Bank accounts for 16 and 17 year olds

At this age, part time or summer jobs may start to appeal to many 16 and 17 year olds. Opening a bank account will provide somewhere safe and practical to get wages paid into.

Read our guide to learn more about bank accounts for young people and what you need to open one.

Can a 16 year old apply for a bank account?

Can a 16 year old apply for a bank account without parents?

What do you need to open a bank account for a 16 year old?

As a parent, can I open a bank account for my 16 year old?

What bank account can a 16 year old have?

Will my 16 year old need a credit score to open a bank account?

Important things to remember

Can a 16 year old apply for a bank account?

Yes, a 16 year old can apply for a bank account. However, the specific requirements vary from bank to bank. Some banks may require a parent or guardian to co-sign the account, while others may allow 16 year olds to open their own accounts independently.

Can a 16 year old apply for a bank account without parents?

In some cases, a 16 year old may be able to open a bank account without a parent or guardian. This is usually only possible if the 16 year old can provide proof of identity and address.

What do you need to open a bank account for a 16 year old?

The specific requirements for opening a bank account for a 16 year old vary from bank to bank. However, most banks will require the following:

• Proof of identity: Usually a passport, national identity card or birth certificate
• Proof of address: This could be a UK full or provisional photo card driving licence (if you’re not using this as proof of ID). For under 18s, some banks may also accept an NHS medical card / letter, HMRC / Job Centre letter confirming issue of National Insurance number, current child benefit letter or a professional reference from a person in a position of responsibility dated within the last 3 months.

As a parent, can I open a bank account for my 16 year old?

Yes, you may be able to open a bank account for your 16 year old. This may be an option if you want to help your child learn about money management. However, the bank will usually need the consent of your child, and they may need to come with you at the time of account opening.

What bank account can a 16 year old have?

There are a number of different bank accounts that may be available to 16 year olds. Some options include:

• Junior/young person’s accounts: These accounts are designed for children and young people under the age of 18. They typically offer free banking and limited features
• Current accounts: Current accounts are the most common type of bank account. They may offer a wider range of features than junior accounts, such as online banking and the option to set up Direct Debits
• Basic bank accounts: These bank accounts are usually for people with no credit history or low credit scores, but may also be available to young people.

Will my 16 year old need a credit score to open a bank account?

No, your 16 year old will not need a credit score to open a bank account. Young people under the age of 18 usually don’t have a credit report or credit score as minors legally can’t sign a contract for a loan or credit card.

Important things to remember

When opening a bank account for a 16 year old, there are a few important things to remember:

• If you want or need more parental control, a prepaid card for under 18s may be more suitable. These often come with mobile apps, one for the child and one for the parent, to help monitor spending and view transactions
• Talk to your child about money: It is important to talk to your child about money and finance. This will help them understand the importance of saving and budgeting
• Features: Some banks offer additional features with their bank accounts, such as online banking, mobile banking, and contactless payments. Be sure to choose an account that has the features you need.

Opening a bank account for a 16 year old is a great way to help them learn about money management and financial responsibility. By comparing different options and choosing the right account for your child, you can help them get a head start on their financial future.

See all our bank accounts here