Yes, you can open a checking account for your child at most banks, but the rules depend on their age and your bank

Most banks let you open a checking account for a child under 18, but they handle it differently depending on whether your child is under 13 or 13 and older. Banks that accept younger children usually require you to be a joint owner or custodian on the account. Once your child turns 13, many banks let them open their own account with your permission, though you may still need to co-sign or remain on the account until they reach 18. The specific rules vary by bank — some have no minimum age, others start at 13, and a few require you to wait until 16 or 18.

The account type you choose affects what your child can do and what you can see. A joint account lists both of you as owners and gives you full access. An account in your child's name with you as custodian or co-signer puts your child as the primary owner but keeps you in control until they turn 18. Either way, you will need your child's Social Security number and a form of ID, plus your own ID and proof of address.

Key Takeaways

  • Children under 13 can have checking accounts at most banks, but you must be listed as a joint owner or custodian.
  • At age 13, many banks let your child open an account in their own name with parental permission, though you may need to co-sign.
  • You will need to bring your child's Social Security number, proof of identity for both of you, and proof of address to open the account.
  • Some banks offer accounts designed for teens with features like spending limits, parental controls, or debit cards that you can monitor.
  • If your child is under 13 and your bank does not offer youth accounts, credit unions and online banks often have lower age minimums.

Age requirements vary by bank and account type

The age at which your child can have their own checking account depends on the bank. Large national banks like Chase, Bank of America, and Wells Fargo typically allow children as young as 13 to open accounts with parental consent, though the account may be joint until age 18. Some regional banks and credit unions accept children as young as 10 or even younger. Online banks like Ally and Chime have different rules — Chime, for example, lets children as young as 6 have accounts if a parent is the account owner.

If your child is under 13 and you want them to have a checking account, call your bank first to ask whether they offer youth accounts. If they do not, you have two options: open a joint account where you are listed as the owner, or look for a bank or credit union that accepts younger children. Many credit unions have lower age minimums than national banks and may offer accounts specifically for kids. Some online banks also accept younger children because they do not require in-person verification.

What you need to bring to open the account

To open a checking account for your child, bring your child's Social Security number and a form of ID — usually a birth certificate or passport. You will also need to show your own ID (driver's license or passport) and proof of your current address, such as a utility bill or lease. Some banks accept a state ID card for your child if they have one, but a birth certificate is the most common document banks ask for.

If you are opening a joint account, the bank will verify both your identity and your child's. If your child is opening an account in their own name with your permission, you may need to sign a consent form or co-sign the account agreement. Ask your bank what documents they need before you go in — some banks let you start the process online and finish in a branch, while others require you to come in person. If you are opening the account online, you will typically need to upload photos of the documents or provide them when you visit the branch.

Joint accounts versus accounts in your child's name

A joint account lists both you and your child as owners. You can both deposit and withdraw money, and both names appear on the debit card and statements. Joint accounts are common for children under 13 because they give you full visibility and control while letting your child learn to use a checking account. The downside is that your child does not build credit history in their own name, and if you close the account, it affects both of you.

An account in your child's name (with you as a custodian or co-signer) puts your child as the primary owner. You retain access and control until they turn 18, but the account belongs to them. This approach helps your child build a banking history and credit record earlier. Some banks require you to remain on the account until your child turns 18 or 21, while others let you remove yourself once your child reaches a certain age. Ask your bank what happens when your child turns 18 — some accounts automatically convert to a standard adult account, while others require you to take action.

Debit cards, spending limits, and parental controls

Most youth checking accounts come with a debit card in your child's name. Some banks let you set daily spending limits on the card, require your approval for purchases over a certain amount, or send you alerts when your child uses the card. These features help you monitor spending and teach your child about money management without giving them complete independence.

Not all banks offer these controls — it depends on the account type. Teen-focused accounts from banks like Chase (First Banking), Bank of America (BankAmericard for Students), and Greenlight often include parental controls as a standard feature. If parental controls matter to you, ask your bank whether they are included in the youth account or if they cost extra. Some accounts also let you set rules like "no ATM withdrawals after 9 p.m." or "no online purchases," which can be useful if your child is new to managing money.

Fees and minimum balance requirements

Many banks waive monthly fees for youth checking accounts, but some charge a small monthly maintenance fee (usually $5 to $10) if you do not keep a minimum balance. A few banks have no fees and no minimum balance requirement at all. Before you open an account, ask about overdraft fees — some banks charge $35 or more if your child spends more than the account balance, while others decline the transaction instead.

Online banks and credit unions often have lower fees than national banks. If your child is just starting out and you want to avoid fees while they learn, look for an account with no monthly fee, no minimum balance, and no overdraft fees. You can always move to a different bank later if your child's needs change. Compare a few options before you decide, because fee structures vary widely and can add up over time.

What happens when your child turns 18

When your child reaches 18, the account may automatically convert to a standard adult account, or the bank may require you to take action. Some banks let you remove yourself from the account at 18, while others require you to stay on until your child is 21. A few banks close the youth account and ask your child to open a new adult account.

Check with your bank about their policy before you open the account so you know what to expect. If you plan to remove yourself when your child turns 18, make sure your child understands how to manage the account on their own — including how to pay bills, use the debit card, and avoid overdrafts. Some banks offer a transition period where you can gradually hand over control, which can be helpful if your child is not yet ready for full independence. Contact your bank a few months before your child's 18th birthday to understand the exact process and timeline.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can my child open a checking account without me?

No, children under 18 cannot open a checking account on their own. You must be present and either co-own the account or provide written consent. Some banks let your child open an account online with your permission, but you will still need to verify your identity and sign the account agreement.

Will my child's checking account affect my credit?

No, a checking account does not affect your credit score. Banks do not report checking accounts to credit bureaus. However, if the account is joint and your child overdrafts repeatedly, the bank may report it to ChexSystems (a banking history database), which could affect both of you if you try to open accounts elsewhere.

Can I access my child's account after they turn 18?

It depends on the bank and how the account is set up. If you are listed as a joint owner, you may retain access even after your child turns 18 unless you both agree to remove you. If you are a custodian or co-signer, your access typically ends at 18. Contact your bank to understand your specific account's rules.

What if my child loses their debit card?

Call the bank immediately to report the card lost or stolen. The bank will cancel it and issue a replacement, usually within 5 to 10 business days. Most banks do not charge a fee for replacement cards. In the meantime, your child can withdraw cash at an ATM using their PIN or visit a branch to make withdrawals.

Do I need to report my child's checking account to the IRS?

No, a checking account itself does not need to be reported. However, if the account earns interest (which is rare for checking accounts), that interest may be taxable income for your child. If your child has earned income from a job, you may need to file a tax return for them depending on how much they earned.