The age requirement depends on the type of account and whether a parent or guardian is involved

Most banks will not open an account in a child's name alone until age 18. Before that, a parent or guardian must be the account owner, and the child's name can be added as an authorized user or joint owner. Some banks allow this as early as age 13; others wait until 16 or 17. A few banks have no minimum age if a parent opens the account with the child present.

At 18, a young person can open their own account without parental permission. They will need a government-issued ID (usually a driver's license or state ID) and proof of address. Some banks also ask for a Social Security number or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN).

The rules vary by bank and by state, so the first step is to call the bank where you want to open the account and ask what their specific age policy is. Do not assume all banks follow the same rule.

Key Takeaways

  • Children under 18 typically need a parent or guardian to open a bank account, though some banks allow this as early as age 13.
  • At 18, you can open your own account with a government-issued ID and proof of address.
  • Different banks have different minimum ages for children's accounts, so contact your bank directly to learn their policy.
  • A joint account with a parent lets a child use the account while the parent retains control and oversight.
  • Some banks offer teen checking accounts with limited features and parental controls, designed specifically for younger users.

How accounts work when a child is under 18

When a parent or guardian opens an account for a child, the parent is the legal account owner. The child's name appears on the account, but the parent has full control—they can see all transactions, withdraw money, and close the account. This is called a joint account or a custodial account, depending on the bank's terminology.

Some banks distinguish between these two structures. A custodial account is held "in trust for" the child and may have legal implications when the child turns 18 (the account may automatically transfer to the child's sole control). A joint account remains under shared control. Ask your bank which type they offer and what happens when the child reaches 18.

The child can use a debit card linked to the account, make deposits, and withdraw money at ATMs or in branches. The parent can set limits on daily spending or ATM withdrawals if the bank offers parental controls. Some teen checking accounts restrict certain transactions—for example, they may not allow overdrafts or online transfers without parental approval.

What you need to bring when opening an account for a child

Both the parent and the child should be present at the bank. Bring the parent's government-issued ID (driver's license or passport) and proof of the parent's address (a recent utility bill, lease, or mortgage statement). The child does not always need an ID, but some banks ask for one anyway.

You will also need a Social Security number for the child. If the child does not have one, you can explore for one at your local Social Security office before opening the account, or the bank may allow you to provide an ITIN if the child is not a U.S. citizen. Ask the bank in advance whether they accept ITINs.

Some banks ask for proof of the child's age and relationship to the parent—a birth certificate works for this. Call ahead to confirm what documents your specific bank requires, because requirements vary.

Opening an account at 18 without a parent

At 18, you become a legal adult and can open a bank account in your own name. You will need a government-issued photo ID (driver's license, state ID, or passport) and proof of your current address. A utility bill, lease, or recent bank statement with your name and address will work.

You will also need a Social Security number or ITIN. If you do not have a Social Security number yet, explore for one at your local Social Security office before going to the bank. The process takes about two weeks.

Some banks also ask for a second form of ID or additional proof of identity, especially if you are opening the account online. If you are opening the account in person at a branch, the process usually takes 15 to 30 minutes. Online account opening can be faster but may require you to verify your identity through a video call or by uploading documents.

Banks with no minimum age requirement

A small number of banks allow parents to open accounts for children of any age, including infants. These banks typically require the parent to be present and to provide their own ID and proof of address. The child does not need an ID or Social Security number at the time of opening, though the bank will ask for the child's Social Security number later (usually within 30 days).

Examples include some credit unions and online banks, but policies change frequently. If you want to open an account for a very young child, search for "no minimum age bank account" along with your state name, or call banks in your area and ask directly.

Teen checking accounts with parental controls

Many banks offer checking accounts designed specifically for teenagers, usually starting at age 13. These accounts come with parental controls that let the parent monitor spending, set daily limits, and receive alerts when the child makes a transaction. Some also restrict certain types of transactions—for example, they may block online purchases or international transfers without parental approval.

Teen accounts often have lower or no monthly fees, and they teach financial habits in a controlled environment. The parent can gradually loosen restrictions as the teenager demonstrates responsibility. When the teen turns 18, the account may convert to a standard checking account, or the teen may need to open a new account.

Not all banks offer teen accounts, and the features vary widely. If you are interested in this option, ask your bank whether they have a teen checking product and what age they start at.

What happens when a child turns 18

The rules depend on the type of account and the bank's policy. If the account is a joint account, it typically remains joint—both the original owner (now an adult) and the parent retain access and control. The young adult can request to remove the parent from the account, but the parent may need to agree, depending on the bank.

If the account is a custodial account, it may automatically convert to an account in the young adult's sole name when they turn 18. The parent loses access at that point. Some banks require the young adult to sign new paperwork to confirm the transfer; others do it automatically. Ask your bank what will happen before the child turns 18, so there are no surprises.

A young adult who wants to remove a parent from a joint account should contact the bank and ask what paperwork is required. The process usually takes a few days to a week.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can a 16-year-old open a bank account without a parent?

Most banks will not allow this. At 16, you typically still need a parent or guardian to open an account. A few banks may allow 16-year-olds to open accounts with parental consent, but you would need to ask your specific bank. At 18, you can open an account on your own.

What if my child does not have a Social Security number yet?

You can explore for one at your local Social Security office before opening the bank account. The process takes about two weeks. Some banks will let you open the account and provide the number later, but most require it at the time of opening. Call your bank to ask their policy.

Can I open a savings account for my baby?

Yes, some banks allow this. You will need your own ID and proof of address, and the baby's Social Security number (or you can provide it within 30 days). Not all banks offer this option, so call ahead. A custodial savings account is a common way to start saving for a child's future.

What happens to a joint account when I turn 18?

That depends on the bank and the account type. Some joint accounts stay joint, and you can ask to remove your parent later. Custodial accounts may automatically convert to your sole name. Contact your bank before you turn 18 to find out what will happen to your specific account.

Can I open a bank account if I do not have a government ID?

Most banks require a government-issued photo ID. If you do not have a driver's license or state ID, you can explore for a state ID at your local DMV. Some banks may accept a passport instead. Call your bank to ask what forms of ID they accept before you visit.