Yes, you can open a bank account at 17, but with limits

Most banks will let you open a checking or savings account at 17 without a parent or guardian present, though a few require you to be 18. The catch is that at 17 you cannot legally sign a binding contract in most states, so banks handle this by having a parent or guardian co-sign the account agreement or by making you a "minor account holder" on an account they own. Either way, the adult on the account has legal responsibility for it and can see all transactions.

What you can actually do with the account depends on the bank and the account type. Most banks let 17-year-olds use a debit card, set up direct deposit, and move money between accounts. Some restrict wire transfers, international payments, or overdraft protection until you turn 18. A few banks—mainly online-only banks—will not open any account for you until 18, so you need to check with the specific bank first.

Key Takeaways

  • Most banks let 17-year-olds open a checking or savings account, but require a parent or guardian to co-sign or be listed as the account owner.
  • You will need a Social Security number, proof of identity (usually a state ID or passport), and proof of address to open an account.
  • At 17, you can use a debit card and set up direct deposit, but some banks restrict wire transfers or overdraft features until you turn 18.
  • Online-only banks often have higher age minimums than traditional banks, so call or check their website before you try to open an account.

What you need to bring to open an account

Bring your Social Security number, a government-issued ID (state driver's license or passport), and proof of your current address. Proof of address can be a utility bill, lease, or bank statement in your name—or in your parent's name if you live with them. Some banks accept a school ID or student records as backup if you do not have a state ID yet.

If you are opening the account in person, bring the adult who will co-sign. If you are opening it online, the bank will usually email a form for the adult to sign electronically or will ask you both to verify your identity through their app. The process typically takes 10 to 15 minutes in a branch or 5 to 10 minutes online, though account set up can take one to three business days.

How co-signing works and what it means for you

When a parent or guardian co-signs, they are legally responsible for the account. They can see every transaction, set spending limits on your debit card, and freeze the account if needed. They can also withdraw money from it. The account is still yours to use day-to-day, but the adult has full control and oversight.

Some banks call this a "minor account" or "youth account" instead of co-signing. The mechanics are the same: an adult is on the account with you and has legal authority over it. A few banks let you open a solo account at 17 if you have a job and can prove income, but this is uncommon and varies by bank. Ask the bank directly whether they offer solo accounts for 17-year-olds.

Banks that let 17-year-olds open accounts

Major national banks like Chase, Bank of America, Wells Fargo, and Citibank all let 17-year-olds open accounts with a co-signer. Credit unions often do as well, and sometimes have lower minimum balances or fewer fees. Local and regional banks vary—some have no age restriction, others require 18. Call your bank or visit their website to check their specific policy before you go in.

Online banks are less consistent. Ally, Charles Schwab, and Discover have let 17-year-olds open accounts in the past, but policies change. Chime, a mobile-first bank, requires you to be 18. If you are interested in an online bank, check their website or call their customer service line to confirm the current age requirement. Do not assume all online banks have the same rule.

What you can and cannot do at 17

At 17, you can use a debit card to buy things, withdraw cash from ATMs, and set up direct deposit for a paycheck. You can transfer money between your own accounts and receive money from other people. Most banks let you use mobile banking and set up bill pay.

What you usually cannot do: wire money to another bank, send money internationally, open a credit card in your own name, or take out a loan. Some banks also restrict overdraft protection or require the co-signer to approve certain transactions. Once you turn 18, these restrictions typically lift automatically, though you may need to sign new paperwork or update your account status.

When you turn 18 and what changes

On your 18th birthday, you become a legal adult and can own the account solely in your name. You do not have to do anything—the account does not close or reset. But you may want to contact the bank and ask them to remove the co-signer if you prefer full privacy. Some banks do this automatically once you turn 18; others require you to request it in writing or in person.

Once the co-signer is removed, you have full legal control and responsibility. The adult can no longer see transactions or withdraw money. Any restrictions on wire transfers or international payments should lift as well. If you want to keep the co-signer on the account for oversight or safety reasons, you can ask the bank to keep them listed—that is your choice.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need my parent's permission to open an account at 17?

Yes, in most cases. Your parent or guardian must co-sign the account agreement or be listed as the account owner. A few banks may let you open a solo account if you have a job and can show income, but this is rare. Ask your bank whether they offer solo accounts for minors.

Can I hide transactions from the co-signer?

No. The co-signer can see all transactions on a minor account. If you want privacy, you will need to wait until you turn 18 and remove them from the account. Until then, the account is jointly owned and jointly visible.

What if my bank says I have to be 18?

Try a different bank or a credit union in your area. Most banks let 17-year-olds open accounts, but some do not. Online banks are more likely to have a strict 18-year-old minimum, so check their website first before visiting a branch.

Can I open a savings account instead of a checking account?

Yes. Savings accounts have the same age rules as checking accounts—most banks let 17-year-olds open one with a co-signer. Savings accounts usually have fewer transactions per month and earn interest, though the rate is often very low. Some people open both a checking account for spending and a savings account for money they want to keep.

Will opening an account at 17 affect my credit score?

No. Opening a checking or savings account does not build or hurt your credit score. Credit scores are based on borrowed money and how you repay it. A bank account is not a loan, so it does not appear on your credit report.