What you need before you walk in
An LLC bank account requires the bank to see proof that your LLC exists as a legal entity separate from you. You will need an Employer Identification Number (EIN) from the IRS, your Articles of Organization (the document you filed with your state to create the LLC), and a government-issued ID in your name. Some banks also ask for your Operating Agreement, though not all require it.
The EIN is the piece most people forget. You can get one free from the IRS website (irs.gov) or by calling 1-800-829-4933. The process takes minutes if you apply online, or a few days by mail. You do not need to wait for a physical EIN card — the number itself is all the bank needs.
Your Articles of Organization come from your state's Secretary of State office. If you filed your LLC recently, you should have a copy. If not, you can request one from that office (usually for a small fee) or download it from their website if they keep digital records. Bring the original or a certified copy.
Key Takeaways
- You must have an EIN from the IRS before most banks will open an LLC account, and you can get one free online in minutes.
- Bring your Articles of Organization, your personal government ID, and the EIN to the bank; some banks also ask for your Operating Agreement.
- The bank will ask you to sign a resolution or certificate stating that you are authorized to open the account on behalf of the LLC.
- Bring a blank check or deposit slip if you want to fund the account on the same day, or be ready to transfer money from another account afterward.
- Some banks charge monthly fees for business accounts; compare options before you choose, because fees vary widely even among large banks.
Getting your EIN from the IRS
The fastest way is to apply online at irs.gov/ein. You will answer questions about your LLC's name, address, and the type of business. The system issues your number immediately on screen. Write it down or print the confirmation page — you will need it at the bank.
If you cannot apply online, call the IRS at 1-800-829-4933 during business hours (Monday through Friday, 7 a.m. to 10 p.m. your local time). They will issue the number over the phone and mail you a formal letter. This route takes longer but works if you do not have internet access or prefer to speak to someone.
You do not need to have filed taxes or have a business license before you get an EIN. The IRS issues it based on the information you provide about your LLC's structure and purpose.
What to bring to the bank
Call the bank ahead of time and ask what they need for an LLC account. Most will ask for the following: your Articles of Organization (original or certified copy), your EIN, a personal government-issued ID (driver's license or passport), and proof of your address (a utility bill or lease in your name, dated within the last 60 days). Some banks also ask for your Operating Agreement, though this is less common.
If your LLC has multiple owners, the bank may ask all owners to come in person, or they may ask you to bring a resolution signed by all owners stating that you are authorized to open and manage the account. Ask the bank which they prefer before you go.
Bring a blank check or deposit slip if you want to fund the account immediately. If you do not have one, you can transfer money from another account after the account opens, which usually takes one to two business days.
The authorization step most people miss
Banks require proof that you have the authority to open an account on behalf of the LLC. This usually means signing a Certificate of Authority or Board Resolution — a document stating that you are authorized to act for the LLC. If your LLC has an Operating Agreement, the bank may ask you to bring a copy and sign a statement confirming that the agreement allows you to open the account.
If your LLC has only one owner (you), this step is usually simple — you sign a form the bank provides. If there are multiple owners, the bank may require all of them to sign, or they may accept a resolution signed by the managing member or manager. Ask the bank what they need before you arrive.
Some banks provide a template for this document. Others accept a simple letter on LLC letterhead stating your authority. Do not skip this step — without it, the bank cannot legally open the account.
Choosing between business checking and savings
Most LLCs open a business checking account, which allows unlimited deposits and withdrawals and comes with a debit card and checks. Some banks also offer a business savings account, which earns interest but limits the number of withdrawals per month. You can open both at the same time if you want to keep operating money separate from reserves.
Business accounts cost more than personal accounts. Monthly fees range from zero to $25 or more, depending on the bank and the account type. Some banks waive the fee if you maintain a minimum balance (often $1,000 to $5,000) or set up direct deposit. Compare the fee structure before you choose — a bank that charges $15 per month costs $180 per year, which adds up for a small LLC.
Ask the bank about their overdraft policy. Some business accounts charge per overdraft; others charge a flat monthly fee if you overdraft at all. Understand this before you open the account, because it affects how much a mistake will cost you.
Funding the account and getting cards or checks
You can fund the account on the day you open it by bringing a check or cash, or you can transfer money from another account after the account opens. The bank will give you temporary access (usually a debit card) within one to two business days. Checks typically arrive in five to ten business days, though you can order them expedited for an extra fee.
Ask the bank whether they issue a debit card immediately or whether you have to wait. Some banks give you a temporary card number you can use online right away, while others make you wait for the physical card. If you need to make payments or withdrawals before checks arrive, a debit card is essential.
Keep your account number and routing number in a safe place — you will need them to set up payroll, pay vendors, and receive payments from customers.
What happens if the bank asks for more
Some banks, especially larger ones, ask for additional documents: a business license from your city or county, proof of your business address (a lease or utility bill), or a copy of your tax return if your LLC has been operating for more than a year. These requests are legal, and you should provide them if asked.
If a bank refuses to open an account for your LLC without documents you do not have or cannot get, try a different bank. Credit unions and smaller regional banks sometimes have simpler requirements than national chains. Online banks may also have fewer documentation requirements, though they do not offer in-person service.
If you believe a bank is refusing service for an illegal reason (discrimination based on race, national origin, or other protected status), you can file a complaint with the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) at consumerfinance.gov or call 1-855-411-2372.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a business license before I open a bank account?
No. The bank needs your EIN and Articles of Organization, not a business license. However, some banks ask for a license if your state or city requires one for your type of business. Call the bank first to ask what they need.
Can I use my personal Social Security Number instead of an EIN?
No. Banks require an EIN for LLC accounts because the account must be in the LLC's name, not your personal name. The EIN is what identifies the LLC to the IRS and the bank.
What if I have not filed my Articles of Organization yet?
File them first. You cannot open a bank account for an LLC that does not legally exist. File with your state's Secretary of State office, get a certified copy, and then go to the bank. This usually takes one to two weeks.
Do all owners have to be present when I open the account?
It depends on the bank and your Operating Agreement. Call ahead and ask. Some banks require all owners to sign; others accept a resolution signed by one owner or manager. Confirm before you go.
What if I do not have an Operating Agreement?
Most banks do not require one. They may ask you to sign a statement confirming that you have authority to open the account. If the bank insists on seeing an Operating Agreement and you do not have one, ask whether they will accept a resolution or certificate of authority instead.