Yes, you can open a business bank account entirely online with most banks, but you will need specific documents and the process varies by bank and business structure
Most banks now let you start a business account from your computer without visiting a branch. You upload documents, verify your identity, and receive account details within days. However, some banks still require an in-person visit for certain business types, and a few require you to mail in original documents. The speed and ease depend on your business structure (sole proprietorship, LLC, corporation), the bank you choose, and whether you already have a personal account there.
The core requirement is proof of who you are and what your business is. Banks need your Social Security number or EIN, a government ID, and documentation that shows your business exists — a business license, EIN letter, or articles of incorporation. If you are a sole proprietor, you may only need your personal ID and Social Security number. If you have an LLC or corporation, you need the formation documents.
Key Takeaways
- Most major banks and many regional banks let you open a business account online by uploading your ID, Social Security number or EIN, and business formation documents.
- Sole proprietors usually need only a personal ID and Social Security number, while LLC and corporation owners must provide articles of incorporation or an EIN letter from the IRS.
- The entire process typically takes three to five business days from submission to receiving your account number and routing information.
- Some banks require an in-person appointment or notarized documents for certain business structures, so confirm the bank's requirements before you start.
- You will need to fund the account with an initial deposit, which can usually be done by transfer from a personal account or check deposit through mobile banking.
What documents you need to upload
The exact list depends on your business structure. If you are a sole proprietor operating under your own name, most banks need only your driver's license or passport and your Social Security number. If you use a business name (a DBA or "doing business as"), you may also need to upload a DBA certificate or business license from your city or county.
If you have an LLC or corporation, you need the formation documents filed with your state. This is usually called articles of incorporation (for corporations) or articles of organization (for LLCs). You can download these from your state's Secretary of State website if you filed online, or request them from the state if you filed by mail. You also need an EIN letter from the IRS, which is a one-page document the IRS sends when you obtain an EIN. If you do not have an EIN yet, you can get one free from the IRS website (irs.gov) in minutes, and the confirmation page serves as proof until the official letter arrives.
Banks also ask for your personal ID (driver's license or passport) and your Social Security number, even if you have an EIN. Some banks ask for a business license or proof of address. A few require a resolution or authorization document showing who is authorized to open the account on behalf of the business — this is more common for corporations than LLCs.
Which banks let you open an account completely online
Most national banks and many online-only banks allow full online account opening for business accounts. Chase, Bank of America, Wells Fargo, Citibank, and US Bank all offer online business account opening, though the process and required documents vary slightly. Online banks like Stripe, Square, Mercury, and Brex are built for online-only opening and often have faster turnaround times.
Regional and community banks vary widely. Some have full online opening; others require an appointment or a mailed notarized document. Before you start uploading documents, call the bank or check their website for their specific requirements. A five-minute phone call can save you from uploading documents only to be told you need to come in person or mail something.
If your bank requires an in-person visit, you can still prepare online. Upload what you can, schedule the appointment, and bring the originals with you. Some banks let you do a video call with an employee instead of visiting a branch — ask specifically whether this is an option.
The timeline from start to usable account
If everything is in order and the bank approves you online, you usually receive your account number and routing information within one to three business days. Some banks (particularly online-only banks) send this information the same day or the next morning. You can then set up direct deposit or transfer money in immediately.
However, the bank may place a hold on deposits or limit your account activity for the first 24 to 48 hours while they verify your information. This is normal and does not mean anything is wrong. If the bank needs to verify your business or your identity further, the process can stretch to five to seven business days.
If you are missing a document or the bank cannot verify something online, they will contact you by email or phone. Respond quickly — delays at this stage add days to the timeline. If the bank requires a notarized document or an in-person visit, add another week to two weeks depending on your availability and the bank's appointment schedule.
Identity verification and video calls
Most banks that open accounts online use one of two verification methods: you upload a photo of your ID and take a selfie, or you schedule a brief video call with a bank employee. The photo method is faster — it takes five minutes and you get a response within hours. The video call method is more thorough and is often required for higher account limits or if the bank cannot verify you through photos alone.
If you are asked to do a video call, the bank will send you a link and a time slot. You need a working camera, a quiet space, and your government ID in hand. The call usually lasts five to ten minutes. The employee will ask you to show your ID, confirm your name and address, and answer basic questions about your business. Have your business documents nearby in case they ask to see them on camera.
Initial deposit requirements and account activation
Most business accounts require an initial deposit to activate. The amount varies — some banks require $100, others $500 or $1,000. A few banks waive the minimum if you set up direct deposit. Check the bank's website or ask before you open the account so you know what to expect.
You can usually make the initial deposit by transferring money from a personal bank account (if you have one at the same bank, this is instant; if not, it takes one to three business days) or by depositing a check through mobile banking. Some banks let you mail a check, but this adds several days. A few online banks let you fund the account with a credit or debit card, though they may charge a fee.
Once the deposit clears and the bank confirms your identity, your account is fully active. You can order checks, set up bill pay, and use the account for business transactions.
What to do if the bank requires an in-person visit
If your bank will not open your account entirely online, you have three options: visit a branch in person, ask whether a video call with an employee is available, or switch to a bank that offers full online opening.
If you decide to visit in person, bring originals of all documents — your ID, your business formation documents, and your EIN letter. Do not bring copies unless the bank specifically asks for them. Call ahead to confirm the branch has business account specialists available; some branches handle only personal accounts. Ask whether you need an appointment or can walk in.
If you are opening an account for an LLC or corporation and you are not the sole owner, bring a document showing you are authorized to open the account on behalf of the business. This can be a resolution, a certificate of good standing, or a letter from the business owner. Ask the bank what they need before you go.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I open a business account online if I do not have an EIN yet?
Yes. You can get an EIN free from the IRS website in minutes, and the confirmation page counts as proof. Some banks accept this confirmation page; others wait for the official EIN letter from the IRS, which arrives by mail in one to two weeks. Ask the bank whether they accept the online confirmation before you start the account opening process.
Do I need a separate business license to open an account online?
Not always. Sole proprietors do not need a business license in most states if they operate under their own name. If you use a business name, you usually need a DBA certificate or business license from your city or county. LLCs and corporations need their formation documents but not always a separate business license. Check your state and local requirements, or ask the bank what they need.
What if I cannot upload documents because my phone camera is not good enough?
Use a computer or tablet with a better camera, or take the photo in good lighting and make sure the entire document is visible and readable. If the bank rejects your upload, they will tell you why and let you try again. You can also call the bank and ask whether they accept documents by email or mail instead.
How long does it take to get checks and a debit card?
Checks usually arrive within five to ten business days if you order them through the bank. Debit cards vary — some banks issue them immediately and let you use them before the physical card arrives, while others mail them and it takes seven to fourteen days. Ask the bank when you open the account if you need checks or a card right away.
Can I open a business account online if I have bad credit or a history with ChexSystems?
Most banks check ChexSystems (a banking history report) when you open a business account, but a negative history does not automatically disqualify you. Some banks are more lenient with business accounts than personal accounts. If you are denied, ask the bank why and whether you can appeal. Some online banks and credit unions have fewer restrictions — call ahead and ask about their policy before you apply.