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They’re never too young to save.
In a younger child’s life, money is likely an allowance, a reward, or a gift from a relative. That’s how you know: it’s time to start the conversation about smart money habits.
Open a savings account and get your child excited about setting money aside for a rainy day. The banking basics you teach now can lead to financial confidence later. Set up an appointment today at any of our branch locations by clicking here.
A savings account for children as they learn banking basics.
Our interest -bearing savings account for children under 13 gives a parent or guardian access and visibility into transactions. Transfer funds easily and make withdrawals as needed.
Additional features include:
- Secure online and mobile access to accounts*
- Ability to set alerts to monitor activity
- FDIC insured accounts
*Online and mobile banking terms and conditions will apply; Messaging and data rates may apply.
Savings education tips: Help for parents, a guide for kids.
Explaining money to young minds who might want to buy every toy they see isn’t easy. We’re here to help with tips and fun ways to get kids excited about saving.
Take a look at some of our helpful tips:
Children Savings Account FAQs
For the Child
Can a child open an account without parents?
A child can only open a savings or CD account, not a checking account. Minors between the ages of 14 and 17 can have a single-party savings account or certificate of deposit. Customer Identification Program verification requirements must be met with no exceptions to obtaining a valid photo identification, such as a driver’s license, passport, or state identification card. Minors aged 14+ should sign the Signature Card on their behalf (if in a Maine branch, the minor should also initial on their behalf). Minors between the ages of 14-17 can have a checking account as long as a parent or legal guardian is on the account with them.
Can parents see what’s happening in the account?
If they are joint owners, yes, they can see what’s happening on the account and have equal access to the account as the minor.
Do I have to come to the bank with my parents to deposit checks into my account?
No, you do not need to bring your parent to deposit a check into your account. Mobile Deposit and the deposit functionality of your ATM/debit card is disabled until you turn 18, so the deposit would have to happen at the branch.
For Parents or Guardians
What is required to set up my child’s account?
If your account holder is under the age of 18, you’ll have to come into one of our local Kennebunk savings branches together. Be sure to have your child bring any identification they have available, such as driver’s license, passport, or student I.D. As the parent or guardian, you must provide unexpired identification. We’ll sit down with you and get started.
Can I just set up the account online?
Unfortunately, you can’t open an account with a minor through our online platform. You have to go to a branch.
Will I (as a parent or guardian) have access to the account?
Yes. If you are a joint owner on the account, yes, you can see what’s happening on the account and have equal access to the account as the minor
Do I need to be a Kennebunk Savings account holder?
No, the parent or guardian doesn’t need to be an established customer.
Does my child need to keep a minimum amount of money in the savings account?
Yes, your child needs to keep a minimum of $1.00 in the account to prevent it from closing and conduct activity at least once a year (deposit or withdrawal) to keep the account from becoming inactive.
What happens to a minor’s account once they turn 18?
Parents or guardians can be removed or leave the account as-is. Mobile deposit will activate at this time.
Still have questions?
We’re here for you. Give us a call at 1-800-339-6573 or set up an appointment to meet with us.