Yes, you can open a bank account for your child online, but the process depends on your child's age and the bank you choose

Most banks let you open a custodial account (an account you control on behalf of your minor child) entirely online. You'll need your child's Social Security number, proof of your identity, and sometimes proof of your address. The whole process usually takes 10 to 15 minutes. However, some banks require you to visit a branch in person or have your child present during part of the setup, so you'll want to check with your specific bank before you start.

The account belongs to your child legally, but you manage it until they reach the age of majority (18 or 21, depending on your state). When they turn that age, the account converts to their name alone, and you lose access. This is different from a joint account, where both of you have equal control the whole time.

Key Takeaways

  • Most major banks and credit unions let you open a custodial account online using your child's Social Security number and your own ID.
  • Some banks require an in-person visit or your child's presence, so call ahead or check the bank's website before starting online.
  • The account automatically transfers to your child's sole control when they reach 18 or 21, depending on your state law.
  • Custodial accounts report to your child's credit file, not yours, which builds their credit history from an early age.
  • Some banks charge monthly fees for minor accounts, while others waive fees until your child turns a certain age.

What you need to open the account online

Have your child's Social Security number ready. If your child doesn't have one yet, you'll need to get one from the Social Security Administration before you can open a bank account. You'll also need your own government-issued ID (driver's license or passport) and proof of your current address, usually a recent utility bill or lease.

Some banks ask for your child's date of birth and full legal name as it appears on their birth certificate. A few banks also ask whether your child has ever had a bank account before. Be honest about this—banks check, and misrepresenting your child's banking history can delay or block the account.

Have your phone number and email address ready. The bank will use these to send you account confirmations and statements. You may also need to set up online banking access during the process, which requires creating a username and password.

Banks that let you complete the whole process online

Chase, Bank of America, Wells Fargo, and Citibank all let you open a custodial savings account online without visiting a branch. Ally Bank, Charles Schwab, and Fidelity also offer online custodial accounts. Credit unions vary widely—some let you open online, while others require at least one in-person visit. Call your credit union's member services line to ask before you start.

Online-only banks like Ally and Charles Schwab often have lower or no monthly fees, which matters if you're opening the account to teach your child about saving rather than to use it heavily. Traditional banks sometimes charge $5 to $15 per month for minor accounts, though many waive the fee until your child turns 13 or 16.

Before you choose a bank, check whether they offer a debit card for minors. Some banks issue cards automatically; others require you to request one. If your plan is to let your child use the card to learn spending habits, this matters.

What happens if the bank requires an in-person step

Some banks, particularly regional ones, require you to sign documents in front of a bank employee or have your child present during account opening. This is less common than it used to be, but it still happens. If the bank's website doesn't clearly state that the entire process is online, call the branch and ask whether you can complete it remotely.

If an in-person visit is required, you can usually schedule an appointment online or by phone rather than walking in without notice. Bring your ID, your child's Social Security number, and proof of address. The appointment typically takes 15 to 20 minutes.

How custodial accounts work once they're open

You deposit money into the account and manage it. Your child can see the balance (if the bank provides a minor-friendly app or online portal), but they cannot withdraw money or make transfers without your permission. You control all transactions until your child reaches the age of majority in your state.

The account reports to your child's credit file, not yours. This means the account history—deposits, withdrawals, and how long the account has been open—builds your child's credit record. If you link the account to a debit card and your child uses it responsibly, this can help them establish a credit history before they turn 18.

You receive statements and can set up alerts for large transactions. Some banks let you set spending limits on the debit card or restrict where it can be used (online only, in-store only, certain merchants). These tools help you teach your child about money without giving them unlimited access.

What happens when your child turns 18 or 21

The account automatically converts to your child's sole name and control. You lose access. The exact age depends on your state law—most states use 18, but a few use 21. The bank will notify you before this happens, usually 30 to 60 days in advance.

Your child will need to set up their own online banking access and may need to visit a branch to confirm their identity, depending on the bank. If the account has a debit card, your child can keep using it, but they'll manage it independently from that point forward.

If you want to continue having visibility into the account after your child turns 18, you'll need to ask them to add you as an authorized user or to share login credentials with you. They have no obligation to do so.

Alternatives if you can't open an account online

If your bank requires an in-person visit and you can't make one, ask whether you can open a joint account instead. A joint account is simpler to set up online at most banks—you and your child both have equal access and control. The downside is that the account reports to both of your credit files, and your child can withdraw money without your permission once they have the debit card.

Another option is to open a savings account in your own name and set aside money for your child separately. This is less formal but gives you complete control and doesn't require your child's Social Security number. The downside is that it doesn't build your child's credit history or teach them to manage their own account.

If your child is a teenager and wants to build credit, some banks offer teen checking accounts that are simpler to open online than custodial accounts. These often come with a debit card and limited overdraft protection. Ask your bank whether they have a teen account product.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need my child to be present when I open the account online?

Most banks do not require your child to be present. You can open a custodial account using your child's Social Security number and your own ID. However, some banks do require your child to be present or to sign documents, so check with your bank first. If they do require it, you can usually schedule an appointment at a branch near you.

What if my child doesn't have a Social Security number yet?

You'll need to get one before you can open a bank account. You can request a Social Security number for your newborn when you file the birth certificate, or you can explore at your local Social Security office. The process takes about two weeks. Once you have the number, you can open the account online.

Can my child use the debit card without my permission?

That depends on the bank and the settings you choose. Most banks let you set spending limits, require your approval for transactions over a certain amount, or restrict where the card can be used. Check your bank's app or online portal to see what controls are available. You can usually change these settings anytime.

Will opening a custodial account hurt my credit?

No. The account reports to your child's credit file, not yours. Your credit is not affected. This is one reason custodial accounts are useful—they build your child's credit history without impacting your own.

What happens to the money in the account when my child turns 18?

The money stays in the account. Your child now owns it and controls it. You lose access unless your child adds you as an authorized user or shares their login with you. The account converts to their name alone, and they manage it from that point forward.