What you need before you walk into a bank
A business bank account requires proof that your business exists as a legal entity separate from you personally. The documents the bank will ask for depend on your business structure — sole proprietorship, LLC, S-corp, C-corp, or partnership — and they vary by bank and state.
At minimum, bring a government-issued photo ID (driver's license or passport) and your Social Security Number or Employer Identification Number (EIN). If you are a sole proprietor operating under your own name, that may be all you need. If you operate under a business name, you will need proof that the name is registered — usually a DBA (Doing Business As) certificate from your county clerk, or articles of incorporation or organization filed with your state.
Some banks ask for a business license, proof of address for the business, or a recent utility bill. A few require an initial deposit before opening the account. Call the bank's business line before you go in and ask what documents they want; this saves a wasted trip.
Key Takeaways
- You will need a photo ID, your Social Security Number or EIN, and proof your business name is registered with your state or county.
- Sole proprietors can often open an account with just an ID and SSN, while LLCs and corporations need articles of incorporation or organization.
- Different banks have different document requirements, so call ahead and ask what they need before you visit.
- The account usually opens the same day if you bring the right documents, though some banks mail the debit card separately.
- You will need to bring a signed IRS Form SS-4 or proof of an existing EIN if your business is not a sole proprietorship.
Sole proprietorships versus registered business structures
A sole proprietorship is the simplest structure. You are the business. To open an account, most banks need only your personal ID and SSN. Some banks will let you use your personal name as the account holder and the business name as a "doing business as" designation on the account itself, without requiring a separate DBA filing.
If you have filed a DBA with your county clerk, bring that certificate. If you have not, ask the bank whether they require it. Many do not, especially for very new businesses. If the bank does require it and you do not have one, you can file a DBA at your county clerk's office (usually online or in person) for a small fee — typically $10 to $50 depending on your county.
An LLC, S-corp, or C-corp is a registered legal entity. You will need the articles of incorporation or organization you filed with your state, or a certified copy from your state's Secretary of State office. You will also need an EIN from the IRS. If you do not have one yet, you can get it free by filling out IRS Form SS-4 online at irs.gov, by phone, or by mail. The online process takes about 15 minutes and gives you the number immediately.
Getting an EIN if you do not have one
An Employer Identification Number (EIN) is a nine-digit number the IRS assigns to businesses. You need one if your business is an LLC, partnership, S-corp, or C-corp. Sole proprietors can use their Social Security Number instead, though some choose to get an EIN for privacy.
The fastest way to get an EIN is online at irs.gov/ein. Go to the IRS website, find the EIN application page, and fill out Form SS-4. You will need your business name, address, the type of business structure, and your SSN. The process takes about 15 minutes and you receive your EIN on screen immediately. You can print it or write it down.
If you prefer not to apply online, you can call the IRS Business and Specialty Tax Line at 1-800-829-4933 (Monday through Friday, 7 a.m. to 10 p.m. your local time) and they will issue the number over the phone. You can also mail Form SS-4 to the IRS, but that takes two to four weeks. For a bank account, the online or phone method is much faster.
What to bring to the bank
| Business Type | Documents Needed |
|---|---|
| Sole proprietor (no DBA) | Photo ID, SSN |
| Sole proprietor (with DBA) | Photo ID, SSN, DBA certificate |
| LLC, S-corp, C-corp | Photo ID, SSN, articles of incorporation/organization, EIN |
| Partnership | Photo ID, SSN, partnership agreement, EIN, IDs for all partners |
Bring originals or certified copies. A photocopy is usually not enough. If you do not have a certified copy of your articles of incorporation, you can order one from your state's Secretary of State office online — most states mail them within one to two weeks, though some offer rush processing for an extra fee.
Some banks also ask for a business address, a phone number, and the names and SSNs of all owners or signers on the account. Have this information ready. If your business operates from your home, you can use your home address. If you rent a commercial space, use that address.
Opening the account in person or online
Most banks let you start the process online, but they require an in-person visit to verify your identity and sign documents. A few banks now offer fully online account opening for businesses, though this is less common than for personal accounts.
If you open in person, bring all required documents and expect to spend 20 to 45 minutes. The banker will verify your identity, review your documents, ask about the nature of your business and expected monthly deposits, and have you sign signature cards and account agreements. The account usually opens the same day. You may receive a temporary debit card on the spot, or the bank may mail it to you within three to seven business days.
If you open online, you will upload photos of your documents and verify your identity through video call or by answering security questions. The bank will then contact you by phone or email to confirm details. This process typically takes one to three business days. You will receive your debit card and checks by mail.
Choosing between banks and account types
Business accounts come in different flavors. A basic business checking account is what most small businesses need — it lets you deposit checks, transfer money, and pay bills. Some banks offer a business savings account, money market account, or line of credit as add-ons.
Banks differ on fees. Some charge a monthly maintenance fee ($10 to $30 is common), while others waive the fee if you maintain a minimum balance or set up direct deposit. Some charge per check or per transaction; others offer unlimited transactions. Compare a few banks before you decide. Ask about overdraft fees, wire transfer fees, and ATM access.
Online banks (like Square, Stripe, or Mercury) often have lower fees and faster opening than traditional banks, but they may not offer in-person service or the ability to deposit cash. A credit union may offer lower fees and more personal service than a large bank, but you may need to be a member of the community or organization the credit union serves.
What happens after you open the account
Once the account is open, the bank will provide you with a routing number and account number. Use these to set up direct deposit for business income, to pay vendors by ACH transfer, and to receive payments from customers. You may also receive checks printed with your business name and account information.
Keep your account separate from your personal finances. Deposit all business income into the business account and pay all business expenses from it. This separation protects you legally (especially if your business is an LLC or corporation) and makes tax time much simpler. Your accountant or tax preparer will thank you.
Some banks offer additional services like payroll processing, invoicing tools, or accounting software integration. Ask whether these are included or cost extra. Many small business owners find that a basic checking account is enough to start, and they add services later as the business grows.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I open a business account if I have not registered my business yet?
It depends on the bank and your business structure. Sole proprietors can often open an account using just their personal ID and SSN, even without a DBA filing. LLCs and corporations must be registered with the state first. If you are unsure, call the bank and ask what they require for your specific situation.
Do I need an EIN if I am a sole proprietor?
No. Sole proprietors can use their Social Security Number instead. However, some sole proprietors get an EIN for privacy or if they plan to hire employees. Getting an EIN is free and takes about 15 minutes online.
How long does it take to open a business account?
If you open in person with all required documents, the account usually opens the same day. If you open online, it typically takes one to three business days. Your debit card and checks arrive by mail within three to seven business days after that.
What if the bank says I need documents I do not have?
Ask the bank which documents are required and which are optional. If you need a certified copy of your articles of incorporation, order it from your state's Secretary of State office — most states mail them within one to two weeks. If you need a DBA certificate, file one at your county clerk's office, which usually takes one to three days.
Can I use my home address for the business address?
Yes. Many small businesses operate from home. Use your home address on the account. The bank may ask whether the business is home-based; answer honestly. This does not disqualify you from opening the account.