Yes, you can open a checking account under 18, but you'll need a parent or guardian to co-sign
Most banks and credit unions let you open a checking account before you turn 18, but the process differs from opening one as an adult. You cannot open an account entirely on your own—a parent or legal guardian must be present and sign the paperwork with you. The account will be in both your names, and your parent or guardian will have full access to it, including the ability to see transactions and withdraw money.
Some banks make this easier than others. Large national banks like Chase, Bank of America, and Wells Fargo all offer teen checking accounts with a parent co-signer. Credit unions often have similar programs. A few banks, including some online-only banks, do not offer accounts to minors at all, so you'll need to call or check their website first.
The specific rules—like minimum balance requirements, monthly fees, and what features you get—vary by bank and by the type of account. A teen checking account often comes with a debit card, online banking, and mobile app access, though some banks restrict certain features until you're older.
Key Takeaways
- You need a parent or legal guardian to co-sign and be present when you open a checking account under 18.
- The account will be jointly owned, meaning your parent or guardian can see all transactions and withdraw money.
- Most large banks and credit unions offer teen checking accounts, but some online-only banks do not.
- Bring a government-issued ID (like a school ID or state ID), proof of address, and your Social Security number to the bank.
- Some teen accounts have no monthly fees, while others charge $5 to $10 per month depending on the bank.
What documents you need to bring
Both you and your parent or guardian will need to bring identification. For you, a government-issued ID works best—a state ID, driver's license, or school ID. If you don't have one, some banks will accept a passport or birth certificate. Your parent or guardian will need a government-issued photo ID like a driver's license.
You'll also need proof of your Social Security number. Bring your Social Security card, a tax return, or a W-2 if you work. For proof of address, bring a recent utility bill, lease, mortgage statement, or bank statement in your parent's name. Some banks accept mail from government agencies or insurance companies instead.
Call your bank ahead of time to confirm what they need. Requirements vary slightly, and some branches may ask for additional documents. Having everything ready before you go in speeds up the process.
How joint accounts work and what your parent can do
When you open a joint checking account, both you and your parent or guardian are legal owners. This means your parent can deposit money, withdraw money, see every transaction, close the account, and change account settings. You have the same rights. There is no way to hide spending from your parent on a joint account—they will see it all if they check.
Some parents use joint accounts to teach money management and give their teen control over day-to-day spending while keeping oversight. Others use them mainly to fund the account and let the teen manage it independently. How much control your parent exercises is up to them.
When you turn 18, you can ask the bank to convert the account to a solo account in your name only, removing your parent as a co-owner. Some banks do this automatically; others require you to request it. Your parent cannot prevent this conversion once you're an adult, but they can see the account while you're still under 18.
Fees and features to compare across banks
| Bank or Credit Union | Monthly Fee | Minimum Balance | Debit Card Included | Online Banking |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Chase First Banking | $0 | $0 | Yes | Yes |
| Bank of America Teen Checking | $0 with direct deposit or $12 | $0 | Yes | Yes |
| Wells Fargo Teen Checking | $0 | $0 | Yes | Yes |
| Credit Union (varies by location) | $0–$5 | $0–$25 | Usually yes | Usually yes |
Teen checking accounts often have no monthly fee, especially if you set up direct deposit from a job or allowance. Some banks waive the fee only if money comes in regularly; others charge a flat fee regardless. A few accounts have a small minimum balance requirement, though most do not.
Most teen accounts come with a debit card and online banking access, letting you check your balance and move money on your phone. Some banks limit ATM withdrawals or set daily spending caps for teens, which you can usually increase once you turn 16 or 18. Ask about these limits before you open the account if you think they matter to you.
Opening an account in person versus online
You must open a teen checking account in person at a bank branch. You cannot do it entirely online because the bank needs to verify your identity and your parent's identity face-to-face, and both of you need to sign paperwork. Some banks let you start the process online and finish it in the branch, but you still have to show up.
Call ahead to make sure the branch has time to help you. Bring all your documents and plan for the appointment to take 20 to 30 minutes. The bank will explain the account features, fees, and rules before you sign anything.
What happens if your parent won't co-sign
If your parent or legal guardian will not co-sign, you cannot open a checking account at a traditional bank or credit union until you turn 18. Some prepaid debit card companies let you open an account without a parent, but these are not checking accounts—they do not come with check-writing, and you cannot build a banking history with them the same way.
If you have a different legal guardian, like a grandparent or aunt, they can co-sign instead of your parent. The bank only requires that the co-signer be an adult with a valid ID and Social Security number. If you're in foster care or have a court-appointed guardian, that person can co-sign as well.
Building credit and banking history as a teen
Opening a checking account does not build credit on its own. Credit bureaus do not track checking account activity. However, having a checking account is often the first step toward other financial products—like a teen savings account, a secured credit card, or a student loan later—that do build credit history.
Using your debit card responsibly and keeping your account in good standing shows banks you can manage money. When you turn 18 and want to open a credit card or take out a loan, banks will look at your overall banking history, including how long you've had accounts and whether you've kept them active and in the black.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I open a checking account at 16 or 17?
Yes. Most banks allow you to open a teen checking account at any age under 18, as long as a parent or legal guardian co-signs. There is no minimum age requirement at most banks, though a few may have a policy that you must be at least 13 or 14. Call your bank to confirm.
What if I'm 17 and my parent is not available to go to the bank?
Your parent or guardian must be present in person to co-sign. If they cannot go to the branch, you cannot open the account at that time. Some banks may allow your parent to authorize a notarized power of attorney, but this is rare and requires calling ahead to ask. It is usually faster to wait for a time when your parent can go with you.
Can I have a checking account without my parent seeing my transactions?
No. On a joint account, your parent has full access to all transaction history and account information. If privacy is important to you, talk to your parent about what they will and will not monitor. Once you turn 18, you can open a solo account they cannot see.
Do I need a job to open a teen checking account?
No. You do not need income or employment to open a checking account. Your parent can deposit money into it, or you can fund it with allowance, gifts, or earnings from a job. The bank does not require proof of income for teen accounts.
What happens to my account when I turn 18?
You can ask the bank to convert it to a solo account in your name only, removing your parent as a co-owner. Some banks do this automatically on your 18th birthday; others require you to request it in person or online. Your parent will no longer have access once the conversion is complete.