Wells Fargo requires a parent or guardian to open a checking account for anyone under 18

You cannot open a Wells Fargo checking account on your own until you turn 18. If you are younger than 18, a parent or legal guardian must open the account with you in person at a Wells Fargo branch. The account will be in both your names, and the adult retains full control and responsibility until you reach the age of majority in your state.

Wells Fargo does not offer a separate "teen" or "minor" checking product. Instead, a parent opens a standard checking account and adds you as an authorized user or joint owner. This means the account appears on both credit reports (if the bank reports to credit bureaus) and both of you can withdraw money and make deposits.

Some states allow minors to own accounts independently at 16 or 17, but Wells Fargo's policy is uniform across all states: you need a parent or guardian present to open any account before age 18. Once you turn 18, you can open your own account without parental involvement.

Key Takeaways

  • You must be 18 years old to open a Wells Fargo checking account in your own name without a parent or guardian.
  • If you are under 18, a parent or legal guardian must open the account with you and will be listed as a joint owner or authorized signer.
  • Both you and the adult will have full access to the account, and both names appear on the account statements and debit card.
  • You will need to visit a Wells Fargo branch in person; accounts cannot be opened online for minors.
  • At age 18, you can convert the account to your name alone or open a separate account without parental permission.

What documents you and your parent need to bring

Both you and the parent or guardian must bring a government-issued photo ID to the branch. For the adult, this is typically a driver's license or passport. For you, a school ID, state ID, or passport works if your state issues one to minors. Some branches may also accept a birth certificate as secondary identification.

You will also need proof of your Social Security number. Bring your Social Security card, a tax return, or a document from school or a doctor's office that shows your number. The adult should bring their Social Security card or a similar document.

Bring proof of your current address if you have one in your name (a school document, medical bill, or letter from a government agency). If you live with the parent opening the account, their address proof covers both of you.

What happens when you turn 18

At age 18, you have the option to remove the parent or guardian from the account. You can visit a Wells Fargo branch and request that your name become the sole owner. The adult's name will be removed from the account, and you will have complete control. Alternatively, you can leave the account as is if both of you agree.

If you want a completely separate account in your name alone, you can open one at any time after turning 18 without the parent present. You will need only your own ID and Social Security number.

Some parents and teens choose to keep a joint account even after age 18 so the parent can monitor spending or help manage money. This is entirely your choice once you reach 18.

Fees and account features for accounts opened by minors

Wells Fargo offers several checking account types, and the one your parent opens depends on their choice and your household's banking needs. The most common option for families is the Wells Fargo Everyday Checking, which has a monthly maintenance fee that can be waived if you maintain a minimum balance or set up direct deposit.

Some accounts come with a debit card in your name, which you can use to withdraw cash and make purchases. The parent can set spending limits or monitor transactions through online banking. Other accounts do not include a debit card, and the parent controls all withdrawals.

Ask the Wells Fargo representative which account type is best for your situation. If you plan to use the account for school expenses or part-time job deposits, mention that—the bank may recommend a product with lower fees or features that suit your needs.

How to open the account in person

Call or visit your nearest Wells Fargo branch to schedule an appointment. While walk-ins are sometimes accepted, scheduling ahead ensures a representative is available and reduces wait time. Tell the branch you want to open a checking account for a minor.

Arrive with both the parent and the minor present, along with all required documents. The representative will verify both IDs, confirm Social Security numbers, and explain the account terms. They will ask which account type you want and whether you need a debit card.

The account is usually active the same day or within one business day. You will receive a debit card in the mail within 7 to 10 business days, and online banking access is typically set up when ready so you can check your balance and history right away.

What you cannot do until age 18

You cannot open a Wells Fargo account online if you are under 18, even with a parent's permission. The account must be opened in person at a branch. You also cannot be the sole owner of the account—a parent or guardian must be listed.

If you want to close the account before age 18, the parent or guardian must request the closure. You cannot do it on your own, even if it is your money in the account.

Some account features, like overdraft protection or a line of credit, may not be available on accounts opened for minors. Ask the representative what features are included in the account type you choose.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I open a Wells Fargo account if my parent is not available to come to the branch?

No. Wells Fargo requires the parent or legal guardian to be present in person. If your parent cannot visit a branch, you cannot open an account at Wells Fargo until you turn 18. Some other banks allow a parent to open an account remotely, so you might explore those options if your parent's schedule does not allow a branch visit.

What if I have a legal guardian but not a parent?

A legal guardian can open the account in the same way a parent can. Bring the guardian's ID and proof of guardianship (a court document or custody agreement). Wells Fargo will treat the guardian the same as a parent for account purposes.

Can I have my own debit card if my parent opens the account?

Yes. Most accounts opened for minors include a debit card in the minor's name. You can use it to withdraw cash and make purchases, though the parent can monitor all transactions through online banking and may set spending limits depending on the account type.

Do I need a Social Security number to open a Wells Fargo account?

Yes. Both you and the parent need a Social Security number. If you do not have one, you will need to obtain one from the Social Security Administration before opening the account. The process takes about two weeks.

What happens if I move out after turning 18?

Once you turn 18, you can change the account address to your new address without the parent's permission. You can also remove the parent from the account entirely. Visit a branch with your ID and request the changes you want to make.