The core documents every bank will ask for
Most banks need four things before they will open a business account: proof of your business identity, proof of your personal identity, proof of your address, and paperwork showing who owns and controls the business. The exact documents vary by bank and by business structure, but these categories stay the same.
Start by calling the bank where you want the account and asking for their specific checklist. Banks differ in what they accept—some take a driver's license as proof of address, others require a utility bill or lease. Getting the list before you gather documents saves a trip.
Key Takeaways
- You will need a government-issued ID for yourself, proof of your business address, and documentation of your business structure (such as articles of incorporation or an EIN letter from the IRS).
- Sole proprietorships usually need fewer documents than LLCs or corporations, but banks still require proof that the business exists and that you are authorized to open the account.
- An Employer Identification Number (EIN) from the IRS is not always required to open an account, but having one speeds up the process and is needed if you have employees or partners.
- Banks verify information through third-party databases, so documents must match exactly—your name on your ID must match your name on your business registration.
- Bring originals or certified copies; banks will not accept photocopies or digital photos for most documents.
Personal identification documents
Bring a government-issued photo ID—a driver's license, passport, or state ID card. The bank uses this to verify you are who you say you are and to run a background check. The name on your ID must match the name on your business registration exactly.
If you have changed your name since your ID was issued, bring both your ID and a document showing the legal name change—a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order. Banks will not open an account if the names do not match.
If you do not have a current government-issued ID, some banks will accept a passport card or a state ID. Call ahead to ask what forms of ID your bank takes.
Business registration and ownership documents
What you bring depends on your business structure. A sole proprietorship usually needs the least paperwork—often just your personal ID and proof of address. Some banks ask for a business license or a "Doing Business As" (DBA) certificate if you operate under a name different from your legal name.
An LLC requires your Articles of Organization, filed with your state. This is the document you received when you registered the LLC. You will also need to show who the members are and who has authority to open the bank account. Many banks ask for a certificate of good standing from your state, which proves the LLC is currently active and in compliance.
A corporation needs your Articles of Incorporation, a certificate of good standing from your state, and corporate bylaws. You may also need a corporate resolution—a document signed by the board of directors authorizing someone to open the bank account. Some banks provide a template for this.
A partnership requires the partnership agreement and proof of each partner's identity. If the partnership is registered with your state, bring the registration certificate as well.
Employer Identification Number (EIN) documentation
An EIN is a nine-digit number the IRS assigns to your business. You do not need one to open a business bank account, but having one makes the process faster. If you have already applied for an EIN, bring the letter the IRS sent you—it is called the SS-4 confirmation letter or EIN assignment letter.
If you do not have an EIN yet, you can apply for one online at irs.gov before you go to the bank. The IRS issues it immediately, and you can print the confirmation letter on the spot. The whole process takes about ten minutes.
If you have not applied for an EIN and do not plan to, tell the bank. They will ask you to sign a form stating that you are not required to have one (usually because you are a sole proprietor with no employees). The bank will then use your Social Security number instead.
Proof of business address
Banks need to know where your business operates. Bring a document showing your business address—a lease, a mortgage statement, a utility bill, or a property tax bill. The address on this document must match the address you give the bank.
If you work from home, a utility bill or lease in your name with your home address works. If you rent a mailbox or use a virtual office address, bring the agreement from that service showing your business name and the address.
Some banks will not open an account for a business with only a mailbox address and no physical location. Call ahead if you do not have a traditional business address.
Additional documents for specific situations
If you are opening the account on behalf of someone else, bring a power of attorney document signed by the business owner authorizing you to act on their behalf. The bank will verify the signature and may contact the owner to confirm.
If your business is a nonprofit, bring your Articles of Incorporation, your nonprofit registration from your state, and your IRS information letter (the document proving you have 501(c)(3) status or another tax-exempt status). Some banks ask for board meeting minutes authorizing the account opening.
If you are a foreign national, you will need a passport and may need an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) instead of a Social Security number. Some banks have additional requirements for foreign owners—ask when you call.
What happens after you bring the documents
The bank will make copies of everything and run background checks on you and your business. They will verify your information through third-party databases and may contact your state to confirm your business registration is current. This process usually takes a few business days.
Once approved, the bank will issue you checks, a debit card, and online banking access. You will receive these by mail or in person, depending on the bank's process. Some banks offer temporary debit cards you can use immediately while you wait for the permanent card.
If the bank denies your account, they will tell you why. Common reasons are mismatched names, an address that does not match your documents, or a background check issue. You can ask the bank to reconsider or try a different bank.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need an EIN to open a business bank account?
No, but it makes the process faster. If you do not have one, the bank will use your Social Security number instead. You can get an EIN for free from the IRS in about ten minutes at irs.gov.
Can I use a PO box as my business address?
Most banks will not open an account with only a PO box. You need a physical street address—your home, an office, or a rented mailbox service that provides a street address. Call your bank to ask what they accept.
What if my business name does not match my personal name?
You need a DBA (Doing Business As) certificate filed with your state or county, or you need to register your business as an LLC or corporation. Bring whichever registration document you have along with your personal ID.
Can I open a business account online without going to the bank in person?
Some banks offer online account opening, but most still require you to come in or send certified copies of your documents. Call your bank to ask whether they offer remote opening and what documents they need.
What if I do not have a certificate of good standing yet?
You can order one from your state's Secretary of State office online or by mail—it usually costs $5 to $25 and takes a few business days. Some banks will open the account while you wait for it if you show proof you have ordered it.