Yes, you can open a bank account at 17, but the account type and features depend on your bank and state
Most banks and credit unions allow you to open a checking or savings account at 17 without a parent or guardian present, though some require you to be 18. The rules vary by institution and by state — there is no single federal age requirement. What matters is that you call or visit the bank directly to ask, because their website often does not spell out the 17-year-old policy clearly.
If your bank will not open an account for you at 17, you have two backup routes: open a joint account with a parent (who co-owns it and can see all transactions), or wait until you turn 18 and open one on your own. A joint account lets you start banking now, but your parent controls the account and can withdraw money or close it without your permission.
Some banks offer teen checking accounts specifically designed for 13- to 17-year-olds, with parental controls built in. These accounts come with a debit card, online banking, and sometimes limited overdraft protection. The parent sets spending limits and receives alerts on transactions. Once you turn 18, the account usually converts to a standard adult account.
Key Takeaways
- Call your bank directly to confirm whether they open accounts for 17-year-olds, because policies vary and websites rarely list this clearly.
- If the bank says no, you can open a joint account with a parent instead, though they will have full access to the account and your transactions.
- Teen checking accounts come with parental controls and convert to standard accounts when you turn 18.
- You will need a government-issued ID (state ID, passport, or driver's license) and proof of address to open any account.
- Some banks waive monthly fees for teen accounts; others charge $5 to $10 per month, so compare before you choose.
What banks accept 17-year-olds without a parent present
Large national banks have different policies. Chase, Bank of America, Wells Fargo, and Citibank all allow 17-year-olds to open accounts at some branches, but the rule is not consistent across all locations. A Chase branch in one state might say yes while another says no. The only way to know is to call your local branch or visit in person with your ID.
Credit unions are often more flexible than big banks. Many credit unions allow 17-year-olds to open accounts without a parent, especially if you live in the credit union's service area or have a family member who is already a member. Call ahead to confirm, because policies still vary by credit union.
Online banks like Chime, Ally, and SoFi generally require you to be 18 to open an account on your own. However, some online banks allow 17-year-olds to open accounts if a parent co-signs or co-owns the account. Check the bank's website for the specific age policy, or contact their customer service to ask.
Documents you will need to bring
You will need a government-issued photo ID — a state ID, driver's license, or passport. If you do not have one yet, a school ID alone will not work, but a state ID is inexpensive and quick to get from your local DMV.
You will also need proof of your current address. A utility bill, lease, or mail from a government agency with your name and address works. If you live with a parent and the bill is in their name, bring a letter from them stating that you live at that address, along with the bill itself.
Some banks ask for a Social Security number. Have it ready, or bring your Social Security card. If you do not have a number yet, you can still open an account at most banks — they will ask you to provide it later, or they will file a form to get it from the Social Security Administration on your behalf.
Joint accounts: opening with a parent or guardian
A joint account is the fastest route if your bank will not open an account for you at 17. You and a parent both sign the paperwork, and both names go on the account. You get a debit card and can make deposits and withdrawals, but so can your parent — they have equal access to all the money and all the transaction history.
Joint accounts do not have spending limits unless the parent sets them up separately through the bank's app or website. Some banks allow parents to set daily withdrawal limits or require approval for large transactions, but you have to ask the bank whether that feature is available. Without those controls, your parent can see what you spend but cannot stop you from spending it.
When you turn 18, you can ask the bank to convert the joint account to a solo account with only your name on it. The parent's name comes off, and they lose access. This usually takes a few days to process. If your parent refuses to sign off on the conversion, you may need to open a new account at a different bank and transfer your money over.
Teen checking accounts with parental controls
Teen accounts are designed for 13- to 17-year-olds and come with features that let a parent monitor spending. The parent can see every transaction in real time through an app, set daily spending limits (often $25 to $500), and turn the debit card on or off remotely. Some teen accounts also block certain types of purchases — for example, preventing gas station transactions or online shopping.
Banks that offer teen accounts include Greenlight, FamZoo, GoHenry, and Fidelity Youth Account. Some traditional banks like Chase and Bank of America also have teen checking products. The monthly fee ranges from free to $10, depending on the bank and whether the parent has a checking account there too.
When you turn 18, the account converts to a standard adult checking account. The parental controls disappear, and your parent no longer has access. You keep the same account number and debit card, so you do not have to move your money or update direct deposits.
What you can and cannot do at 17
At 17, you can deposit money, withdraw cash, use a debit card for purchases, set up direct deposit for a paycheck, and transfer money between accounts. You can also open a savings account and earn interest on the balance.
What you cannot do at 17 is open a credit card account on your own. You have to be 18 to sign a credit card contract. However, you can be added as an authorized user on a parent's credit card, which means you get a card with your name on it but the parent is responsible for the bill. This does not build your credit history, but it lets you start using credit before you turn 18.
You also cannot overdraft your account (spend more than you have) unless the bank offers overdraft protection, which is rare for teen accounts. Most teen accounts simply decline the transaction if you do not have enough money. This protects you from overdraft fees, but it also means your debit card will not work if your balance is too low.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I open a bank account at 17 without telling my parents?
Yes, if your bank allows 17-year-olds to open accounts without a parent present. However, if you live with your parents and use their address as proof of residence, they may find out when mail from the bank arrives. If you want to keep the account private, use a different address (a friend's, a relative's, or a PO box) if the bank will accept it.
What happens to my account when I turn 18?
If you opened a solo account at 17, nothing changes — it stays the same. If you opened a joint account, you can ask the bank to remove your parent's name and convert it to a solo account. If you have a teen checking account, it automatically converts to an adult account with no parental controls.
Can I get a debit card at 17?
Yes. Most banks issue a debit card with any checking account, including accounts opened at 17. The card arrives in the mail within 7 to 10 business days. You can use it to make purchases, withdraw cash from ATMs, and pay bills online.
Do I need a job to open a bank account at 17?
No. Banks do not require proof of income to open a checking or savings account. You can open an account whether you work or not. However, if you want to set up direct deposit for a paycheck, you will need a job and an employer who offers direct deposit.
What if my bank says no to 17-year-olds?
Ask whether they allow joint accounts with a parent, or whether they have a teen checking product. If both are no, try a different bank or credit union in your area — policies vary widely. You can also wait until you turn 18 and open an account on your own at any bank.