You can open a bank account at 17, but the account will be a joint account with a parent or guardian

Most banks will not let you open an account alone until you turn 18. At 17, you have two real options: open a joint account with a parent or guardian, or open an account at a bank or credit union that offers accounts specifically for minors. A joint account means the adult on the account has full access to your money and can see all transactions. A minor account is yours alone, but a parent or guardian must still be involved to open it, and some banks set limits on what you can do—like how much you can withdraw or transfer each day.

The account itself works the same way: you get a debit card, online banking, and the ability to deposit and spend money. The difference is who has legal control and what restrictions apply. If you are working and need somewhere to put your paychecks, either route gets you there. If you want privacy from your parents, a minor account is the better choice, though not all banks offer one.

Key Takeaways

  • You can open a joint account with a parent or guardian at 17, and the adult will have full access to the account and all your transactions.
  • Some banks and credit unions offer minor accounts designed for teenagers, which you control but a parent must open with you.
  • You will need a government-issued ID (like a state ID or passport) and proof of address to open any account.
  • Minor accounts often come with daily withdrawal limits or spending caps, so check the rules before you choose a bank.
  • Once you turn 18, you can convert a joint account to your own or open a separate account without a co-signer.

Joint accounts: the most common route

A joint account is the simplest way to open a bank account at 17. You and a parent or guardian both sign the paperwork, and you both have equal access to the money. The adult can see every transaction, set up alerts, and withdraw funds. This is useful if your parent wants to help you manage money or if you are saving for something together, but it means you do not have financial privacy.

Joint accounts have no special restrictions—you can deposit paychecks, use the debit card, and transfer money just like an adult would. The catch is that the adult on the account can do the same thing. If your relationship with that person changes, or if they face legal trouble, your money could be at risk. Some banks also charge monthly fees on joint accounts, though many waive fees for accounts held by minors.

To open a joint account, bring your ID and the adult's ID, proof of address (a utility bill or lease works), and your Social Security number. Most banks can open the account in one visit, and you will get a debit card within 7 to 10 business days.

Minor accounts: privacy with parental involvement

A minor account is designed for teenagers and gives you more control than a joint account. You own the account, you make the decisions about your money, and the parent or guardian is listed as a custodian—not a co-owner. The adult cannot withdraw your money or make transfers without your permission, though they may be able to see transaction history depending on the bank's rules.

Not all banks offer minor accounts, so you will need to call ahead or check the bank's website. Credit unions are more likely to have them than large national banks. Common examples include accounts at banks like Ally, Charles Schwab, and some regional credit unions, though the specific names and features change. When you find one, ask about the restrictions: some limit daily ATM withdrawals to $100 or $200, cap monthly transfers, or require parental approval for certain transactions.

The setup is the same as a joint account—bring your ID, the adult's ID, proof of address, and your Social Security number. The account opens in one visit, and the debit card arrives within a week or so. Once you turn 18, the custodian is removed and the account becomes fully yours.

What you need to bring to the bank

Bring a government-issued photo ID: a state ID, driver's license, or passport. If you do not have one, you can get a state ID from your DMV—it costs between $10 and $30 depending on your state and does not require a driver's test. Bring proof of address: a utility bill, lease, or bank statement in your name or your parent's name. If you live with your parent, their bill works fine. Bring your Social Security number or the card itself. Some banks also ask for a second form of ID, like a school ID or a birth certificate, so call ahead to confirm what your specific bank needs.

The adult opening the account with you needs the same things: a photo ID, proof of address, and their Social Security number. If you are opening the account online, you may be able to upload photos of these documents instead of bringing them in person. Some banks still require an in-person visit for minors, so check before you go.

Restrictions on minor accounts and what they mean

Minor accounts often come with daily or monthly limits. A common limit is $500 per day in ATM withdrawals or $1,000 per month in total transfers. Some banks cap how many times you can transfer money each month—for example, six transfers total. These limits exist to protect your money from fraud and to encourage you to think before you spend, but they can be frustrating if you need access to your own money.

Ask the bank what happens if you hit the limit. Some banks let you request a one-time increase by calling customer service. Others require your parent to approve larger transactions. A few banks remove the limits automatically when you turn 18. If the limits feel too tight, compare accounts at different banks—the rules vary widely, and a bank that caps withdrawals at $100 per day might not be right for you if you need more access.

Some minor accounts also restrict what you can do online. For example, you might not be able to open a savings account linked to your checking account, or you might not be able to set up automatic bill payments. Again, these rules vary by bank, so ask before you open the account.

What happens when you turn 18

When you turn 18, you have options. If you have a joint account, you can ask the bank to convert it to an account in your name alone, or you can leave it as is. If you want to remove the other person, the bank will ask both of you to sign a form. If you have a minor account, the custodian is automatically removed and the account becomes fully yours—no paperwork needed.

At 18, you can also open a completely separate account at a different bank if you want a fresh start. Some people do this to have full privacy and control. Others keep the account they opened at 17 because they are used to it and have direct deposit set up there. There is no penalty for switching, so you can decide later.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I open a bank account at 17 without a parent?

No. Banks require a parent or guardian to be present and sign the paperwork for anyone under 18. You cannot open an account alone, but you can choose between a joint account (where the adult has full access) and a minor account (where you have more control).

Will my parent see all my transactions if I open a minor account?

It depends on the bank. Some minor accounts let the custodian see transaction history, and others do not. Ask the bank directly before you open the account. A joint account always gives the other person full visibility and access.

What if I do not have a state ID yet?

You can get a state ID from your DMV without taking a driving test. It costs $10 to $30 depending on your state and takes a few weeks to arrive. Bring your birth certificate, Social Security card, and proof of address. Some banks will accept a school ID or passport instead if you do not have a state ID yet.

Can I use a minor account to get direct deposit for my paycheck?

Yes. You can give your employer the account and routing number, and your paycheck will deposit directly. The bank routing number is the same for all accounts at that bank, so it does not matter that you are under 18.

What if I want to close the account before I turn 18?

You can close a minor account at any time by going to the bank with the custodian or by calling customer service. They will ask why you are closing it, but you do not have to give a reason. Any money in the account will be returned to you by check or transferred to another account.