Yes, 17-year-olds can open a bank account, but the rules depend on the bank and the account type
Most banks allow 17-year-olds to open a checking or savings account, but you will need a parent or guardian to co-sign or be a joint account holder. Some banks have specific teen accounts designed for this age group, while others let you open a standard account with adult supervision. The exact requirements vary by bank — some require the parent to be present in person, others allow online setup with digital consent.
The key difference from an adult account is control: until you turn 18, your parent or guardian typically has access to the account and can see transactions. Once you turn 18, you can usually convert to a solo account or remove the co-signer, depending on the bank's policy.
Key Takeaways
- Most banks allow 17-year-olds to open checking or savings accounts with a parent or guardian as a co-signer or joint account holder.
- Some banks offer teen-specific accounts with features like spending limits or parental controls, while others use standard accounts with adult supervision.
- You will need to bring a government-issued ID (state ID or passport), proof of address, and your Social Security number, plus your parent's documents.
- Many banks let you start the process online, but some require at least one in-person visit with your parent to verify identity and sign paperwork.
- At 18, you can usually convert the account to your name alone or request the co-signer be removed, though policies vary by bank.
What documents you need to bring
You will need a government-issued photo ID — a state ID, driver's license, or passport. If you do not have one, some banks accept a school ID plus a utility bill or other proof of address in your name. Your parent or guardian will need their own photo ID and proof of address.
Both you and your parent will need to provide your Social Security numbers. If you do not have a Social Security number yet, you can still open an account in most cases, but the bank will ask you to provide it within a set timeframe (usually 30 days) to avoid account closure.
Bring proof of your current address — a utility bill, lease, or bank statement in your name works. If nothing is in your name, your parent's proof of address is usually accepted since you live at the same location.
Banks with teen accounts and their requirements
| Bank | Account Type | Parent Required | In-Person Visit |
|---|---|---|---|
| Chase | Chase First Banking (under 18) | Yes, as co-owner | Yes, both must visit a branch |
| Bank of America | BankAmericard Teen Checking | Yes, as co-owner | Yes, both must visit a branch |
| Wells Fargo | Wells Fargo Teen Checking | Yes, as co-owner | Yes, both must visit a branch |
| Ally Bank | Standard checking (with parental consent) | Yes, parent signs online consent form | No, fully online process |
| Charles Schwab | Standard checking (with parental consent) | Yes, parent signs online consent form | No, fully online process |
Teen-specific accounts at major banks like Chase, Bank of America, and Wells Fargo typically include features like spending limits, parental alerts when you make transactions, and no monthly fees. These accounts require both you and your parent to visit a branch in person to open them.
Online banks like Ally and Charles Schwab allow you to open a standard account entirely online if your parent completes a digital consent form. These accounts do not have the same parental controls as teen accounts, but they often have lower or no minimum balance requirements.
What happens during the account opening process
If you are opening an account in person, you and your parent will go to a branch together. A banker will verify both of your identities, explain the account features, and have you both sign the account agreement. The process usually takes 15 to 30 minutes. You may be able to get a debit card the same day or it will arrive by mail within 5 to 10 business days.
If you are opening online, you will fill out an process with your personal information, and your parent will receive a link to sign electronically. Some banks require a video call to verify your identity before the account is activated. Once approved, you can usually access the account within one to three business days.
During setup, the bank will ask about the account's purpose — whether it is for checking, savings, or both. They will also explain overdraft policies and any fees. Teen accounts often have no overdraft fees or allow you to opt out of overdraft protection entirely.
Converting to a solo account at 18
When you turn 18, you have the option to convert your teen account to a standard adult account in your name alone. The process varies by bank. Some banks do this automatically; others require you to visit a branch or call to request the change. Your parent's name will be removed from the account, and they will no longer see your transactions.
If your bank does not offer automatic conversion, contact them within a month of your 18th birthday to request it. Some banks charge a small fee to remove a co-signer, though most do not. If you want to keep the account as a joint account with your parent for any reason, you can usually request that as well.
If you opened an account at an online bank, the conversion process is usually simpler — you may only need to update your account settings online or call customer service. Check your bank's website or account agreement for the specific steps.
What to do if you cannot get a parent to co-sign
If your parent or guardian is unavailable or unwilling to co-sign, your options are limited but not zero. Some banks allow a grandparent, aunt, uncle, or other adult relative to serve as the co-signer instead. Call the bank directly and ask whether they accept alternative guardians.
Credit unions sometimes have more flexible policies than large banks. If you belong to a credit union through a parent's employer or your school, ask whether they offer teen accounts with different co-signer requirements.
If you turn 18 before you can open an account, you can open a solo account without any co-signer. Until then, a co-signer is a requirement at virtually all mainstream banks for safety and fraud prevention reasons.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I open a bank account at 17 without a parent?
No, mainstream banks require a parent or guardian to co-sign or be a joint account holder for anyone under 18. This is a legal requirement, not a bank policy. You will need to wait until you turn 18 to open an account on your own, or find an adult willing to co-sign.
What if I do not have a government-issued ID?
Some banks accept a school ID plus proof of address instead. Call your bank ahead of time to ask what documents they will accept. If you do not have any form of ID, you can get a state ID through your local DMV — the process usually takes one to two weeks.
Will my parent be able to see all my transactions?
Yes, as long as they are a co-owner or joint account holder, they will have full access to the account and can see all transactions. Once you turn 18 and convert to a solo account, they will no longer have access unless you keep it as a joint account by choice.
Can I get a debit card at 17?
Yes, you will receive a debit card as part of opening the account. Most banks issue it the same day in-branch or mail it within 5 to 10 business days. The card will have your name on it, and you can use it to withdraw cash and make purchases when ready once it arrives.
What if I want to close the account before I turn 18?
You can close the account at any time, but your parent or guardian may need to be present or give permission, depending on the bank. Contact your bank to ask about their closure process for teen accounts. Any remaining balance will be returned to you by check or transferred to another account.