You need a parent or guardian to sign, and most banks have accounts designed for under-18s

A minor cannot open a bank account alone. You will need a parent or legal guardian to open the account with you, and they will be the account owner until you turn 18. Most banks and credit unions offer accounts specifically for minors—sometimes called youth accounts or teen accounts—that let you learn to save and spend while your parent maintains control and oversight.

The process is straightforward: you and your parent go to a bank branch or credit union together, bring identification for both of you, and complete an process. Some banks let you start online if your parent already has an account there, but many require an in-person visit for minors. The account opens the same day in most cases.

Key Takeaways

  • A parent or legal guardian must be present and sign to open an account for a minor; you cannot open one by yourself.
  • Banks and credit unions offer youth accounts with lower or no minimum balances, designed for people under 18.
  • You will need a Social Security number and a form of ID (usually a school ID, passport, or birth certificate) plus your parent's ID and proof of address.
  • The account converts to a standard adult account automatically when you turn 18, though some banks require you to visit in person to remove your parent's access.
  • Credit unions often have lower fees and simpler requirements than large banks, especially if your parent is already a member.

What documents you and your parent need to bring

Both you and your parent will need to bring government-issued identification. For you, this can be a school ID, passport, birth certificate, or state ID. Your parent will need a driver's license or passport. The bank will also ask for your Social Security number and your parent's Social Security number.

Your parent will need to show proof of address—usually a recent utility bill, lease, or mortgage statement. Some banks accept a bank statement or government mail instead. Call the bank or credit union before you go to confirm what they accept, because requirements vary by institution.

The difference between youth accounts and regular savings accounts

Youth accounts are designed for minors and usually have no monthly fees, no minimum balance requirement, and no overdraft fees. They come with a debit card in your name, so you can withdraw money and make purchases. Your parent can see all transactions and set spending limits or restrictions on the card.

A regular savings account requires you to be 18 and to open it yourself. Some banks let you move to a regular account before you turn 18 if your parent removes themselves as a co-owner, but this varies. Ask the bank whether you can transition early if you want more independence while still under 18.

Banks versus credit unions for minors

Large banks like Chase, Bank of America, and Wells Fargo all offer youth accounts, but they often have higher fees and stricter rules. Credit unions typically charge less and have simpler requirements. If your parent is a member of a credit union, opening an account for you there is usually faster and cheaper.

Credit unions also tend to be more flexible about documentation. If you do not have a school ID or passport, a credit union may accept other forms of identification that a large bank would reject. Search for credit unions in your area on the CO-OP network or Allpoint website to find one near you.

What happens to the account when you turn 18

Most banks automatically convert a youth account to a standard adult account on your 18th birthday. Your parent's access ends, and the account becomes yours alone. You keep the same account number and routing number, so any direct deposits or automatic payments do not change.

Some banks require you to visit a branch in person to complete the conversion, while others handle it automatically. A few banks ask your parent to sign a form removing themselves as co-owner. Contact your bank before your 18th birthday to find out what they require, so there are no surprises.

Opening an account online if your parent already banks there

If your parent has an account at a bank that offers online account opening for minors, you may be able to skip the branch visit. The parent logs into their account, starts an process for a minor, and completes it with your information. You will still need your Social Security number and a form of ID.

Not all banks offer this option, and some require at least one in-person visit even if the parent has an existing account. Chase, for example, lets some customers open youth accounts online, but Bank of America requires a branch visit. Check your parent's bank website or call to see whether online opening is available.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I open a savings account without my parent?

No. Banks are required by law to verify the identity of account owners, and minors cannot enter into binding financial contracts without a parent or legal guardian. Your parent must be present and sign the account paperwork.

What if my parent does not have a bank account?

Your parent does not need to have an account at the same bank. They just need to bring identification and proof of address. However, if they open an account for themselves at the same time, the process may be faster and the bank may waive fees for both accounts.

Can I use a school ID as my only form of identification?

Most banks accept a school ID along with your Social Security number and birth certificate. Some require a passport or state ID instead. Call ahead to confirm what the specific bank will accept, because policies differ.

What if I want to remove my parent from the account before I turn 18?

Most banks do not allow this. Your parent is the account owner until you turn 18, and removing them early would require closing the account and opening a new one in your name alone—which you cannot do without a parent's signature. Wait until you turn 18 to have full control.

Do I need a Social Security number to open an account?

Yes. Banks use your Social Security number to verify your identity and report interest earned to the IRS. If you do not have a Social Security number, you will need to explore for one before opening an account. You can explore at your local Social Security office or online at ssa.gov.