The short answer: not really, but there are ways around it
A bank will not let one person walk in and open an account in another person's name without that person present. Banks are required by federal law to verify the identity of the person whose name goes on the account — they need to see that person's ID, confirm their Social Security number, and get their signature. This is called Know Your Customer compliance, and it exists to prevent fraud and money laundering.
However, there are legitimate situations where someone can help another person open an account, or where an account can be opened and managed by someone other than the account holder. The route depends on the person's age, legal status, and whether they are able to be present at the bank.
Key Takeaways
- A parent or legal guardian can open a custodial account for a minor child, but the child's name and Social Security number must be on the account.
- An adult can only open an account in their own name if they are physically present with valid ID, or in rare cases through a power of attorney document.
- A representative payee appointed by Social Security can manage benefits in an account, but cannot open the account without the account holder present.
- Joint accounts require both account holders to be present and to sign, though one person can later manage day-to-day transactions.
Opening a custodial account for a child
If you are a parent or legal guardian, you can open a bank account for a minor child. The account will be registered as a custodial account — the child's name and Social Security number appear on the account, but you have legal control until the child reaches the age of majority (usually 18 or 21, depending on your state and the bank).
You will need to bring the child's birth certificate or Social Security card to prove their identity, along with your own ID. Some banks ask that the child be present; others do not. The account belongs to the child, not to you, so when they turn 18 or 21, the account transfers to their sole control. You can deposit money, make withdrawals, and manage the account on their behalf until that date.
This is different from opening an account in your own name and putting money aside for a child — that money would legally be yours, not theirs. A custodial account is the proper way to hold money for a minor.
Using a power of attorney to manage someone else's account
If an adult is unable to go to the bank themselves — because they are hospitalized, homebound, or otherwise unable to travel — a power of attorney document can authorize someone else to open an account on their behalf. This is a legal document signed by the account holder (called the principal) that gives another person (called the agent or attorney-in-fact) the power to act in their financial affairs.
The power of attorney must be signed by the account holder, usually notarized, and presented to the bank along with the account holder's ID. The bank will verify the document and the account holder's identity before allowing the agent to open the account. This is not a common route — most banks prefer the account holder to be present — but it is legally possible in situations where the person genuinely cannot appear.
A power of attorney is a serious legal document. It should only be created with the help of an attorney, and only when the account holder fully understands what they are signing. If you need this route, speak with a lawyer in your state about the proper form and process.
Joint accounts and authorized users
If two adults want to share an account, both must be present at the bank to open it. A joint account means both people's names are on the account, both are legally responsible for it, and both can withdraw money. The bank will ask both people for ID and signatures.
Once the account is open, one person can manage it day-to-day — making deposits, paying bills, checking the balance — without the other person present. But the account cannot be opened without both people there to sign.
Some banks also offer authorized user status, where one person opens the account and then adds another person to it. The authorized user can use a debit card and make transactions, but their name is not on the account itself. The account owner remains legally responsible. This is different from a joint account and is sometimes used when one person wants to give another person access without full ownership.
Representative payee accounts for Social Security or benefits
If someone receives Social Security benefits or other government benefits and is unable to manage money on their own, Social Security can appoint a representative payee. This is a person (often a family member or social worker) who receives the benefit payments and manages them on the recipient's behalf.
The representative payee does not open the account — the account must be in the name of the person receiving the benefits. However, the representative payee can be listed on the account as an authorized manager, and they can make deposits and withdrawals. Social Security has specific rules about how this money must be used and documented, and the representative payee must file annual reports with Social Security.
If you think you need to become a representative payee, contact your local Social Security office. They will explain the process and the responsibilities involved.
What happens if someone tries to open an account fraudulently
Banks have fraud detection systems and are trained to spot when someone is trying to open an account using another person's identity without permission. If a teller suspects fraud — for example, if someone shows up with another person's ID but that person is not present — they will refuse to open the account and may report it to law enforcement.
Opening an account in someone else's name without their knowledge or permission is identity theft and is a federal crime. It can result in criminal charges, fines, and imprisonment. If you suspect this has happened to you, report it to your bank when ready and file a report with the Federal Trade Commission at IdentityTheft.gov.
When someone cannot go to the bank in person
If someone is unable to visit a bank branch but wants to open an account, some banks now offer online account opening. The person can complete the process from home, upload a photo of their ID, and verify their identity through video call or other digital methods. This is becoming more common, especially at online banks and credit unions.
If the person is hospitalized or homebound and cannot use online banking, a power of attorney is the legal route. Another option is to ask the bank whether they have a mobile banking service or whether a representative can visit the person's home — some banks offer this for elderly or disabled customers, though it is not standard.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I open a bank account for my elderly parent if they have dementia?
If your parent can no longer make financial decisions, you would need a power of attorney or court-appointed guardianship to open an account on their behalf. A power of attorney is faster if your parent can still sign documents and understand what they are signing. If they cannot, you may need to go through the court system. Speak with an elder law attorney about the best route for your situation.
Can I open a joint account with someone who is not present?
No. Both account holders must be present at the bank with valid ID to open a joint account. Both must sign the account agreement. If the other person cannot be there, you can open an account in your name only, or explore whether the bank offers authorized user status instead.
What if my child is 17 and wants their own account?
Many banks allow teenagers to open accounts with a parent or guardian present. The account may be a regular account (not custodial) if the teen is old enough, or it may have restrictions until they turn 18. Ask your bank what options they offer for teens. Your teen will need to bring their ID or Social Security card and be present to sign.
Can someone else deposit money into my account if I don't add them as an authorized user?
Yes. Anyone can deposit money into your account — they just need your account number and routing number. They cannot withdraw money or access your account without being an authorized user or joint account holder. Deposits are one-way; withdrawals require authorization.
What is the difference between a custodial account and a trust account for a child?
A custodial account is simpler and faster to set up — you just need the child's birth certificate and your ID. A trust account is more formal and is set up through a lawyer; it gives you more control over when and how the money is used after the child turns 18. For most families, a custodial account is sufficient. Talk to a lawyer if you have specific concerns about how the money should be managed.