What you need before you start

Wells Fargo requires you to bring specific documents and information in person to a branch or complete the process online, depending on your business structure. You will need a valid government-issued ID, your Social Security number or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN), and proof of your business address. If your business is registered with your state, bring the formation documents—articles of incorporation for a corporation, articles of organization for an LLC, or a partnership agreement.

For sole proprietorships, you may need an Employer Identification Number (EIN) from the IRS, though Wells Fargo sometimes accepts a Social Security number instead. If you operate under a name different from your legal name, bring a Doing Business As (DBA) certificate or assumed name certificate from your state or county. Have your expected monthly deposit and transaction volume ready to discuss, as this affects which account type fits your needs.

Key Takeaways

  • Bring a government ID, Social Security number or ITIN, business formation documents, and proof of your business address to open an account in person.
  • Wells Fargo offers multiple business checking accounts with different fee structures and minimum balance requirements, so confirm which one matches your expected activity.
  • You can start the process online or at a branch, but you may need to visit in person to verify your identity and sign documents.
  • The account typically opens within one to three business days after you complete all required steps and verification.

Account types and their differences

Wells Fargo offers several business checking accounts, and the one you choose depends on your monthly transaction volume and whether you want to pay per-transaction fees or a flat monthly fee. The Wells Fargo Business Basic Checking charges a monthly fee (the amount varies by region) and includes a set number of transactions before overage fees apply. The Wells Fargo Business Value Checking has a lower monthly fee but charges per transaction after a smaller included amount. The Wells Fargo Business Platinum Checking is designed for higher-volume businesses and waives the monthly fee if you maintain a minimum balance or meet deposit requirements.

Each account includes online banking, mobile deposit, and access to Wells Fargo's payment processing tools. Minimum opening deposits vary—some accounts require $100 to $500, while others have no minimum. Ask the banker which account makes sense for your expected monthly check volume, wire transfers, and ACH transactions, because switching later is possible but requires paperwork.

Opening the account online or in person

You can begin the application online through Wells Fargo's business banking portal or visit a branch in person. The online route is faster for initial information entry: you provide your business details, ownership structure, and tax identification number, then upload photos of your documents. However, Wells Fargo will likely require you to visit a branch to verify your identity in person and sign the account agreement and signature card before the account becomes active.

If you go to a branch directly, bring all documents listed above and plan for 30 to 45 minutes. The banker will review your information, confirm your identity, discuss which account type fits your needs, and have you sign the required paperwork on the spot. Some branches can open the account immediately; others may need to process it after you leave. Ask for a timeline before you sign.

What happens after you sign

Once you have signed all documents, Wells Fargo will verify your identity and business information, which typically takes one to three business days. During this time, the bank may contact you by phone or email to confirm details or request additional documentation—for example, proof that your business address is legitimate or clarification on who the authorized signers are. Respond promptly to these requests, because delays here slow down account activation.

You will receive your account number and routing number by email or mail once verification is complete. Your debit card and checks will arrive separately by mail within five to ten business days. You can begin using the account for online transfers and bill pay as soon as verification is done, even if your physical card has not arrived yet.

Authorized signers and ownership structure

Wells Fargo asks you to name authorized signers—people who can withdraw money, sign checks, and make decisions about the account. For a sole proprietorship, you are the only signer. For an LLC or corporation, you can name multiple signers, but each one must provide their own ID and Social Security number. Wells Fargo will verify each signer's identity before the account opens.

If you are opening the account on behalf of a business you do not own—for example, as a manager or accountant—bring a power of attorney document or a board resolution authorizing you to open the account. Wells Fargo will need to see proof that you have the legal right to act on the business's behalf. This step prevents fraud and protects both you and the bank.

Fees and ongoing costs

Monthly maintenance fees range from $0 to $25 depending on which account you choose and whether you meet balance or deposit requirements. Per-transaction fees (for checks deposited, ACH transfers, or wire transfers) typically run $0.25 to $1.50 each, though many accounts include a set number of transactions before fees kick in. Overdraft fees are usually $35 per occurrence, and non-sufficient funds (NSF) fees are the same.

Wire transfer fees vary: domestic outgoing wires cost around $15, and incoming wires are often free. If you use Wells Fargo's merchant services or payment processing, those carry separate fees based on your transaction volume and the payment methods you accept. Review the fee schedule for your specific account type before you open it, because these costs add up quickly if you process many transactions.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I open a Wells Fargo business checking account online without visiting a branch?

You can start the application online, but Wells Fargo requires you to visit a branch in person to verify your identity and sign documents before the account becomes active. Some branches may be able to complete the entire process during your visit, while others may send you a link to finish online after your in-person verification.

What if my business does not have an EIN yet?

Wells Fargo may accept your Social Security number as a temporary identifier, but you will need to obtain an EIN from the IRS eventually. You can request an EIN online at irs.gov for free, and it is issued immediately. Contact Wells Fargo after you receive your EIN to update your account records.

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

Your account number and routing number are available within one to three business days of verification. Debit cards and checks arrive by mail within five to ten business days after that. You can use the account for online transfers and bill pay before your physical items arrive.

Can I change the account type after I open it?

Yes. Contact your Wells Fargo banker or call the business banking phone line to switch to a different account type. There is no fee to change, but you may need to sign new paperwork. The change typically takes one to two business days to process.

What if I need multiple authorized signers?

You can add authorized signers during the account opening process or afterward. Each signer must provide their own government ID and Social Security number, and Wells Fargo will verify their identity. You can add or remove signers by visiting a branch or calling business banking.