STUDENTS

Is My Child Ready for a Checking Account?

As a parent, your child has always looked to you for all of life’s most important lessons. You’ve been there for everything, from tying shoes and riding bikes to teaching kindness and responsibility. Now, as they grow, they’ll look to you again for guidance on one of the most valuable life skills: managing money wisely.

Opening a checking account for your child can be a powerful way to teach real-world financial habits. But how do you know when it’s the right time to open a checking account? If you’ve ever asked yourself, “Is my child ready yet?”, you’re not the only one!

Here is a quick guide to help you recognize when it’s time to start the conversation about money and how to open a checking account that sets your child up for success.

young family teaching their two kids about saving money in piggy bank
4
Published 
08/12/2025
•
Written by 
AbbyBank

Signs Your Child Might Be Ready for a Checking Account

Every child is different, so it can be hard to know exactly when to begin discussing good money habits. As a general guideline, here are a few indicators that it may be time to start the conversation:

  • They receive a regular allowance or income from a part-time job
  • They’re asking questions about how bank accounts, debit cards, or online payments work
  • They’ve shown responsibility with schoolwork, chores, or saving in a piggy bank
  • They already use a debit card or mobile wallet with your supervision

If your child checks one or more of these boxes, it could be the perfect time to open a youth checking account and help them build smart money habits early.

Learn More About Youth Checking Accounts

Related: How to Set Your Children Up for Financial Success

Why Opening a Checking Account is a Good Idea

Giving your child access to a checking account can teach essential life skills such as:

  • How to budget and track spending
  • The importance of avoiding overdraft fees
  • How to manage digital banking tools like online and mobile banking

Plus, giving them responsibility for an account now can build confidence and a sense of independence. Over time, this often leads to better money habits and smarter spending.

Open a Bright Future Checking Account

Related: Giving Kids a Credit Card: Why Building Credit Now is Important

About AbbyBank’s Bright Future Checking Account

If you’re thinking that opening a checking account for your child might be a smart move, you’re in luck! AbbyBank offers Bright Future Checking Accounts, designed specifically for kids and their parents.

Here’s what you can expect:

And when your child turns 18? Their Bright Future account automatically transitions into an eChecking account, so they can keep the same features (and bank) they’ve come to trust.

Have Questions? Contact Your Local AbbyBank Personal Banker

It’s About More Than Banking

Helping your child open their first checking account isn’t just a milestone, it’s an opportunity to teach them financial confidence. With support from AbbyBank and the right tools in hand, they’ll learn to manage money in a way that empowers them for life.

Ready to get started? Learn more about our Bright Future Checking Account and take the next step today!

Start the Conversation



Back to All Posts



young woman in blue cap and gown for college graduation
05/20/2024

Financial Wellness for Graduates: Navigating Post-College Life