Checking account? How old do you have to be to open one?

Do you have to be 18 to open a checking account? Also, which bank doesn't have a minimum account balance?
Checking account? How old do you have to be to open one?
I asked Wells Fargo. They said that you can have a checking account and a debit card at any age. But if you are under 18, your parents have to be on the account.


Many banks do not have a minimum balance, but you must be careful. They can charge you fees which eat up your money. It is smart to get an account with a minimum balance but pay no fees. With today's low interest rates, banks make much of their profit on the fees..
Reply:I would check out a credit union. They typically have free checking accounts. Some of them even pay interest. You do have to be 18 to open an account on your own but you can open a joint account with someone who is over 18 and reap the same rewards.


Just a couple things to keep in mind





KEEP A CHECK REGISTER! Please! Failing to do so can result in hundreds of dollars in overdraft fees.





A good idea would be to also open a savings account to use as overdraft protection.





Be aware of check hold policies.





Do not draw your account negative. In the event you do, you are responsible for paying it back. The financial institution reserves the right to close your account if it happens frequently or in large amounts. If this happens it will be extremely difficult for you to get another checking account anywhere else for a period of up to a year and you are still responsible for paying the money back.





Good luck!
Reply:I would check out a local credit union. Sometimes they have programs for minors with jobs. The local one where I live has a completely free account if you also have a savings account with them.





No matter what, do some comparison shopping before picking one.
Reply:all banks are 18 and older. you can get your parents to open a joint account with you if your a minor