Documents and information you'll bring to the bank

Most banks want the same core set of documents before they'll open a business checking account. You'll need your Employer Identification Number (EIN) — the nine-digit tax ID the IRS assigns to your business. If you're a sole proprietor, you can use your Social Security number instead, though some banks prefer the EIN. You'll also need a government-issued photo ID, usually a driver's license or passport.

Bring proof that your business exists. For an LLC or corporation, that's your Articles of Organization or Articles of Incorporation — the document you filed with your state to register the business. For a sole proprietorship, a DBA certificate (Doing Business As) works if you're operating under a name other than your own. Some banks will accept a business license from your city or county instead. If you haven't filed any of these yet, you cannot open a business account; you'll need to register your business with your state first.

You'll also provide the bank with basic information: your business name, address, phone number, the type of business you run, and how long you've been operating. Some banks ask for your expected monthly deposit volume and average account balance to route you to the right account tier.

Key Takeaways

  • You must have an EIN from the IRS or use your Social Security number if you're a sole proprietor, plus a government photo ID.
  • Bring proof your business is registered with your state — Articles of Organization, Articles of Incorporation, or a DBA certificate — because banks will not open an account for an unregistered business.
  • Different banks ask for different documents; call ahead or check the bank's website to confirm what they need before you visit.
  • Some banks require a minimum opening deposit, usually between $25 and $500, though many have eliminated this requirement.
  • The whole process typically takes 15 to 30 minutes in person, or one to three business days if you open online.

When you're a sole proprietor versus an LLC or corporation

A sole proprietor — someone running a business under their own name or a DBA — has the simplest document stack. You bring your photo ID, your Social Security number or EIN, and your DBA certificate if you're using a business name. Some banks will open the account on the spot with just those three things.

An LLC or corporation needs more paperwork because the bank has to verify that the business is a separate legal entity. Bring your Articles of Organization or Articles of Incorporation, your EIN letter from the IRS, and the photo ID of the person signing the account agreement. If someone other than the owner is opening the account on behalf of the business, the bank may ask for a corporate resolution or a letter authorizing that person to act on the business's behalf. Call the bank first to ask whether they need this; not all do.

Minimum deposits and account opening fees

Many banks no longer require a minimum opening deposit, but some still do. When they do, the amount typically ranges from $25 to $500. A few banks aimed at small businesses have no minimum at all. Check the bank's website or call before you go in, because this varies widely even between branches of the same bank.

Account opening fees are less common than they used to be, but some banks charge $10 to $25 to set up a business checking account. Others waive the fee if you set up direct deposit or maintain a certain balance. Again, this is worth confirming before you arrive. If a bank quotes you a fee you don't want to pay, other banks in your area almost certainly won't charge one.

Opening online versus in person

Many banks now let you open a business checking account entirely online. The process is faster — usually one to three business days — but you'll still need to upload images of your documents. You'll photograph your photo ID, your EIN letter, and your Articles of Organization or DBA certificate, then upload them through the bank's website or app. The bank reviews these images and contacts you if anything is missing or unclear.

Opening in person at a branch takes 15 to 30 minutes and you walk out with a debit card the same day. The bank employee can answer questions on the spot and tell you immediately if a document won't work. This route is worth choosing if you're uncertain about what you need or if your business structure is unusual.

What happens if your business isn't registered yet

You cannot open a business checking account if your business has no registration with your state. The bank will ask to see proof of registration, and if you don't have it, they'll turn you away. This is not a bank policy — it's a federal requirement under anti-money-laundering rules. Banks have to verify that the business is real and legally formed.

If you haven't registered your business yet, you'll need to do that first. For an LLC or corporation, file your Articles of Organization or Articles of Incorporation with your state's Secretary of State office — this usually takes one to two weeks and costs $50 to $300 depending on the state. For a sole proprietorship, file a DBA with your county clerk or state, which is faster and cheaper. Once you have your registration confirmation, you can open the account.

Bringing someone else to sign on your behalf

If you can't go to the bank yourself, someone else can open the account for you, but the bank will need written authorization. This is usually a simple letter stating that you authorize the person to open the account on your behalf. Some banks have a specific form for this; call ahead and ask them to email it to you or have it ready when you arrive.

The person opening the account will still need to bring their own photo ID, your documents (photo ID, EIN letter, Articles of Organization or DBA), and the authorization letter. The bank will likely ask them to sign the account agreement on your behalf. If your business is an LLC or corporation, the bank may also want a corporate resolution confirming that this person has the authority to act for the business.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use my Social Security number instead of an EIN?

Yes, if you're a sole proprietor. Many banks accept your Social Security number in place of an EIN. However, some banks prefer the EIN because it keeps your personal and business finances more clearly separated. If you're unsure, call the bank and ask — getting an EIN from the IRS is free and takes about 15 minutes online.

What if I don't have my EIN letter from the IRS yet?

If you applied for an EIN online, you received it immediately and can write it down. If you applied by mail, you'll get a letter in the mail within two to three weeks. Some banks will open the account with just the nine-digit number; others want to see the official IRS letter. Call the bank first to ask what they'll accept.

Do I need a business license to open a checking account?

Not always. A business license from your city or county can work as proof your business exists, but most banks prefer your state registration documents — your Articles of Organization, Articles of Incorporation, or DBA certificate. These are more official and harder to forge. Check with your bank about what they'll accept.

Can I open a business account if my business is still in the planning stage?

No. Your business must be registered with your state before any bank will open an account. If you're still planning and haven't filed your registration yet, you'll need to do that first. Once your registration is approved, you can open the account.

How long does it take to open a business checking account?

In person, 15 to 30 minutes. Online, one to three business days. The bank will contact you if they need clarification on any of your documents, which can add a few days. If you're opening in person and bring all the right documents, you'll have a debit card before you leave.