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. If you are under 18, you can open a joint account with a parent or guardian — they sign alongside you, and both names appear on the account. Some banks let you open a teen account starting at age 13, though these come with limits on what you can do.

The exact rules vary by bank. Chase, Bank of America, Wells Fargo, and most regional banks follow the 18-year-old rule for solo accounts. Credit unions sometimes set their own age requirements, so calling ahead saves a trip. Online banks like Chime and Ally also require 18, but a few offer teen accounts at younger ages.

If you are under 18 and want a full checking account now, a joint account is your fastest path. Your parent keeps access to the account and can see all transactions, but you get a debit card and can make deposits and withdrawals.

Key Takeaways

  • You must be 18 to open a checking account in your name alone at nearly all banks and credit unions.
  • If you are under 18, you can open a joint account with a parent or guardian at any age, though most banks recommend at least 13.
  • Teen accounts exist at some banks and credit unions but come with spending limits, withdrawal caps, or restrictions on overdrafts.
  • Your parent or guardian will have full access to a joint account and can see all activity, deposits, and withdrawals.
  • Bring a government ID and proof of address; if you are under 18, your parent must bring their ID and proof of address too.

What you need to bring to open an account under 18

If you are opening a joint account with a parent, both of you need to go to the bank together. Bring a government-issued ID — a school ID, state ID, or passport works. You will also need proof of address, such as a utility bill, lease, or bank statement in your name or your parent's name.

Your parent or guardian needs their own government ID and proof of address. Some banks ask for a Social Security number for both of you; others ask only for the parent's. Call the bank ahead of time to confirm what documents they want, because requirements differ.

If you are opening a teen account (available at some banks starting around age 13), you may be able to do it online with a parent's help, though many banks still require an in-person visit. Check your bank's website for the exact process.

How a joint account works and what your parent can do

A joint account means both you and your parent are legal owners. Your parent can see every transaction, deposit, and withdrawal. They can also freeze the account, close it, or remove you as an owner without your permission. This is by design — the account is meant to teach you money habits while your parent maintains oversight.

You get your own debit card and can use it at ATMs and stores. You can make deposits in person or through mobile deposit (taking a photo of a check). You can write checks if the account comes with a checkbook. Your parent can do all the same things.

When you turn 18, you can convert the joint account to an account in your name alone, though you will need to visit the bank or call to make that change. Some banks do this automatically; others require you to ask. Your parent's name comes off, and they lose access.

Teen accounts: what they are and how they differ

A teen account is a checking account designed for people under 18, usually starting at age 13. Banks like Greenlight, GoHenry, and some branches of larger banks offer them. Teen accounts are not the same as joint accounts — they are accounts in your name, but with built-in restrictions.

Common limits include a daily spending cap (often $500 to $1,000), a limit on ATM withdrawals, or no overdraft protection (meaning you cannot spend more than you have). Some teen accounts charge a monthly fee ($5 to $10), while others are free. Your parent still has access and can monitor spending, but the restrictions are automatic rather than enforced by your parent manually.

Teen accounts are useful if you want more independence than a joint account offers but still need guardrails. When you turn 18, most teen accounts convert to a standard checking account and the limits disappear. Read the fine print, because the conversion process and any fees vary by bank.

What happens when you turn 18

If you have a joint account, you can keep it as-is or ask the bank to remove your parent's name. The account stays open, your debit card keeps working, and you maintain the same account number. Your parent loses access once their name is removed. This usually takes a few days to process.

If you have a teen account, it typically converts to a standard checking account automatically on your 18th birthday or shortly after. Any spending limits disappear, and you have full control. You do not need to do anything — the bank handles the conversion on their end.

If you want to switch banks after turning 18, you can open a new account in your name alone at any bank. You will need your government ID, proof of address, and Social Security number. Your old account can stay open or you can close it; closing usually takes one phone call or a visit to a branch.

Opening a checking account if you are 18 or older

Once you turn 18, you can open a checking account by yourself without a parent or guardian. You need a government-issued ID (driver's license, state ID, or passport), proof of address (utility bill, lease, or recent bank statement), and your Social Security number. Most banks can open an account in 15 to 30 minutes in person or online.

Online banks like Chime, Ally, and Charles Schwab let you open an account entirely on your phone or computer — no branch visit needed. You upload a photo of your ID, confirm your address, and fund the account by linking another bank account or depositing a check by phone. The account is usually ready to use within one business day.

In-person at a bank or credit union, you can walk out with a debit card the same day, though it may take a few days to arrive by mail. Online banks typically mail the card separately, so there is a short wait before you can use it at ATMs or in stores.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I open a checking account at 16 or 17?

Not in your name alone — you must be 18. You can open a joint account with a parent at 16 or 17, or look for a teen account if your bank offers one. Teen accounts are less common than they used to be, so call ahead to see if your bank has one.

Does my parent have to stay on the account after I turn 18?

No. Once you turn 18, you can ask the bank to remove your parent's name and make the account yours alone. This takes a few days and requires a visit or phone call. Your parent cannot force you to keep them on the account once you are an adult.

What if I do not have a government ID?

A school ID or passport works if you do not have a driver's license or state ID. If you have neither, you can get a state ID from your DMV — it costs $10 to $30 and takes a few weeks. Some banks accept other documents like a birth certificate plus a school ID, so call first.

Can I open a checking account online if I am under 18?

Most online banks require you to be 18. A few allow joint accounts online with a parent, but many still require an in-person visit. Check your bank's website or call to confirm whether online opening is an option for your age.

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

Yes, nearly all banks ask for it. If you do not have one, you can request one from the Social Security Administration — it is free and takes a few weeks. Some banks may accept an ITIN (Individual Taxpayer Identification Number) if you do not have a Social Security number, so ask.