Opening a bank account for a minor online is possible, but the process and eligibility depend on the bank and the type of account. Some banks allow online applications for minors, while others require in-person visits, especially for certain account types.
For example, Bank of America allows parents or guardians to open a SafeBalance® for Family Banking account online or through mobile banking, provided they have an existing Bank of America Consumer checking or savings account and an online banking login. Similarly, U.S. Bank permits online applications for a Smartly® Checking account with a teen aged 13 to 17, but a savings account for a minor must be opened in a branch. Wells Fargo allows teens aged 17 and older to open a checking account online, but minors 17 years and under must open the account in a branch.
In general, online applications are typically available for checking accounts when the minor is 13 or older, but savings accounts for minors are often restricted to in-branch openings. Some banks, like Chase, offer online account opening options for kids and teens, either through their website or mobile app. However, many institutions still require a parent or legal guardian to be present at a branch for the initial account setup, particularly for younger minors or custodial accounts.
To proceed, gather required documents such as the parent’s photo ID, Social Security number (SSN), proof of address, and the child’s SSN and valid ID (e.g., birth certificate, school ID). Some banks may also require the minor to be a member of the financial institution’s service area. Always verify the specific bank’s policy, as requirements vary by institution.
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What are the requirements to open a SafeBalance for Family Banking account or a SafeBalance Banking account?
To open a SafeBalance for Family Banking account, the parent or legal guardian must:
- Be over 18 years old
- Have an existing Bank of America Consumer checking or savings account
- Have an Online Banking log-in
- Have a child under 18 years old at the time of account opening
- Open the account in Online or Mobile Banking, or visit a financial center for assistance in opening the account online.
To open a SafeBalance Banking account,
- Teens ages 16+ may open the account sole-owned. Save time by scheduling an appointment. Bring the following identification with you:
- Government issued photo ID: Examples: U.S. driver's license, state ID card, passport
- Secondary forms of ID Examples: student ID, work ID, debit card or credit card from another financial institution
- If teens under 18 years old cannot meet the ID requirements above, they can still apply at a financial center with a parent or guardian.
- Children under 16 years old may also open with a parent co-owner at a financial center.
- International students also need proof of US residency and may use other forms of ID. For more information visit bofa.com/international-students.
What features are unavailable with a SafeBalance for Family Banking and SafeBalance Banking account?
- You cannot write paper checks with these accounts.
- Both accounts are automatically set to the Decline All overdraft setting and cannot be changed. Thus, overdraft fees are not charged with either of these accounts.
With a SafeBalance for Family Banking account, the following features are also unavailable:
- Zelle
- External money transfers into the account, including direct deposits, wires, ACH transactions and transfers from another bank.
- This account also cannot receive credit card cash advances or credit card rewards redemptions.
Can my child see my other accounts when they log in to Online and Mobile Banking?
No, your child can only view their account when they log in with their Online ID. Parents, however, can view and manage the accounts right alongside their other Bank of America accounts.