You can open a checking account at any age, but the rules depend on whether you're a minor or an adult
If you're under 18, you'll need a parent or guardian to co-own the account with you. Most banks allow this starting around age 13, though some accept younger children. If you're 18 or older, you can open an account on your own with just an ID and proof of address. The specific age a bank will accept a minor varies by institution — there's no federal rule that sets a single age across all banks.
The main difference between a minor's account and an adult account is control. A parent or guardian has access to the account and can see all transactions. Once you turn 18, you can convert to a solo account or open a new one without a co-owner, depending on what the bank offers.
Key Takeaways
- Minors typically need a parent or guardian to co-own the account, and most banks accept children starting around age 13.
- The exact minimum age varies by bank — some accept younger children, and a few require you to be older than 13.
- At 18, you can open a checking account on your own with a valid ID and proof of address.
- A parent or guardian on a minor's account can see all activity and make withdrawals, but this access usually ends when the child turns 18.
Minimum age for minors with a parent or guardian
Most major banks — including Chase, Bank of America, Wells Fargo, and Citibank — allow minors to open accounts starting at age 13 with a parent or guardian present. Some regional banks and credit unions set the minimum at age 10 or even younger. A few require you to be 15 or 16. The bank's website or a call to your local branch will tell you the exact age they accept.
When you open an account as a minor, the parent or guardian becomes a co-owner. This means they can deposit money, withdraw funds, and monitor spending. They receive statements and can set up alerts. The account typically stays in both names until you turn 18, at which point you can usually remove the co-owner or move the money to a new account in your name alone.
Some banks offer accounts specifically designed for teens, with features like spending limits or parental controls built in. These accounts may have different age minimums or different rules about what the parent can do. Ask your bank whether they have a teen checking product.
Opening an account at 18 or older
Once you turn 18, you're legally an adult and can open a checking account without anyone else's permission or involvement. You'll need a valid government-issued ID (a driver's license, passport, or state ID card) and proof of your current address. Proof of address can be a utility bill, lease, or bank statement in your name — something dated within the last 60 days.
Some banks also ask for a Social Security number or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN). If you don't have a Social Security number, tell the bank; some will still open an account, though it may take longer or require additional documentation.
The process usually takes 15 to 30 minutes in person or online. If you open online, the bank may ask you to verify your identity by uploading a photo of your ID or by answering security questions based on your credit history.
What happens when a minor turns 18
When you reach 18, the account doesn't automatically change. The parent or guardian's name stays on it unless you take action. You have two main options: convert the existing account to your name alone, or open a new account and transfer the money.
To convert, contact the bank and ask them to remove the co-owner. This usually takes a few business days. The bank may ask you to sign a form in person or online. After the co-owner is removed, the account is yours, and the parent or guardian can no longer see activity or access the funds.
If you prefer a fresh start, you can open a new account in your name alone and transfer your balance. This takes longer but gives you a clean break. Either way, make sure you know where your money is and that you can access it before the change happens.
Banks and credit unions with different age policies
Age requirements vary across institutions. Here's what to expect from common types of banks:
| Bank Type | Typical Minimum Age for Minors | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Large national banks (Chase, Bank of America, Wells Fargo, Citibank) | 13 | Most offer teen checking with parental controls; some have higher minimums for certain account types. |
| Regional and community banks | 10–15 | Varies widely; call your local branch to confirm. |
| Credit unions | 10–13 | Often lower minimums than banks; membership rules may apply. |
| Online-only banks | 13–18 | Many do not offer accounts for minors; check their website first. |
If you're under 13 and want to start banking, a credit union in your area may be your best option. If you're 13 or older, you have choices across most banks and credit unions.
What you'll need to bring or provide
For a minor opening an account: The parent or guardian needs a valid ID and proof of address. The minor may need to bring an ID (a school ID, passport, or birth certificate) or may not need one, depending on the bank. Call ahead to ask what the bank requires from the child.
For an adult opening an account: Bring a valid government-issued ID and proof of address dated within the last 60 days. If you're opening online, you may be able to upload photos of these documents instead of visiting a branch.
Both minors and adults should bring or have ready their Social Security number or ITIN. If you don't have one, tell the bank before you start the process.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can a child under 13 open a checking account?
Most banks require you to be at least 13, but some credit unions and regional banks accept younger children — sometimes as young as 10. Contact your local bank or credit union to ask about their specific age policy. If the bank won't open an account for your child, a credit union in your area may have a lower minimum.
Do I need a Social Security number to open a checking account as a minor?
Most banks ask for a Social Security number, but some will open an account with an ITIN or other identification if you don't have one. Call the bank before you visit to confirm what they accept. If you're in the process of getting a Social Security number, ask whether the bank will let you add it later.
What happens to my account when I turn 18?
The account stays open and your money stays in it, but the parent or guardian's name remains on the account unless you remove them. Contact the bank and ask to convert the account to your name alone, or open a new account and transfer your balance. The bank can walk you through the process.
Can I open a checking account online if I'm under 18?
Most online-only banks do not offer accounts for minors. Traditional banks and credit unions that have online options usually require you to visit a branch in person to open an account as a minor, because the parent or guardian needs to sign documents. Check the bank's website or call to confirm whether they allow online opening for minors.
Do I need proof of address to open a checking account?
Yes, if you're 18 or older. Bring a utility bill, lease, or recent bank statement in your name dated within the last 60 days. If you're a minor, the bank may accept the parent or guardian's proof of address instead. Ask the bank what they accept before you visit.