The age requirement depends on whether you open the account alone or with a parent
You must be at least 18 years old to open a bank account by yourself. If you are under 18, you can open an account only with a parent or legal guardian as a co-owner — the bank will not let you sign the paperwork alone.
Some banks offer accounts specifically for minors (people under 18) that a parent manages. Other banks let a parent add a young person to an existing adult account. The rules vary by bank, so you will need to ask what that particular bank offers.
Once you turn 18, you can walk into a branch or explore online and open an account in your name only, without anyone else involved. You will need to bring identification and proof of address, just like any adult applicant.
Key Takeaways
- You must be 18 years old to open a bank account without a parent or guardian present.
- If you are under 18, a parent or legal guardian must co-own the account and sign the paperwork with you.
- Many banks offer youth accounts designed for minors, with features like spending limits or parental controls.
- Once you turn 18, you can open your own account using just your ID and proof of address.
What happens when you turn 18
On your 18th birthday, you become a legal adult in the eyes of the bank. This means you can sign contracts, including the account agreement. You no longer need anyone's permission to open an account or make decisions about your money.
If you already have a youth account with a parent, you have two choices: keep it as is (your parent may still see the activity), or contact the bank to convert it to an adult account in your name alone. Some banks do this automatically; others require you to ask. Check with your bank about what happens on your 18th birthday.
Opening an account before you turn 18
If you want a bank account before you are 18, you will need a parent or legal guardian to come with you. They must bring their own ID and proof of address, and they will need to sign the account paperwork alongside you. The parent becomes a co-owner, which means they can see all transactions and withdraw money from the account.
Some parents set up accounts this way to teach their children about money. Others do it because a young person needs a place to deposit paychecks from a job. The parent's role is to help manage the account until the young person is old enough to take over.
A few banks offer accounts where the parent is the owner and the young person is an authorized user — meaning the young person can use a debit card and make withdrawals, but the parent retains full control. Ask your bank whether they offer this option if you want less parental oversight.
What you will need to bring
At 18 or older, bring a government-issued photo ID (a driver's license, state ID card, or passport) and proof of your current address. Proof of address can be a utility bill, lease, or bank statement in your name — it usually needs to be dated within the last 60 days.
If you are under 18, bring the same documents, plus your parent or guardian must bring their ID and proof of address as well. Some banks also ask for a Social Security number, which you should have from birth or can request from the Social Security Administration.
Opening an account online versus in person
If you are 18 or older, many banks let you open an account entirely online. You upload photos of your ID and proof of address, answer questions about yourself, and sign electronically. The account can be ready to use within a few days.
If you are under 18, you will almost always need to go to a branch in person. The bank needs the parent or guardian to sign paperwork, and they cannot do that online. Call ahead to ask whether your bank requires an appointment or if you can walk in.
Different account types for different ages
Banks often have different account products for different life stages. A youth checking account might have no monthly fee and a low minimum balance, designed for someone just starting out. A teen savings account might have parental controls built in. An adult checking account might have different features and fees.
When you turn 18, your youth account does not automatically become an adult account — you may need to ask the bank to switch you. This is a good time to review what features you actually need and whether a different account type makes sense for you now.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I open a bank account at 16 or 17?
No, not without a parent or legal guardian. You can open a youth account with a parent as co-owner, but you cannot open an account in your name alone until you are 18. Some banks offer accounts specifically designed for teenagers; ask what your bank has available.
What if I do not have a parent or legal guardian?
If you are under 18 and do not have a parent or legal guardian, talk to the bank directly about your situation. Some banks may work with a court-appointed guardian or other authorized adult. Each bank has different policies, so you will need to ask what they can do.
Do I need a Social Security number to open an account?
Most banks require a Social Security number. If you do not have one, you can request one from the Social Security Administration — the process takes a few weeks. Some banks may accept an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) instead, but this is less common. Call your bank first to ask what they accept.
Can my parent remove me from the account once I turn 18?
If you are a co-owner, your parent cannot remove you without your permission — you both own the account equally. However, if you are an authorized user on your parent's account, your parent can remove that access at any time. Check with your bank about which type of account you have.
What if I want to open an account but my parent will not help?
You will have to wait until you turn 18 to open an account on your own. If you need banking services before then, talk to a school counselor, trusted adult, or local community organization about other options. Some nonprofits offer financial services for young people in difficult situations.