Ready to take the plunge into the world of personal finance, even as a minor? Opening a bank account with Chase can be a fantastic first step! It's an opportunity to learn about saving, spending wisely, and gaining financial independence, all under the watchful eye of a parent or guardian. This comprehensive guide will walk you through every step of the process, ensuring a smooth and successful experience.
Ready to Get Started? Let's Open Your First Chase Bank Account!
Are you excited to start managing your own money? It's a big step, and Chase makes it easy for minors to begin their financial journey. First things first, it's important to understand that as a minor, you'll need the support and involvement of an adult – typically a parent or legal guardian – to open a bank account with Chase. They will usually be a joint owner on the account, providing the necessary oversight.
Chase offers a few excellent options for minors, primarily:
Chase High School Checking℠: Designed for teens aged 13 to 17, this account requires a parent/guardian as a co-owner. It's linked to the parent/guardian's existing Chase checking account.
Chase First Banking: Geared towards younger kids (ages 6-17, but designed with 6-12 in mind), this account is parent-owned and managed, giving parents robust controls over spending and savings goals.
Chase Savings℠: A general savings account that can be opened jointly with an adult.
For the purpose of this guide, we'll focus on the most common scenario for a minor taking a more active role: opening a Chase High School Checking℠ account, which allows the minor to have their own debit card and begin learning direct money management.
Step 1: Understand the Requirements & Choose the Right Account
Before you even think about stepping into a branch, it's crucial to understand what Chase expects from both the minor and the accompanying adult. This initial understanding will save you time and potential headaches.
Sub-heading: Who Can Open a Minor Account at Chase?
The Minor:
Age: For the Chase High School Checking account, the minor must be between 13 and 17 years old at the time of account opening. For Chase First Banking, it's 6-17.
Presence: The minor must be present with their parent or legal guardian at a Chase branch to open the account. Online opening is generally not available for minor accounts requiring a co-owner.
Identification: The minor will need to provide identification.
The Parent/Legal Guardian (Co-owner):
Existing Chase Account: The parent or legal guardian must have an existing, qualifying personal Chase checking account (e.g., Chase Total Checking®, Chase Premier Plus Checking℠, etc.) that will be linked to the minor's account. This is a non-negotiable requirement for the Chase High School Checking account.
Presence: The parent or legal guardian must also be present with the minor at a Chase branch.
Identification: The parent/guardian will need to provide their own identification and proof of address.
Relationship: They must be the minor's parent or legal guardian.
Sub-heading: Deciding on the Best Account for You
While this guide focuses on High School Checking, it's good to know your options:
Chase High School Checking℠ (Recommended for most teens): This account is specifically tailored for teenagers. It comes with a debit card, allows the teen to track their spending via the Chase Mobile® app (with parental oversight), and has no monthly service fees as long as it's linked to a qualifying parent/guardian account. It also automatically converts to a Chase Total Checking® account when the teen turns 19.
Chase First Banking (Best for younger kids, more parental control): If the minor is younger than 13, or if the parent prefers more stringent controls, Chase First Banking is a great choice. The parent is the primary owner and can set spending limits, assign chores for allowance, and monitor all activity closely through the app. The child gets their own debit card. Note: Only the parent/guardian who opened the account can fund or manage it.
Chase Savings℠ (Good for pure savings, less spending access for minor): This can be a simple joint savings account with an adult. While it helps teach savings habits, it might not offer the same level of independent spending experience as the checking accounts designed for minors.
For this detailed guide, we will assume you are opening a Chase High School Checking℠ account.
Step 2: Gather Your Essential Documents
This is a critical step! Arriving at the branch without the necessary documents will result in a wasted trip. Double-check everything before you leave your home.
Sub-heading: Documents for the Minor
The minor will need to provide at least one primary ID and one secondary ID. Here's what Chase typically accepts:
Primary Identification (Photo ID):
Unexpired Passport (U.S. or foreign)
State-issued Driver's License or Learner's Permit (if applicable and unexpired)
State-issued ID Card (if applicable and unexpired)
School ID with Photo (often accepted as a secondary ID, but can sometimes serve as primary if it has a photo and is officially issued)
Birth Certificate (official, certified copy - often a primary ID for younger minors)
Secondary Identification (Non-photo ID, or another form of primary ID):
Social Security Card
Birth Certificate (if not used as primary)
Another form of primary ID listed above (e.g., if you have a passport, you could use a state ID as secondary)
Student ID Card with Photo (if not used as primary)
Important Note: All documents must be original and unexpired. Photocopies are generally not accepted.
Sub-heading: Documents for the Parent/Legal Guardian (Co-owner)
The parent or legal guardian will need to provide their standard identification and proof of address.
Primary Identification (Photo ID):
Unexpired Government-issued Photo ID (e.g., U.S. Driver's License, State ID, U.S. Passport, Foreign Passport with U.S. Visa)
Secondary Identification (Non-photo ID, or another form of primary ID):
Social Security Card
Another primary ID not used
Proof of Address (Current within 30-60 days):
Utility bill (electric, gas, water, internet)
Lease agreement or mortgage statement
Bank statement from another financial institution
Credit card statement
Vehicle registration
Sub-heading: Additional Considerations for Documents
Social Security Number (SSN): Both the minor and the parent/guardian will need to provide their SSN or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) for tax reporting purposes.
Proof of Student Status (for College Checking, not strictly High School Checking): While not typically required for High School Checking, if the minor is 17 and applying for a College Checking account, proof of enrollment (student ID, transcript, acceptance letter) might be needed.
Initial Deposit: While Chase High School Checking does not have a minimum opening deposit requirement, it's a good idea to bring some cash or a check for an initial deposit to start building up the account.
Step 3: Schedule an Appointment at a Chase Branch
Since minor accounts generally cannot be opened online, visiting a physical Chase branch is essential. Scheduling an appointment is highly recommended to avoid long wait times and ensure a banker is available to assist you.
Sub-heading: How to Schedule Your Appointment
Visit the Chase Website: Go to the official Chase website (chase.com).
Find "Schedule an Appointment": Look for a link or button that says "Schedule an Appointment" or "Find a Branch." This is usually found in the "Customer Service" or "Locate Us" sections.
Enter Your Location: Input your ZIP code or city and state to find the nearest Chase branches.
Select "New Account Opening": When prompted, choose the reason for your visit. Select something like "Open a New Account" or "Student/Youth Banking."
Choose a Date and Time: Select a date and time that works for both the minor and the parent/guardian.
Provide Contact Information: Enter your name, phone number, and email. You might also be able to add a note indicating that you're opening a minor account.
Sub-heading: What to Expect at the Branch
Be On Time: Arrive a few minutes before your scheduled appointment.
Bring All Documents: Have all the required identification and proof of address for both the minor and the parent/guardian readily accessible.
Be Prepared to Sign: Both the minor and the parent/guardian will need to sign various documents to open the account.
Ask Questions: This is your opportunity to ask any questions you have about the account, fees (though High School Checking has none), online banking, debit card usage, and parental controls.
Step 4: The Account Opening Process at the Branch
Once you're at the branch, a Chase banker will guide you through the application process. This is where all your preparation from Step 2 comes into play!
Sub-heading: The Application Form
The banker will provide an application form. You (the parent/guardian) will be filling out the primary details, and the minor's information will be included as a joint account holder.
Personal Information: You'll provide names, addresses, Social Security Numbers, and dates of birth for both the minor and the parent/guardian.
Contact Information: Phone numbers and email addresses.
Account Type: Confirm you are opening the Chase High School Checking℠ account.
Link to Parent's Account: The banker will verify and link the minor's account to the qualifying Chase checking account of the parent/guardian. This is crucial for fee waivers and parental oversight.
Sub-heading: Identity Verification
The banker will review and verify all the identification documents you brought. They may make copies for their records. This step is essential for compliance with banking regulations (Know Your Customer - KYC).
Sub-heading: Initial Deposit (Optional for High School Checking)
While not strictly required for Chase High School Checking, it's a great habit to start with an initial deposit. You can deposit cash or a check. This helps the minor immediately see funds in their new account.
Sub-heading: Understanding Account Features and Controls
The banker will explain the features of the High School Checking account, including:
Debit Card: The minor will receive a debit card in their name. Discuss how it works, spending limits (if any you wish to set with the banker's help), and ATM access.
Online and Mobile Banking: Both the minor (if aged 13+) and the parent/guardian can enroll in Chase Online Banking and use the Chase Mobile® app to monitor the account, view transactions, and manage settings. This is a huge benefit for teaching financial literacy.
No Monthly Service Fee: Reiterate that this account has no monthly fee as long as the parent/guardian's qualifying Chase checking account is linked.
Automatic Conversion: Explain that the account will automatically convert to a Chase Total Checking® account when the minor turns 19. This is an important transition to be aware of.
Parental Oversight: Understand how the parent/guardian can monitor activity, set alerts, and potentially manage aspects of the account through their own Chase online banking.
Sub-heading: Signing the Agreements
Both the minor and the parent/guardian will need to sign the account agreement, acknowledging the terms and conditions. Read through these documents carefully and ask if anything is unclear.
Step 5: Activating and Managing the Account
Congratulations! You've successfully opened a Chase bank account for a minor. Now it's time to put it to good use and start building those essential financial skills.
Sub-heading: Activating Your Debit Card
Call the Number: The debit card will usually arrive in the mail within 7-10 business days. Once it arrives, follow the instructions on the sticker to activate it by calling the provided phone number.
Set a PIN: You'll be prompted to set a Personal Identification Number (PIN) for ATM withdrawals and debit card purchases. Encourage the minor to memorize their PIN and keep it confidential.
Sub-heading: Enrolling in Online and Mobile Banking
Parent's Online Account: The parent/guardian will manage their access through their existing Chase Online Banking profile. The minor's account will be visible there.
Minor's Online Access: For minors aged 13 and up, they can enroll in Chase Online Banking and download the Chase Mobile® app. This is crucial for them to track their own spending, check balances, and learn to manage their money digitally.
Visit chase.com and click "Set up online access" or "Enroll."
Follow the prompts to create a username and password. You'll need the account number and the minor's SSN.
Download the Chase Mobile® app for easy access on a smartphone.
Sub-heading: Setting Up Alerts and Controls (Parent/Guardian)
Chase's mobile and online banking platforms offer excellent tools for parents to monitor and guide their minor's financial journey.
Account Alerts: Set up alerts for low balances, large transactions, or specific types of spending. This helps both you and your child stay informed.
Spending Limits: While the High School Checking account doesn't have built-in spending limits like Chase First Banking, you can have conversations with your teen about responsible spending and monitor their activity.
Goal Setting: Encourage your child to set savings goals within the app (if applicable) or simply by tracking their progress towards a larger purchase.
Sub-heading: Ongoing Financial Education
Opening the account is just the beginning. Consistent financial education is key.
Regular Check-ins: Sit down with your child regularly to review their transactions, discuss their spending habits, and help them understand their balance.
Budgeting Basics: Introduce simple budgeting concepts. How much money comes in? How much goes out? What are their needs versus wants?
Saving for Goals: Encourage them to save a portion of any money they receive towards specific goals, whether it's a new gadget, a trip, or college.
Understanding Interest (for savings accounts): If they also have a Chase Savings account, explain how interest works and how their money can grow over time.
Security: Emphasize the importance of keeping their debit card and PIN secure, being wary of scams, and never sharing personal banking information.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How to open a Chase bank account for a minor online?
Quick Answer: Generally, you cannot open a Chase bank account for a minor (like Chase High School Checking or Chase First Banking) entirely online. Both the minor and the parent/legal guardian are required to be present at a Chase branch to complete the account opening process.
How to find out which Chase account is best for my child?
Quick Answer: Chase offers Chase First Banking for younger children (ages 6-17, but designed for 6-12 with strong parental controls) and Chase High School Checking℠ for teens (ages 13-17) who are ready for more independence. Consider your child's age, maturity, and the level of parental oversight you desire.
How to prepare for opening a Chase minor bank account?
Quick Answer: Prepare by gathering all necessary identification documents for both the minor (birth certificate, SSN, photo ID) and the parent/guardian (photo ID, SSN, proof of address), and schedule an appointment at your local Chase branch.
How to qualify for a Chase High School Checking account?
Quick Answer: The minor must be 13-17 years old, and a parent or legal guardian must be a co-owner and have a qualifying existing Chase personal checking account linked to the High School Checking account. Both must be present at a branch.
How to make deposits into a minor's Chase bank account?
Quick Answer: Deposits can be made in person at a Chase branch, at a Chase ATM, or through mobile deposit via the Chase Mobile® app (if enabled for the specific account type). Parents can also transfer funds from their linked Chase account.
How to monitor a minor's Chase bank account?
Quick Answer: As the parent/guardian co-owner, you can monitor the minor's account activity, set up alerts, and view transactions through your own Chase Online Banking and the Chase Mobile® app. For Chase First Banking, parents have extensive control over spending limits and chores.
How to use the debit card for a minor's Chase account?
Quick Answer: The minor's debit card can be used for purchases anywhere Visa is accepted and for cash withdrawals at ATMs. It's linked directly to the account balance, helping the minor learn to manage their funds.
How to avoid monthly fees on a Chase minor account?
Quick Answer: The Chase High School Checking℠ account generally has no monthly service fee as long as it's linked to the parent/guardian's qualifying Chase personal checking account. Chase First Banking also has no monthly service fee.
How to handle a Chase minor account when the child turns 18 or 19?
Quick Answer: The Chase High School Checking account will automatically convert to a Chase Total Checking® account when the minor turns 19. For Chase First Banking, Chase may recommend the child open their own account when they turn 18. At this point, the account terms and potential fees will change to those of an adult account.
How to get help if I have questions about a Chase minor account?
Quick Answer: You can visit any Chase branch, call Chase customer service, or utilize the extensive resources and FAQs available on the official Chase website.
