You're 17 and ready to take a big step towards financial independence? Awesome! Opening a bank account is a fantastic way to start managing your money, understanding budgeting, and preparing for your financial future. Chase Bank offers some great options for teens, and while there are a few extra steps when you're under 18, it's definitely doable.
This comprehensive guide will walk you through everything you need to know about opening a Chase bank account at 17, from understanding your options to gathering the right documents and navigating the in-branch process. Let's get started!
Step 1: Discover Your Chase Account Options (and Why You're Here!)
So, you're 17, and you're thinking about a Chase account. That's a smart move! Before we dive into the "how-to," let's understand what kind of Chase account is typically available for someone your age.
Chase offers a couple of accounts specifically designed for younger individuals:
Chase High School Checking℠: This account is perfect for teens aged 13 to 17. The key here is that it requires a parent or guardian as a co-owner. It's designed to help you learn financial literacy with parental oversight. It has no monthly service fee when linked to a parent/guardian's qualifying Chase checking account. This account automatically converts to a Chase Total Checking® account when you turn 19.
Chase College Checking℠: While this account is primarily for students aged 17-24 who are enrolled in college or a vocational/trade school, a 17-year-old can open it in person with proof of student status. This account also offers no monthly service fees for up to five years, as long as you provide your graduation date.
Why is this important? Knowing which account fits your situation best will determine the documents you need and the process you'll follow. If you're still in high school and not yet enrolled in college, the High School Checking account is likely your go-to. If you're 17 and already headed to college, the College Checking account might be a better long-term fit.
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| How To Open A Chase Bank Account At 17 |
Step 2: Gather Your Essential Documents – Don't Forget a Parent!
This is where the rubber meets the road! To open a bank account as a 17-year-old, especially with Chase, you'll need to have certain documents ready. Crucially, a parent or legal guardian will need to be present with you and also provide their documentation.
Sub-heading: Documents for the 17-Year-Old (You!)
Here's what you'll typically need to bring:
Proof of Identity: This is paramount. Choose one of the following:
Unexpired Driver's License or State-Issued ID: This is often the easiest and most common form of ID.
Passport: A valid, unexpired passport is also acceptable.
Note: Some banks might also accept a school ID with a birth certificate or Social Security card as supplementary ID, but it's always best to have a primary government-issued ID.
Social Security Number (SSN): You'll need to provide your SSN. Make sure you know it or have your Social Security card.
Proof of Address: Something that shows where you live. This could be:
A piece of mail addressed to you at your current residence (like a recent report card, or something from your school).
Often, if you live with your parent/guardian, their proof of address will suffice as long as your IDs match the address.
Proof of Student Status (for College Checking): If you're opting for the Chase College Checking account, you'll need proof of enrollment. This could be:
A student ID
An acceptance letter from a college or vocational school
A transcript showing current enrollment
Sub-heading: Documents for Your Parent or Legal Guardian
Your parent or legal guardian will be a co-owner on the account (for High School Checking) or may need to be present to facilitate the opening of a College Checking account for a 17-year-old. They will need:
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Proof of Identity:
Unexpired Driver's License or State-Issued ID
Passport
Social Security Number (SSN): Their Social Security card or knowledge of their SSN.
Proof of Address: Similar to yours, a recent utility bill, bank statement, or driver's license with their current address.
For High School Checking: Your parent/guardian must have an existing qualifying Chase checking account. This account will be linked to your High School Checking account.
Remember: It's always a good idea to call your local Chase branch beforehand to confirm their exact document requirements, as they can sometimes vary slightly.
Step 3: Schedule an In-Branch Appointment – Online Isn't an Option for You... Yet!
Since you're 17, you cannot open a Chase bank account online. Both the Chase High School Checking and Chase College Checking accounts require an in-person visit to a Chase branch for individuals under 18.
Sub-heading: Why an In-Person Visit is Necessary
This is a measure to ensure proper identification and parental consent. It allows a banking representative to verify all documents and answer any questions you and your parent might have.
Sub-heading: How to Schedule Your Appointment
Visit the Chase Website: Go to chase.com and use their "Find a Branch" tool.
Locate a Convenient Branch: Find a branch near you.
Schedule an Appointment: Many Chase branches allow you to schedule an appointment online. This is highly recommended to minimize wait times and ensure a banker is available to assist you. Select "Open a New Account" or a similar option when booking.
Confirm Details: When scheduling, you might be able to indicate that you are a minor opening an account, which can help the branch prepare.
Step 4: The In-Branch Experience – Be Prepared to Learn and Ask!
You've gathered your documents, scheduled your appointment, and now it's time for the big day!
Sub-heading: What to Expect When You Arrive
Check-in: When you arrive, check in for your appointment.
Meeting with a Banker: A friendly Chase representative will greet you and your parent/guardian.
Document Review: They will carefully review all the documents you've brought to verify your identities and addresses.
Account Selection: They'll confirm which type of account you wish to open (High School Checking or College Checking).
Account Agreement: You and your parent/guardian will review and sign the account agreement. Make sure to read through everything carefully and ask questions if anything is unclear.
Initial Deposit: While some Chase accounts have no minimum opening deposit, it's a good idea to have some money to deposit right away to activate your account. Even a small amount, like $25, can get you started.
Tip: Read actively — ask yourself questions as you go.
Sub-heading: Asking Questions – Your Financial Education Starts Now!
This is your opportunity to learn about banking! Don't be afraid to ask the Chase representative questions about:
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Debit Card Usage: How does your debit card work? Are there any spending limits for minors?
Online and Mobile Banking: How can you access your account online or through the Chase Mobile® app? What features are available?
Account Alerts: Can you set up alerts for transactions or low balances?
Fees: Are there any fees you should be aware of, even with student accounts?
Overdraft Protection: How does this work? (Chase High School Checking typically does not have overdraft fees, but it's good to confirm).
Savings Options: Can you open a Chase Savings℠ account alongside your checking account? This is an excellent way to start building healthy savings habits!
Transitioning the Account: What happens to the account when you turn 18 or 19?
Step 5: Activate Your Account and Start Banking Smart!
Congratulations! You've successfully opened your Chase bank account. Now it's time to put it to good use.
Sub-heading: Activating Your Debit Card
Once you receive your debit card (it may be mailed to you or given to you on the spot), follow the instructions to activate it. This usually involves making a phone call or activating it through the Chase Mobile app.
Sub-heading: Setting Up Online & Mobile Banking
Download the Chase Mobile app and set up your online banking profile. This will give you 24/7 access to your account, allowing you to:
Check your balance
View transactions
Set up alerts
Transfer money
Deposit checks using Chase QuickDeposit℠
Use Zelle® to send and receive money (if available for your account type)
Sub-heading: Building Good Financial Habits
This is the most exciting part! Use your new account as a tool to:
Track Your Spending: Pay attention to where your money goes.
Create a Budget: Decide how much you want to spend on different categories and stick to it.
Save Money: Set financial goals and regularly transfer money to your savings account. Even small, consistent deposits add up over time!
Understand Your Money: Learn about statements, direct deposits, and how banking works.
Opening a Chase bank account at 17 is a significant step toward financial independence. It empowers you to take control of your money and build a strong foundation for your future. With your parent's support and this step-by-step guide, you'll be banking like a pro in no time!
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10 Related FAQ Questions
How to open a Chase High School Checking account?
To open a Chase High School Checking account, you (the teen, aged 13-17) and a parent or legal guardian must visit a Chase branch. The parent/guardian needs to have an existing qualifying Chase checking account, and both will need to provide identification and Social Security Numbers.
How to open a Chase College Checking account at 17?
A 17-year-old can open a Chase College Checking account by visiting a Chase branch with a parent/guardian. You will need to provide proof of student status (e.g., student ID, acceptance letter, transcript), your identification, and Social Security Number.
How to open a Chase bank account online if I'm 17?
You cannot open any Chase bank account online if you are 17 years old. All accounts for minors (under 18) at Chase require an in-person visit to a branch with a parent or legal guardian.
How to avoid monthly fees on a Chase student account?
The Chase High School Checking and Chase College Checking accounts typically have no monthly service fees. For High School Checking, it's waived when linked to a parent's qualifying Chase checking account. For College Checking, it's waived for up to five years as long as you provide your expected graduation date.
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How to get a debit card with a Chase bank account at 17?
When you open a Chase High School Checking or College Checking account, you will automatically receive a debit card linked to your account. This card will allow you to make purchases and withdraw cash.
How to deposit money into a Chase account for a 17-year-old?
You can deposit money into your Chase account via an ATM, a Chase branch teller, or through direct deposit (like from a job or allowance). For Chase First Banking (if your parent opened that for you when you were younger), deposits are typically from the parent's linked Chase checking account.
How to find a Chase branch near me for account opening?
You can easily find a Chase branch by visiting the official Chase website (chase.com) and using their "Find a Branch" or "ATM & Branch Locator" tool.
How to prepare for a Chase bank account opening appointment?
To prepare, gather all required documents for yourself (ID, SSN, proof of address, proof of student status if applicable) and for your parent/guardian (ID, SSN, proof of address). It's also wise to have an initial deposit amount ready.
How to manage my Chase bank account as a 17-year-old?
Once opened, you can manage your Chase account through the Chase Mobile® app and online banking. This allows you to check balances, view transactions, set up alerts, and transfer funds, helping you learn good money management habits.
How to get parental consent for a Chase bank account at 17?
Parental consent is obtained by having your parent or legal guardian physically present with you at the Chase branch during the account opening process. They will also need to provide their identification and sign as a co-owner (for High School Checking) or as a facilitator for College Checking.
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