The minimum age depends on whether you open it alone or with a parent

You must be at least 18 years old to open a checking account by yourself at most banks and credit unions. Before 18, you can open a youth checking account or minor account with a parent or guardian as a co-owner or custodian. Some banks allow this as early as age 13, while others start at age 15 or 16. A few banks have no minimum age if a parent opens it for you.

The exact rules vary by bank. Chase, for example, lets parents open accounts for children of any age but requires a parent to be the primary account holder until the child turns 18. Bank of America offers accounts for ages 13 and up with a parent. Credit unions often have their own policies — some allow younger children if a parent is involved, others set a minimum age of 16 or 17.

If you are under 18 and want to open an account without a parent, you will need to wait until your 18th birthday. Some banks allow you to convert a youth account to a standard adult account on that date automatically.

Key Takeaways

  • You must be 18 to open a checking account in your name alone at most banks and credit unions.
  • Youth checking accounts with a parent as co-owner or custodian are available starting at age 13, 15, or 16 depending on the bank.
  • A parent or guardian must be present and sign documents when opening an account for someone under 18.
  • When you turn 18, you can convert a youth account to an adult account or open a new one entirely in your name.

What happens when you turn 18

On your 18th birthday, you become a legal adult and can manage a checking account without a parent's permission. Most banks allow you to remove the parent from the account or convert it to a standard adult account. Some do this automatically; others require you to visit a branch or call to make the change official.

If you want to switch banks at 18, you can open a new account at a different institution. You will need a government-issued ID (driver's license or passport), proof of address (utility bill or lease), and your Social Security number. The process usually takes 10 to 15 minutes online or in person.

What you need to bring to open an account under 18

Both the parent and the minor need to be present at the bank or credit union, either in person or online through a video call. Bring the following documents:

  • Parent's government-issued ID (driver's license or passport)
  • Minor's government-issued ID if available (school ID, state ID, or passport)
  • Proof of address for the parent (utility bill, lease, or mortgage statement)
  • Social Security number for both the parent and the minor
  • Initial deposit (amount varies by bank, often $25 to $100)

Some banks accept a school ID or birth certificate for minors who do not yet have a state ID. Call your bank ahead of time to confirm what documents they will accept, since policies differ.

Youth accounts versus adult accounts

A youth checking account is designed for people under 18 and comes with built-in limits. The parent can see all transactions, set spending caps, and control whether the account holder can overdraft. Some youth accounts have no monthly fees, while others charge $5 to $10 per month.

Adult accounts, available at 18, typically have fewer restrictions. You control all transactions and can set up overdraft protection if you choose. Monthly fees vary widely — some banks offer free checking, while others charge $12 to $15 per month depending on the account type and balance requirements.

Many youth accounts come with a debit card and online banking access. Some banks offer financial education tools or reward programs for young account holders. When you turn 18, you may lose access to these youth-specific features, though the core checking functions remain the same.

Opening an account online versus in person

Most banks now allow you to open a youth account online with a parent, though the process varies. Some require a video call where both the parent and minor appear on camera to verify identity. Others let you upload photos of documents and complete the process entirely through the app or website.

In-person opening at a branch is still an option at all banks and credit unions. This route can be faster if you have questions, and the banker can walk you through the account features and debit card options. Wait times at branches are usually shortest on weekday mornings.

Online opening typically takes 10 to 20 minutes if all documents are ready. The debit card arrives by mail within 5 to 10 business days. In-person opening can be completed the same day, with a temporary card issued on the spot at some banks.

What happens if you do not have an ID

If the minor does not have a government-issued ID, most banks will accept a school ID, birth certificate, or passport. A few banks require at least one form of photo ID, so call ahead to confirm. The parent's ID is always required.

If the parent does not have a current government-issued ID, the account cannot be opened. The bank needs to verify the parent's identity for legal and fraud-prevention reasons. A passport, driver's license, or state ID all work; expired IDs are usually not accepted.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can a 13-year-old open a checking account without a parent?

No. Anyone under 18 must have a parent or legal guardian as a co-owner or custodian. The parent must be present and sign all documents. You can open a youth account with a parent at 13 at many banks, but not alone.

What if my parent will not co-sign an account for me?

You will need to wait until you turn 18 to open an account in your name alone. At 18, you can open a checking account at any bank or credit union without parental permission or involvement. Bring your ID, proof of address, and Social Security number.

Can I have two checking accounts at the same time?

Yes. Once you turn 18, you can open accounts at multiple banks. There is no law against it. Some people keep one account for savings and another for daily spending, or use different banks for different purposes. Each account is separate.

Do I lose my youth account when I turn 18?

No. Most banks convert the youth account to an adult account automatically or let you keep it as-is. The parent can usually be removed from the account at your request. Some banks offer a one-time conversion to a different account type with different features or fees.

What if I want to open an account but do not have a Social Security number?

Most banks require a Social Security number to open a checking account. If you do not have one, you can apply for one through the Social Security Administration. The process takes a few weeks. Some banks may accept an ITIN (Individual Taxpayer Identification Number) as an alternative, though this is less common.