The documents you'll need depend on your business structure and the bank
Most banks require the same core set of documents: a government-issued ID, proof of your business address, and an Employer Identification Number (EIN) or Social Security Number. Beyond that, what you bring depends on whether you're a sole proprietor, partnership, LLC, corporation, or nonprofit. Some banks ask for more; some ask for less. Calling ahead to ask what your specific bank requires saves a trip.
The documents listed here are what you're most likely to encounter. Not every bank will ask for every one, and some banks have their own forms they want you to complete instead of or alongside these.
Key Takeaways
- You will always need a government-issued photo ID and proof of your business address, even as a sole proprietor.
- An EIN (Employer Identification Number) is required if you have employees or operate as an LLC, S-corp, or C-corp; sole proprietors can use their Social Security Number instead.
- LLCs, partnerships, and corporations must bring formation documents — the Articles of Organization, Articles of Incorporation, or Partnership Agreement — to prove the business legally exists.
- Nonprofit organizations need their IRS information letter (Form 1023-NR or 1023) showing tax-exempt status before most banks will open an account.
- Bring a recent utility bill, lease, or mortgage statement as proof of your business address; a PO box alone is usually not enough.
Documents every business owner brings
Start with your personal identification. Bring a current government-issued photo ID — a driver's license, passport, or state ID card. The bank needs to verify who you are and that you're authorized to open the account on behalf of the business.
Next, bring proof of your business address. This is not your home address (unless your business is legally registered there). A recent utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, or commercial property deed all work. The bill or lease should show your business name and address and be dated within the last 60 to 90 days. A PO box does not count as a business address for this purpose — banks need a physical street address.
Bring your Employer Identification Number (EIN) or Social Security Number. If you have employees, operate as an LLC, S-corp, or C-corp, or file certain tax forms, you need an EIN. You can get one free from the IRS website (irs.gov) or by calling 1-800-829-4933. If you're a sole proprietor with no employees, you can use your Social Security Number instead, though some banks prefer an EIN anyway.
Documents for LLCs and corporations
If your business is an LLC, corporation, or partnership, bring your formation documents. For an LLC, that's your Articles of Organization (sometimes called a Certificate of Formation). For a corporation, bring your Articles of Incorporation. For a partnership, bring your Partnership Agreement. These documents prove the business legally exists and show the bank who the owners are.
You'll need a certified copy — one with the state seal or an official stamp from your Secretary of State. If you only have an uncertified copy at home, contact your state's Secretary of State office and request a certified copy. This usually costs $5 to $25 and takes a few days to a few weeks by mail, though many states now offer expedited online ordering.
Some banks also ask for a Certificate of Good Standing from your state, which confirms your business is registered and in compliance with state requirements. This is not always required, but asking the bank ahead of time whether they need it can save you a second trip. You order this from the same Secretary of State office.
Documents for nonprofits
Nonprofit organizations must bring their IRS information letter, which proves the organization has been granted tax-exempt status. This is either Form 1023-NR (for nonprofits that did not file a full Form 1023) or Form 1023 (for those that did). Without this letter, most banks will not open a nonprofit account.
You'll also need your Articles of Incorporation or Certificate of Formation from your state, your bylaws, and a board resolution authorizing the account opening. The board resolution is a document signed by board members stating that the organization authorizes this specific person to open and manage the bank account. Your nonprofit's lawyer or accountant can draft this, or you can find templates online.
Bring the name and title of the person who will be the primary account holder and any signatories. Banks often require at least two authorized signers for nonprofit accounts.
Documents for sole proprietors
Sole proprietors have the simplest requirements. You need your personal ID, proof of your business address, and either an EIN or your Social Security Number. That's usually enough.
Some banks ask for a Doing Business As (DBA) certificate if you operate under a name different from your legal name. If you've registered your DBA with your county or state, bring that certificate. If you haven't registered it formally, some banks will still open the account, though they may require you to register before they do. Check with your bank first.
You do not need a business license to open a sole proprietor account at most banks, though some industries (food service, childcare, contracting) may require one. If your bank asks, bring it.
What to bring if you're a business owner but not the account holder
If someone else will be the primary account holder — a manager, accountant, or employee — that person brings their government ID and proof of address. You'll need to bring a document showing you own or control the business. For an LLC or corporation, this is your ownership certificate or a copy of the formation documents showing your name as owner. For a sole proprietorship, bring your DBA certificate if you have one, or a letter on business letterhead stating your ownership.
The bank may also ask for a power of attorney or a board resolution (for corporations and LLCs) authorizing this person to open the account on your behalf. Ask the bank what they need before you come in.
Documents that vary by bank
Some banks ask for additional items depending on their policies or your industry. Banks that work with high-risk businesses (cannabis, cryptocurrency, money services) often ask for more documentation. Some banks want a recent business tax return or profit-and-loss statement. Others ask for a business plan or articles of incorporation even from sole proprietors.
The best approach is to call the bank's business account line and ask what documents they need for your specific business structure. Most banks have a checklist they can email or mail to you. Bringing everything on that list the first time saves time and avoids delays.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I open a business bank account without an EIN?
Yes, if you're a sole proprietor. You can use your Social Security Number instead. However, some banks prefer an EIN even for sole proprietors, so call ahead. Getting an EIN is free and takes about 15 minutes online at irs.gov.
What if I don't have a physical business address yet?
Most banks will not open an account with only a PO box. If your business is home-based, use your home address as your business address and bring a utility bill or lease in your name. If you're renting commercial space but haven't moved in yet, bring the lease agreement showing the future address and your move-in date.
Do I need a certified copy of my Articles of Incorporation or can I bring a photocopy?
Many banks accept a photocopy, but some require a certified copy with the state seal. Call your bank first. If they need a certified copy and you only have a photocopy, contact your Secretary of State office — they can mail or email you a certified copy within a few days to a few weeks.
What if my business address is different from my personal address?
Bring proof of both. Your personal ID shows your home address. Bring a separate document — a utility bill, lease, or deed — showing your business address. The bank needs both to verify you and confirm where the business operates.
Can I open a business account online without going to the bank in person?
Some banks allow you to start the process online and upload photos of your documents, but most still require at least one in-person visit to verify your ID and signature. A few online-only banks may not require a branch visit at all. Ask your bank whether they offer a fully remote account opening process.