Getting a debit card for a minor is an excellent way to teach them financial responsibility and money management early on. Whether you’re looking to help your child manage an allowance, save for a goal, or learn how to spend wisely, here’s a guide to getting a debit card for a minor.
1. Understand the Requirements
Minors (under 18) cannot typically open a bank account or get a debit card independently due to legal restrictions. Instead, a parent or legal guardian must open a joint account or set up a minor-friendly account with their name linked to it.
Key Requirements:
- Parent or Guardian Consent: A legal adult must oversee the account.
- Identification Documents: You’ll need valid identification for both the parent and the minor, such as passports or birth certificates.
- Proof of Address: Utility bills or government-issued letters may be required for verification.
2. Choose the Right Bank or Financial Institution
Not all banks offer accounts or debit cards for minors. Here are popular options:
Traditional Banks:
- Chase First Banking: Specifically for kids, with parental controls.
- Wells Fargo Teen Checking: Available for ages 13-17 with an adult co-owner.
- Bank of America Advantage SafeBalance: Allows minors to have a debit card under a parent’s supervision.
Online-Only Banks and Fintech Apps:
- Revolut <18: Designed for kids aged 6-17 with educational tools and spending controls.
- Greenlight: Offers robust parental controls and financial literacy tools.
- GoHenry: Includes features for chore management and money tracking.
- FamZoo: Focuses on budgeting and saving while involving the whole family.
3. Open the Account
Once you’ve selected the right provider, follow these steps:
In-Person Process:
- Visit a branch of the chosen bank.
- Submit required documents (IDs, proof of address, etc.).
- Choose the account type and request a linked debit card for the minor.
Online Process:
- Many modern providers, like Revolut <18 or Greenlight, allow you to sign up online.
- Download the app or visit their website.
- Complete the registration, including uploading required documentation.
- Link your bank account or card for funding.
4. Set Up Parental Controls
For minors, safety and oversight are essential. Most debit cards for kids come with parental control features, including:
- Setting spending limits.
- Tracking transactions in real-time.
- Restricting specific types of spending (e.g., online shopping).
- Blocking or freezing the card instantly if lost.
5. Teach Money Management Skills
A debit card isn’t just a tool for spending—it’s an opportunity to teach important financial lessons. Use the card to:
- Discuss budgeting: Help your child allocate funds for savings, spending, and donations.
- Encourage saving: Set goals for bigger purchases to develop delayed gratification.
- Monitor spending: Review transactions together to build accountability.
Popular Debit Card Options for Minors
| Provider | Age Requirement | Key Features | Website |
|---|---|---|---|
| Revolut <18 | 6-17 | Spending controls, savings tools, and instant transfers. | Revolut <18 |
| Greenlight | 8-18 | Parental controls, financial literacy lessons. | Greenlight |
| GoHenry | 6-18 | Customizable cards, chore tracking, spending notifications. | GoHenry |
| FamZoo | All Ages | Prepaid cards, budgeting tools, and family finance lessons. | FamZoo |
6. Activate and Use the Debit Card
Once the account and card are set up, activate the card (usually through an app or phone call). Load funds into the account, and explain how the card works, including:
- Using a PIN for purchases.
- Avoiding overdraft fees.
- Keeping the card secure.
Final Thoughts
A debit card for a minor is more than just a convenience; it’s a stepping stone to financial independence. By choosing the right provider and instilling good habits early, you’re setting your child up for a lifetime of financial success.
Whether you go with a traditional bank or a modern fintech option like Revolut <18, make sure to prioritize safety, parental controls, and educational opportunities.
FAQs About Debit Cards for Minors
1. Can a Minor Apply for a Debit Card?
No, minors cannot independently apply for a debit card. Financial institutions typically require a parent or legal guardian to open a joint account or a custodial account on behalf of the minor. This ensures a responsible adult oversees the account and the associated debit card.
2. Does Bank of America Have Debit Cards for Minors?
Yes, Bank of America offers debit cards for minors through their Advantage SafeBalance Banking account. This account is available to individuals under 18 but requires a parent or guardian as a co-owner. The debit card is linked to the account and provides spending capabilities with overdraft prevention features.
3. Does Chase Offer Debit Cards for Minors?
Yes, Chase provides debit cards for minors through its Chase First Banking program. This account is designed specifically for kids aged 6-17, offering parental controls to monitor and set spending limits. The parent must have a Chase checking account to open a Chase First Banking account for their child.
4. Does Wells Fargo Have Debit Cards for Minors?
Yes, Wells Fargo offers debit cards for minors through its Wells Fargo Teen Checking account. This account is available for teens aged 13-17 and requires a parent or legal guardian to be a co-owner. It includes spending limits and parental oversight features.
5. Can I Get a Bank of America Debit Card for My Child?
Yes, you can get a debit card for your child through Bank of America. You’ll need to open an Advantage SafeBalance Banking account jointly with your child. This account is specifically designed for students or younger individuals under 18 and comes with a debit card. The account requires a parent or guardian as a co-owner to ensure proper oversight.
6. Can a 14-Year-Old Get a Debit Card at U.S. Bank?
Yes, a 14-year-old can get a debit card through U.S. Bank’s Student Checking Account. This account is available to teens aged 13-17 and requires a parent or legal guardian to open the account as a co-owner. Once the account is set up, the teen can access a U.S. Bank Visa® Debit Card to manage their spending.
7. Can I Get a Debit Card as a Minor?
Yes, but only with the involvement of a parent or legal guardian. Minors cannot independently apply for a debit card. Most banks allow minors to have a debit card if their parent or guardian opens a joint or custodial account on their behalf. These accounts ensure financial oversight and include features like spending limits and parental controls.
8. How Do I Open a Bank Account for a Minor at Bank of America?
To open a bank account for a minor at Bank of America:
- Visit a Branch or Apply Online: You can start the process online or visit a Bank of America branch.
- Provide Required Documentation: Bring the minor’s Social Security Number (SSN), a government-issued ID for both the minor and parent (e.g., passport or school ID), and proof of address.
- Select the Account: Choose the Advantage SafeBalance Banking account, which is designed for younger individuals.
- Link a Parent’s Account: The parent or guardian must act as a co-owner of the account.
- Fund the Account: Make the initial deposit required to open the account.
Once the account is set up, your child will receive a debit card linked to the account.
9. Can a 12-Year-Old Get a Debit Card at Bank of America?
Yes, a 12-year-old can get a debit card through a Bank of America Advantage SafeBalance Banking account. However, the account must be jointly owned by a parent or legal guardian, who will manage and oversee the account. The debit card issued will be linked to this account, allowing the minor to make purchases while ensuring parental control.
10. What Are Bank of America Minor Account Requirements?
To open a minor account at Bank of America, the following requirements must be met:
- Age: Minors must be under 18 years old.
- Parent or Guardian: The account must be co-owned by a parent or legal guardian.
- Documentation:
- Minor’s Social Security Number (SSN).
- A valid government-issued ID for both the minor and parent/guardian (e.g., passport, school ID).
- Proof of address (utility bill or lease agreement) for the parent or guardian.
- Initial Deposit: The account may require a small initial deposit, depending on the specific account type.
11. Can a 13-Year-Old Get a Debit Card at Bank of America?
Yes, a 13-year-old can get a debit card at Bank of America by opening a joint Advantage SafeBalance Banking account with a parent or legal guardian. This account is suitable for teenagers, and the debit card can be used for purchases and ATM withdrawals under the supervision of the co-owner.
12. Can a 16-Year-Old Open a Bank Account at Bank of America?
Yes, a 16-year-old can open a bank account at Bank of America, but they will still need a parent or legal guardian to co-own the account. The process involves opening a Bank of America Advantage SafeBalance Banking account, which provides a debit card and access to online and mobile banking. The parent or guardian retains financial oversight until the minor turns 18.
