Chase requires a parent or guardian to open an account for anyone under 18

You cannot open a checking account at Chase on your own if you are under 18 years old. Chase requires a parent or legal guardian to be present and to co-own the account with you. The account will be in both your names, and your parent or guardian will have full access to it — they can see all transactions, make withdrawals, and manage the account settings.

Chase does not have a minimum age requirement stated publicly, but accounts for minors are typically opened starting around age 6 or 7. The practical limit is usually how comfortable your parent or guardian is managing the account with you. Some families open accounts earlier to teach savings habits; others wait until a child is older and can understand how checking works.

If you are 18 or older, you can open a Chase checking account on your own without a parent or guardian. You will need a government-issued ID, a Social Security number, and an initial deposit (the amount varies by account type).

Key Takeaways

  • Anyone under 18 must have a parent or legal guardian co-own the account and be present when it opens.
  • Chase does not publicly state a minimum age, but accounts for minors are commonly opened starting around age 6 or 7.
  • The parent or guardian will have full access to the account and can see all activity.
  • At age 18, you can open your own account without a parent or guardian present.
  • You will need a government-issued ID, Social Security number, and an initial deposit to open any Chase checking account.

What happens when you turn 18

When you reach 18, you have the option to convert the joint account into an account in your name alone, or to open a separate account. Chase does not automatically remove your parent or guardian from the account — you have to request the change. Contact Chase directly by phone, in person at a branch, or through your online banking portal to make this change.

If you want to keep the account as-is with your parent or guardian still co-owning it, you can do that too. Some families choose to keep joint accounts into adulthood for various reasons. The choice is yours once you turn 18.

What you need to bring to open an account

Both you and your parent or guardian must be present in person at a Chase branch to open a checking account. You cannot open a minor's account online or by phone. Bring the following documents:

  • A government-issued photo ID for the parent or guardian (driver's license, passport, or state ID)
  • A government-issued photo ID for the minor, if available (school ID may not be accepted; a state ID or passport is preferred)
  • Social Security numbers for both the parent/guardian and the minor
  • Proof of address, such as a utility bill or lease in the parent or guardian's name
  • An initial deposit (the amount depends on the account type; Chase checking accounts typically require $25 to $100 to open)

Chase branches can tell you the exact documents they need when you call ahead or visit. Requirements can vary slightly by state and by individual branch.

Chase checking account options for minors

Chase offers a few checking account types that work for minors. The most common is the Chase First Banking account, designed specifically for young people. It comes with a debit card, online banking access, and no monthly maintenance fee. Your parent or guardian controls spending limits and can set up alerts for transactions.

You can also open a standard Chase checking account as a joint account with your parent or guardian. This account works the same way as an adult account, except the parent or guardian is listed as a co-owner. Both of you can make deposits and withdrawals, and both names appear on the debit card and checks.

Chase also offers savings accounts for minors, which can be opened at the same time as a checking account. Ask your branch which options are available and which one fits your needs.

How to manage the account once it is open

Once the account is open, you can use online banking and the Chase mobile app to check your balance, view transactions, and transfer money between accounts. Your parent or guardian will also have access through their own login. You can set up direct deposit for paychecks or allowance, and you can use the debit card to make purchases or withdraw cash at ATMs.

If you want to set spending limits or turn off certain types of transactions (like online purchases or ATM withdrawals), your parent or guardian can do that through their account settings. Some families use these controls to teach money management; others leave them open. Talk with your parent or guardian about what rules make sense for your situation.

Opening an account in person vs. online

Minor accounts must be opened in person at a Chase branch. You cannot open a joint account online or by mail, even if your parent or guardian is present. This is a Chase policy across all states.

Once the account is open, you can manage it online or through the mobile app. You can also visit a branch anytime to deposit checks, withdraw cash, or ask questions. Chase has thousands of branches and ATMs nationwide, so finding one near you is usually straightforward.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I open a Chase account if my parent or guardian is not a Chase customer?

Yes. Your parent or guardian does not need to have their own Chase account to co-own an account with you. They just need to be present with a valid ID and Social Security number.

What if I only have one parent or guardian available?

One parent or legal guardian is enough to open the account. If you have two parents or guardians, both can be listed as co-owners, but only one needs to be present at the branch.

Can I open a Chase account if I do not have a Social Security number?

Chase requires a Social Security number to open any account. If you do not have one, you will need to obtain one from the Social Security Administration before you can open a checking account.

Will opening a Chase account affect my credit score?

No. Opening a checking account does not affect your credit score. Credit scores are based on borrowing and repayment history, not on bank accounts. Checking accounts do not appear on your credit report.

Can my parent or guardian remove me from the account without my permission?

Yes, because they are the co-owner. However, most parents and guardians discuss account changes with their children first. If you have concerns, talk to your parent or guardian about what you both expect from the account.