Yes, children can open checking accounts, but the rules depend on age and the bank

Most banks let children open checking accounts, but the structure changes based on how old they are. Children under 18 typically cannot open an account alone—a parent or guardian must be a joint owner or co-signer. Some banks set a minimum age (often 13 or 14) before a child can be on the account at all. Others let younger children have accounts as long as an adult is listed as the primary account holder. The specific rules vary by bank, so you will need to check with the institution where you want to open the account.

The account itself works like a regular checking account: the child gets a debit card, can make deposits and withdrawals, and can write checks (depending on the bank). The main difference is that the parent or guardian has access to the account and can monitor spending. Some banks offer accounts specifically designed for teens, with features like spending limits or parental controls built in.

Key Takeaways

  • Children under 18 need a parent or guardian on the account as a joint owner or co-signer; most banks will not open an account for a minor alone.
  • Minimum age requirements vary by bank, ranging from birth (for custodial accounts) to age 13 or 14 for teen checking accounts.
  • A child's checking account works like an adult account but typically includes parental oversight and may have spending limits or transaction restrictions.
  • You will need to visit the bank in person with your child and bring identification for both of you to open an account.
  • Some banks charge monthly fees for teen accounts, while others waive fees if a minimum balance is maintained or direct deposit is set up.

Age requirements and account types

Banks offer different account structures depending on the child's age. For infants and very young children, a custodial account (also called a UTMA or UGMA account) lets a parent or guardian hold money in the child's name until they reach the age of majority—usually 18 or 21, depending on your state. The parent controls the account completely during this time. This is not a checking account in the traditional sense; it is more of a savings vehicle, though some banks do offer checking features.

For children ages 13 to 17, most major banks offer teen checking accounts that come with a debit card and online access. These accounts require a parent or guardian to be the primary account holder, with the teen as an authorized user or joint owner. The parent can typically see all transactions and set spending limits. Some banks allow children as young as 10 or 11 to open these accounts, so it is worth asking your bank directly.

Once a child turns 18, they can open their own account without a parent's involvement, though some banks may still require proof of income or a minimum deposit. At that point, the parent's access to the account ends unless the young adult chooses to keep them on it.

What you need to bring to open an account

To open a checking account for a child, you will need to visit the bank in person with your child. Bring a government-issued photo ID for yourself (driver's license, passport, or state ID) and proof of your relationship to the child, such as a birth certificate. The child will also need an ID if they are old enough to have one; younger children typically do not need ID, but policies vary.

You may also need to provide a Social Security number for both the parent and the child. Some banks ask for proof of address, such as a utility bill or lease agreement. A few banks now offer online account opening for minors, but most still require an in-person visit. Call your bank ahead of time to confirm what documents to bring and whether you can open the account online or must come in.

Debit cards, spending limits, and parental controls

Most teen checking accounts come with a debit card that the child can use to make purchases and withdraw cash from ATMs. The card is typically linked to the parent's account or a sub-account under the parent's name, so the parent can monitor every transaction. Some banks send transaction alerts to the parent's phone or email each time the card is used.

Many banks let parents set daily spending limits on the debit card—for example, limiting the child to $50 per day in purchases or ATM withdrawals. Some accounts restrict certain types of transactions, such as preventing online purchases or gambling-related charges. These controls can be adjusted through the bank's mobile app or website. If the child tries to spend more than the limit, the transaction will be declined.

A few banks also offer the ability to turn the card on or off instantly through an app, which is useful if the card is lost or if you want to pause spending temporarily. Check what controls your bank offers before opening the account, as this varies widely.

Fees and minimum balance requirements

Teen checking accounts may or may not charge monthly fees. Some banks waive the fee if a minimum balance is maintained (often $100 to $500), if direct deposit is set up, or if the account is part of a student or youth program. Other banks charge $5 to $10 per month regardless. A few banks offer teen accounts with no monthly fee at all.

Additional fees may apply for overdrafts, ATM usage outside the bank's network, or paper statements. Some banks charge a fee if the account is inactive for a certain period. When comparing banks, ask about all potential fees so you understand the true cost of the account. Many banks publish their fee schedules online, or you can ask a representative in person.

How to teach financial responsibility with a checking account

A checking account can be a practical tool for teaching a child how money works. Start by explaining what a debit card is and how it differs from cash—the money comes directly from the account, so spending the card is the same as spending real money. Show your child how to check the account balance online or through the bank's app, and review transactions together regularly.

Consider setting up a system where the child earns money through chores or part-time work and deposits it into the account. This builds the habit of saving and gives them a reason to monitor their balance. You can also use the account's spending limits to set boundaries—for example, allowing $20 per week for discretionary spending—and let the child learn what happens when they run out of money before the week ends.

Some parents use the account to teach about online safety by discussing which websites are safe to use the debit card on and which are not. Others use it as a stepping stone to explaining credit, interest, and loans once the child is older.

Moving to an independent account at age 18

When your child turns 18, you can remove yourself from the account if you choose, or you can stay on as a joint owner. Some banks automatically transition teen accounts to adult accounts on the account holder's 18th birthday. Others require you to visit the bank and update the account structure. Check with your bank about their policy well before your child's 18th birthday so there are no surprises.

If you stay on the account after your child turns 18, you will still have access to see transactions and balances unless your child removes you. If you remove yourself, your child becomes the sole owner and you will no longer be able to monitor the account. This is a good time to discuss financial independence and what your child's banking habits should look like going forward.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can a child open a checking account without a parent?

No. Children under 18 cannot open a checking account without a parent or legal guardian on the account. The adult must be present at the bank and will be listed as a joint owner or co-signer. Once the child turns 18, they can open their own account independently.

What is the youngest age a child can have a checking account?

It depends on the bank. Some banks allow custodial accounts from birth, though these are typically savings accounts rather than checking accounts. Teen checking accounts usually start at age 13 or 14, but a few banks offer them to children as young as 10. Contact your bank to ask about their specific age policy.

Can a child use their debit card online?

Yes, most teen checking accounts come with a debit card that works online. However, parents can often restrict online purchases through the bank's controls. Some banks allow parents to turn off online transactions entirely, while others let parents set limits on how much can be spent online per day or per transaction.

What happens if the child overspends?

If the account does not have overdraft protection, the transaction will be declined when the child tries to spend more than the balance. If overdraft protection is enabled, the account may allow the negative balance but will charge an overdraft fee (typically $25 to $35). Most teen accounts do not have overdraft protection by default, so the card simply declines when funds run out.

Can I see my child's transactions after they turn 18?

Only if you remain a joint owner on the account and the bank allows it. Once your child turns 18, they can remove you from the account or request that you no longer have access to transaction details. Some banks automatically restrict parental access at age 18 unless both account holders agree to keep the arrangement.