Yes, but the account structure depends on your age and your bank
You can open a checking account before you turn 18, but you cannot do it alone. Banks have different rules based on how old you are. Most banks require a parent or guardian to co-own the account with you until you reach a certain age—usually 16 to 18, depending on the institution.
The account will have both your name and your parent's name on it. Your parent can see all transactions, set spending limits, and close the account. This is a joint account, not a youth account. Some banks call them teen checking accounts or student accounts, but the legal structure is the same: two account holders, one of whom is an adult.
A few banks offer accounts where a parent can monitor activity without being a full co-owner, but these are less common. Most traditional banks and credit unions stick to the joint account model because it protects them legally if the minor overspends or the account goes negative.
Key Takeaways
- You need a parent or guardian to open a checking account before age 18; the account will be jointly owned.
- Different banks set different minimum ages—some allow accounts at age 13, others at 16 or older.
- You will need a Social Security number, proof of identity, and proof of address, plus your parent's documents.
- Your parent can see all transactions and set limits, but you can use the debit card and write checks in your own name.
- Once you turn 18, you can convert the account to your name alone or open a separate account without a co-owner.
What banks require from you and your parent
Bring your Social Security number and a form of ID—usually a school ID, state ID, or passport. You will also need proof of your current address, which can be a utility bill, lease, or school enrollment letter in your name or your parent's name.
Your parent will need their own ID, Social Security number, and proof of address. Some banks also ask for a second form of ID from the parent. If you are opening the account in person at a branch, bring originals; if you are doing it online, you may be able to upload photos or use a video call to verify identity.
A few banks will let you open an account with just a parent's information if you are very young (under 13), but you will not get a debit card or online access until you are older. This is rare and usually only at credit unions or smaller regional banks.
Age thresholds vary by bank
Chase allows minors as young as 13 to open a Chase First Banking account with a parent. Bank of America has a similar product starting at age 13. Wells Fargo requires age 16. Credit unions often have lower minimums—some allow accounts at age 13, others at age 10 or even younger.
The age threshold matters because it determines what features you get. At 13, you might get a debit card and online access but no overdraft protection. At 16, you may get more control over the account and fewer parental restrictions. Once you turn 18, you can request to remove your parent as a co-owner, though some banks require you to open a new account instead.
Call or visit your bank's website to find the exact age requirement. Do not assume all branches of the same bank follow the same rule—some regional differences exist, especially at credit unions.
What you can and cannot do with a joint account
You can use the debit card, make deposits, withdraw cash, and check your balance. You can set up direct deposit for a job or allowance. You can transfer money between accounts and pay bills online. The account is yours to use day-to-day.
Your parent can see every transaction in real time if the bank offers mobile alerts. They can freeze the card, change the PIN, or close the account without your permission. They can set daily spending limits or block certain types of transactions. Some banks let parents set up parental controls through an app; others require a phone call to the bank.
If the account goes negative, your parent is responsible for the overdraft fee, not you—but the bank may still report it to a credit bureau. This is one reason parents sometimes set spending limits or turn off overdraft protection.
How to open the account in person or online
In person: Go to a branch with your parent. Bring both sets of ID and proof of address. The banker will verify information, explain the account terms, and set up the debit card on the spot. You will usually get the card when ready or within a few business days. This takes about 30 minutes.
Online: Visit the bank's website and look for "teen checking" or "student account." You will enter your information and your parent's information. The bank will ask you to verify your identity—usually by uploading a photo of your ID or by taking a video call with a banker. Your parent will do the same. The account opens within one to three business days, and the debit card arrives by mail in five to seven business days.
Some banks require at least one person to be present in a branch, especially for minors under 16. Check the bank's website or call ahead to confirm whether you can open the account entirely online.
What happens when you turn 18
You have options. You can ask the bank to remove your parent as a co-owner and make the account yours alone. Some banks do this with a straightforward form; others require you to open a new account in your name only and transfer the balance.
If you want to keep the account as-is, you can—your parent will remain a co-owner unless you formally remove them. If you want a completely separate account, you can open one at the same bank or a different one without a co-owner.
There is no automatic change at 18. You have to request it. If you do not, your parent retains full access and control. Talk to your parent about the plan before your birthday so there are no surprises.
Credit unions and online banks as alternatives
Credit unions often have lower age minimums and more flexible rules than big national banks. Some credit unions allow accounts at age 10 or 12. They also tend to have lower or no monthly fees and may offer better rates on savings accounts. You still need a parent to co-own the account, but the process is often faster and less formal.
Online banks like Ally, Charles Schwab, and Discover do not offer accounts for minors at all—they require you to be 18. This is because they have no physical branches and cannot verify identity in person. Stick with banks that have branches or credit unions if you are under 18.
If you are 16 or older, some online banks will let a parent open an account in their name and add you as an authorized user, but you will not be a legal account holder. This gives you a debit card and access but no control over the account.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I open a checking account without my parent knowing?
No. Banks require a parent or guardian to co-own the account if you are under 18. You cannot hide it. Your parent will need to provide their ID and Social Security number, and they will receive statements and alerts.
What if my parent refuses to help me open an account?
You cannot open a checking account alone until you turn 18. If you need access to banking services before then, ask a trusted adult—a grandparent, aunt, uncle, or older sibling—whether they will co-own the account with you instead. Some banks allow any adult, not just parents.
Will opening a checking account affect my credit score?
No. Opening a checking account does not build or damage credit. Banks do a soft inquiry into your background, but it does not appear on your credit report. Only credit products like loans and credit cards affect your credit score.
Can I get overdraft protection on a teen checking account?
Most banks turn off overdraft protection on teen accounts by default. Your parent can request it, but many banks decline for minors. If overdraft protection is denied, your card will straightforward decline if you do not have enough money—you will not be charged a fee.
Do I need a job to open a checking account?
No. You can open a checking account whether or not you work. Banks do not ask about income for minors. You can use it for allowance, birthday money, or savings.