Yes, but with limits that depend on your age and your bank
You can open a bank account at 17 in most cases, but the account will likely be a minor account or custodial account — meaning a parent or guardian has legal control over it alongside you. The rules vary by bank. Some banks let you open an account at any age with a parent present. Others require you to be at least 13 or 16. A few won't let you open anything until you turn 18.
The key difference between a minor account and a regular account is who can access the money and make decisions about it. On a minor account, your parent or guardian can withdraw funds, freeze the account, or close it without your permission. Once you turn 18, you can convert the account to a standard adult account and take full control — though some banks do this automatically and others require you to request it.
If your bank won't open a minor account, or if you want an account your parents cannot access, a few alternatives exist: some banks offer teen accounts with limited features, credit unions sometimes have different age rules than big banks, and some fintech apps let you open accounts at 16 or 17 with parental consent but more independence than a custodial account.
Key Takeaways
- Most banks will open a minor account for you at 17 if a parent or guardian is present and co-signs, but the parent retains legal control over the account.
- Different banks have different minimum age requirements — some start at 13, others at 16, and some only at 18 — so call ahead before you visit.
- When you turn 18, you can convert a minor account to an adult account and take full control, though you may need to request this in writing or in person.
- If you want an account your parents cannot access, look into teen accounts, credit unions, or fintech apps designed for younger users, as these sometimes offer more independence.
What documents you need to bring
Bring a government-issued photo ID — usually a state ID, driver's license, or passport. If you do not have one yet, some banks will accept a school ID plus a birth certificate, but call your specific branch first because this varies. Your parent or guardian will also need their own ID and proof of address (a utility bill, lease, or bank statement dated within the last 60 days).
You may also be asked for a Social Security number. If you do not have one, you can apply for one at your local Social Security office before you open the account, or some banks will let you open the account and add your number later. Bring whatever you have — the bank will tell you what is missing.
How a minor account works once it is open
On a minor account, both you and your parent or guardian receive a debit card and can access the account online or by phone. You can make deposits and withdrawals, but your parent can also do the same without asking you. Your parent can see all transactions, freeze the account if they believe there is fraud or misuse, and close it entirely.
This is different from a savings account where your parent is simply listed as an emergency contact. On a true custodial account, your parent has the same legal rights to the money as you do. Some banks offer a middle ground — a teen account where you have your own debit card and online access, but your parent can monitor activity without having withdrawal rights. Ask your bank which type they offer.
Interest rates on minor accounts are usually the same as on regular savings or checking accounts at that bank. Some banks offer slightly higher rates on savings accounts for minors as an incentive, but this is rare. Check the bank's website or ask in person what rate they currently offer.
Converting to an adult account at 18
When you turn 18, your account does not automatically become yours alone — you remain a minor account holder until you take action. Contact your bank and ask how to convert to an adult account. Some banks do this over the phone, others require you to visit a branch in person, and a few require a written request.
Once converted, your parent's name is removed from the account and they lose all legal access to it. They will no longer be able to see transactions, withdraw money, or freeze the account. You become the sole owner. If your parent was receiving statements or alerts, those will stop unless you set them up again.
If you want your parent to remain involved after you turn 18 — for example, if they are helping you manage money — you can add them as an authorized user instead of a co-owner. This gives them access to view the account and sometimes make transactions, but you retain full control and can remove them at any time. This is optional and requires a separate request.
Banks with different age policies
Large national banks like Chase, Bank of America, and Wells Fargo generally allow minors to open accounts at age 13 or older with a parent present. Credit unions often have similar policies, though some start at age 16 or even allow younger children with parental consent. Regional banks vary widely — some welcome minors at any age, others have a minimum age of 16 or 18.
If you want to open an account at 17 and your bank says no, try a credit union in your area. Credit unions are member-owned and sometimes have more flexible policies than national banks. You can search for credit unions near you on the CO-OP Network website or ask your parents if they belong to one — you may be able to join through their membership.
Fintech apps like Greenlight, Current, and GoHenry are designed specifically for teens and allow you to open an account at 16 or 17 with parental consent. These apps function like checking accounts but with more parental controls built in. They are not traditional banks, so your money is held at a partner bank, but they offer features like spending limits and chore tracking that appeal to younger users.
What happens if you try to open an account alone
If you walk into a bank at 17 without a parent or guardian, most banks will turn you away or tell you to come back with a parent. You cannot sign a legal contract on your own as a minor, and a bank account is a contract. Some banks may let you fill out an application, but they will not open the account until a parent or guardian signs.
If you are estranged from your parents or in foster care, talk to your caseworker or a trusted adult. Many states have programs that help young people in these situations open accounts. Some banks also have policies allowing a court-appointed guardian or social worker to co-sign instead of a biological parent.
Fees and account features at 17
Minor accounts often have the same monthly fees as adult accounts — usually $0 to $15 depending on the bank and account type. Some banks waive fees for accounts under 18. Check the bank's fee schedule before you open the account, as fees can add up if you are not careful.
Most minor accounts come with a debit card, online banking access, and mobile app access. Some banks limit the number of transfers you can make per month or cap daily withdrawal amounts, though these limits are less common now. Ask your bank what features and limits come with the specific account type they offer for minors.
If the account charges a monthly fee and you want to avoid it, look for banks that offer free checking for minors or accounts with no minimum balance requirement. Some online banks have lower fees than brick-and-mortar banks, though you will need to verify they accept minors at your age.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I open a bank account at 17 without my parents knowing?
No. You cannot sign a legal contract as a minor, so a bank will not open an account in your name alone. A parent or guardian must be present and co-sign. If you are in an unsafe situation, talk to a school counselor, trusted teacher, or social worker about your options.
What if my parent refuses to take me to open an account?
If you are in foster care or have a court-appointed guardian, that person can co-sign instead. If you are in an unsafe home situation, contact your local child protective services or a youth services organization. Some communities have programs that help young people open accounts with a caseworker or mentor as the co-signer.
Do I need a Social Security number to open an account at 17?
Most banks require one, but some will let you open the account and provide it later. Call your bank before you visit. If you do not have a Social Security number, you can apply for one at your local Social Security office — the process usually takes two to four weeks.
Will my parent be able to see my transactions after I turn 18?
Only if you add them as an authorized user after you convert to an adult account. Once you convert, your parent is removed automatically and cannot see anything unless you give them permission. You are in full control at that point.
What is the difference between a minor account and a teen account?
A minor account is a custodial account where your parent has full legal control alongside you. A teen account is designed for younger users and usually gives you more independence — your parent can monitor activity but cannot withdraw money or close the account without your consent. Not all banks offer teen accounts, so ask what options they have.