You can open a Chase business checking account entirely online in about 15 minutes, but you'll need your EIN, business formation documents, and personal identification ready before you start.

Chase lets you begin the process on their website without visiting a branch. The account opens with your business information, not a personal Social Security number — you'll use your Employer Identification Number (EIN) instead. If your business is a sole proprietorship, you can use your Social Security number in place of an EIN. The entire application happens through Chase's online portal, and you'll receive confirmation and account details by email once approved.

The timeline varies. Most applications are reviewed within one business day, though some take up to five. You won't be able to use the account until Chase confirms approval and your account is fully activated — usually the same day or the next morning.

Key Takeaways

  • You need your EIN (or Social Security number for sole proprietorships), business formation documents, and a government-issued ID before you start the online application.
  • Chase will ask for your business structure, ownership details, and expected monthly deposit and transaction volume during signup.
  • The application takes 15 minutes to complete, but approval can take one to five business days.
  • You can fund the account immediately after approval using ACH transfer, wire transfer, or a check deposit through the Chase mobile app.
  • Monthly fees vary by account type; some business checking accounts have no monthly fee if you maintain a minimum balance or meet deposit requirements.

What documents and information you need before you start

Gather these items before opening your browser. You'll need your Employer Identification Number (EIN) — the nine-digit number the IRS issued when you registered your business. If you haven't received an EIN yet, you can request one from the IRS website (irs.gov) and receive it immediately. For sole proprietorships, you can substitute your Social Security number.

You'll also need proof of your business structure. This means your Articles of Incorporation (for corporations), Articles of Organization (for LLCs), or a DBA certificate (for sole proprietorships operating under a trade name). Chase will ask you to upload an image or PDF during the application.

Have a government-issued photo ID ready — a driver's license or passport. Chase will verify your identity against this document. You'll also need your business address, phone number, and the names and ownership percentages of all owners who hold more than 20% of the business.

The step-by-step application process

Go to chase.com and select "Open an account" under the business banking section. Choose "Business Checking" from the account type menu. Chase will ask whether your business is a sole proprietorship, partnership, LLC, corporation, or nonprofit — select the structure that matches your business formation documents.

Enter your EIN (or Social Security number if you're a sole proprietor). Chase will pull up your business name and address from IRS records. Verify this information is correct; if it doesn't match your formation documents, contact the IRS to update their records before continuing.

Next, you'll provide ownership details. List every owner with more than 20% stake in the business, including their name, date of birth, Social Security number, and ownership percentage. Chase uses this to verify beneficial ownership and comply with federal anti-money-laundering rules.

Upload an image of your business formation document (Articles of Organization, Articles of Incorporation, or DBA certificate). Take a clear photo or scan with good lighting so all text is readable. Upload your government-issued ID as well. Then answer questions about your expected monthly deposits and transaction volume — this helps Chase assign you to the right account tier.

Review the account terms and fee schedule. Chase offers several business checking products with different monthly fees and minimum balance requirements. Select the one that fits your business, then submit your application. You'll receive a confirmation email with your application reference number.

What happens after you submit your application

Chase reviews applications during business hours, Monday through Friday. Most decisions come within one business day; some take up to five. You'll receive an email notification whether your account was approved or if Chase needs additional information.

If approved, your account number and routing number will appear in the email or in your Chase online banking portal. You can log in immediately using your Social Security number or EIN and the password you created during signup. However, you won't be able to make transactions until Chase sends a second confirmation that the account is fully activated — this usually happens the same day or the next morning.

If Chase requests more information, the email will specify what's needed. Common requests include clarification on business ownership, updated formation documents, or proof of business address (a utility bill or lease in the business name). Respond within the timeframe Chase provides, usually 10 business days.

Funding your account after approval

Once your account is active, you can deposit money three ways. ACH transfer is the slowest but free — money from another bank account takes three to five business days to arrive. Wire transfer is fastest, arriving the same day or next business day, but Chase charges a fee (typically $15 to $20 for incoming wires). Mobile check deposit through the Chase mobile app lets you photograph checks and deposit them instantly; the funds usually clear within one to two business days.

You can also visit a Chase branch in person to deposit cash or a check immediately. Your account is ready to use as soon as funds arrive, though some transactions (like writing checks) may require a debit card or checkbook, which Chase will mail to you within 5 to 10 business days.

Monthly fees and account requirements

Chase's business checking accounts have different fee structures depending on the product. Some accounts have no monthly fee if you maintain a minimum balance (often $1,500 to $2,500) or meet a monthly deposit threshold. Others charge a flat monthly fee ($10 to $25) regardless of balance.

Review the fee schedule for the specific account type you selected during signup. You can change to a different business checking product later if your needs change. Chase also charges fees for certain transactions — overdrafts, wire transfers, stop payments, and expedited check delivery each carry separate charges. These are listed in the account terms you reviewed before submitting your application.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I open a Chase business checking account if I don't have an EIN yet?

You can request an EIN from the IRS at irs.gov and receive it immediately, even before your business is officially registered with your state. Use that EIN in your Chase application. If you're a sole proprietor, you can use your Social Security number instead and obtain an EIN later.

What if Chase denies my application?

Chase will explain the reason in the denial email. Common reasons include incomplete ownership information, mismatched business formation documents, or previous banking issues. You can reapply after addressing the issue, or contact a Chase business banker at a local branch to discuss alternatives.

How long does it take to receive my debit card and checks?

Chase mails debit cards and checkbooks separately, usually within 5 to 10 business days of account activation. You can start making transactions immediately using online banking or mobile app transfers; you don't need the physical card or checks to use the account.

Can I add other owners or signers to the account after it opens?

Yes. Log into your Chase business banking portal and select the account, then choose "Manage account access" or "Add authorized user." You'll provide the signer's name and contact information. Chase may require additional verification for signers who weren't listed during the original application.

What if my business address changes after I open the account?

Update your address in the Chase business banking portal under account settings, or call the business banking phone number on the back of your debit card. Chase will send confirmation of the change to both your old and new addresses for security purposes.