What kind of bank account should I apply for before I'm 18?

Question

I am currently due payment from my Employer as I have no yet been able to work out which option is best for me in terms of banking. I am currently 17 however by the end of August will be turning 18 so I'm struggling to come up with the best solution to my problem.

I want an account where I can easily manage and control my money usage. As I'm basically all alone in terms of family support when it comes to new things as I've moved nearly 500 miles to work for my employer on my own.

I want the account to be a Debit Card so I can use for online shopping as that's where I do most of my food shop. I have an account at the moment which is a "Cirus" but it only allows me to take money from ATMs not actually use it online or in shops.

The main reason I'm asking is I don't want to walk into the bank entirely clueless on what I should be looking for.

Thanks for any help in advance.

Answer 1

Based on your situation, I'd say wait until your 18 then just go to your local bank and open up a free checking account.

Answer 2

YESTERDAY I GOT THE CHASE HIGH SCHOOL CHECKING ACCOUNT FOR THOSE 13-17. IT IS LINKED TO A PARENTS ACCOUNT. MY PACKAGE COMES WITH A VISA CHECK CARD. THERE ARE NO SERVICE FEES. ALL THE RULES APPLY WITH THIS ACCOUNT EXCEPT IF YOU OVERDRAFT IT IS TAKEN FROM YOUR PARENTS. SO BE CAREFUL. IT CONVERTS TO A FREE CHECKING ACCOUNT WHEN YOU TURN 19.

http://www.chase.com/ccp/index.jsp?pg_na...