Documents and information you'll need before you walk in

Most banks want the same core set of documents, though the exact list depends on whether you're a sole proprietor, partnership, LLC, or corporation. Have your Employer Identification Number (EIN) ready — the IRS assigns this to almost every business structure except sole proprietorships without employees, which can use a Social Security number instead. Bring a government-issued photo ID, your Social Security number, and proof of your business address (a utility bill, lease, or mortgage statement dated within the last 60 days works).

For the business itself, you'll need proof that it exists. If you're incorporated or formed an LLC, bring your Articles of Incorporation or Certificate of Formation — the document your state issued when you registered the business. Sole proprietors and partnerships typically need a Doing Business As (DBA) certificate if they operate under a name different from the owner's legal name, though some banks will open an account without it if you're using your own name. Ask the bank what they require before you visit.

Some banks also ask for a recent business tax return or a letter from the IRS confirming your EIN. If your business is brand new and you haven't filed taxes yet, bring documentation of what the business does — a business plan, website, or contract with a client can help. The bank is checking that the account matches a real business, not trying to block you from opening one.

Key Takeaways

  • You need your EIN (or Social Security number for a sole proprietorship), a government photo ID, and proof of your business address before you visit the bank.
  • Bring your Articles of Incorporation, Certificate of Formation, or DBA certificate to prove the business exists and is registered with your state.
  • New businesses without tax returns can use a business plan, website, or client contract to show what the business does.
  • Different business structures (sole proprietor, LLC, corporation, partnership) require slightly different paperwork, so call the bank first to confirm what they need.
  • The bank will verify your identity and the business's legitimacy, but this is routine and does not take longer than a few business days.

How sole proprietorships differ from other structures

If you operate as a sole proprietor — meaning you own the business outright and haven't formed an LLC or corporation — you can often open a business account using just your Social Security number instead of an EIN. However, many banks prefer an EIN anyway because it separates your personal and business finances more clearly on their records. You can get an EIN for free from the IRS in minutes, either online at irs.gov or by phone, even if you don't legally need one.

Sole proprietors without a DBA (operating under their own name) sometimes face fewer document requirements than other structures. You may only need your ID, Social Security number, and proof of address. But if you operate under a business name, most banks will ask for a DBA certificate or a state registration showing that name is associated with your business. Check with your specific bank — requirements vary.

What LLCs and corporations need to bring

If you've formed an LLC or incorporated, the bank will want to see the official document your state issued. For an LLC, this is your Certificate of Formation (sometimes called Articles of Organization). For a corporation, it's your Articles of Incorporation. These documents prove the business is a legal entity separate from you personally. Bring the original or a certified copy — some banks accept photocopies, but calling ahead saves a wasted trip.

You'll also need to identify who can sign on the account. The bank may ask for a corporate resolution or LLC operating agreement showing who has authority to open and manage the account. If you're the sole owner, this is usually straightforward. If there are multiple owners or members, the bank wants to know whether all of them must sign checks or just one. Some banks have a standard form you can fill out instead of providing your full operating agreement.

Partnerships and the paperwork they require

Partnerships — whether general partnerships or limited partnerships — need to show the bank that the partnership is registered with the state. Bring your Certificate of Partnership or Partnership Agreement. You'll also need to clarify which partners can sign on the account and whether all partners must approve transactions or just one.

Each partner will need to provide their own ID and Social Security number. The bank is verifying that the people opening the account are actually the partners listed in the partnership documents. If a partner cannot be present, some banks allow a power of attorney or a letter from the other partners authorizing one person to open the account, but this varies by bank. Ask when you call to schedule your appointment.

Getting your EIN and why it matters

Your Employer Identification Number is a nine-digit identifier the IRS uses to track your business for tax purposes. You need one if you have employees, operate as an LLC or corporation, or file certain tax forms. Sole proprietors without employees can use their Social Security number, but getting an EIN is free and takes minutes, and most banks prefer it because it keeps your personal and business finances separate in their systems.

You can get an EIN online at irs.gov/ein without leaving your house — the IRS issues it immediately. You can also apply by phone at 1-800-829-4933 or by mail, though those take longer. Once you have it, write it down and keep it somewhere safe. You'll need it not just for the bank but for payroll, taxes, and vendor accounts. The bank will ask for it when you open the account, and they may verify it with the IRS before finalizing your account.

Proof of business address and what counts

Banks want to know where your business operates. If you work from home, a recent utility bill or mortgage statement with your home address works fine. If you rent office or retail space, bring your lease. If you use a coworking space or mailbox service, bring documentation from that provider showing your business name and the address they're holding for you.

The document needs to be dated within the last 60 days and show your name or your business name. A utility bill in your personal name at your home address is acceptable even if the business operates from there. Some banks also accept a recent bank statement, credit card statement, or government notice. Call the bank beforehand if you're unsure whether what you have will work — they can tell you in one conversation.

What to do if your business is brand new

If you haven't filed a tax return yet or your business is only a few weeks old, you don't have years of financial history to show the bank. Instead, bring whatever documentation proves the business is real and operating. This might be a business license from your city or county, a website or social media page for the business, a contract with a client, an invoice you've sent, or a business plan. The bank is not trying to block new businesses — they just need to confirm you're not opening the account for personal use under a false business name.

Some banks have a faster process for new businesses and may ask fewer questions. Others may require a larger opening deposit or place temporary limits on how much you can transfer out each day. These restrictions usually lift after a few months of normal activity. If one bank seems hesitant, try another — requirements vary, and some banks actively market to startups.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I open a business account online, or do I have to go to a branch?

Some banks allow you to start the process online and finish by video call or in person. Others require an in-person visit. Call your bank or check their website to see what they offer. Online-only banks may have fewer document requirements because they verify everything digitally, but they also may not accept certain business structures or may require a minimum opening deposit.

What if I don't have an EIN yet?

Get one before you visit the bank — it takes minutes online at irs.gov/ein. If you're a sole proprietor, you can use your Social Security number temporarily, but the bank will likely ask for an EIN anyway. It's easier to have it ready than to explain why you don't.

Do I need a business license to open a business bank account?

Not always. Some states and cities require a business license, others don't. The bank cares that your business is real and registered with the state (through an LLC formation, incorporation, or DBA), not necessarily that you have a specific license. If your state requires one for your type of business, bring it. If you're unsure, ask the bank what they need.

What if I'm opening the account for an LLC but I'm the only member?

You still need to bring your Certificate of Formation and your ID. The bank will ask who can sign on the account — the answer is you. Some banks ask for an operating agreement even for single-member LLCs, but many don't. Call ahead and ask what they require so you're not caught off guard.

Can someone else open the account for me if I can't be there?

Usually not without a power of attorney or a letter from you authorizing them to act on your behalf. The bank needs to verify your identity and confirm that you actually want the account opened. Some banks make exceptions for spouses or business partners, but this varies. Ask the bank what they allow before you send someone in your place.