Yes, but with a parent or guardian

You can open a bank account at 15 in most cases, but you will need a parent or guardian to sign with you. The account will be a custodial account — your parent or guardian has legal control until you reach the age of majority, which is 18 in most states. Some banks allow you to open the account online with a parent's consent; others require you both to visit a branch in person.

The rules vary by bank and by state. A few states allow minors to open accounts without a parent starting at age 14 or 15, but this is uncommon. Most major banks — Chase, Bank of America, Wells Fargo, Citibank — require a parent or guardian to be present or to authorize the account through their own online banking.

What you can do with the account depends on the bank and the account type. Most custodial accounts let you deposit and withdraw money, use a debit card, and set up direct deposit. Some banks restrict overdraft protection or limit the number of transfers you can make per month. A few banks offer accounts designed specifically for teens, with features like spending controls that let your parent set limits on what you can buy.

Key Takeaways

  • You can open a bank account at 15 with a parent or guardian present or authorizing the account online.
  • The account will be a custodial account, meaning your parent or guardian has legal control until you turn 18.
  • Rules and restrictions vary by bank — some allow online opening with parental consent, others require an in-person visit.
  • Teen-specific accounts often include spending controls and limited overdraft protection, which can help you learn to manage money.

What documents you and your parent will need

Bring a government-issued ID for both yourself and your parent or guardian. For you, this is usually a state ID, driver's license, or passport. Your parent will need the same. Some banks also accept a school ID for minors, but not all — call ahead to confirm.

You will also need proof of your Social Security number. Bring your Social Security card, a tax return, or a W-2 form if you work. Your parent will need to provide their Social Security number as well, usually by card or tax document.

If you are opening the account in person, bring a small initial deposit — often $25 to $100, depending on the bank. Some banks waive the minimum for teen accounts. If you are opening online, you may be able to fund the account from your parent's existing account at the same bank, or by transferring money from another bank.

In-person versus online opening

Opening in person at a branch is the most straightforward route. You and your parent go together, show your IDs, and the banker sets up the account while you wait. This usually takes 15 to 30 minutes. You walk out with a debit card (or it arrives by mail within a week), and the account is active when ready. This is the only option at some smaller banks and credit unions.

Opening online is faster if your parent already banks at the same institution. Your parent logs into their account, selects the option to open a custodial account, and provides your information and their authorization. You may need to verify your identity using a video call or by uploading a photo of your ID. The whole process takes 10 to 20 minutes, and the account is usually active within one business day. However, not all banks offer online custodial account opening, and some require you to visit a branch at least once to set up the debit card.

If your parent does not bank at the same institution, you will likely need to open in person or your parent will need to open an account first before adding you as an authorized user on a custodial account.

What happens when you turn 18

When you reach 18, the custodial account automatically converts to a regular account in your name alone. Your parent's access ends, and you have full control. No action is required on your part — the bank handles the conversion. You keep the same account number and debit card (though the card may expire and be reissued in your name).

Some banks send you a notice a few weeks before your 18th birthday to let you know the conversion is coming. Others do it silently. If you want to confirm the status of your account after you turn 18, call the bank or log into your online account to check that your parent is no longer listed as an authorized user.

Accounts designed for teens

Several banks offer accounts specifically for people under 18. Chase offers Chase First Banking, which includes a debit card, online and mobile banking, and parental controls that let your parent set daily spending limits and receive notifications when you use the card. Bank of America offers a similar product called BankSafe. Greenlight and Step are fintech companies that offer accounts designed for teens, with features like chore tracking and automatic allowance transfers.

These accounts often have lower or no monthly fees, no minimum balance requirements, and built-in tools to help you learn money management. However, they may have restrictions on ATM withdrawals or transfers, and some charge a monthly subscription fee for the parental app. Compare the features and costs against a standard custodial account at your bank before deciding.

Credit unions as an alternative

Credit unions often have simpler rules for teen accounts than large banks. Many allow you to open a savings or checking account at 15 with a parent, and some do not require a minimum deposit. Credit unions are member-owned, so you become a member when you open an account. Membership usually requires you to live or work in a specific area or have a family member who is already a member.

Credit unions typically offer lower fees and higher interest rates on savings than large banks, though this varies. If you have a credit union in your area, call and ask about their teen account options — the process is usually faster and less formal than at a major bank.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I open a bank account at 15 without a parent?

No, not at most banks. You will need a parent or legal guardian to sign with you or authorize the account. A few states allow minors to open accounts independently starting at age 14 or 15, but this is rare. Call your bank to ask about your state's rules.

What if my parent does not want to go to the bank with me?

Many banks allow your parent to authorize the account online without visiting a branch. Your parent logs into their account, provides your information, and consents to the account opening. You may then need to visit a branch to verify your identity or set up your debit card, or the bank may handle this by video call.

Will opening a bank account affect my credit score?

No. Opening a checking or savings account does not create a credit report or affect your credit score. Credit scores are based on borrowed money — loans, credit cards, and payment history. A bank account is straightforward a place to store and manage your own money.

Can I have my own debit card at 15?

Yes. Most custodial accounts come with a debit card in your name. Your parent may be able to set spending limits through the bank's app, but the card is yours to use. Some teen-specific accounts let your parent control the card remotely, pausing it if needed.

What if I want to open an account at a bank my parent does not use?

You will likely need to open in person with your parent present. Some banks allow your parent to authorize the account online even if they do not have an account there, but you will still need to visit a branch to verify your identity. Call the bank first to confirm their process for custodial accounts.