Yes, you can open a Bank of America account at 17, but with limits

Bank of America allows 17-year-olds to open a checking or savings account, but you will need a parent or guardian to co-own it with you. The account will be a minor account, which means the adult is the legal owner and has full access to the money and account activity. You cannot open an account entirely in your own name until you turn 18.

The specific rules depend on which state you live in. Most states treat 17-year-olds as minors for banking purposes, but a few states have different age thresholds. Bank of America follows your state's rules, so the process is the same whether you are 17 or younger — you just need an adult present.

Key Takeaways

  • A 17-year-old can open a Bank of America account only with a parent or guardian as a co-owner on the account.
  • The adult co-owner has full legal control of the account and can see all transactions and balances.
  • You will need a government-issued ID (like a school ID or state ID), and your parent or guardian will need their ID and Social Security number.
  • You can open the account in person at a Bank of America branch or through some online options, depending on your state.
  • Once you turn 18, you can convert the account to your own name or open a separate account without a co-owner.

What documents you need to bring

Both you and your parent or guardian will need to bring identification to the Bank of America branch. You will need a government-issued photo ID — a state ID, driver's license, school ID, or passport all work. Your parent or guardian will need their government-issued photo ID and their Social Security number.

Bank of America may also ask for proof of address, such as a utility bill or lease in the adult's name. Bring your Social Security number as well, though you can sometimes provide it verbally at the branch. Call your local Bank of America branch ahead of time to confirm what they want you to bring, since requirements can vary slightly by location.

Opening the account in person versus online

The easiest route for a 17-year-old is to open the account in person at a Bank of America branch with your parent or guardian. Both of you will meet with a banker, show your IDs, and sign the paperwork together. This usually takes 15 to 30 minutes, and the account can be active the same day or within one business day.

Some states allow minors to open accounts online through Bank of America's website, but this is not available everywhere. If you want to try online, you will still need your parent or guardian to verify their identity and consent. The safest approach is to visit a branch in person — you will know when ready whether the account is open, and a banker can answer questions about how the account works.

What you can and cannot do with a minor account

As the minor account holder, you can deposit money, withdraw cash at ATMs, use a debit card, and check your balance. You can also set up direct deposit if your employer needs to send your paycheck to the account. However, your parent or guardian can see every transaction you make and can withdraw money from the account at any time.

Some activities require the adult's permission or presence. For example, if you want to close the account, transfer large amounts of money, or change account settings, the adult co-owner may need to be involved. The exact rules depend on how Bank of America sets up the account, so ask the banker about what requires permission before you leave the branch.

Fees and account types for minors

Bank of America offers a Teen Checking account designed for minors, which has different rules than a regular checking account. Teen Checking typically has no monthly maintenance fee, no minimum balance requirement, and comes with a debit card. The account is still co-owned by an adult, but it is set up specifically for younger account holders.

Bank of America also offers regular checking and savings accounts for minors, which may have different fees or features. Compare Teen Checking with the regular options by asking a banker or checking the Bank of America website. The account type you choose does not change the fact that an adult must co-own it — it only affects fees, features, and how the account works day-to-day.

What happens when you turn 18

When you turn 18, you have options. You can keep the same account and remove your parent or guardian as a co-owner, converting it to an account in your name alone. You can also open a new account in your own name and transfer the money over. Bank of America will not automatically change anything — you will need to contact the bank and request the change.

Visit a branch or call Bank of America to discuss your options when you are close to turning 18. Some accounts convert automatically, while others require you to sign new paperwork. Starting the conversation a few weeks before your birthday gives you time to decide which account type works best for you as an adult.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I open a Bank of America account at 17 without a parent or guardian?

No. Bank of America requires a parent or guardian to co-own any account opened by someone under 18. The adult must be present in person at the branch and will have full access to the account.

What if my parent or guardian does not want to co-own the account?

You will not be able to open a Bank of America account until you turn 18. Some credit unions or online banks may have different rules, so you could ask your parent or guardian to help you research other options.

Can I use my school ID as proof of identity?

Many Bank of America branches accept school IDs, but it depends on the branch and whether your school ID has your photo and date of birth. Call ahead to confirm, or bring a backup ID like a state ID or passport to be safe.

Will my parent or guardian see my transactions?

Yes. As the co-owner, your parent or guardian can see all deposits, withdrawals, and transfers. They can also withdraw money from the account without your permission. This is a legal requirement for minor accounts.

Can I have a debit card with a minor account?

Yes. Teen Checking and most minor checking accounts come with a debit card. You can use it to make purchases and withdraw cash at ATMs, just like an adult debit card.