Yes, you can open a bank account at 17, but the rules depend on your bank and whether you have a parent or guardian
Most banks will let you open a checking or savings account at 17 without a parent present, though some require you to be 18. A few banks have no age minimum at all if a parent co-signs. The specifics vary by institution — Chase, Bank of America, Wells Fargo, and most credit unions each have their own rules, and those rules can differ between branches. Your best move is to call or visit the bank you're interested in and ask directly what they need from a 17-year-old.
If your bank won't open an account for you alone, you have two paths: bring a parent or guardian to co-sign, or wait until you turn 18. Co-signing means the adult is legally responsible for the account and can see all transactions, but it gets you access now. Waiting costs you nothing but time.
Key Takeaways
- Most major banks allow 17-year-olds to open accounts independently, but some require a parent to co-sign or wait until you turn 18.
- Credit unions often have lower age requirements than big banks and may be more flexible about documentation.
- If a bank won't open an account for you, a parent or guardian can co-sign, giving them visibility into your account.
- You will need a government-issued ID (state ID, passport, or school ID depending on the bank) and proof of address.
- Online banks sometimes have different age rules than brick-and-mortar branches of the same company, so check both.
What banks typically require from a 17-year-old
Banks that accept 17-year-olds usually ask for a government-issued photo ID — a state ID, passport, or sometimes a school ID with a photo. They also want proof of your current address, which can be a utility bill, lease, or mail from a government agency addressed to you. Some banks accept mail addressed to your parents at your address if it's recent enough.
You'll need your Social Security number, which the bank uses to run a background check through ChexSystems (a banking history database). This check looks for fraud, unpaid overdrafts, or closed accounts at other banks. A clean history makes the process faster. If you've never had a bank account, the check will simply show no history, which is fine.
Bring these documents in person or upload them online, depending on whether you're opening the account at a branch or through the bank's website. Some banks let you start online and finish in a branch; others require you to do the whole thing in person at 17.
Banks with the clearest rules for 17-year-olds
Chase allows 17-year-olds to open a checking account without a parent if they have a valid ID and proof of address. Bank of America requires a parent to co-sign for anyone under 18. Wells Fargo lets 17-year-olds open accounts independently in most states, but a few states require a parent signature. Credit unions are often more flexible — many have no stated age minimum and will work with you if you bring a parent.
Online banks like Chime, SoFi, and Ally have different rules. Some allow 17-year-olds to open accounts on their own; others require a parent to co-sign. The online application usually tells you upfront whether you may have access to based on your age. If it doesn't, call their customer service line before you start filling out forms.
Local and regional banks vary widely. A community bank in your area might have no age restriction, or it might require a parent. This is why a phone call to your specific branch saves time — they can tell you in two minutes whether you're may be able to access.
What happens when you co-sign with a parent
If your bank requires a parent or guardian to co-sign, both of you will need to be present (in person or sometimes via video call, depending on the bank). The adult signs a document stating they are responsible for the account. This means they can see all your transactions, set spending limits, and are liable if the account goes negative.
Co-signing is not the same as a joint account. A joint account means both people own it equally and can withdraw money. A co-signed account is yours, but the adult has oversight. Ask the bank which type they're offering — some use the terms interchangeably, and it matters for your privacy.
You can usually remove the co-signer once you turn 18, though the process varies by bank. Some let you do it online; others require a visit to the branch. Check with your bank about their specific process before you sign.
Documents you'll need to bring or upload
| Document Type | What Works | What Doesn't |
|---|---|---|
| Photo ID | State ID, passport, school ID with photo | Library card, expired ID, ID without photo |
| Proof of Address | Utility bill, lease, government mail, bank statement | Mail addressed to someone else, undated documents |
| Social Security Number | Your own SSN (required) | Parent's SSN, ITIN, or EIN |
| If Co-Signing | Parent's ID and proof of address | Verbal permission or email consent |
What to do if your bank says no
If the bank you want won't open an account for you at 17, you have three options: find a different bank that will, ask a parent to co-sign, or wait until you turn 18. The first option is usually fastest. Call three or four banks in your area — credit unions especially — and ask their age policy. One of them will likely say yes.
If you need an account urgently (for direct deposit from a job, for instance), co-signing with a parent is the quickest path. The process usually takes one visit to the branch and a few minutes of paperwork. Once you turn 18, you can move the account to your name alone or open a new account elsewhere.
Waiting until 18 costs nothing and avoids involving a parent if you prefer privacy. Your 18th birthday is a hard line — every bank will open an account for you then without any co-signer or special conditions.
How to open the account once you've chosen a bank
Call the bank's customer service line or visit their website and search for "open an account" or "new account." You'll see options for checking, savings, or both. Read the age requirement listed there — it should be clear. If it says "18 and older," call the branch directly to ask if they make exceptions for 17-year-olds, because some do even if the website doesn't say so.
If you're opening in person, bring all your documents and go during a weekday morning when the branch is less busy. The process usually takes 15 to 30 minutes. You'll sign forms, set up a PIN, and sometimes choose a debit card design. The bank will tell you when your card arrives (usually 7 to 10 business days) and when you can start using your account online.
If you're opening online, upload your documents as the website asks, answer security questions, and set up login credentials. Some banks send you a temporary account number you can use immediately; others wait until they verify your documents, which can take a few days.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a job to open a bank account at 17?
No. Banks do not require proof of income or employment to open a checking or savings account. They ask for ID and proof of address, not a pay stub. Having a job makes it easier to fund the account, but it is not a requirement.
Can I open an account online if I'm 17?
Some banks allow it; others do not. Online banks like Chime and SoFi sometimes have different age rules than their brick-and-mortar counterparts. Check the bank's website or call before you start the application. If the online form rejects you, try opening in a branch instead.
What if I don't have a state ID yet?
A passport works just as well. If you have neither, get a state ID from your DMV first — it usually takes a few weeks. A school ID with a photo may work at some banks, but call ahead to confirm. Do not assume; different branches have different rules.
Can my parent open an account for me without me being there?
No. Banks require the account holder (you) to be present or to verify your identity in some way, even if a parent is co-signing. They will not open an account in your name without your consent and signature. Your parent can co-sign, but you must participate.
What happens to my account when I turn 18?
Nothing automatic happens. If a parent co-signed, you can ask the bank to remove them from the account, though the process varies. Some banks do it online; others require a branch visit. If you want a fully independent account, you can open a new one at 18 and transfer your money over.