PNC allows minors to open checking accounts, but requires a parent or guardian to co-own the account
A 13-year-old cannot open a PNC checking account alone. PNC requires a parent or legal guardian to be a joint owner on any account opened for someone under 18. This means both the minor and the adult appear on the account, both can make deposits and withdrawals, and both are responsible for the account's activity.
The account itself functions like a standard checking account—it comes with a debit card, online banking access, and the ability to write checks (though most teens do not). The main difference is that the parent or guardian retains full control and visibility until the minor reaches the age of majority in their state, typically 18.
PNC does not have a separate "teen checking" product with restricted features. The account is a regular checking account with a co-owner, so the parent sees all transactions and can set spending limits through the bank's online platform if they choose.
Key Takeaways
- A parent or legal guardian must open the account jointly with the 13-year-old; the minor cannot open one independently.
- Both the parent and the teen can use the debit card and access the account online, but the parent retains full control.
- You will need to visit a PNC branch in person with the minor, a valid ID for the parent, and proof of the minor's identity (such as a birth certificate or school ID).
- PNC may charge monthly maintenance fees on the account unless you meet balance or direct deposit requirements, which vary by account type.
- Once the minor turns 18, they can convert the account to their own or remain as a co-owner, depending on what both parties agree to.
What documents you need to bring to open the account
The parent or guardian must bring a valid government-issued photo ID—a driver's license, passport, or state ID card. PNC will verify the parent's identity and Social Security number before opening the account.
For the 13-year-old, bring proof of identity. A birth certificate, school ID, or state ID card will work. Some branches may accept a passport. PNC will also need the minor's Social Security number. If you do not have the minor's Social Security number yet, you can apply for one at your local Social Security Administration office before visiting the bank.
Bring proof of your current address—a recent utility bill, lease, or mortgage statement in the parent's name. PNC uses this to verify the account holder's residence.
Steps to open the account in person at a PNC branch
Visit a PNC branch near you with both the parent and the 13-year-old. You can find branch locations and hours on PNC's website. Call ahead if you want to confirm that a banker is available, as some smaller branches have limited staffing.
Tell the banker you want to open a checking account for a minor. The banker will ask for the documents listed above and will verify both the parent's and the minor's identities. They will also ask about the account's intended use—whether it is for everyday spending, saving, or both—though this does not change the account type.
The banker will explain PNC's current checking account options and any associated fees. They will then have both the parent and the minor sign the account agreement. The minor's signature is required even though the parent is the co-owner.
Once the account is open, PNC will issue a debit card. The card usually arrives by mail within 7 to 10 business days. The parent and minor can both set up online banking access immediately using the bank's website or mobile app.
Monthly fees and how to avoid them
PNC's checking accounts for minors are subject to the same fee structure as adult accounts. Most PNC checking accounts charge a monthly maintenance fee—typically $6.95 to $12.95 depending on the account type—unless you meet one of several conditions.
The most common way to waive the fee is to set up a direct deposit of at least $500 per month into the account. This might be a paycheck if the teen has a job, or a regular transfer from the parent's account. Another option is to maintain a minimum daily balance, though the threshold varies by account type and may be $500 or higher.
Ask the banker which fee-waiver options apply to the specific account you are opening. If the teen does not have income and the parent does not want to transfer money monthly, you may pay the fee, or you can ask whether PNC offers any accounts with lower or no monthly charges for minors.
What the 13-year-old can and cannot do with the account
The 13-year-old can use the debit card to make purchases, withdraw cash from PNC ATMs and other banks' ATMs (though out-of-network withdrawals may incur fees), and check the account balance online. They can also receive direct deposits, such as money from a part-time job or allowance transfers from the parent.
The teen cannot overdraft the account on their own—PNC does not allow overdraft protection on debit cards for minors, so transactions will be declined if there is not enough money. This is a built-in safeguard.
The parent can see all transactions in real time through online banking and can set spending limits or alerts if PNC's platform offers those features. The parent can also freeze or close the account at any time without the teen's consent, since the parent is the co-owner.
The teen cannot take out a loan, open a credit card, or make large transfers without the parent's knowledge, because the parent has equal access to the account and can see everything.
What happens when the teen turns 18
At age 18, the account does not automatically convert. The teen and parent must decide together what to do. The most common options are: the teen becomes the sole owner and the parent is removed, the parent remains as a co-owner, or the account is closed and the teen opens a new account in their own name.
If the teen wants to become the sole owner, they can visit a PNC branch with a valid ID and request the change. The parent will need to sign a form authorizing the removal. This process usually takes a few business days.
If the parent wants to remain on the account for oversight or other reasons, both parties can agree to keep the account as-is. There is no automatic change at 18 unless one party requests it.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can a 13-year-old get a debit card without a parent opening the account?
No. PNC requires a parent or legal guardian to be a joint owner on the account. The debit card is tied to the account, so the parent must be involved from the start. Some other banks offer teen debit cards through third-party apps, but PNC's standard checking accounts do not have this option.
What if the parent does not have a Social Security number?
PNC will still open the account, but the parent will need to provide an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) instead. Bring documentation of the ITIN along with the other required documents. Call your local PNC branch to confirm they can process an ITIN before you visit.
Can the teen use the account to receive paychecks from a job?
Yes. If the teen has a job, their employer can deposit paychecks directly into the account using the account number and routing number. The parent can see the deposits in online banking. This also helps waive the monthly maintenance fee if the paycheck meets the direct deposit minimum.
What if the parent and teen disagree about spending?
The parent has full control over the account because they are the co-owner. If the parent wants to restrict the teen's access, they can freeze the debit card, set spending alerts, or close the account. The teen cannot prevent this. If disagreements are serious, the parent should consider whether a joint account is the right choice or whether other arrangements might work better.
Does opening a checking account at 13 affect the teen's credit score?
No. A checking account does not appear on a credit report and does not affect credit score. Credit scores are based on credit history—loans, credit cards, and payment history. A checking account is simply a place to store and spend money, not a credit product.