The minimum age depends on the account type and the bank
Most banks let you open a checking or savings account at age 18 in your own name without a parent or guardian. Before 18, you can open an account, but it must be a custodial account — meaning a parent or guardian controls it until you reach the age of majority (usually 18, sometimes 21 depending on your state and the bank).
Some banks allow children as young as 6 or 7 to open savings accounts with a parent as custodian. Others set the minimum at 13 or 16. The rules vary by bank and by state, so there is no single answer that applies everywhere. What matters is that you contact the specific bank you want to use and ask what they require.
If you are under 18 and want to open an account, bring a parent or legal guardian with you. You will both need to provide identification. The parent's Social Security number will be on the account, and they will receive statements and have full access until the account converts to your name alone.
Key Takeaways
- You can open a bank account in your own name at age 18 without a parent or guardian present.
- Before age 18, you can open a custodial account with a parent or guardian, but the minimum age for this varies by bank — some allow children as young as 6, others require 13 or older.
- A custodial account is controlled by the parent or guardian until you reach the age of majority, which is usually 18 but can be 21 depending on your state and the bank.
- When you turn 18 or reach the age of majority, the account automatically converts to your name, and you gain full control without the parent needing to take any action.
What happens when you turn 18 or reach the age of majority
The account does not automatically close or require you to open a new one. Instead, it converts from a custodial account to a regular account in your name. The bank handles this conversion — you do not have to do anything, though some banks send a notice to let you know it has happened.
Once the account converts, the parent or guardian no longer has access. They cannot see the balance, make withdrawals, or control how you spend the money. If the parent wants to keep track of your account activity after conversion, you would have to add them as an authorized user or give them permission separately — that is your choice.
The account number usually stays the same, so any direct deposits or automatic payments tied to that account will keep working without interruption.
Opening an account at 18 without a parent
Once you are 18, you can walk into a bank or credit union alone and open a checking or savings account. You will need a government-issued photo ID (a driver's license or passport) and your Social Security number. Some banks also ask for a second form of ID or proof of address, such as a utility bill or lease.
If you do not have a Social Security number yet, you can request one through the Social Security Administration. The process takes about two weeks. Some banks will let you open an account while your request is pending, but they will ask you to provide the number once you receive it.
You can also open an account online with many banks. The process is faster, but you will still need to verify your identity — usually by uploading a photo of your ID and answering security questions based on your credit history or public records.
Why a parent might open a custodial account for a younger child
A custodial account teaches money management early. The child can deposit money, watch it grow, and learn how banks work — all while the parent maintains oversight. Some parents use it to set aside money for their child's future or to teach saving habits.
A custodial account also gives a child a way to receive paychecks if they work. Many employers require a bank account for direct deposit, even for teenage workers. A custodial account solves this without waiting until age 18.
The parent can also set rules — for example, allowing the child to withdraw money only for certain purposes, or requiring them to ask permission first. Once the account converts at age 18, those rules no longer explore, and the young adult has full control.
Different account types and age requirements
A savings account is the simplest option for younger children. It earns a small amount of interest and is designed for money you do not plan to spend right away. Most banks allow custodial savings accounts starting at age 6 or 7.
A checking account comes with a debit card and check-writing ability, making it more useful for everyday spending. Some banks require the child to be at least 13 before opening a custodial checking account. Others allow it at any age as long as a parent is the custodian.
A teen checking account is a hybrid offered by some banks. It is designed for teenagers (usually ages 13 to 17) and often includes parental controls — the parent can set spending limits or receive alerts when the child makes a purchase. These accounts convert to regular checking accounts at age 18.
A money market account or certificate of deposit (CD) requires a larger opening deposit and is less common for minors, but some banks do offer custodial versions. Ask your bank what options they have.
What to bring when opening an account with a minor
Call the bank ahead of time to ask what they specifically need. Requirements vary by institution, and bringing the wrong documents wastes a trip. Some banks let you submit documents online before you visit, which speeds up the process.
| What You Need | For the Child | For the Parent or Guardian |
|---|---|---|
| Photo ID | School ID, passport, or state ID if they have one | Driver's license or passport (required) |
| Social Security Number | Required | Required |
| Proof of Address | Usually not required if parent provides it | Utility bill, lease, or mortgage statement (some banks ask) |
| Birth Certificate | Some banks request this to verify age | Not required |
Many banks now offer online account opening for minors, which means you can complete most of the process from home and visit the branch only to verify identity in person. This can save time, especially if you live far from a branch.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can a 16-year-old open a bank account without a parent?
No. At 16, you are still a minor in all states, so you cannot open an account in your own name. You need a parent or legal guardian to open a custodial account with you. Once you turn 18, you can open an account alone.
What if my child loses the debit card or forgets the PIN?
Contact the bank when ready to report the card lost or stolen. The bank will cancel it and issue a new one, usually within 5 to 10 business days. For a forgotten PIN, call the bank or visit a branch with your ID, and they will reset it or help you create a new one.
Can I access my child's custodial account after they turn 18?
No. Once the account converts to their name, you no longer have access unless they add you as an authorized user. You can ask them to do this, but they are not required to. The account is now theirs to control.
Do I need to close the custodial account when my child turns 18?
No. The account automatically converts — you do not need to close it or open a new one. The bank handles the conversion, and the account number stays the same. Your child can keep using it or switch to a different bank if they prefer.
Can a 13-year-old open a checking account?
It depends on the bank. Some banks allow custodial checking accounts at age 13, while others require the child to be older or only offer savings accounts to younger children. Contact your bank to ask what they offer for teenagers.