The minimum age depends on the account type and the bank
Most banks will not let you open an account on your own until you turn 18. Before that, you need a parent or guardian to co-own the account with you. Some banks allow accounts for younger children, but only as a custodial account — meaning an adult controls it and you cannot withdraw money without their permission.
A few banks and credit unions have different rules. Some let you open a teen account at 13 or 14 with parental consent. Others require you to be 16. The rules vary by institution, so you will need to ask the specific bank or credit union what they allow.
Key Takeaways
- You must be 18 to open a bank account in your own name without a parent or guardian present.
- Before 18, you can open a custodial account where a parent or guardian co-owns it and controls withdrawals.
- Some banks offer teen accounts starting at age 13 or 14, but rules vary by institution.
- You will need a government-issued ID and proof of address, even if a parent is present.
- Online banks sometimes have different age requirements than brick-and-mortar branches, so check before you visit.
Opening an account before age 18
If you are under 18, you have two main paths. The first is a custodial account, where your parent or guardian is the legal owner and you are the beneficiary. The parent controls the account, can see all transactions, and must approve large withdrawals. This is the most common option and most banks offer it.
The second path is a teen account or youth account, offered by some banks starting at age 13 or 14. These accounts give you more control than a custodial account — you can withdraw money without asking — but the parent still has oversight and can set spending limits. Teen accounts often come with a debit card and online banking access.
To open either type, you and your parent will both need to visit the bank in person or complete an online process together. Bring a government-issued ID (yours and your parent's) and proof of address, such as a utility bill or lease.
What happens at age 18
Once you turn 18, you can open a bank account entirely on your own. You no longer need a parent's permission or signature. However, if you already have a custodial account, it does not automatically convert to a solo account — you will need to contact the bank and request the change.
Some banks make this transition straightforward: you go in, show your ID, and the parent is removed from the account. Others may require you to close the old account and open a new one. Ask your bank what the process is before your 18th birthday so there are no surprises.
Documents you will need
Whether you are opening an account at 13 or 18, you will need to prove who you are and where you live. Banks are required by federal law to verify this information.
| Document Type | What Counts |
|---|---|
| Government-issued ID | Driver's license, state ID card, passport, or school ID (some banks accept school ID only if a parent is present) |
| Proof of address | Utility bill, lease, mortgage statement, or bank statement in your name or your parent's name |
| Social Security number | Required for all accounts; you will provide it verbally or on a form |
If you do not have a government-issued ID yet, some banks will accept a school ID if your parent is present. A few will accept a birth certificate plus another form of ID. Call ahead to ask what your specific bank accepts.
Online banks versus traditional banks
Online-only banks sometimes have different age rules than banks with physical branches. Some online banks do not offer accounts for anyone under 18, even with a parent present. Others allow custodial accounts starting at any age.
If you want to open an account with an online bank, check their website for age requirements before you start. The information is usually in a FAQ or "About Accounts" section. If you cannot find it, call their customer service number — they can tell you in one conversation whether they can open an account for you.
What to know about joint accounts
A joint account is different from a custodial account. In a joint account, both people (you and your parent) are equal owners and can withdraw money without the other's permission. Joint accounts are less common for minors because they give the young person too much control.
Most banks will not let you open a joint account until you are 18. If they do allow it for younger people, understand that your parent cannot prevent you from withdrawing all the money. If you want your parent to have oversight, ask for a custodial or teen account instead.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I open a bank account at 16 or 17?
It depends on the bank. Some allow teen accounts at 16 or 17 with parental consent. Others require you to wait until 18. Call your bank or check their website to find out their specific age requirement. If your bank does not allow it, you can open a custodial account instead.
What if I do not have a government-issued ID?
Some banks will accept a school ID or birth certificate if a parent is present. A few will accept a passport card or tribal ID. Call the bank before you visit to ask what they accept. If you do not have any of these, you may need to get a state ID card from your DMV first.
Can I open an account online if I am under 18?
Some online banks allow you to open a custodial account online with a parent. Others require you to visit a branch or mail in documents. Check the bank's website or call them to find out. If they do not support online opening for minors, you will need to use a traditional bank with a physical branch.
What happens to my custodial account when I turn 18?
The account does not automatically change. You need to contact the bank and request that your parent be removed as co-owner. Some banks do this in one visit; others may require you to close the account and open a new one. Ask your bank what the process is before your birthday.
Do I need my parent's permission to close a custodial account?
Yes, while you are under 18. Once you turn 18, the account is yours and you can close it without permission. Before 18, your parent must approve the closure because they are the legal owner.