You can open a bank account at 17, but the account will be a joint account with a parent or guardian
Most banks will not let you open an account alone until you turn 18. At 17, you have two main paths: open a joint account with a parent or guardian, or open an account through a bank or fintech that offers teen accounts designed specifically for people under 18. A joint account means the adult on the account has full access to your money and can see all transactions. A teen account is yours alone, but a parent or guardian must set it up and usually retains some oversight until you turn 18.
The specific rules depend on the bank. Some require the adult to be present in person; others let you open online with the adult's information. Some teen accounts charge monthly fees; others are free. The account type you choose affects what you can do with it—whether you can get a debit card, set up direct deposit, or transfer money without the adult's permission.
Key Takeaways
- At 17, you must open either a joint account with a parent or guardian, or a teen account designed for minors—you cannot open a solo account until 18.
- A joint account gives the adult full access to your money and all transaction history; a teen account is yours alone but usually requires parental setup and oversight.
- Many banks and fintechs offer teen accounts with no monthly fees, debit cards, and the ability to receive direct deposit.
- You will need a Social Security number, proof of identity (usually a state ID or passport), and the adult's information to open either type of account.
Joint accounts with a parent or guardian
A joint account is the simplest option at most traditional banks. You and the adult both own the account, both can deposit and withdraw money, and both can see all transactions. The adult does not need to give you permission to spend money—once it is in the account, you can use it. However, the adult can also withdraw or move money without asking you first.
To open a joint account, you and the adult typically go to the bank together with your ID and Social Security number. Some banks let you start the process online, but many still require an in-person visit. The adult will need their ID, Social Security number, and proof of address. The account is usually free, and you will get a debit card in your name. Direct deposit works on joint accounts, so you can have a paycheck sent straight in.
The main drawback is privacy: the adult sees every transaction you make. If you want to keep some spending private, a joint account is not the right fit. Also, if the adult has debt or legal judgments against them, creditors can sometimes freeze or seize money in a joint account, even the portion you deposited.
Teen accounts from banks and fintechs
Many banks and fintech companies now offer accounts designed for people under 18. These accounts are in your name alone, but a parent or guardian must open them on your behalf. The adult usually has a parent dashboard where they can see transactions, set spending limits, and control certain features—but they cannot simply withdraw your money like they can from a joint account.
Teen accounts often come with features aimed at teaching money management: spending limits per day or per transaction, the ability to turn the debit card on or off, and notifications when you spend. Most charge no monthly fee. You can usually receive direct deposit, set up automatic transfers, and use the debit card online and in stores. Some let you start building credit early through a credit-builder product.
Examples include accounts from banks like Chase (Chase First Banking), Bank of America (BankAmericard for Students), and fintechs like Greenlight, FamZoo, and Current. Each has different features and fee structures, so compare what matters to you: whether there is a monthly fee, what the spending limits are, whether you can use it at any ATM, and when parental controls drop off at 18.
What you need to open an account at 17
For either type of account, you will need a Social Security number and a form of ID. A state driver's license or ID card works best. If you do not have one, a passport or school ID may work, depending on the bank. The adult will need the same: Social Security number, ID, and usually proof of address (a utility bill, lease, or bank statement dated within the last 60 days).
Some banks ask for additional information: your employment status, whether you are a student, or your income. This is not to decide whether to open the account—banks do not turn down 17-year-olds for lack of income—but to fill out required paperwork. Be honest about what you report; the information goes into the bank's records.
If you are opening online, you may need to verify your identity through a video call or by uploading photos of your ID. The process usually takes a few minutes to a few hours. If you are opening in person, bring originals of all documents; banks will not accept photocopies for ID verification.
Debit cards, direct deposit, and what you can do at 17
Most accounts for 17-year-olds come with a debit card in your name. You can use it to buy things in stores, online, and at ATMs. The card is linked to your account, so money comes straight from your balance. There is no credit involved—you cannot spend more than you have.
Direct deposit works on accounts for minors. If you have a job, you can give your employer your account and routing number, and your paycheck will go straight in. This is faster and safer than getting a paper check. Some employers require you to be 18 to set up direct deposit, but most do not.
You can also transfer money between your account and other accounts, set up automatic bill payments, and use mobile banking apps to check your balance and history. What you usually cannot do at 17 is open a credit card, take out a loan, or overdraft your account (spend more than you have). Some teen accounts let you request an overdraft once you turn 18.
When parental controls end and your account becomes yours
On your 18th birthday, the rules change. If you opened a joint account, it stays joint unless you and the adult agree to remove them. You can go to the bank and ask to remove the other person, though some banks require both of you to be present. If you opened a teen account, parental controls usually drop off automatically at 18, and the account becomes fully yours. You may be able to add features like overdraft protection or a credit-builder product.
Check your account agreement or ask the bank what happens at 18. Some teen accounts convert to a standard checking account; others stay the same but with fewer restrictions. If you want to keep the account after 18, you usually do nothing—it just changes. If you want to close it and move to a different bank, you can do that anytime.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I open a bank account at 17 without a parent?
No. Banks require a parent or guardian to open an account for anyone under 18. You cannot open an account alone until you turn 18. However, once the account is open, you have full control over it—the adult does not need to approve your spending.
What if my parent will not help me open an account?
Talk to another trusted adult: a grandparent, aunt, uncle, or older sibling. They can serve as the guardian on the account. If no adult is available, contact your school counselor or a local youth organization; some have resources for teens in this situation.
Do I need a job to open a bank account at 17?
No. Banks do not require you to have income or employment to open an account. They may ask about your employment status for their records, but your answer does not affect whether they open the account.
Can I use a school ID instead of a state ID?
It depends on the bank. Most prefer a state-issued ID like a driver's license or state ID card. A school ID alone usually is not enough. A passport works at most banks if you do not have a state ID yet.
Will opening an account at 17 help me build credit?
A regular checking or savings account does not build credit by itself. Credit is built through borrowing and repaying—credit cards, loans, or credit-builder products. Some teen accounts offer credit-builder options, but you have to opt in. Check with your bank about whether this is available.