What a 17-year-old can do right now
A 17-year-old can open a bank account at most banks and credit unions, but not alone. You will need a parent or legal guardian to co-sign or co-own the account with you. The account will be a joint account — meaning both you and the adult are on it, both can access the money, and the bank can talk to either of you about it.
Some banks let you open an account entirely in your own name if you are 17, but this is rare and depends on the bank's own rules, not state law. Your best move is to call the bank or credit union you want to use and ask directly: "Can a 17-year-old open an account, and does a parent need to be on it?" They will tell you yes or no in one sentence.
A few banks and fintech companies offer accounts designed for teens that do not require a parent on the account itself, though a parent usually has to set it up or approve it. These are worth checking if you want more independence, but they are not the standard path.
Key Takeaways
- Most banks require a parent or legal guardian to co-sign a joint account if you are 17, though some banks allow you to open an account in your own name.
- You will need a government-issued ID (state ID, passport, or school ID depending on the bank) and proof of your Social Security number.
- A joint account means the adult co-owner can see all transactions and withdraw money, so choose someone you trust completely.
- Teen-specific accounts from some banks and fintech companies may offer more privacy, but they usually still require parental approval to set up.
What documents you need to bring
Bring a government-issued photo ID. For a 17-year-old, this usually means a state ID, passport, or driver's license. Some banks will accept a school ID if it has your photo and date of birth, but call ahead to confirm.
You will also need to prove your Social Security number. Bring your Social Security card, a tax return, a W-2 form, or a letter from Social Security. If you do not have your card, you can request a replacement from the Social Security Administration online or by phone at 1-800-772-1213.
The adult co-signing with you will need their own ID and Social Security proof as well. Some banks ask for a second form of ID from both of you — a utility bill, lease, or bank statement with your current address. Call the specific bank to ask what they need before you go in.
How a joint account works and what it means
In a joint account, both you and the adult have equal rights to the money. The adult can deposit, withdraw, and move funds without asking you. They can also see every transaction you make. This is the trade-off: you get the account, but you lose privacy.
The adult's name appears on the account statements and the debit card (if you get one). If the adult has debt or legal judgments against them, a creditor or court can sometimes freeze or seize money in the joint account, even money you deposited yourself. This is rare but possible, so it matters who you choose.
When you turn 18, you can usually convert the account to your name alone, remove the co-owner, or open a separate account and transfer your money. Ask the bank what their process is before you open the account, so you know what to expect.
Teen accounts that do not require a co-owner
Some banks and fintech companies offer accounts marketed to teenagers that do not put a parent on the account as a co-owner. Instead, the parent sets up the account, receives notifications, and can monitor it — but the account is in the teen's name only. Examples include accounts from banks like Greenlight, Current, and some credit unions, though the exact rules vary by company.
These accounts often come with restrictions: spending limits, parental approval for certain transactions, or limited ATM access. They may also charge monthly fees, though many are free. The trade-off is more independence for you and more oversight for the parent, without the legal entanglement of a joint account.
If you want this kind of account, search for "teen banking account" or "teen debit card" and compare what each company offers. Read the fine print about fees, spending limits, and what happens when you turn 18. Some automatically convert to a regular account; others close and require you to open a new one.
Opening an account in person versus online
Most banks let you start the process online, but you will still need to go into a branch or video-call with a representative to finish it. The bank needs to verify your identity and the adult's identity in real time, and they cannot do that through a website alone.
Some credit unions and online banks use video verification instead of requiring you to visit a branch. You will set up an appointment, show your ID to a camera, and answer questions to confirm who you are. This takes about 15 to 30 minutes and can happen from home.
If you go in person, bring both your ID and the adult's ID, both Social Security proofs, and proof of your current address if the bank asks for it. Call ahead to confirm the branch is open and that they have time to help you — some branches get busy and may ask you to come back later.
What happens when you turn 18
When you turn 18, you become a legal adult and can own a bank account entirely on your own. Most banks will let you remove the co-owner from your joint account at that point, though some require you to close the account and open a new one in your name alone.
Call your bank a few weeks before your 18th birthday and ask what their process is. Some banks do this automatically; others need you to come in or call to make the change. If you want to switch banks entirely, you can open a new account at 18 and transfer your money over.
If the adult co-owner wants to stay on the account after you turn 18, they can, but it is your choice. You can also decide to keep the account as-is if it is working for you. The key is that at 18, you have the legal right to make that decision yourself.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I open a bank account without a parent if I am 17?
At most traditional banks, no — you will need a parent or legal guardian to co-sign. Some teen-specific accounts and fintech companies do not require a co-owner, but a parent usually still has to set up or approve the account. Call the bank you want to use and ask their specific rule.
What if I do not have a Social Security number?
You cannot open a bank account without one. If you do not have a number, contact the Social Security Administration at 1-800-772-1213 or visit ssa.gov to apply. The process takes a few weeks, so start early if you need an account soon.
Can the adult co-owner take all the money out?
Yes. In a joint account, both owners have full access to all the money. If you want to protect your savings, a teen-specific account with spending limits or a separate savings account in your name alone (once you turn 18) is a better choice.
Do I need a debit card, or can I just use the account online?
You do not need a debit card. You can use online banking, mobile apps, and ATMs with just your account number and PIN. Ask the bank whether they charge a fee for a debit card — some do, some do not. You can usually decide after you open the account.
What if my parent and I disagree about money in the account?
In a joint account, the parent has legal rights to the money, so disagreements can be complicated. If you are worried about this, use a teen-specific account with parental oversight instead, or wait until you turn 18 to open an account in your name alone.