What you can do at 17 depends on the bank and the account type

Most banks will not let you open a checking or savings account alone at 17. You will need a parent or legal guardian to co-sign or be listed as a joint account holder. Some banks have a lower age limit — usually 16 or 17 — but they still require an adult present at the time you open the account, even if that adult is not a co-owner.

A few banks and credit unions offer accounts specifically for minors that you can open with a parent's permission but without them being on the account itself. These are less common, and the rules vary by institution. Your best move is to call the bank directly and ask whether they have a minor account option and what the exact requirements are.

If you turn 18 before you finish the account opening process, you can complete it on your own — but you still need to start it while you are 17 if that is your current age.

Key Takeaways

  • Most banks require a parent or guardian to be present and co-sign when you open an account at 17, even if they are not listed as an owner.
  • Some credit unions and online banks offer minor accounts where a parent gives permission but is not on the account, though these are less common.
  • You will need a government-issued ID (usually a state ID or passport) and proof of your Social Security number, which your parent can help you gather.
  • If you are close to 18, ask the bank whether you can complete the process after your birthday instead — you may be able to open an account entirely on your own.
  • Once the account is open, you can usually manage it yourself online or by phone, even if a parent is listed as a co-owner.

What documents you need to bring

Bring a government-issued photo ID — a state driver's license, state ID card, or passport. If you do not have one yet, you can get a state ID from your local DMV; a passport takes longer but works too. The bank will not open an account without this.

You will also need to prove your Social Security number. Bring your Social Security card, a tax return, or a W-2 form if you work. If you cannot find any of these, ask your parent to bring their tax return or a document that lists you as a dependent — the bank will accept that as proof.

Bring the parent or guardian who will be on the account with you. They will need their own ID and Social Security proof as well. Some banks ask for a second form of ID or proof of address (a utility bill or lease), though this is less common for minors.

How joint accounts work once they are open

A joint account means both you and your parent have equal access to the money and can withdraw or transfer funds. Your parent can see every transaction you make. This is the trade-off: you get the account, but you do not have financial privacy.

Once the account is open, you can usually manage it yourself through the bank's app or website, or by calling customer service. You do not need your parent's permission to make deposits or withdrawals. However, some banks let the parent set spending limits or require approval for large transactions — ask about this when you open the account if it matters to you.

If your parent is worried about you overspending, they may ask the bank to set a daily withdrawal limit or require a PIN that only they know for transfers above a certain amount. These controls are optional, but they are worth discussing before you open the account.

Minor accounts without a co-owner

A smaller number of banks and credit unions offer accounts where a parent gives written permission but is not listed as an owner or co-signer. You would have full control and privacy, but your parent would not be able to see transactions or access the money. These accounts are harder to find, and they usually come with restrictions — lower balance limits, no overdraft protection, or higher fees.

Online banks are more likely to offer this option than brick-and-mortar banks. Credit unions sometimes do as well, especially if you are a member through a parent or school. Call ahead and ask specifically: "Do you have accounts for 17-year-olds that do not require a co-owner?" If they say yes, ask what the restrictions are and whether you need a parent to sign a permission form.

Even if you find this option, you will still need to go to a branch or video call with a representative to verify your identity. You cannot open any bank account entirely online at 17.

What happens when you turn 18

Once you turn 18, you can remove your parent from a joint account if you want to. The process varies by bank — some let you do it online, others require you to visit a branch or call. Ask your bank what the procedure is so you know what to expect.

If you want a completely separate account at 18, you can open one on your own without any co-owner. You will still need an ID and Social Security proof, but no adult signature is required. Many people keep the account they opened at 17 and just remove the co-owner rather than switching banks.

If your parent will not help you open an account

If your parent is unavailable or unwilling, a legal guardian, grandparent, or other adult with custody can co-sign instead. The bank will ask for proof of guardianship — usually a court order or custody agreement. If you are in foster care, your caseworker or foster parent can help you open an account.

If no adult in your life can help, some nonprofits and community organizations offer financial literacy programs that include help opening accounts. Search for "youth banking programs" or "financial literacy nonprofits" in your area, or ask your school counselor whether they know of any local resources.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I open an account online without going to a bank?

No. Even if the bank is online-only, you will need to verify your identity through a video call or in person. You cannot complete the entire process without some form of real-time verification. Your parent will also need to verify their identity the same way.

What if I do not have a state ID or passport yet?

Get a state ID from your local DMV — it is faster than a passport and costs less. You will need a birth certificate, proof of address (like a school ID or utility bill), and your Social Security card. The DMV can usually issue one within a few weeks.

Can my parent see my transactions if they are a co-owner?

Yes. Co-owners have full access to the account, including the ability to see all deposits, withdrawals, and transfers. If privacy is important to you, ask the bank about minor accounts that do not require a co-owner, or wait until you turn 18 to open an account on your own.

What if I want to remove my parent from the account later?

You can remove a co-owner once you turn 18. Contact your bank and ask for the process — some allow it online, others require a visit or phone call. You will need to verify your identity again.

Do I need a parent to be present every time I use the account?

No. Once the account is open, you can deposit money, withdraw cash, and make transfers on your own through the app, website, or ATM. Your parent does not need to approve individual transactions unless the bank has set up spending limits.