Yes, but the bank decides the age and you'll need to be present

You can open a checking account online for your child at most major banks, but the process isn't fully remote. Banks have different rules about the minimum age—some start at 13, others at 15 or 16—and nearly all require a parent or guardian to verify their identity during the process, either by video call, in-person visit, or by uploading documents. A few banks let you open the account entirely online if your child is old enough; most require at least one step where you prove you're the account holder.

The key difference from opening an account for yourself is that the bank needs to confirm two people: you as the legal guardian, and your child as the account owner. This takes longer than a solo account and sometimes means you can't complete it on your phone alone.

Key Takeaways

  • Most banks allow online account opening for children ages 13 and up, but require a parent or guardian to verify their identity during the process.
  • You will need your child's Social Security number, date of birth, and address, plus your own ID and proof of identity to complete the account.
  • Some banks finish the entire process online; others require a video call with you or a visit to a branch to confirm you are the legal guardian.
  • Once the account is open, you typically have access to view transactions and set spending limits, though your child can use the debit card independently.

Which banks let you start online and how old your child needs to be

Chase, Bank of America, Wells Fargo, and Ally all offer online account opening for minors, though the minimum age varies. Chase allows children as young as 13 with a parent present (in-person or by video); Bank of America starts at 13 and can complete the process online if you upload ID; Wells Fargo requires 15 and prefers in-person verification; Ally requires 18. Smaller banks and credit unions often have different rules, so check with your institution directly.

The age requirement matters because banks use it to determine what features the account can have. A 13-year-old's account might have lower daily spending limits or require parental approval for certain transactions. A 17-year-old's account may have fewer restrictions. By 18, your child can open and manage the account without you, though you can still be listed as a guardian if you choose.

What documents and information you'll need to provide

You'll need your child's Social Security number, date of birth, and current address. You'll also need your own government-issued ID (driver's license or passport), and the bank will ask you to verify your identity—usually by uploading a photo of your ID, answering security questions, or completing a video call. Some banks also ask for proof of address, such as a recent utility bill or lease.

If you're opening the account in-person at a branch, bring both your ID and your child's ID if they have one (a school ID counts at some banks). If you're doing it online, have your documents ready to photograph or scan. The process typically takes 10 to 15 minutes once you have everything in front of you.

How the online process actually works, step by step

Start on the bank's website or app and look for "open an account" or "youth account." You'll enter your child's basic information first—name, date of birth, Social Security number—then your own. The bank will ask where you want to verify your identity. If they offer video verification, a representative will call you at a scheduled time and ask you to show your ID to the camera. If they use document upload, you'll photograph both sides of your ID and submit them. Some banks use both methods.

Once the bank confirms your identity, it will confirm your child's account details and ask you to agree to the account terms. You'll set up online login credentials for yourself and your child (or the bank will send a temporary password). The account usually opens within one business day, though some banks set up it when ready. You can order a debit card at this point; it typically arrives in 5 to 10 business days.

What you can and cannot control once the account is open

As the parent or guardian, you'll have access to view all transactions, set daily spending limits, and turn the debit card on or off through the bank's app. You can see what your child is spending money on and where. You cannot, however, prevent your child from withdrawing cash at an ATM once they have the card, and you cannot see the PIN they choose. Most banks let you set up alerts so you're notified when the balance drops below a certain amount or when a large purchase is made.

Your child can use the account independently—they can deposit checks, transfer money between accounts, and make purchases. They cannot take out a loan, open a credit card, or change the account settings without your permission. The exact rules depend on the bank and your child's age. At 18, your child can usually take full control of the account and remove you as a guardian, though some banks let you stay on as a co-owner if you both agree.

Why some banks require an in-person visit despite offering online accounts

Banks are required by federal law to verify the identity of anyone opening an account. For a minor, they need to verify both the child and the parent. Video verification works for this, but some banks—particularly regional ones and credit unions—don't have the technology set up and require you to visit a branch instead. This is not a sign of a problem; it's just how that bank operates.

If in-person is your only option and you can't visit a branch, call the bank and ask if they can do a video call instead. Many will accommodate this request even if it's not listed on their website. If they cannot, you may need to choose a different bank or wait until your child is old enough to open an account independently (usually 18).

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I have to be on the account with my child, or can I just open it for them?

Most banks require you to be listed as a parent or guardian on the account, even if you don't use it yourself. This is how the bank confirms you authorized the account. You can usually remove yourself once your child turns 18, though some banks let you stay on if you both agree. Check the bank's policy before opening.

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

Banks require a Social Security number or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) to open an account. If your child doesn't have one, you'll need to explore for it through the Social Security Administration before opening the bank account. This can take several weeks, so plan ahead.

Can my child use the account for online shopping or subscriptions?

Yes, once they have a debit card, they can use it anywhere Visa or Mastercard is accepted, including online. You can set spending limits through the bank's app to control how much they can spend per day. Some banks also let you block certain types of purchases, like gambling or adult websites.

What happens to the account when my child turns 18?

The account continues to exist. Your child can take full control and remove you as a guardian, or you can stay on as a co-owner if the bank allows it. Your child can also open their own separate account if they prefer. There's no automatic change; it depends on what you and your child decide.

Is it safer to open an account online or in person?

Both are equally safe if you use the bank's official website or app. The main difference is convenience: online is faster if the bank supports it, and in-person gives you a chance to ask questions face-to-face. Never use a link from an email or text to open an account; always go directly to the bank's website.