You cannot open a bank account in someone else's name without their presence and consent

Banks require the account holder to be present in person, provide a government-issued ID, and sign the account agreement themselves. This is a legal requirement under anti-money-laundering rules, not a bank policy you can work around. If you are trying to open an account for a minor, an incapacitated adult, or someone who cannot visit a branch, the process changes — but it still requires specific documentation and the person's involvement or a legal authority on their behalf.

The reason is straightforward: banks need to verify that the person whose name is on the account actually consented to it and actually exists. They also need to know who controls the money. Opening an account without the account holder present creates liability for the bank and opens the door to fraud.

Key Takeaways

  • An adult must be present in person with a government ID to open their own account; no one can do it for them without legal authority.
  • For a minor, a parent or legal guardian can open a custodial account, but the child's Social Security number and presence may still be required depending on the bank.
  • For an incapacitated adult, you need a power of attorney document or court-appointed guardianship before a bank will let you open an account on their behalf.
  • Joint accounts require both account holders to be present and sign, though some banks allow one person to open it and add the second person later.
  • If someone cannot visit a branch, some banks offer remote account opening via video call, but the account holder must still be the one on the call.

Opening a custodial account for a minor

A parent or legal guardian can open a bank account for a child under 18 without the child present at the bank. The account is held in the child's name, but the parent controls it until the child reaches the age of majority (usually 18, sometimes 21 depending on the state and the bank). This is called a custodial account or UTMA/UGMA account (Uniform Transfers to Minors Act or Uniform Gifts to Minors Act).

You will need the child's Social Security number, birth certificate, and proof of your relationship to the child (usually a birth certificate showing you as the parent). Some banks also require the child to be present even for a custodial account, so call ahead. The account is legally the child's property, but you manage it on their behalf. Once the child turns 18 or 21, depending on the account type and state law, the account transfers to their full control.

A custodial account is different from a joint account. In a joint account, both people have equal access and control. In a custodial account, the parent is the custodian and the child is the beneficiary — the money belongs to the child, but the parent makes decisions about it until the child comes of age.

Opening an account when someone cannot visit the bank

Some banks now offer remote account opening through video call or online process. The account holder must still be the one on the video call or completing the online steps — you cannot do it for them. They will need to provide their ID to the camera, answer verification questions, and electronically sign the account agreement.

This option works if someone is homebound, lives far from a branch, or has mobility issues. However, not all banks offer it, and the process varies. Call the bank directly and ask whether they support remote opening and what documents the account holder will need to have ready. Some banks require a notarized signature even for remote accounts, which adds another step.

Using power of attorney to open an account for an adult

If an adult is incapacitated, has a serious illness, or is otherwise unable to manage their own finances, you can open a bank account on their behalf if you have a power of attorney document. This is a legal document signed by the person (called the principal) that gives you (the agent or attorney-in-fact) the authority to act on their behalf in financial matters.

You will need to bring the original power of attorney document to the bank, along with your ID and the incapacitated person's ID. Some banks will also require a notarized copy of the power of attorney or a letter from an attorney confirming it is valid. The account can be opened in the principal's name, and you will have authority to manage it, but the account still belongs to them.

If no power of attorney exists and the person is incapacitated, you will need to go through the court system to be appointed as a guardian or conservator. This is a longer process that involves filing paperwork with the probate or family court in your county. Once appointed, you can open accounts and manage finances on the person's behalf, but you must follow court rules and sometimes file annual accountings of how the money was spent.

Joint accounts and adding someone later

A joint account is one where two or more people have equal access and control. Both account holders are legally responsible for the account and can withdraw money, write checks, or close it. Most banks require both people to be present and sign the account agreement when opening a joint account.

However, some banks allow one person to open an account alone and add a second person later. If you go this route, the second person will still need to come to the bank in person, provide ID, and sign paperwork agreeing to be added to the account. You cannot add someone to an account without their knowledge or consent.

Joint accounts are common for spouses, parents and adult children, or business partners. Be aware that if one person dies, the surviving account holder usually inherits the full balance automatically — it does not go through the person's will or estate. This is called right of survivorship, and it is the default for most joint accounts unless you specifically choose otherwise.

What happens if you try to open an account without consent

Opening a bank account in someone else's name without their knowledge or permission is identity theft and fraud. Banks have systems to detect this — they cross-reference Social Security numbers, run credit checks, and verify identity. If you succeed in opening an account fraudulently, the person will discover it when they check their credit report or receive mail from the bank.

The person whose identity was used can report it to the bank, which will close the account and investigate. They can also file a police report and report it to the Federal Trade Commission. If you are caught, you face criminal charges for fraud and identity theft, which can result in fines and jail time. Civil liability is also possible — the person can sue you for damages.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I open a bank account for my spouse without them being there?

No. Even spouses must be present in person to open their own account or to be added to a joint account. Both people must provide ID and sign the account agreement. If your spouse cannot visit the branch, ask the bank whether they offer remote account opening via video call.

What if someone is in the hospital and cannot leave to open an account?

Some banks offer remote account opening by video call, which the person can do from their hospital room if they have a phone or tablet. Alternatively, if you have power of attorney, you can open an account on their behalf. If neither option is available, you may need to wait until they can visit a branch or designate someone with legal authority.

Can I open a savings account for my grandchild?

Yes, if you are the parent or legal guardian, you can open a custodial account. If you are a grandparent without legal guardianship, you cannot open an account in the child's name alone. You could open a joint account in both your names, or ask the parent to open a custodial account and add you as an authorized user.

Do I need the person's Social Security number to add them to my account?

Yes. Banks need the Social Security number of anyone on the account for tax reporting and anti-money-laundering verification. If you are adding someone to an existing account, bring their Social Security number and ID to the bank, and they will need to be present to sign the paperwork.

What if someone gave me permission verbally but now denies it?

Banks require written consent and a signature on the account agreement. Verbal permission is not sufficient and creates a dispute if the person later claims they did not consent. Always have the person sign the paperwork themselves in front of the bank representative, so there is a clear record of their agreement.