Introduction
I recently started looking for a brokerage to set up an account for my kids.
It was difficult sorting through all the information, but I found what I was looking for and decided to share. For minors (under age 17 in the U.S.) who want to invest in Bitcoin, there are three platforms that allow accounts under the supervision of a parent or guardian.
Body
1. EarlyBird
- EarlyBird gives minors a custodial crypto wallet, where a parent or guardian controls the account until the minor is old enough to take over.
- Key Features: Easy to use and has tools to help minors learn about cryptocurrency.
- Available on: Mobile apps for iOS and Android.
- Age Requirement: For minors, with a parent managing the account.
2. Stack
-Stack platform lets teens do the actual investing in cryptocurrencies.
- Offers access to over 30 cryptocurrencies, fun learning tools, and rewards for making smart investments.
- Parents must co-own the account and approve funding.
- It is a monthly subscription service.
- Designed for teens aged 13–17.
UNEst
An adult Manages the Money: UNest uses a special type of account where an adult, usually a parent, takes care of the money for the child.
- This adult manages the account until the child becomes an adult themselves (at age 18 or 21, depending on where you live).
- Once they're an adult, the child gets full control of the money.
- Money for Anything: Unlike some other savings plans that are only for college, the money saved in UNest can be used by the child for any important purpose once they take control – like college, buying a home, starting a business, or even travel.
These Popular Brokers Don’t Offer Minor Accounts
I checked these popular platforms, and they don’t offer custodial accounts for minors:
- Coinbase: Does not offer custodial accounts for minors. Parents can buy crypto for their child, but the child can’t have their own account.
- Fidelity: Allows crypto trading but does not have custodial accounts for minors.
- Robinhood: Lets minors trade stocks with parental consent, but not cryptocurrency.
Platform Comparison
Here’s a breakdown of the three brokerages offering accounts for minors and who they’re best for:
EarlyBird
- Type: Custodial account for minors
- Crypto Support: Bitcoin & Ethereum
- Parental Involvement: Parents have full control until the minor reaches the legal age
- Educational Features: Limited; focuses on gifting and long-term savings
- User Experience: Simple mobile app, easy to use
- Fees: Approximately $3/month, with possible investment fees
- Age Range: 0–17 (with parent/guardian control)
- Extras: Allows family and friends to contribute gifts
Stack
- Type: Teen-focused crypto platform
- Crypto Support: 30+ cryptocurrencies, including Bitcoin
- Parental Involvement: Co-owned by a parent, who approves funding
- Educational Features: Strong educational tools, gamified learning, and rewards for smart investing
- User Experience: Interactive, gamified app designed for teens
- Fees: Around $3/month subscription
- Age Range: 13–17
- Extras: Rewards system for responsible investing
UNEst
An adult Manages the Money: UNest uses a special type of account where an adult, usually a parent, takes care of the money for the child.
- This adult manages the account until the child becomes an adult themselves (at age 18 or 21, depending on where you live).
- Once they're an adult, the child gets full control of the money.
- Money for Anything: Unlike some other savings plans that are only for college, the money saved in UNest can be used by the child for any important purpose once they take control – like college, buying a home, starting a business, or even travel.
Summary
Last Words
- EarlyBird is a great choice for a simple crypto savings account for a young child.
- Stack is ideal for a teenager who wants to learn about and actively invest in crypto.
- BYDFi is best for a more advanced teen trader with strong parental supervision.
Each platform has its strengths:
- If education is important, Stack stands out.
- If you want a simple and safe way to save, EarlyBird is a solid option.
- For more experienced teens, BYDFi offers more features—but also more risk.