your account number and routing number from your current bank. The transfer usually takes three to five business days. Once you turn 18 and the account is in your name alone, you can move it without your parent's permission.

Do teen accounts help build credit?

No. A checking or savings account does not affect your credit score. Credit is built through loans, credit cards, and payment history. A bank account is a good first step toward financial responsibility, but it does not appear on your credit report. You will need a credit card or a loan to start building credit, which usually happens at 18.