How Old Do You Have to Be to Get a Debit Card?

A debit card, linked directly to a bank account, allows individuals to make purchases and withdraw cash from ATMs. It functions by deducting funds directly from the associated checking account, unlike a credit card which involves borrowing money. Understanding the age requirements for obtaining a debit card is important for personal finance.

General Age Requirements

In the United States, an individual must be at least 18 years old to open a checking account and obtain a debit card independently. This age requirement is primarily due to legal principles; individuals under 18 are generally considered minors and lack the legal capacity to enter into binding contracts, such as those required for opening a bank account. The legal age for independent financial agreements remains consistent across the country.

Obtaining a Debit Card for a Minor

Minors typically cannot open a bank account or get a debit card on their own due to the legal age of contract. However, there are established methods for a minor to obtain a debit card with adult involvement. The most common approach is through a joint checking account, where a parent or legal guardian is a co-owner. This setup allows the minor to have a debit card linked to the account while the adult maintains oversight and legal responsibility.

Some financial institutions also offer specialized “teen” or “student” checking accounts, which are usually structured as joint accounts. For opening such accounts, both the minor and the adult typically need to provide documentation. This generally includes Social Security numbers for both individuals, a government-issued photo ID for the adult, and proof of address. The minor’s birth certificate or school ID may also be required to verify their identity and age.

Custodial accounts, such as Uniform Gifts to Minors Act (UGMA) or Uniform Transfers to Minors Act (UTMA) accounts, are another option. While these accounts are primarily for holding assets for a minor, they can sometimes include debit card access, though they are less commonly used for everyday spending compared to joint checking accounts. The adult, acting as custodian, manages the funds until the minor reaches the age of majority, which is typically 18 or 21, depending on state law.

Features of Debit Cards for Minors

Debit cards issued to minors include features and limitations for responsible spending and parental control. Banks frequently implement daily or weekly spending limits on these cards, which can be set by the financial institution or customized by the parent. These limits help prevent overspending and teach budgeting. ATM withdrawal limits are also common, restricting the amount of cash a minor can access.

Overdraft protection is typically absent or explicitly disabled for minor accounts. This means transactions exceeding the available balance are usually declined, preventing a negative balance and overdraft fees. Many accounts for minors include parental monitoring features, such as transaction alerts via text or email, and online access for parents to view account activity in real time. These controls allow adults to oversee the minor’s financial habits and intervene if necessary.