Yes, but with a parent or guardian
You can open a checking account at 17, but most banks require a parent or guardian to co-own the account with you. This means they have full access to the account and can see all transactions. Some banks call this a joint account or a youth account. The adult on the account is legally responsible for it, which is why banks require their presence.
A few banks offer accounts for minors without a co-owner, but these are less common and often come with restrictions — like limits on how much you can withdraw per day or how many transactions you can make per month. The rules vary by bank, so you will need to call or visit in person to find out what each one offers.
The reason banks do this is straightforward: you cannot sign a legal contract until you turn 18. A checking account is a contract between you and the bank. Having an adult co-sign makes the contract valid.
Key Takeaways
- Most banks require a parent or guardian to co-own your account if you are under 18, giving them full access to see your balance and transactions.
- You will need to visit a bank branch in person with your parent or guardian and bring identification for both of you.
- Some banks offer youth accounts with daily withdrawal limits or transaction caps, so ask what restrictions explore before opening.
- Once you turn 18, you can usually convert the account to your name alone without closing it or moving to a different bank.
What documents you need to bring
You and your parent or guardian both need to bring a government-issued photo ID. For you, this is usually a driver's license, state ID card, or passport. For your parent or guardian, the same applies.
You will also need to bring proof of your Social Security number. This can be a Social Security card, a birth certificate, or a tax return. Some banks accept a school ID as a second form of identification if your photo ID is a passport.
Bring a small amount of money to deposit — usually $25 to $100 to open the account, though some banks waive this if you set up direct deposit. Call the bank ahead of time to ask what they require, because the rules differ between branches and between banks.
Why banks ask for a parent or guardian
Banks are required by federal law to verify your identity and your source of funds. This is called Know Your Customer (KYC) compliance. When you are under 18, the bank also needs to know that an adult is responsible for the account.
The adult co-owner is not just a witness — they are legally liable if the account is used for fraud or money laundering. This is why banks will not open an account for a minor without an adult present. It protects both you and the bank.
What happens when you turn 18
Once you turn 18, you can remove your parent or guardian from the account. You do not have to close the account and start over. Most banks let you convert a joint youth account to a single account in your name alone by visiting a branch or calling customer service.
You may need to bring your ID and sign a form. Some banks do this over the phone. Ask your bank what their process is before you turn 18, so you know what to expect.
Banks that offer accounts for under-18s
Most major banks offer youth or teen checking accounts. Chase, Bank of America, Wells Fargo, and Citibank all have programs for minors. Credit unions often have them too, and sometimes with fewer restrictions than big banks.
If you have a local credit union, call and ask if they offer youth accounts. Credit unions are member-owned, not shareholder-owned, and sometimes have more flexible rules for young people. You may also have access to a credit union through your parent's employer or through a school or community organization.
Online banks like Chime and Current also offer accounts for minors, though you still need a parent or guardian to co-own. These accounts sometimes have lower or no monthly fees, and they let you manage your money through an app.
Restrictions you might see on youth accounts
Some banks limit how much you can withdraw from an ATM in a single day. Others cap the number of debit card transactions you can make per month. A few require parental approval for certain types of transactions, like wire transfers.
These restrictions are meant to protect you from fraud and to help you learn to manage money carefully. Ask the bank to explain any limits before you open the account, so you know whether they will affect how you plan to use the account.
When you turn 18 and convert to an adult account, these restrictions usually disappear. Your daily withdrawal limit and transaction limits will match those for regular adult accounts at that bank.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I open a checking account without my parent or guardian?
Most banks will not allow it. A few online banks and credit unions may offer accounts for minors without a co-owner, but these are rare. Call your bank directly to ask — the answer depends on their specific policy.
What if my parent or guardian does not want to co-own the account?
Some banks allow a parent or guardian to be a signatory without being a co-owner, meaning they can help you manage the account but do not have full legal control. Ask your bank if this option is available. If not, you may need to wait until you turn 18 to open an account in your name alone.
Will my parent or guardian see all my transactions?
Yes, if they are a co-owner on a joint account. They have the same access you do. If privacy is a concern, talk to them about it before opening the account. Some families agree that the parent will not monitor transactions unless there is a problem.
Can I have a debit card with a youth checking account?
Yes. Most youth accounts come with a debit card. The card works like an adult debit card, though it may have daily withdrawal limits or transaction caps depending on the bank.
Do I need a job to open a checking account at 17?
No. Banks do not require you to have income or employment to open a checking account. You just need a parent or guardian to co-own it and the required identification documents.