The documents you need depend on your business structure, but most banks want proof of identity, proof of business existence, and an EIN
Every bank has its own list, but the core documents fall into three categories: who you are, what your business is, and permission to act on its behalf. A sole proprietorship needs fewer papers than an LLC or corporation. Some banks ask for documents online before you visit; others want originals in person. Call the bank's business line before you gather anything—what one branch requires, another might not.
The documents below cover the most common scenarios. If your business structure is unusual (a partnership, a nonprofit, a trust-owned business), ask the bank directly which forms they need. Having extras on hand—copies of your lease, your business license, recent tax returns—can speed things up if the banker asks follow-up questions.
Key Takeaways
- All business bank accounts require a government-issued photo ID for the person opening the account, plus an Employer Identification Number (EIN) or Social Security Number tied to the business.
- Sole proprietorships often need only an ID and an EIN; LLCs and corporations require formation documents like articles of organization or articles of incorporation.
- Banks may ask for a business license, lease or deed, and proof of your business address before opening the account.
- Some banks accept documents by email or upload before your appointment; others require originals or certified copies presented in person.
- Call your bank's business department before visiting to confirm which documents they accept and whether they need originals, copies, or certified versions.
Documents for sole proprietorships
A sole proprietorship is the simplest structure, so banks usually ask for the least paperwork. You will need a government-issued photo ID (driver's license, passport, or state ID card) for the person who owns and will sign checks for the business. You will also need an Employer Identification Number (EIN), which you can get free from the IRS even if you have no employees. If you are using your Social Security Number as your business tax ID instead, bring that.
Many banks also ask for a business license, a lease or deed showing your business address, or a utility bill in the business name. If you operate under a name other than your legal name (a "doing business as" or DBA), bring a copy of the DBA registration from your county or state. Some banks skip this step if you explain that you are a sole proprietor using your own name.
Documents for LLCs and corporations
Limited liability companies and corporations are separate legal entities, so banks need proof that the business exists and that you have the authority to open an account on its behalf. Bring your articles of organization (for an LLC) or articles of incorporation (for a corporation). These are the founding documents you filed with your state when you created the business. If you do not have a copy, you can order one from your state's Secretary of State office, usually for a small fee.
You will also need an EIN for the business itself—not your personal Social Security Number. The bank will use this to set up the account. Bring your government-issued photo ID as well, since the banker needs to verify who you are personally, even though you are opening an account for the business. If your business has bylaws or an operating agreement, some banks ask to see them, though many do not require it.
Proof of business address and ownership
Banks want to know where your business operates. If you work from home, bring a utility bill or lease showing your home address, or a letter from your landlord confirming you operate a business there. If you rent commercial space, bring a copy of your lease. If you own the building, bring a deed or property tax statement. Some banks accept a recent utility bill in the business name instead.
For a home-based business, a personal utility bill with your name and address is usually enough. The bank is not checking whether your address is fancy or commercial—they are confirming that the address exists and that you have a connection to it. If you use a mail forwarding service or a virtual office address, ask the bank whether they will accept it; some will, some will not.
Personal identification and authorization
The person opening the account must bring a government-issued photo ID. This can be a driver's license, passport, state ID card, or military ID. The banker will check it against the name on the business formation documents. If you are opening the account on behalf of someone else (for example, you are a manager of an LLC but not the owner), bring a document showing you have the authority to do so—usually a resolution from the board of directors or a power of attorney signed by the owner.
If multiple people will sign checks or access the account, each one will need to provide their own ID. Some banks require all owners or signers to be present at the appointment; others allow you to add signers later. Ask when you call to schedule.
Tax documents and business history
Banks rarely ask for tax returns when you are opening a new account, but they may ask if your business has been operating for several years. If the bank requests them, bring copies of your last two years of personal and business tax returns. You do not need to bring originals—copies are fine.
If your business is brand new and has no tax history, the bank will not expect tax documents. If you are switching banks and your business is established, having tax returns on hand can help if the banker has questions about the business or wants to discuss credit products later.
What to bring to your appointment
| Document | Sole Proprietor | LLC or Corporation | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Government photo ID | Required | Required | Driver's license, passport, or state ID |
| EIN or SSN | Required | Required (EIN for business) | Get free from IRS; have the number ready |
| Articles of organization or incorporation | Not needed | Required | Order from state Secretary of State if you don't have a copy |
| DBA registration | If using a business name | Usually not needed | From county or state; skip if using your legal name |
| Business license | Often requested | Often requested | Requirements vary by bank and location |
| Proof of business address | Lease, deed, or utility bill | Lease, deed, or utility bill | Must show your name and the address |
| Tax returns | Only if business is established | Only if business is established | Last two years; copies acceptable |
Before you go to the bank
Call the bank's business services line at least a few days before your appointment and confirm which documents they need. Ask whether they want originals, certified copies, or regular copies. Some banks let you upload documents before you arrive; others want to see originals in person. Knowing this in advance saves a wasted trip.
If you do not have a document yet—such as articles of incorporation or a business license—order it early. State Secretary of State offices can take one to two weeks to send certified copies. If you need an EIN and do not have one, you can get it the same day by applying online at the IRS website or by calling the IRS business line. Bring a list of what you are bringing so the banker can check it off and let you know if anything is missing before you sit down.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I open a business bank account with just my Social Security Number instead of an EIN?
Yes, if you are a sole proprietor. Many banks accept your SSN as your business tax ID. However, getting an EIN is free and takes minutes online, and it keeps your personal and business finances more separate. Most banks prefer an EIN even for sole proprietors.
What if I don't have my articles of incorporation yet?
Order a certified copy from your state's Secretary of State office—you can usually do this online. It takes one to two weeks by mail, or one to three business days if you pay for expedited service. Some banks will let you open the account with a temporary receipt showing you filed, but call ahead to confirm.
Do I need to bring all owners to open the account?
Not always. Call the bank and ask. Some require all owners present; others let one owner open the account and add signers later. If you are opening it on behalf of an owner who cannot attend, bring a power of attorney or board resolution giving you that authority.
Can I open a business account online without visiting the bank?
Some banks offer fully online account opening for businesses, but most still require at least one in-person visit to verify your ID. Ask your bank whether they have an online option and what documents you can upload in advance to speed up the process.
What if my business address is my home?
Bring a utility bill or lease showing your home address and your name. The bank is not checking whether you have a commercial space—they just need to confirm the address exists and that you operate there. A personal utility bill is usually enough.