Yes, you can open a checking account for a minor, but the account structure depends on the child's age and the bank's rules
Most banks allow you to open a checking account for a child under 18, but the account will be a custodial account — meaning a parent or legal guardian owns and controls it until the child reaches the age of majority (usually 18). The child's name appears on the account, and they can use a debit card and write checks, but you retain legal authority over deposits, withdrawals, and account decisions.
Some banks set a minimum age — often 13 or older — before a child can have their own debit card or online access. Younger children can be added as authorized users on a parent's account instead, which gives them a card but no independent account. A few banks, including some credit unions, offer accounts for children as young as 6 or 7, though access features are limited until they're older.
The rules vary significantly by bank and by state, so calling your bank directly or visiting a branch is the fastest way to learn what they offer and what documents you'll need to bring.
Key Takeaways
- A custodial checking account for a minor is owned and controlled by a parent or guardian, even though the child's name is on it.
- Most banks require the child to be at least 13 years old to have their own debit card and online access, though some allow younger children on parent accounts as authorized users.
- You will need to bring your ID, proof of address, and the child's Social Security number or tax ID to open the account in person.
- The account automatically converts to a regular account when the child reaches the age of majority, usually without requiring new paperwork.
- Some banks charge monthly fees for teen accounts, while others waive fees if a minimum balance is maintained or direct deposit is set up.
What documents you need to bring to the bank
To open a custodial checking account, bring your government-issued photo ID (driver's license or passport), proof of your current address (a recent utility bill or lease), and the child's Social Security number. Some banks also ask for the child's birth certificate, though not all require it.
If you're opening the account in person with the child present, the child does not need their own ID — the bank will verify their identity through your ID and the Social Security number. If you're opening it online or by mail, the bank will tell you which documents to upload or mail in.
If you do not have the child's Social Security number yet, you can apply for one through the Social Security Administration before opening the account, or some banks will hold the account open temporarily while you provide it later.
Age limits and what each age group can do
Banks typically divide teen accounts into age brackets, and what the child can do depends on which bracket they fall into. Children under 13 usually cannot have their own account, but can be added as authorized users on a parent's account — they get a debit card and can make purchases, but cannot withdraw cash or access online banking on their own.
Children 13 and older can usually open their own custodial checking account with a debit card and limited online access. Some banks restrict what they can do online — for example, they may not be able to transfer money between accounts or change account settings without parental approval. The parent retains full control and can see all transactions.
At 18, the account automatically converts to a standard adult account, and the child becomes the sole owner. The parent's name is removed, and the young adult can make all decisions about the account without parental consent. Some banks send a notice before this happens so you're aware of the change.
Monthly fees and how to avoid them
Some banks charge a monthly maintenance fee for teen checking accounts, ranging from $5 to $15 per month. Others waive the fee entirely or only charge it if the account falls below a minimum balance. A few banks waive fees if a direct deposit (like a paycheck or allowance transfer) is set up each month.
Before opening an account, ask the bank what fees apply and what conditions waive them. If the bank charges a fee and you want to avoid it, look for a bank that offers free teen accounts — many credit unions and online banks do. Comparing a few options takes 15 minutes and can save you money over several years.
Overdraft fees are another cost to watch for. Some banks charge a fee if the account goes negative, while others decline the transaction instead. Ask whether overdraft protection is available and whether it costs extra.
How the account changes when the child turns 18
When the child reaches 18, the custodial account automatically becomes a standard adult checking account. The parent's name is removed from the account, and the young adult becomes the sole owner. They can now make all decisions about the account — closing it, changing settings, or adding authorized users — without parental input.
Most banks handle this conversion automatically and send a notice to both the parent and the young adult before or after it happens. You do not need to visit the bank or sign new paperwork. However, the young adult should be aware that they are now responsible for managing the account, including monitoring for fraud and paying any fees.
If the young adult wants to keep the account open, they do nothing — it simply continues as a regular account. If they want to close it or switch banks, they can do so at any time after turning 18.
Custodial accounts versus authorized user accounts
A custodial account is opened in the child's name with a parent as custodian. The child has their own account number, their own debit card, and their own transaction history. The parent can see all activity and control the account, but the child's name is the primary account holder.
An authorized user account is the parent's account with the child added as an authorized user. The child gets a debit card with their name on it and can make purchases, but the account belongs to the parent. The parent sees all transactions, and the child cannot access online banking independently. This option is common for children under 13.
Custodial accounts teach financial independence more directly because the child has their own account and can see how their money moves. Authorized user accounts are simpler to set up and offer less independence, which some parents prefer for younger children. Choose based on what you want the child to learn and how much control you want to maintain.
What happens if the child wants to close the account
While the account is custodial, the parent controls whether it stays open or closes. If the child asks to close it, you can do so by visiting the bank, calling, or using online banking (depending on the bank's policy). The bank will return any remaining balance to you or the child, depending on what you request.
Once the child turns 18 and the account converts to an adult account, they can close it themselves without your permission. If you want to prevent this, you cannot — the account is now theirs. The best approach is to talk with your teen before they turn 18 about the account's purpose and your expectations.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I open a checking account for my child without bringing them to the bank?
Yes. Most banks allow you to open a custodial account online or by mail using your ID, proof of address, and the child's Social Security number. You do not need the child present. Some banks require an in-person visit, so check with your bank first.
Will opening a checking account for my child hurt their credit?
No. Checking accounts do not appear on credit reports and do not affect credit scores. Credit reports only track borrowed money (loans, credit cards, lines of credit), not deposit accounts.
Can my child have a checking account at more than one bank?
Yes. There is no rule preventing a minor from having accounts at multiple banks. Some parents open accounts at different banks to teach their child about comparing banks or to separate money for different purposes (like savings versus spending).
What if my child loses the debit card?
Call the bank immediately to report it lost or stolen. The bank will cancel the card and send a replacement, usually within 5 to 10 business days. Most banks do not charge a replacement card fee for minors. Until the new card arrives, your child can withdraw cash at an ATM using their PIN if they know it, or you can withdraw cash from the account yourself.
Do I need the child's permission to see their account activity?
No. While the account is custodial, you own and control it, so you have the right to see all transactions. Once the child turns 18 and the account converts, the account is theirs and you no longer have access unless they add you as an authorized user.