Yes, you can open a bank account at 17, but a parent or guardian must be the account holder
Most banks allow you to open an account at 17, but you cannot be the sole account holder. A parent or legal guardian must be the primary account holder, and you are listed as an authorized user or joint account holder. This means they have full access to the account and can see all transactions. The bank treats them as responsible for the account, not you.
Some banks set their minimum age lower — a few allow accounts at 13 or 14 with a parent present — but 17 is the most common threshold. A few banks and credit unions have different rules, so calling ahead saves a trip. You will need to bring identification (a school ID or state ID works) and your Social Security number. Your parent or guardian will need their ID and proof of address, usually a recent utility bill or bank statement.
Key Takeaways
- A parent or guardian must be the primary account holder on any bank account you open before you turn 18.
- You will need a valid ID and your Social Security number; your parent will need their ID and proof of address.
- Most banks allow this at 17, though some credit unions and online banks have different age requirements.
- Once you turn 18, you can convert the account to your name alone or open a separate account without a co-owner.
What happens to the account when you turn 18
When you reach 18, the account does not automatically change. You and your parent or guardian can visit the bank together and request to remove them as the account holder, making you the sole owner. Some banks do this in a single appointment; others mail you new account documents to sign. If your parent wants to stay on the account, they can, and the account remains joint.
If you want a completely separate account with no co-owner, you can open a new one at 18 without anyone else present. Many people do this and close the minor account, though there is no requirement to. Some keep both accounts — one shared with a parent for oversight, one independent.
Types of accounts available to minors
Most banks offer a checking account for minors, which lets you use a debit card and write checks. Some also offer savings accounts. A few large banks have teen-specific checking accounts with features like spending limits, parental controls, or lower fees. Chase, Bank of America, and Wells Fargo all have these products, though the features and fees vary.
Credit unions often have youth accounts too, sometimes with lower minimum balances or no monthly fees. If your parent already banks somewhere, ask whether they offer a minor account — existing customers sometimes get faster approval and better terms.
What your parent or guardian can see and control
Because your parent is the account holder, they can see every transaction, check your balance, and withdraw money. On some accounts, they can also set spending limits on your debit card or restrict where you can use it. This varies by bank and account type. A few banks let you opt into alerts so you see transactions in real time too, which can help you track your own spending.
Your parent cannot force you to use the account a certain way once you turn 18 and remove them, but while they are on it, they have legal control. This is why some people open a separate account at 18 even if they keep the original one — to have money their parent cannot access.
Banks and credit unions that accept 17-year-olds
Most major banks accept minors at 17 with a parent present: Chase, Bank of America, Wells Fargo, Citibank, and US Bank all do. Many regional banks and credit unions do too. Some online banks like Ally and Charles Schwab do not offer minor accounts at all, so check their website before visiting.
Credit unions are often more flexible. If you or your parent belongs to a credit union, call and ask their minimum age — many will open an account at 16 or even younger. The National Credit Union Administration (NCUA) does not set a minimum age, so each credit union decides for itself.
What you need to bring to open the account
| You bring | Your parent or guardian brings |
|---|---|
| Valid ID (school ID, state ID, or passport) | Valid ID (driver's license or state ID) |
| Social Security number (or ITIN) | Social Security number |
| Proof of address (utility bill, lease, or bank statement dated within 60 days) |
Some banks ask for a phone number and email address too. A few may ask for a second form of ID if your school ID does not have a photo. Call the bank ahead of time to confirm what they need — requirements vary slightly between branches and between banks.
Bring originals, not copies. Banks will not accept photocopies of your ID or your parent's ID. If you do not have a state ID yet, a school ID with a photo works at most banks, though a few require a government-issued ID. Ask when you call to confirm.
Opening an account online or by mail
Most banks require you to open a minor account in person because they need to verify your identity and your parent's identity in real time. A few banks allow you to start the process online and finish it in a branch, but you still cannot complete it remotely.
Some credit unions and online banks have different policies. Ally Bank, for example, does not offer minor accounts at any age. Fidelity allows minors to open custodial accounts online in some states, but the rules depend on state law. If you want to open an account without visiting a branch, call the bank first — do not assume the website tells the whole story.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I open a bank account at 17 without my parent knowing?
No. A parent or legal guardian must be present and sign documents. If you are in foster care or have a court-appointed guardian, that person can open the account with you. If you are estranged from your parent, a social worker or other guardian may be able to help.
What if my parent refuses to take me to the bank?
If you have a legal guardian other than your parent — a grandparent, aunt, or court-appointed guardian — they can open the account instead. If you are in foster care, your caseworker or foster parent can do it. If neither applies to you, you will need to wait until you turn 18 to open an account alone.
Can I have a debit card at 17?
Yes. Most banks issue a debit card with a minor checking account. Your parent may be able to set limits on how much you can spend per day or where you can use it. Ask the bank what controls they offer when you open the account.
Will opening an account at 17 affect my credit score?
No. A checking or savings account does not appear on your credit report and does not build credit. Credit comes from borrowing money (loans or credit cards) and repaying it. A bank account is just a place to hold money.
What happens if I move out before I turn 18?
The account stays open and your parent remains the account holder. You can still use the debit card and access the account. When you turn 18, you can remove your parent as the account holder if you want to. Moving out does not change the account's legal status.