What documents and information you'll need before you walk in
To open a business checking account, you need to bring proof of your business identity, proof of your personal identity, and documentation that shows the business itself exists. The exact list depends on whether your business is a sole proprietorship, partnership, LLC, S-corp, or C-corp — each structure requires different paperwork. Most banks will also ask for your Social Security number or Employer Identification Number (EIN), a recent business address, and initial deposit funds.
The fastest way to find out what a specific bank needs is to call their business banking line and ask for their checklist. Banks vary in what they accept, and some will let you start the process online while others require an in-person visit. Having the right documents ready before you arrive or apply online cuts your approval time from days to hours.
Key Takeaways
- You will need a government-issued photo ID for yourself, your EIN or Social Security number, and proof your business exists — such as articles of incorporation, a DBA filing, or a business license.
- Sole proprietors typically need fewer documents than LLCs or corporations, but banks still require proof the business is real and registered with your state or county.
- An initial deposit is required at most banks; the amount varies from $25 to $500 depending on the bank and account type.
- Many banks now let you start the process online and finish it in a branch, or complete it entirely online if you have an EIN and can upload documents.
Documents for sole proprietors
If you operate as a sole proprietor — meaning you have not filed for an LLC or corporation — bring your driver's license or passport, your Social Security number, and proof the business exists. Proof can be a business license from your city or county, a DBA (Doing Business As) certificate, a business tax return, or even a recent utility bill or lease in the business name.
Many banks will open an account with just your Social Security number and a business license, though some prefer an EIN. You can get an EIN free from the IRS website in minutes, even if you have not yet registered your business with the state. Bringing an EIN makes the process smoother because it separates your personal and business finances from the bank's perspective.
Documents for LLCs and corporations
If your business is registered as an LLC, S-corp, or C-corp, bring your articles of incorporation or articles of organization (the document you filed with your state to create the business), your EIN letter from the IRS, and a government-issued ID. You will also need to show the bank who is authorized to sign checks and make decisions on the account — this is usually the owner or a designated manager.
Some banks ask for a corporate resolution or a certificate of good standing from your state. A corporate resolution is a document signed by the business owner or board stating who can operate the account; a certificate of good standing proves your business is in good legal standing with the state. You can order a certificate of good standing from your state's Secretary of State office, usually for $10 to $25 and in one to three business days.
Personal identification and tax information
Bring a government-issued photo ID — a driver's license, passport, or state ID card. The bank will verify your identity against this document and may run a background check. Have your Social Security number or EIN ready; if you have both, bring both because the bank may ask for one or the other depending on your business structure.
If your business has been operating for a year or more, some banks will ask to see a recent business tax return or profit-and-loss statement. This is more common for larger accounts or if you are opening a line of credit at the same time. If you are brand new, most banks will not require this.
Business address and initial deposit
Have your current business address ready. If you work from home, you can use your home address. If you rent a commercial space, bring your lease or a letter from your landlord confirming you occupy the space. Some banks will accept a PO box, though many prefer a physical street address.
You will need to make an initial deposit to open the account. The amount varies by bank and account type — some require as little as $25, while others ask for $100 to $500. A few banks offer no-minimum accounts for small businesses. Ask about the minimum when you call the bank's business line, because this can affect which account type makes sense for you.
Online versus in-person opening
Many banks now let you start the process online and upload documents, then finish in a branch or by video call. Some banks with strong online platforms — such as Mercury, Brex, or Novo — let you open an account entirely online if you have an EIN and can upload your articles of incorporation or business license. This usually takes one to two business days.
If you open in person, bring originals of your documents; the bank will photocopy them. If you open online, you will need to scan or photograph documents clearly — make sure the text is readable and all four corners of the page are visible. Banks often reject uploads that are blurry or cut off, so take a moment to check before you submit.
What happens after you submit your documents
Once you have submitted everything, the bank will verify your identity and the business information. This usually takes one to three business days. The bank may call you to confirm details or ask follow-up questions. After approval, your account opens and you can order checks, set up online banking, and link your account to accounting software.
If the bank asks for additional documents, respond as soon as you can — delays in getting back to them can slow approval. Once your account is open, you will receive your account number, routing number, and login credentials for online banking. You can start depositing money and writing checks immediately, though checks may take a few days to clear.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I open a business checking account without an EIN?
Yes. Sole proprietors can use their Social Security number instead. However, an EIN is free and takes minutes to get from the IRS website, and most banks prefer it because it keeps your personal and business finances separate in their system.
What if I do not have a business license yet?
You can still open an account in most cases, especially if you have an EIN or articles of incorporation. Some banks will accept a recent utility bill or lease in the business name as proof the business exists. Call the bank first to ask what they will accept.
Do I need to bring the original documents or can I send copies?
If you open in person, bring originals so the bank can photocopy them. If you open online, you upload scans or photos. Make sure any uploaded documents are clear and show all four corners of the page, or the bank may reject them and ask you to resubmit.
How long does it take to open a business checking account?
Online accounts typically open in one to two business days. In-person accounts can open the same day if you have all documents ready, though approval may take one to three business days. Some banks are faster than others, so ask when you call.
What is the minimum deposit to open an account?
It varies by bank. Some require $25, others $100 to $500. A few banks offer no-minimum accounts. Ask the bank's business line what the minimum is for the account type you want before you visit or apply online.