Yes, children can open a Regions checking account, but the account type and rules depend on the child's age

Regions Bank offers checking accounts for minors, but you cannot open one in a child's name alone. A parent or legal guardian must open and manage the account until the child reaches the age of majority (18 in most states). Regions calls these youth checking accounts, and they work as a joint account where the adult is the primary account holder and the child is an authorized user.

The specific features, fees, and access rules vary depending on whether you choose Regions' standard youth account or a teen-focused option. Some accounts come with a debit card, online banking access, and parental controls. Others are designed to teach money management with limited spending power. The account you choose should match what you want your child to learn and how much independence you want to give them.

Key Takeaways

  • A parent or guardian must be the primary account holder on any Regions checking account opened for a child under 18.
  • Regions offers youth checking accounts with features like debit cards, online access, and parental monitoring tools.
  • The minimum opening deposit and monthly fees vary by account type, so compare options before opening.
  • Once a child turns 18, they can convert the joint account to an individual account or open a separate one in their own name.

What Regions youth checking accounts include

Regions youth checking accounts typically come with a debit card linked to the account, allowing the child to make purchases and withdraw cash at ATMs. The account includes online banking access so the child can check their balance, view transactions, and transfer money between accounts (subject to parental limits). Many accounts also offer mobile banking through the Regions app.

Parental controls are a standard feature. Parents can set daily spending limits, restrict certain types of transactions, or turn the debit card on and off from their own banking app. This lets you monitor spending in real time and teach your child about budgeting without handing over complete financial freedom. Some accounts also send alerts when the child makes a purchase or when the balance drops below a set amount.

Interest rates on youth checking accounts are typically very low or zero, so do not expect the account to earn money for your child. The main purpose is access and learning, not savings growth. If you want your child to earn interest, a youth savings account may be a better choice, though many families use both accounts together.

Age requirements and account opening

Regions does not set a strict minimum age for opening a youth checking account, but most banks require the child to be at least 13 years old. Some accounts may be available for younger children, but features like debit cards and online access are usually limited to age 13 and up. Contact your local Regions branch or call their customer service to confirm the minimum age for the specific account type you want.

To open an account, you will need to visit a branch in person with your child and a valid ID. Bring your child's Social Security number and a form of ID (a school ID, passport, or state ID if they have one). Some branches may accept a birth certificate instead. The parent or guardian will need a valid government-issued ID and proof of address, just as you would for opening your own account.

The process usually takes 15 to 30 minutes. You will sign paperwork establishing yourself as the primary account holder and your child as an authorized user. The debit card is typically issued on the spot or mailed within 5 to 10 business days, depending on the branch and account type.

Fees and minimum balance requirements

Regions youth checking accounts often have lower fees than adult accounts, and some have no monthly maintenance fee at all. However, fees vary by account type and by branch, so ask about the specific account you are considering. Common fees include monthly service charges (if any), overdraft fees, ATM fees outside the Regions network, and fees for stopping a check or requesting a duplicate statement.

Minimum opening deposits also vary. Some youth accounts require as little as $25 to open, while others may require $100 or more. Ask whether the minimum must stay in the account at all times or whether it is just the opening deposit. Some accounts waive the monthly fee if you maintain a certain balance or set up direct deposit.

Overdraft protection is worth asking about. Some youth accounts allow overdrafts (spending more than the balance), while others decline transactions that would overdraw the account. If overdraft is allowed, you will be charged a fee for each overdraft, so understand the policy before your child starts using the card.

Transitioning to an adult account at age 18

When your child turns 18, they become a legal adult and can take full control of the account. At that point, you have a few options. You can remove yourself as the primary account holder and let your child become the sole owner, converting the joint account to an individual account. You can keep the account as-is with both names on it. Or your child can open a new account in their own name and transfer the money.

Most banks make this transition automatic or very simple — you just visit a branch or call to update the account status. Your child will need to sign new paperwork, but the account number and routing number usually stay the same. If your child wants to keep using the same debit card, they may need to request a new one in their name only.

Before your child turns 18, talk with them about what they want to do with the account. If they plan to go to college or move away, opening a new account closer to where they will be living might make sense. If they want to keep banking with Regions, converting the existing account is usually the easiest path.

Parental controls and monitoring spending

Regions' parental control tools let you set limits on how much your child can spend per day, per week, or per month. You can also restrict certain types of transactions — for example, blocking online purchases or gas station transactions if you want to control where the card is used. These controls are managed through your own Regions banking app or online portal.

Real-time alerts notify you when your child makes a purchase, when the balance drops below a threshold you set, or when a transaction is declined. This transparency helps you spot unusual activity and gives you a chance to talk with your child about their spending habits. Some parents use alerts as a teaching tool, discussing each purchase to help their child understand budgeting.

You can turn the debit card on or off instantly from your phone if needed. This is useful if the card is lost, stolen, or if you want to pause spending temporarily. Your child will not be able to override these controls — they apply at the bank level, not just on the card itself.

How to open a Regions youth checking account

Visit your nearest Regions Bank branch with your child, your valid ID, and your child's Social Security number. Bring proof of address (a utility bill, lease, or mortgage statement dated within the last 60 days). If your child has an ID, bring that too; if not, a birth certificate works.

Tell the banker you want to open a youth checking account. They will explain the account options available at that branch, show you the fee structure, and answer questions about parental controls and debit card features. Ask about the minimum opening deposit and whether any fees can be waived.

You will complete an application and sign paperwork. Your child may be asked to sign as well, depending on the account type. The banker will set up online banking access for you so you can monitor the account and adjust parental controls. The debit card is usually ordered at this time and arrives within 5 to 10 business days.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can my child use the account without a debit card?

Yes. Your child can access the account through online banking or the mobile app to check the balance and view transactions. They can also withdraw cash at a Regions ATM or ask a teller at a branch to withdraw funds. However, a debit card is the most convenient way for a child to spend money and learn about transactions.

What happens if my child loses the debit card?

Call Regions immediately to report the card lost or stolen. The card will be deactivated right away so no one else can use it. You can request a replacement card, which is usually mailed within 5 to 10 business days. In the meantime, your child can still access cash through ATMs or by visiting a branch.

Can my child have their own PIN and password?

Yes. Your child can set their own PIN for the debit card and their own password for online banking. You will have separate login credentials as the primary account holder, so you can monitor the account without sharing your password with your child.

Does my child need a Social Security number to open an account?

Yes. Regions requires a Social Security number for all account holders, including minors. If your child does not have one, you can request one from the Social Security Administration before opening the account.

Can I close the account if my child is not using it responsibly?

Yes. As the primary account holder, you can close the account at any time. You can also freeze the debit card or set spending limits to zero without closing the account entirely. Talk with your child about what needs to change before taking either step.