You can open a checking account before 18, but the bank decides the minimum age and what paperwork you need

Most banks let you open a checking account at 13 or 14, though some require you to be 15 or 16. The account will be in your name, but a parent or guardian must co-sign or be listed as a co-owner until you turn 18. This means they can see the account activity and withdraw money, though many banks let you set limits on what they can do.

The specific rules depend entirely on the bank. Chase, Bank of America, Wells Fargo, and most regional banks have teen checking products with their own age minimums and features. Credit unions often have lower minimums and fewer fees. You cannot open an account online by yourself — you will need to go to a branch with a parent or guardian, bring ID, and sign paperwork in front of a bank employee.

Key Takeaways

  • Most banks allow checking accounts starting at age 13 to 16, but require a parent or guardian to co-sign until you turn 18.
  • You must visit a branch in person with your parent or guardian — online-only accounts are not available to minors.
  • Bring a government-issued ID (state ID, passport, or school ID depending on the bank), your Social Security number, and proof of address.
  • Teen checking accounts often have no monthly fees, limited overdraft features, and spending controls that let parents set daily limits.
  • Credit unions typically have lower age minimums and fewer restrictions than large national banks.

What documents you need to bring to the bank

Bring your government-issued ID — a state ID, passport, or school ID. Some banks accept school IDs; others do not. Call the branch ahead of time to confirm what they take. You will also need your Social Security number (the bank will ask you to recite it or show a Social Security card if you have one) and proof of your address, which can be a utility bill, lease, or mortgage statement in your parent's name.

Your parent or guardian needs to bring their own ID and proof of address as well. Some banks ask for a second form of ID from the parent — a driver's license plus a credit card, for example. Bring originals, not copies, because the bank employee will need to see them in person.

The difference between teen accounts and regular checking

Teen checking accounts are designed to teach money management without the risk of overdraft fees. Most have no monthly maintenance fee, no minimum balance requirement, and no overdraft protection — meaning if you try to spend more than you have, the transaction straightforward declines instead of charging you a fee. Some banks let parents set daily spending limits, so you cannot withdraw or spend more than a certain amount per day.

A regular adult checking account usually has overdraft protection, which means the bank covers the transaction and charges you a fee (typically $25 to $35 per overdraft). Teen accounts skip this to protect you from surprise charges. When you turn 18, the account automatically converts to a standard checking account, and overdraft protection may be added unless you opt out.

Debit card features also differ. Teen accounts often come with a debit card that works everywhere, but some banks restrict online shopping or international transactions until you turn 18. Check the specific account terms before you open it.

How the co-signer or co-owner arrangement works

When a parent or guardian co-signs, they are legally responsible for the account and can see all transactions. They can also withdraw money, transfer funds, or close the account. Some banks let you set restrictions — for example, a parent might be able to see the balance but not withdraw without your permission. Other banks give the co-signer full control.

A co-owner arrangement is similar but slightly different: both you and the parent are listed as owners, and either of you can manage the account. The practical difference is small — in both cases, the parent has visibility and some level of control. Ask the bank to explain what restrictions are available before you sign up, because this varies widely.

When you turn 18, you can remove the co-signer or co-owner. Some banks do this automatically; others require you to visit the branch and sign a form. Check your account documents or call the bank to find out the process.

Where to open an account: national banks, regional banks, and credit unions

National banks like Chase, Bank of America, Wells Fargo, and Citibank all offer teen checking. Chase allows accounts at age 13 with a parent co-signer. Bank of America requires age 15. Wells Fargo requires age 14. These banks have branches everywhere, so opening and managing the account is convenient, but they often charge fees if you do not maintain a minimum balance or use their ATM.

Regional banks — like PNC, US Bank, or Ally — have similar teen products with varying age minimums. Check the bank's website or call a local branch to confirm the minimum age and what documents they need.

Credit unions often have lower age minimums (some allow accounts at age 12 or 13) and typically charge no monthly fees. You must be a member of the credit union to open an account, which usually means you live or work in a certain area or have a family member who is already a member. Search for credit unions in your area on the CO-OP Network website or ask your parent if their employer offers a credit union.

What happens when you turn 18

On your 18th birthday or shortly after, the bank will convert your teen account to a standard checking account. The co-signer or co-owner is removed automatically at some banks; at others, you must visit the branch to remove them. Your debit card will continue to work, and you will keep the same account number and routing number.

The main change is that overdraft protection may be added. This means if you spend more than you have, the bank covers the transaction and charges you a fee. You can opt out of overdraft protection by contacting the bank, and many banks will let you do this online or by phone. If you want to keep the account fee-free and overdraft-free, confirm the bank's policy before you turn 18 so you know what to do.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I open a checking account without a parent or guardian?

No. Banks require a parent or guardian to co-sign or be listed as a co-owner until you turn 18. This is a legal requirement, not a bank choice. You must visit the branch in person with them.

What if my parent does not want to co-sign?

Some credit unions and banks offer accounts where a parent is listed as a custodian rather than a co-signer, which gives them less control. Ask your bank or credit union if this option exists. If no bank in your area offers this, you will need to wait until you turn 18 to open an account on your own.

Can I use my school ID as proof of identity?

Some banks accept school IDs, but many do not because they are not government-issued. Call the branch ahead of time to ask. If your school ID is not accepted, bring a state ID or passport instead.

Will opening a checking account affect my credit score?

No. Opening a checking account does not create a credit report or affect your credit score. Banks check your account history (ChexSystems or Early Warning Services) to see if you have had problems with past accounts, but this is separate from credit reporting.

Can I have multiple checking accounts?

Yes. You can open accounts at different banks if you want. Some people keep a teen account at one bank and a savings account at another. There is no limit on how many accounts you can have, but each one requires a separate process and a parent or guardian to co-sign.