What you need before you start

Chase requires specific documents and information before you can open a business checking account. The exact list depends on your business structure — sole proprietorship, partnership, LLC, or corporation — but all routes start with the same foundation.

You will need a federal Employer Identification Number (EIN), which the IRS issues to identify your business for tax purposes. If you are a sole proprietor, you can use your Social Security Number instead, but an EIN keeps your personal and business finances separate. You can get an EIN free from the IRS website (irs.gov) in minutes, or by phone or mail if you prefer.

Bring a government-issued photo ID, your Social Security Number or EIN, and proof of your business address — a utility bill, lease, or mortgage statement dated within the last 60 days works. If someone other than the owner will manage the account, Chase will need their ID and Social Security Number too.

Key Takeaways

  • You need an EIN from the IRS (or your Social Security Number if you are a sole proprietor) and a government photo ID to open the account.
  • Chase offers different account types for different business sizes — the Business Basic Checking is the most common starting point for small businesses.
  • You can open the account in person at a Chase branch, by phone, or online, though in-person visits often move faster if you have questions.
  • Monthly fees range depending on the account type and whether you meet balance or deposit thresholds, so compare the specific account terms before you commit.
  • The account is usually active within one to three business days, and Chase will mail you debit cards and checks separately.

Chase business checking account types

Chase offers several business checking accounts, and the right one depends on your transaction volume and balance. The Business Basic Checking is the entry point for most small businesses — it has no monthly fee if you maintain a $500 minimum daily balance or make at least one business debit card transaction per month. If you do not meet either threshold, the fee is $15 per month.

The Business Advantage Checking is designed for businesses with higher activity. It has a $25 monthly fee but waives it if you maintain a $2,500 minimum daily balance or have $5,000 in combined deposits and loans with Chase. This account includes more features like unlimited transactions and higher debit card limits.

The Business Platinum Checking is for larger operations and includes cash management tools, higher transaction limits, and relationship pricing if you use other Chase business services. The monthly fee is $35 and is waived with a $25,000 minimum daily balance.

Compare the monthly fees against your expected balance and activity. If you are just starting and expect to keep a modest balance, Business Basic Checking is usually the right fit.

Opening the account in person at a branch

Walking into a Chase branch with your documents is often the fastest route, especially if this is your first business account. Bring your photo ID, Social Security Number or EIN, proof of business address, and your business name and structure details. A banker will review your information, answer questions about account features, and set up the account while you wait.

The account is usually active the same day or within one business day. Chase will issue you a debit card and order checks, which arrive by mail within five to ten business days. You can start making deposits and payments when ready, even while waiting for the physical cards and checks.

If you are unsure which account type fits your business, the banker can walk you through the differences and help you choose. They can also explain Chase's business services — merchant processing, payroll, lending — if you think you will need them later.

Opening the account online or by phone

Chase allows you to start a business checking account online through their website or by calling their business banking line. Online, you will enter your business information, upload photos of your ID and proof of address, and choose your account type. The process takes about 15 minutes.

By phone, a representative walks you through the same steps and can answer questions in real time. Both routes require the same documents and information as an in-person visit. The account is usually active within one to three business days, and Chase mails your debit card and checks separately.

Online and phone openings work well if you already know which account you want or if no Chase branch is nearby. The main trade-off is that you cannot ask follow-up questions about features or services as easily as you can in person.

What happens after you open the account

Once your account is open, Chase sends you a welcome packet with your account number and routing number. You will need these to set up direct deposit, pay bills, or receive payments from customers. Your debit card arrives separately, usually within five to ten business days, and you can set up it by phone or through the Chase mobile app.

Checks take longer — typically two to three weeks. If you need to pay someone before checks arrive, you can use the debit card, write a check from your personal account and reimburse yourself, or set up a bill payment through Chase's online banking.

Log into your account online or through the Chase mobile app to monitor your balance, set up transfers, and track transactions. Chase offers free online banking and mobile banking for business accounts, so you can manage your money from anywhere.

Monthly fees and how to avoid them

Chase business checking accounts have monthly fees unless you meet specific thresholds. For Business Basic Checking, the $15 monthly fee is waived if you keep a $500 minimum daily balance or make at least one business debit card transaction per month. This means if you use your debit card for even one business purchase each month, there is no fee.

For Business Advantage Checking, the $25 fee is waived with a $2,500 minimum daily balance or $5,000 in combined deposits and loans. For Business Platinum Checking, the $35 fee requires a $25,000 minimum balance.

If you cannot meet the balance requirement, using the debit card regularly is the easiest way to avoid fees on the Basic account. If you expect to carry a higher balance anyway — for operating expenses, payroll, or savings — the fee may not matter because it is waived automatically.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I open a Chase business checking account if I do not have an EIN yet?

Yes. If you are a sole proprietor, you can use your Social Security Number instead of an EIN. If your business is an LLC or corporation, you will need an EIN, but you can get one free from the IRS website in minutes before you open the account.

How long does it take to get my debit card and checks?

Your debit card usually arrives within five to ten business days, and checks take two to three weeks. You can start using your account when ready through online banking and bill pay while you wait for the physical items.

What if I need to add another person to manage the account?

You can add an authorized user or signer during account opening or anytime after. Chase will need their photo ID and Social Security Number. Signers have full access to the account; authorized users can make transactions but cannot close the account or change terms.

Do I need a separate business account, or can I use my personal Chase account?

A separate business account keeps your finances organized and is required if your business is an LLC or corporation. Even as a sole proprietor, a business account makes tax time easier because all business transactions are in one place, separate from personal spending.

What if I do not have proof of a business address?

If you work from home, a utility bill or mortgage statement showing your home address counts as proof of business address. If you rent a mailbox or use a virtual office, bring the lease or service agreement. Chase accepts various forms of proof — ask the banker or representative what documents you have will work.