Yes, minors can have a debit card, but the rules depend on age and the bank
Most banks allow children as young as 13 to open a debit card in their own name, though some require parental consent up to age 18. A few banks let parents add younger children (sometimes as young as 6 or 7) as authorized users on a parent's account, which gives them a card linked to the parent's money. The specific age and requirements vary by bank, so you'll need to check with your institution directly rather than assume a blanket rule applies everywhere.
The key difference is whether the minor owns the account themselves or is using a card tied to a parent's account. A minor's own account typically comes with parental oversight built in—parents can see transactions, set spending limits, and freeze the card. An authorized user card on a parent's account gives the minor less independence but more direct parental control over the money itself.
Key Takeaways
- Most banks allow minors age 13 and up to open their own debit card account, though some require a parent or guardian to co-sign or be listed as a custodian.
- Younger children (typically ages 6 to 12) can get a debit card as an authorized user on a parent's account, which links to the parent's money rather than a separate account.
- A minor's own account usually includes parental controls such as transaction alerts, spending limits, and the ability to lock the card remotely.
- Banks differ on whether they charge monthly fees for youth accounts, so comparing institutions can save money over time.
Debit cards for minors age 13 and older
At age 13, most major banks—including Chase, Bank of America, Wells Fargo, and Ally—allow a minor to open a debit card account. The minor typically needs a parent or guardian to co-sign or be listed as a custodian on the account. Some banks require the parent to be present in person; others allow the process online if the parent verifies their identity through the bank's system.
The account itself belongs to the minor, but the parent retains oversight rights. Parents can usually see all transactions in real time through a mobile app, set daily spending limits (for example, $50 per day), receive alerts when the card is used, and lock or unlock the card remotely. This structure lets the minor build financial habits and a banking history while the parent maintains control over how much money is at risk.
Some banks charge a monthly maintenance fee for youth accounts (typically $5 to $10), while others waive fees for minors. A few institutions offer no-fee youth accounts as long as the parent maintains a may have access to account with them. Before opening an account, ask whether fees apply and whether they're waived under any conditions.
Authorized user cards for younger children
If your child is younger than 13, many banks allow you to add them as an authorized user on your own debit card account. The child receives their own card with their name on it, but the account and the money belong to you. Transactions draw from your account balance, not a separate account for the child.
As an authorized user, your child can make purchases and withdraw cash, but you retain complete control. You see every transaction immediately, can set spending limits on the card, and can deactivate it instantly if needed. The child builds familiarity with how a debit card works without the risk of overdrafts or independent spending decisions.
Age limits for authorized users vary widely. Some banks allow children as young as 6; others start at 10 or 13. Check your bank's policy or call to ask. There is typically no additional fee to add a child as an authorized user, since they're using your existing account.
What you need to open a minor's account
To open a debit card account for a minor in their own name, you'll typically need the minor's Social Security number, proof of identity (usually a birth certificate or school ID), and proof of address. The parent or guardian will need to provide their own ID and may need to verify their identity through the bank's system.
Some banks require an in-person visit to a branch; others complete the process entirely online. A few institutions allow you to start online and finish in a branch within a set timeframe. Call your bank or visit their website to see which method they use and whether appointments are required.
If you're adding a younger child as an authorized user on your account, the process is simpler—usually just a phone call or a few clicks in your mobile app. You won't need the child's Social Security number in most cases, since the account already exists in your name.
How parental controls work on youth accounts
Most banks that offer youth debit cards include a parental dashboard—a section of the mobile app or website where you can manage the account. From there, you can set a daily spending limit (some banks let you set different limits for different days or categories), turn the card on or off, view transactions as they happen, and receive notifications when the card is used.
Some banks let you restrict where the card can be used—for example, allowing purchases at grocery stores but blocking online transactions, or vice versa. Others allow you to set up recurring alerts, such as a notification every time the balance drops below $10. These tools vary by bank, so ask what's available before you open the account.
The parental controls remain in place as long as you're listed as a custodian on the account. Once the minor reaches the age of majority (usually 18), you may lose access to the account unless you choose to keep it as a joint account.
Fees and account minimums for youth debit cards
Youth debit card accounts fall into three fee categories: no monthly fee, a monthly fee that's waived under certain conditions, and a flat monthly fee. No-fee accounts are common at online banks and some credit unions. Fee-waiving conditions might include maintaining a parent's checking account at the same bank, setting up direct deposit to the account, or keeping a minimum balance (often $0 to $100).
Beyond monthly maintenance, watch for other potential charges: overdraft fees (some banks charge $15 to $35 if the account goes negative), ATM fees outside the bank's network (typically $2 to $3 per withdrawal), and replacement card fees if the card is lost or damaged. Many youth accounts waive overdraft fees entirely, which is a significant protection. Ask your bank which fees apply and which are waived for minors.
Comparing a few institutions can save real money over several years. A bank with a $5 monthly fee costs $60 per year; a no-fee option costs nothing. If your child uses the account for five years, that's a $300 difference.
Building credit versus building banking habits
A debit card does not build credit history. Credit bureaus track credit accounts (credit cards, loans, payment history), not debit card use. A debit card teaches a minor how to manage money they have, but it won't help them build a credit score for later borrowing.
If your goal is to help your child build credit, a debit card is still useful as a first step—it teaches spending discipline and account management. But building actual credit typically requires a credit card, a loan, or being added as an authorized user on a parent's credit card account. That's a separate decision for when the minor is older and ready for more financial responsibility.
For now, a debit card serves its purpose: it gives a minor a way to spend money safely, teaches them how banking works, and lets you monitor their spending in real time.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can a minor open a debit card account without a parent?
No. Minors cannot open a bank account of any kind without a parent or legal guardian. A parent or guardian must be present, co-sign the account, or verify their identity through the bank's system. Once the minor reaches age 18, they can open accounts independently.
What happens to the account when my child turns 18?
The account typically converts to a standard adult account. Your access as a custodian usually ends, though some banks allow you to keep it as a joint account if both parties agree. The minor can then manage the account independently. Contact your bank to understand their specific transition process.
Can my child overdraft a debit card account?
It depends on the bank. Many youth accounts do not allow overdrafts—the card simply declines if there's not enough money. Others permit overdrafts but waive the overdraft fee for minors. Ask your bank whether overdraft protection is enabled and whether fees apply if it is.
Do I need to be a customer at the bank to open a youth account for my child?
Not always. Some banks require the parent to have an account; others do not. A few credit unions require membership. Check your bank's requirements before you visit or call.
Can my child use the debit card online and for subscriptions?
Yes. A debit card works online the same way it does in stores. If you're concerned about subscriptions or recurring charges, some banks let you disable online transactions or set spending limits that cover them. You can also monitor the account in real time and cancel the card if unauthorized charges appear.