Yes, you can open a bank account at 17, but the account will be a minor account with a parent or guardian as co-owner

Most banks allow you to open a checking or savings account at 17 with a parent or legal guardian present. The account will be registered in both your names, and your parent or guardian will have full access to it—they can see all transactions, withdraw money, and make decisions about the account. You cannot open a solo account in your name alone until you turn 18.

Some banks set their minimum age lower (as young as 13 or 14) if a parent or guardian co-owns the account. A few banks and credit unions have special teen accounts designed specifically for this age group, which may come with features like lower or no monthly fees and tools to help you learn about money management. The exact rules depend on which bank or credit union you choose.

Key Takeaways

  • You can open a minor account at 17 with a parent or guardian present and co-signing; you cannot open an account by yourself until age 18.
  • Most major banks (Chase, Bank of America, Wells Fargo, US Bank) allow minors to open accounts, though some have minimum ages of 13 or 14 with a co-owner.
  • Bring a government-issued ID (school ID, passport, or state ID), proof of address, and your Social Security number to open an account in person.
  • Teen accounts often have no monthly fees and may include tools like spending limits or transaction alerts that help you learn to manage money.
  • Once you turn 18, you can convert the minor account to a solo account or open a new one without a co-owner.

What you need to bring to open an account at 17

Bring your parent or guardian with you to the bank branch. You will both need to present identification. For you, a government-issued ID works—a school ID, passport, state ID, or driver's license. If you do not have one of those, ask the bank what they will accept; some branches take a school ID plus a utility bill or other proof of address.

You will also need your Social Security number. Your parent or guardian should bring their ID and proof of address (a recent utility bill, lease, or mortgage statement). Some banks ask for both pieces of identification from the co-owner; others ask for just one. Call the branch ahead of time to confirm what they need, because requirements vary by bank and sometimes by branch.

How a minor account works and what you can do with it

A minor account is jointly owned. Your parent or guardian's name appears on the account alongside yours. They have the legal right to access the account, see all transactions, and withdraw money at any time. You can deposit money, make purchases with a debit card (if the account includes one), and withdraw cash, but your parent or guardian can do the same things without asking your permission.

This is different from a solo account, where only you have access. The joint ownership is the bank's way of protecting itself—if you overdraw the account or cause other problems, the bank can hold your parent or guardian responsible. It also means your parent or guardian can monitor your spending and help you learn to manage money, though it also means your financial privacy is limited while you are under 18.

Teen accounts and special features for minors

Several banks offer accounts designed specifically for teenagers. Fidelity Youth Account, for example, has no monthly fees and includes a debit card. Charles Schwab's Teen Investor Account lets you invest small amounts in stocks and funds alongside checking and savings. Some credit unions offer teen savings clubs with prizes or incentives for saving money.

These accounts often include parental controls—your parent or guardian can set daily spending limits, turn the debit card on or off, or receive alerts when you make a purchase. Some also include financial education tools or apps that teach budgeting. The features vary widely, so compare a few options before you decide. Your bank's website will list what is available for minors, or ask a teller in person.

Opening an account online versus in person

Most banks require you to open a minor account in person at a branch, not online. The bank needs to verify your identity and your parent or guardian's identity face-to-face, and they need both of you to sign documents. A few banks and credit unions allow you to start the process online and finish it in person, but you cannot complete it entirely online.

Some online-only banks (like Ally or Marcus) do not offer minor accounts at all. If you want to bank online, look for a traditional bank with branches near you—Chase, Bank of America, Wells Fargo, and US Bank all have branches in most areas and all allow minors to open accounts. Credit unions are another option; many allow minors and some have fewer fees than large banks.

What happens when you turn 18

When you turn 18, you have options. You can keep the account as is, with your parent or guardian still as co-owner—some people do this for convenience or to keep a family account. You can ask the bank to remove your parent or guardian from the account, converting it to a solo account in your name only. Or you can open a new account at 18 and transfer your money there.

The process for removing a co-owner varies by bank. Some let you do it online or by phone; others require you to visit a branch in person. Call your bank and ask what the procedure is. There is usually no fee to remove a co-owner or to convert the account. If you want to switch banks entirely, you can open a new account and use your bank's transfer tools to move your balance.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I open a bank account at 17 without a parent or guardian?

No. All banks require a parent or legal guardian to co-own the account if you are under 18. You cannot open a solo account until you turn 18. If your parent or guardian is unavailable, some banks allow another adult (like a grandparent or aunt) to co-own the account instead, but you must have an adult present.

Do I need a Social Security number to open an account at 17?

Yes. Banks are required by federal law to collect your Social Security number when you open an account. If you do not have one, you can apply for one through the Social Security Administration before you go to the bank. The process takes a few weeks, so plan ahead.

Can my parent or guardian see all my transactions?

Yes. Because they are a co-owner, they have full access to the account and can see every deposit, withdrawal, and purchase. This is one reason some teens open a second account at 18—to have money that is theirs alone. Talk to your parent or guardian about privacy expectations before you open the account.

What if I want to open an account but my parent or guardian will not help?

You will need to wait until you turn 18 to open a solo account. If you are in a situation where you cannot ask your parent or guardian for help, talk to a school counselor, trusted teacher, or local youth services organization—they may be able to connect you with resources or an adult who can help.

Do teen accounts have debit cards?

Most do, but not all. Ask the bank whether the account includes a debit card, and whether there are any fees for it. Some banks charge a small monthly fee for a teen debit card; others include it at no cost. If the account does not come with a card, you can usually request one after the account is open.