Yes, but with a parent or guardian's permission
A 17-year-old can open a bank account at most banks and credit unions, but not alone. You will need a parent or guardian to co-sign or co-own the account. The account will be in both your names, and the adult will have full access to it until you turn 18. Some banks let you switch to an account in your name only once you reach 18; others require you to open a new account.
The specific rules depend on the bank. A few institutions let minors open accounts without a parent present if they bring a signed parental consent form, but most require the adult to come in person with a valid ID. Call ahead to ask what your bank requires before you go.
Key Takeaways
- You will need a parent or guardian to co-sign the account; most banks require them to be present in person with a valid ID.
- Bring your Social Security number, proof of identity (school ID, passport, or state ID), and proof of address if the bank asks for it.
- The adult co-owner will have full access to your account and can see all transactions until you turn 18.
- Ask the bank whether the account automatically converts to your name alone at 18, or whether you will need to open a new account.
- Some banks offer teen checking accounts with limited overdraft or spending controls; others treat a minor's account the same as an adult's.
What documents you need to bring
You will need your Social Security number and a form of ID. A school ID, passport, or state ID all work. If the bank asks for proof of address, bring a utility bill, lease, or recent bank statement in your name or your parent's name at your current address.
Your parent or guardian will need their own valid ID—a driver's license or passport—and their Social Security number. Some banks also ask the adult to bring proof of address. Call the bank before you go so you know exactly what to bring and whether the adult needs to be present.
How the account works while you are under 18
The account belongs to both of you. Your parent or guardian can deposit money, withdraw money, and see every transaction. They can also close the account or change the terms without your permission. This is legal because you are a minor and they are responsible for you.
You can use the account to receive paychecks from a job, make purchases with a debit card if the bank issues one, and transfer money to other accounts. Some banks let you set up online banking so you can check your balance and move money yourself. Others require the adult to handle all transactions. Ask what the bank allows when you open the account.
Teen checking accounts versus regular accounts
Some banks offer accounts specifically for teenagers. These may include features like spending limits, no overdraft fees, parental controls that let your parent set rules for how much you can spend, or alerts that notify your parent when you use the card. Other banks treat a minor's account exactly like an adult's account with no special features.
Teen accounts are not better or worse—they just work differently. If you want more control over your spending or think your parent will want to monitor your account closely, ask whether the bank offers a teen product. If you just want a place to keep money and a debit card, a regular account works fine.
What happens when you turn 18
At 18, you become a legal adult and the account rules change. Some banks automatically convert the account to your name only, and your parent's access ends. Others require you to open a new account in your name alone. A few let you keep the joint account if you both want to.
Ask the bank what happens at 18 before you open the account. If conversion is automatic, you do not need to do anything. If you have to open a new account, the bank will tell you when it is time. Your parent will not be able to access the new account unless you add them as an authorized user, which you can do if you choose.
Where to open an account as a 17-year-old
Most national banks accept minors: Chase, Bank of America, Wells Fargo, and Citibank all offer accounts for teenagers. Credit unions also accept minors, and some have lower fees or better rates than banks. Your school may have a credit union you can join, or you can find one in your area through the CO-OP network or Alliant Credit Union's locator.
Online banks like Ally, Chime, and SoFi also accept minors, but the process is different—you cannot open an account entirely online. You will need to mail documents or visit a partner location in person. Call the online bank to ask what the process is before you try.
What to ask the bank before you open the account
Before you and your parent go in, call the bank and ask these questions: Does the account require the parent to be present, or can they send a signed consent form? What ID do you both need to bring? Are there monthly fees, and if so, how much? Does the bank offer a teen account, and what features does it have? What happens to the account when you turn 18? Can you use online banking, and if so, can you set it up yourself or does the parent have to do it?
Writing down the answers will save time when you go in and will help you compare accounts at different banks if you want to shop around.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I open a bank account without my parent knowing?
No. You need a parent or guardian to co-sign, and most banks require them to be present. Even if a bank accepts a signed consent form by mail, the adult has to sign it. You cannot open an account without their knowledge and permission.
Will my parent be able to see my transactions?
Yes. As a co-owner, they have full access to the account and can see every deposit, withdrawal, and purchase. This access ends when you turn 18 and the account converts to your name alone, depending on the bank's policy.
What if my parent refuses to co-sign?
You cannot open a bank account without a parent or guardian's permission until you turn 18. If your parent refuses, you will have to wait. Some teens in this situation ask a grandparent, aunt, or uncle to co-sign instead, but that adult must be willing and able to do so.
Can I use the account to hide money from my parent?
No. Your parent can see all transactions and can access the money in the account. The account is not private until you turn 18 and open an account in your name alone.
Do I need a job to open a bank account?
No. You can open an account whether or not you work. Many teens open accounts to save money from gifts, allowance, or part-time jobs, but the bank does not require you to have income to open one.