Yes, teenagers can open a checking account, but the rules depend on their age and the bank
Most banks let teenagers open a checking account starting at age 13 or 14, though some wait until 16. The catch: a parent or guardian has to be on the account with them, at least until they turn 18. This is called a joint account — both of you own it, both can see the transactions, and both can withdraw money. It's not a separate teen account; it's a regular checking account with two names on it.
The specific age and rules vary by bank. Some banks have a minimum age of 13 with a parent present; others require 16. A few banks let you open an account at any age if a parent co-signs, but those are less common. The best way to find out what your bank offers is to call the branch, visit in person, or check their website for "teen checking" or "youth account" — though many banks don't use those terms.
Once you turn 18, you can remove your parent from the account and make it yours alone, or you can open a separate account in just your name. Some banks do this automatically; others require you to ask.
Key Takeaways
- Most banks allow teenagers to open a checking account at age 13 or 14, but a parent or guardian must be a co-owner until the teen turns 18.
- The minimum age and exact rules differ by bank, so you need to contact your specific bank to learn what they require.
- You will need a government-issued ID (usually a state ID or passport) and proof of address, and your parent will need to bring their ID and proof of address too.
- A joint account means both you and your parent can see all transactions and withdraw money, so it's not private — this is intentional, to help teach money habits.
What documents you need to bring
Both you and your parent need to bring identification. For you, that usually means a state ID, passport, or school ID (though school IDs are less common at banks). Your parent needs a government-issued ID like a driver's license or passport.
You also both need proof of address — a utility bill, lease, mortgage statement, or bank statement with your current address on it. If you've recently moved, bring the most recent document you have. Some banks accept a school ID as proof of address for the teen, but call ahead to confirm.
Bring your Social Security number or have it memorized. The bank will ask for it to run a background check and set up the account in the banking system.
How to open the account in person versus online
Most banks require you to open a joint account in person at a branch, not online. This is because the bank needs to see both you and your parent, verify your IDs, and have both of you sign the paperwork. Some larger banks like Chase or Bank of America have started offering online account opening for teens, but you usually still need a parent to verify their identity in person or through a video call.
If your bank offers online opening, the process is faster — you can start it from home and finish it in a few days. If you have to go in person, bring all your documents, go during a quiet time (weekday mornings are usually less busy), and plan for 30 to 45 minutes.
Call your bank's customer service line or visit their website before you go. Ask whether you can open a teen account online, what documents you need, and whether you need an appointment. Some branches require appointments; others take walk-ins.
What happens after the account opens
The bank will give you a debit card, usually within 7 to 10 business days. You can use it to withdraw cash from ATMs and pay for things in stores. Your parent will also get a debit card for the same account.
You'll get online banking access so you can check your balance, see transactions, and set up automatic transfers. Your parent will have the same access. Some banks let you set up text or email alerts when money is deposited or withdrawn, which can help you track spending.
The account works like any other checking account — you can deposit paychecks (if you have a job), receive money from family, and spend it. Most teen accounts don't charge monthly fees, but confirm this with your bank. Some accounts do charge a fee if you don't keep a minimum balance or if you overdraw.
When your parent can see your transactions
Because it's a joint account, your parent can see every transaction — every ATM withdrawal, every debit card purchase, every deposit. This is not a privacy issue; it's the whole point. The account is designed so your parent can help you learn to manage money and catch fraud or mistakes.
If you want more privacy as you get older, talk to your parent about what they actually check. Many parents stop monitoring every transaction once their teen proves they're responsible. But legally and technically, they have the right to see everything until you turn 18 and remove them from the account.
Some banks offer "teen checking" products with slightly different rules — for example, a parent might be able to set spending limits or turn off certain types of transactions. Ask your bank whether they offer this.
Removing your parent when you turn 18
At 18, you become a legal adult and can own a bank account by yourself. You can ask your bank to remove your parent from the account, and the account becomes yours alone. Some banks do this automatically on your 18th birthday; most require you to ask.
To remove your parent, you usually go to a branch with your ID and ask. The bank will have you sign a form, and your parent's name comes off. Your parent will no longer be able to see transactions or withdraw money. You keep the same account number and debit card.
Alternatively, you can leave the account as-is and open a new account in just your name. Some people do this if they want to keep the joint account for family purposes (like receiving money from parents) and have a separate account that's just theirs.
What to do if your bank doesn't offer teen accounts
Not every bank has a formal teen checking product. If yours doesn't, you have two options: switch banks, or open a regular joint account with your parent.
A regular joint account works the same way — your parent is a co-owner, you both can see transactions, and you get a debit card. The only difference is there's no special "teen" label or teen-specific features. This is perfectly fine and is actually what most teenagers use.
If you want to switch banks, look for one that explicitly mentions teen or youth accounts on their website. Credit unions often have teen accounts too, and sometimes with lower or no fees. Ask your parent whether they'd be willing to switch or open an account at a different bank just for you.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I open a checking account without my parent?
No, not until you turn 18. Banks require a parent or legal guardian to co-own the account with you. This is a legal requirement, not just a bank policy. Once you turn 18, you can open an account in just your name.
Will opening a checking account hurt my credit score?
No. Opening a checking account does not affect your credit score. Credit scores are based on borrowing and repaying money (loans, credit cards), not on having a bank account. A checking account is separate from credit.
What if I want to hide the account from my parent?
You can't hide a joint account — your parent will see it because their name is on it and they have legal access. If you want privacy, you'll have to wait until you turn 18 and open an account in just your name. Until then, the joint account is designed for your parent to help you learn money management.
Do I need a job to open a checking account?
No. You don't need a job or income to open a checking account. You can open one to receive money from family, save allowance, or just learn how banking works. The bank doesn't care where the money comes from.
What if I overdraw the account?
If you spend more than you have, the bank may decline the transaction or charge you an overdraft fee (usually $25 to $35). Some teen accounts don't allow overdrafts — the transaction just gets declined. Ask your bank what happens if you overdraw, and ask your parent to help you avoid it by checking your balance before you spend.