What Chase requires before you can open a business account
Chase requires three things before you can open a business account: proof of your business structure, a federal employer identification number (EIN) or Social Security number, and a personal identification document. The exact documents depend on whether you are a sole proprietor, partnership, LLC, or corporation — each type has a different paperwork path.
You will also need an initial deposit. Chase's minimum opening deposit varies by account type and changes periodically, so call 1-800-935-9935 or visit a branch to confirm the current amount for the specific account you want.
The process takes about 15 minutes in person or 10 to 15 minutes online. You can start either way, though opening in a branch means you walk out with a debit card the same day.
Key Takeaways
- Sole proprietors need only a Social Security number and a personal ID; all other business structures need an EIN from the IRS.
- You must bring or upload proof of your business structure — articles of incorporation for a corporation, an operating agreement for an LLC, or a DBA certificate for a sole proprietor doing business under another name.
- Chase requires an initial deposit that varies by account type; confirm the current minimum before you start the process.
- You can open online or in person; in-person opening gets you a debit card immediately, while online opening takes a few business days.
Documents you need by business type
Sole proprietors need the least paperwork. Bring your Social Security number, a government-issued photo ID (driver's license or passport), and proof of your business name if you operate under a name different from your own — this is called a DBA (doing business as) certificate and comes from your county clerk or secretary of state. If you use your own name as your business name, you do not need a DBA.
Partnerships require an EIN from the IRS, a partnership agreement, and photo IDs for at least one partner. The partnership agreement does not have to be filed anywhere; Chase just needs to see it to confirm the structure.
LLCs need an EIN, articles of incorporation from your state, and a photo ID. Some states call this document articles of organization instead of articles of incorporation — either name means the same thing, and you received it when you formed the LLC.
Corporations need an EIN, articles of incorporation from your state, and a photo ID. If your corporation is very new, Chase may also ask for corporate bylaws or a board resolution authorizing the account opening, though this is less common.
How to get an EIN if you do not have one
An EIN is a nine-digit number the IRS assigns to your business. You can get one free from the IRS website at irs.gov/ein. The online application takes about 15 minutes and gives you your number immediately — you do not have to wait for anything in the mail.
If you prefer not to apply online, you can call the IRS at 1-800-829-4933 and get an EIN over the phone. You will need your Social Security number, the date you started your business, and the business address. The IRS will give you the number on the call and mail you a confirmation letter within two weeks.
Do not pay anyone to get an EIN for you. The IRS never charges a fee, and any service charging you money is taking advantage of a free process.
What to bring or upload for online and in-person opening
If you open in person at a Chase branch, bring originals or certified copies of your business documents, your photo ID, and your EIN letter (or write down your EIN number if you have it memorized). A Chase representative will review everything, answer questions about account features, and you will leave with a debit card.
If you open online through Chase.com, you will upload photos or scans of your documents. Chase accepts clear photos taken with a phone camera. Make sure the entire document is visible, the text is readable, and the image is not blurry. You will also enter your information into an online form and choose your account type and settings.
Online opening usually takes one to two business days for Chase to review your documents and approve the account. Your debit card will arrive in the mail within 7 to 10 business days.
Choosing the right Chase business account for your needs
Chase offers several business checking accounts with different features and fee structures. The Chase Business Basic Checking account has no monthly fee if you maintain a minimum balance (currently $2,500, though this changes). The Chase Business Advantage Checking account charges a monthly fee but waives it if you meet a deposit or transaction threshold.
Before you open, think about how many checks you will write, whether you need online bill pay, and whether you want a business savings account or credit card at the same time. You can add these later, but opening them together sometimes qualifies you for a new-account offer.
Call 1-800-935-9935 or visit a branch to compare the current features and fees of each account type. Chase's website lists the basics, but a representative can explain which account fits your actual spending pattern.
What happens after you open your account
Once your account is approved, you will receive a welcome packet in the mail with your account number, routing number, and initial debit card. If you opened in person, you already have the debit card. If you opened online, the card arrives within 7 to 10 business days.
You can start using your account for deposits and transfers immediately after approval, even if your debit card has not arrived yet. Chase will give you online banking access right away so you can check your balance, transfer money, and set up bill pay.
If you need checks, you can order them through your online banking portal or ask for them at a branch. Chase does not include free checks with most business accounts, so you will pay for them — usually $10 to $20 per box depending on the style you choose.
Common reasons Chase may ask for more information
Chase sometimes requests additional documents if your business structure is unclear or if your documents do not match the information you entered online. For example, if your DBA certificate shows a different address than your ID, Chase will ask you to clarify which address is current.
If you are opening an account for a business that is fewer than six months old, Chase may ask for a business plan or a letter explaining the nature of your business. This is not a rejection — it is a standard check for very new businesses.
If Chase asks for more information, they will call or email you with a specific list of what they need. Respond within the timeframe they give you (usually 10 business days) to avoid a delay in your account opening.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I open a Chase business account if I do not have an EIN yet?
If you are a sole proprietor, yes — you can use your Social Security number instead. If you are any other business structure, you need an EIN before you open the account. You can get one free from irs.gov/ein in about 15 minutes, so get it first and then open your account.
Do I have to open the account in person, or can I do it all online?
You can do it entirely online through Chase.com. You will upload photos of your documents and fill out an online form. The only advantage of opening in person is that you get your debit card immediately instead of waiting 7 to 10 business days.
What if my business documents have a different address than my personal ID?
Chase will ask you to clarify which address is current for the business. Bring or upload both documents and a brief note explaining the difference — for example, if you recently moved the business location. This does not prevent you from opening the account; it just means Chase needs to confirm the correct mailing address.
Can I open a business account if my business is not registered yet?
It depends on your business structure. Sole proprietors can open an account without any registration — you just need your Social Security number and ID. All other structures require formal registration (articles of incorporation, articles of organization, or a partnership agreement) before Chase will open the account.
How much do I need to deposit to open the account?
Chase's minimum opening deposit varies by account type and changes periodically. Call 1-800-935-9935 or visit a branch to confirm the current minimum for the specific account you want before you start the process.