Most banks let you open a minor account online, but you'll need a parent or guardian to co-sign, and some require an in-person visit at the end

You can start a minor bank account online at most large banks and credit unions, but the process differs from opening an adult account. A parent or guardian must be present—either online during the process or in person at a branch—because minors cannot sign legal documents alone. Some banks complete the entire process online; others let you begin online but require you to finish at a physical location. The timeline is usually one to three business days if everything is done online, or the same day if you visit a branch.

The account itself is real and fully functional. Your child gets a debit card, online banking access, and the ability to deposit checks or transfer money. The parent or guardian is listed as a co-owner or custodian, meaning they can see all transactions and withdraw funds, but the account belongs to the minor. When your child turns 18, the account typically converts to a standard adult account without closing or restarting.

Key Takeaways

  • You need a parent or guardian present during the process—either online or at a branch—because minors cannot sign contracts independently.
  • Most banks require proof of identity for both the minor and the parent, such as a birth certificate, Social Security card, or state ID.
  • Some banks complete the entire process online; others require an in-person visit to verify identity and set up the account.
  • The account converts to a standard adult account when your child turns 18, with no action needed from you.
  • Credit unions and online-only banks often have lower minimum balances and fewer fees than large national banks.

What documents you'll need to bring or upload

Both the minor and the parent or guardian need to provide proof of identity. For the minor, this is usually a birth certificate, state ID, school ID, or passport. For the parent, a driver's license or state ID is standard. You'll also need the minor's Social Security number and the parent's Social Security number.

Some banks ask for proof of address—a utility bill, lease, or mortgage statement in the parent's name. A few banks require a second form of ID for the parent, such as a credit card or military ID. Check the specific bank's website before you start; most list exactly what they need in their minor account section.

Banks that let you complete the whole process online

Chase, Bank of America, Wells Fargo, and Citibank all allow you to open a minor account online without visiting a branch. You upload photos of the documents, the parent verifies their identity through the bank's app or website, and the account opens within one to three business days. A debit card arrives by mail within five to ten business days.

Online-only banks like Ally and Marcus do not offer minor accounts. Credit unions vary widely—some allow fully online applications, while others require at least one in-person visit. Call your credit union or check their website before starting an process.

Banks that require an in-person step

Some regional banks and smaller institutions let you start the process online but require you to visit a branch to finish. This usually means the parent and minor come in together, show ID, and sign the account agreement in front of a banker. The account opens the same day, and a debit card is issued on the spot or mailed within a few days.

This approach takes longer overall—you might spend 20 to 30 minutes at the branch—but it can be faster than waiting for mail if you need the account when ready. If you have a branch nearby, this is often the simplest route.

What happens when your child turns 18

The account automatically converts to a standard adult account. The parent's name stays on the account as a co-owner unless you both go to the bank and remove them. If you want the parent to come off, you'll need to visit a branch or call the bank; you cannot usually do this online.

Your child can also open a separate adult account at any time and transfer the balance over. Some families keep the original account open for sentimental reasons or because it has a good history; others close it and move to a new one. There is no penalty either way.

Fees and minimum balances to watch for

Most banks offer at least one minor account with no monthly fee and no minimum balance. Chase's First Banking account and Bank of America's MyFirst Checking have no fees. Wells Fargo's Way2Save Savings has a $25 minimum balance but no monthly fee.

Some banks charge a monthly fee if the balance drops below a certain amount—usually $25 to $100. Others waive fees if a parent has a checking account at the same bank. Read the fee schedule before you open the account; many banks hide this information in a PDF rather than on the main product page.

What to do if the bank denies the process

Banks rarely deny minor accounts, but it can happen if the Social Security number does not match the name, if there is a fraud flag on the parent's account, or if the parent has unpaid debts with that bank. If you are denied, ask the bank why. If it is a data mismatch, you can usually fix it and reapply. If it is a fraud or debt issue, you may need to resolve that first or try a different bank.

Credit unions are sometimes more flexible than large banks, especially if you are a member or a family member is. If one bank turns you down, try a credit union or a different bank before assuming your child cannot have an account.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can a minor open a bank account without a parent present?

No. Banks require a parent or guardian to be present—either online during the process or in person at a branch—because minors cannot sign legal contracts. Some banks let the parent sign online while the minor is present; others require both to be at the branch together.

What if the parent doesn't have a state ID?

A passport, military ID, or tribal ID usually works. If the parent has none of these, call the bank and ask what alternatives they accept. Some banks will take a combination of documents, such as a birth certificate plus a utility bill, though this is less common.

Can I open the account on my child's phone?

Yes, if the bank's app supports minor accounts. Chase, Bank of America, and Wells Fargo all allow you to start the process on a phone. You upload photos of documents and verify identity through the app. The process is the same as on a computer.

Will my child's account affect my credit?

No. A minor's checking or savings account does not appear on the parent's credit report. It is a separate account with its own history. The parent's credit is not affected by the minor's account activity or balance.

How long does it take to get a debit card?

If you open the account online, the debit card usually arrives by mail within five to ten business days. If you open it in person at a branch, you may get a card the same day or within two to three business days. Some banks offer a temporary digital card you can use when ready while the physical card is in the mail.