Yes, a 17-year-old can open a checking account, but the rules depend on the bank and whether a parent or guardian co-signs

Most banks will let a 17-year-old open a checking account, but you cannot do it alone. You will need a parent or guardian to co-sign or be listed as a joint account holder. Some banks have teen checking accounts designed specifically for this age group, while others require you to open a standard account with an adult present.

The exact process and requirements vary by bank. A few banks allow 17-year-olds to open accounts online with parental consent, while others require an in-person visit. Some have age limits — for example, a bank might allow it at 16 but not at 15. The best approach is to call or visit your bank directly and ask what they offer for your age.

Key Takeaways

  • A parent or guardian must co-sign or be a joint account holder on any checking account opened by a 17-year-old.
  • Many banks offer teen checking accounts with features like spending limits, parental controls, and no monthly fees.
  • You will need a government-issued ID (usually a state ID or passport) and proof of address, and your parent will need their ID and Social Security number.
  • Some banks allow online account opening with parental consent, while others require both you and your parent to visit in person.
  • Once you turn 18, you can convert the account to a standard account or open your own account without a co-signer.

What documents you and your parent will need to bring

You will need a government-issued photo ID. A state driver's license or ID card works best. If you do not have one, a passport is acceptable. You will also need proof of your current address — a utility bill, lease, or school document with your name and address on it usually works.

Your parent or guardian will need their own government-issued ID (driver's license or passport) and their Social Security number. Some banks also ask for a second form of ID from the parent. Call ahead to confirm what the specific bank requires, because requirements can differ between branches and between banks.

Teen checking accounts versus standard accounts

Teen checking accounts are designed for minors and often come with features a standard account does not. These may include spending limits you or your parent can set, the ability to turn off online shopping or ATM withdrawals, alerts when you spend money, and no monthly maintenance fees. Some banks also offer a debit card with the teen account.

A standard checking account with a co-signer works too, but it may have a monthly fee if you do not keep a minimum balance. Teen accounts usually waive fees entirely. If your bank does not offer a teen account, ask whether they will waive the monthly fee for a standard account if a parent is the primary account holder and you are added as an authorized user.

Whether you can open an account online or need to visit in person

Some banks let you start the process online. You create an account, enter your information, and upload photos of your ID and proof of address. Your parent then logs in, verifies their information, and completes their part of the application. The bank may then ask you both to visit a branch to finish the process, or they may mail you a debit card and checks.

Other banks require both you and your parent to be present at a branch from the start. This is more common at smaller banks and credit unions. A few banks will not open an account for anyone under 18 at all, so if your bank says no, you have other options — ask a parent to open an account in their name and add you as an authorized user, or try a different bank or credit union.

What happens when you turn 18

Once you turn 18, you become a legal adult and can own an account in your name alone. Most banks will let you convert your teen account to a standard account without closing it or opening a new one. The co-signer can stay on the account if you both want, or they can be removed. You can also open a completely separate account at a different bank if you prefer.

If your parent was the primary account holder and you were an authorized user, you will need to decide whether to stay on that account or open your own. Some people keep the joint account for simplicity, while others open their own account for privacy. There is no penalty for either choice.

Banks and credit unions that offer teen accounts

Major banks including Chase, Bank of America, Wells Fargo, and Citibank all offer teen checking accounts. Credit unions often have teen accounts too, and they sometimes have lower fees and better customer service than large banks. If you belong to a credit union through a parent's employer or membership, ask whether they have a teen account option.

Online banks like Chime and LendingClub also offer accounts for minors, though the process and features differ from traditional banks. Some online banks have no monthly fees and no minimum balance, which can be cheaper than a brick-and-mortar bank. Compare a few options before you decide — the cheapest account is not always the best if it lacks features you need, like a physical debit card or the ability to deposit checks.

What to do if a bank says no

If your bank will not open an account for a 17-year-old, you have alternatives. Ask your parent to open an account in their name and request that you be added as an authorized user. You will get a debit card in your name and can use the account, but your parent remains the legal owner. This is common and works well if you trust your parent and they trust you.

You can also try a different bank or credit union. Credit unions in particular are often more flexible about age requirements. If you have a job, some employers offer payroll cards that function like checking accounts and do not require a bank account at all — you can ask your employer whether this is an option.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

No. Banks require a parent or guardian to co-sign or be a joint account holder until you turn 18. This is a legal requirement, not a bank policy. Once you turn 18, you can open an account on your own.

Do I need a Social Security number to open a checking account?

You do not need one, but most banks ask for it. If you do not have a Social Security number, bring a tax ID or other government-issued number and ask the bank whether they can open an account without one. Some banks will, though it may take longer.

Can my parent open an account for me without me being present?

Most banks require you to be present or to sign documents electronically as part of the process. A few banks let a parent open an account for a minor without the minor present, but this is rare. Call your bank and ask what they require.

Will opening a checking account affect my credit score?

No. Opening a checking account does not create a credit report or affect your credit score. Banks check your account history through ChexSystems, a different system that tracks checking and savings accounts, but this does not impact credit.

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

You can close it anytime. Contact the bank, ask them to close the account, and request that any remaining balance be sent to you by check or transferred to another account. There is no penalty for closing an account.