Can You Move Out at 17? 4 Things to Consider First

Can you move out at 17? First, we need to discuss several things to consider. Furthermore, we need to make clear the specific circumstances involved with the move. For instance:

1. Do both the parents and the child voluntarily agree to move to another person’s home such as with another relative or friend?
2. Is the child’s goal to become completely free from their connection with their parents, in which case they’re seeking emancipation or legal separation from their parents?
3. Is the child attempting a move out of their parents’ home into their own place, most likely choosing to share expenses with a roommate?

Each of the scenarios above will render different responses and results. Below is a detailed discussion regarding the overall terms and conditions of teenagers moving from their parents’ home.

1. Voluntary Moves of a Teenager From the Home

Can you move out at 17? Many things to consider first have to come into play because situations are different for everyone. Life is complicated and many times, it is a necessity for teenagers to move elsewhere for their greater benefit. For example, there are the cases where schools offer better advantages for teenagers in another district rather than the situation where the teenager resides. There are also the cases where a neighborhood is better because it presents less opportunity for the teenager to run into trouble of a criminal nature. In both of these cases, parents may decide that it’s better that they live elsewhere, perhaps with another relative or close friend. In such instances, the teenager may not have much input into the matter as in most states, he or she is still a minor under the age of 18.

When people need to make these decisions, it is necessary to make agreements that would cover their child’s expenses. As such, the person agreeing to take them in would have the help needed to properly care for the child. These agreements would therefore cover finances that come in addition to household rules all need to follow. Generally speaking, people don’t expect the teenager to contribute financially and he or she would get rid of the burden of paying bills.

2. Legal Ramifications Behind Moving out When Only 17 Years Old

What are other cases when thinking about can you move out at 17? Other things to consider first are when there are circumstances where teenagers may want to separate themselves completely from their parents. Some reasons for this may be:

• To get away from abusive parents; or
• Some teenagers are in situations where they’re the recipients of substantial amounts of money, like child celebrities or heirs and heiresses. Unfortunately, they may be dealing with parents who are grossly mishandling their fortunes so the teenager strives to be with another guardian whom they trust.

Now we’re talking about the legalities involved with emancipation that releases the teenager from parental authority and legally changes their status from “child” to “adult”. This process starts with the requirement of filing a petition with the Court. However, teenagers obtain the emancipation only a few cases. Moreover, the laws concerning the age of emancipation, and whether it matters, vary in different states. Generally speaking, for a teenager to reach emancipation, they need to comply with the following:

1. Teenagers must be at least 16 or 17 years old;
2. They must present proof that they’re self-supporting with a steady income of a determined amount; and
3. Some states even require proof of a certain amount of money in savings as well.

Can you move out at 17? Some things to consider first on this subject are listed on the Cornell Law School website regarding emancipation. This website presents the specific state-by-state laws for those who want to know more about this issue.

3. What About Teenagers Who Just Want to Move Out on Their Own?

Can you move out at 17? Some things to consider first on the subject of teenagers who feel they’re ready to move out on their own are cases that don’t involve the law. This may be because both the parents and the child are in total agreement, or the child wants to leave and the parents have accepted their decision. In this case, the teenagers may attempt to shoulder the complete burden of caring for themselves with occasional help from their parents. Because everyone is in agreement, there’s no need for legal intervention and hopefully if they’ve parted on friendly terms, the teenagers will still be able to rely on their parents for assistance when needed.

4. Are 17 Year-Olds Mentally/Emotionally Prepared to Move on Their Own?

No matter what the circumstances are, the most important consideration is whether or not a 16-17 year-old person is actually prepared to live on their own. It’s a tremendous shift from being dependent upon others to care for most or all your needs to taking on the responsibility completely on your own. First and foremost:

• Has the teenager matured enough to the point of responsibly handling their life without the guidance that comes from parents or other guardians?
• Can they give up to a large the degree the socializing and “hanging out” that teenagers love to do? After all, they’ll now have to concentrate heavily on working, perhaps going to school to increase their education, and other “adult” things that now has to be their focus.
• Have they learned of the utmost importance of having and maintaining a job?
• Does the teenager know how to manage their money so they’ll have what they need to pay all the necessary bills and then follow through with actually paying those bills?

Conclusion

In summary, can you move out at 17? Be aware that this is no small feat. It will require that it be known AND accepted that this will become a life-changing occurrence in the very foundations of their lives. Of course, this is only if the teenagers are truly serious about making it work. The biggest problem that most teenagers will confront is not realizing just how serious taking this step is. In fact, it’s likely that many will not have the foggiest idea about what they’re about to encounter.

If you’re in a situation where you feel forced or pressured into moving out at 17, it’s best to seek out an adult. They may be able to guide you through what needs to be done. On the other hand, if you’re not in an oppressive situation, take the necessary time. Think about what you’re doing and follow up with doing research on what’s involved with moving out on your own.

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