What you need before you start

Chase requires you to bring specific documents and information to open a business checking account. You cannot complete this entirely online — you must visit a branch in person or speak with a business banker by phone, though the phone route has limits on what account types you can open.

Have these items ready: your Social Security number or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number, a government-issued photo ID, your business's Employer Identification Number (EIN) or Social Security number if you are a sole proprietor, and proof of your business address (a utility bill, lease, or mortgage statement dated within the last 60 days). If your business is a corporation, LLC, or partnership, bring the formation documents — the articles of incorporation, articles of organization, or partnership agreement.

You will also need to decide which account type fits your business. Chase offers several: Chase Business Checking (the standard option), Chase Business Checking with Positive Pay (adds fraud prevention tools), and Chase Business Checking with Remote Deposit Capture (for businesses that receive many checks). The features and monthly fees differ, so knowing which one you need before you walk in saves time.

Key Takeaways

  • You must visit a Chase branch in person or call a business banker — the account cannot be opened entirely online, though you can start the process on Chase's website.
  • Bring your photo ID, Social Security number or EIN, business formation documents if you have them, and proof of your business address dated within 60 days.
  • Chase will run a background check using ChexSystems and may ask about the source of your initial deposit and the nature of your business.
  • The account is usually active within one to three business days after you complete the paperwork in the branch.
  • Monthly fees range from $0 to $25 depending on the account type and whether you meet balance or activity requirements.

Starting the process online or by phone

You can begin on Chase's website by going to the business checking section and selecting "Open an account." This step lets you choose your account type, enter basic business information, and schedule an appointment at a nearby branch or with a business banker. You do not need to complete the full process online — you can stop after scheduling and finish everything in person.

If you prefer to call, Chase's business banking phone line can walk you through the initial questions and set up a phone appointment. The phone route works for most account types, but some business structures (like new LLCs or corporations without established banking history) may require an in-person visit. Calling ahead tells you which applies to your situation.

The appointment itself usually takes 20 to 30 minutes. Bring all documents listed above, plus a blank check from any existing business account if you have one (this is optional but speeds up setup). If you are opening the account on behalf of someone else, bring a power of attorney document or corporate resolution authorizing you to do so.

What Chase checks during the process

Chase runs your information through ChexSystems, a banking history database that flags accounts closed due to fraud, unpaid overdrafts, or repeated NSF (non-sufficient funds) fees. If you have negative history with any bank, Chase may deny the account or require you to pay outstanding balances first. You can request your own ChexSystems report before explore if you are unsure of your history.

The banker will also ask about the source of your initial deposit and the nature of your business. These questions are standard compliance checks — Chase needs to understand where money is coming from and what the account will be used for. Be straightforward. If your business involves high-volume cash deposits, international transfers, or industries like cannabis or money services, expect more detailed questions.

Chase may also verify your business address by calling the number on file or sending mail to confirm you receive it. This takes a few days but does not delay account opening — your account will be active while verification happens in the background.

Funding your account and getting cards

You can fund the account when ready after opening it. Most people transfer money from a personal account or make an initial deposit at the branch. There is no minimum opening deposit required, though some account types waive the monthly fee if you maintain a certain balance (usually $500 to $2,500 depending on the account).

Business debit cards are issued at the branch or mailed to your business address within 5 to 10 business days. You can request multiple cards for employees at the time of opening. If you need the card when ready, ask the banker whether your branch can issue it on the spot — some branches can, others cannot.

Online banking access is set up during your appointment. You will receive login credentials and can begin moving money and paying bills as soon as you leave the branch. Mobile app access is available when ready as well.

Monthly fees and how to avoid them

Chase Business Checking has a monthly service fee that varies by account type. The standard checking account is $15 per month, but this fee is waived if you maintain a minimum daily balance of $2,500 or process at least 10 debit card transactions per month. The Positive Pay and Remote Deposit Capture versions have higher fees ($25 and $20 respectively) with different waiver thresholds.

Additional charges explore for overdrafts ($35 per occurrence), wire transfers ($15 domestic, $20 international), and stop payments ($30). There is no charge for ACH transfers, check deposits, or standard transfers between your Chase accounts.

If you do not meet the balance or activity requirement, you can still avoid the fee by setting up direct deposit of payroll or government benefits to the account. Some account types also waive fees if you maintain a linked Chase business savings account with a certain balance.

Timeline from process to first use

The account number and routing number are provided at the end of your branch visit, so you can begin using the account when ready for online bill pay and ACH transfers. Physical checks can be ordered at the branch or online and typically arrive within 7 to 10 business days. Debit cards arrive within 5 to 10 business days.

If you need checks or a card faster, ask about expedited options. Some branches can print temporary checks on the spot, and expedited card shipping is available for an additional fee (usually $15 to $25).

The entire process from scheduling an appointment to having a fully functional account with cards and checks usually takes two to three weeks. The account itself is active within one business day, but having all the physical items in hand takes longer.

What happens if Chase denies your account

If Chase denies your process, you will receive a letter explaining the reason. Common reasons include negative ChexSystems history, an EIN that does not match IRS records, or a business address that cannot be verified. You have the right to request your ChexSystems report and dispute any errors on it.

If the issue is a ChexSystems record, you can work with the bank that reported it to have the record corrected or removed, then reapply to Chase. If the issue is documentation, gather the correct documents and reapply — there is no waiting period for a second attempt.

If Chase continues to deny you, other banks offer business checking accounts with less stringent requirements. Some credit unions and online banks have lower barriers to entry, though they may not offer the same branch network or services as Chase.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I open a Chase business checking account without an EIN?

Yes, if you are a sole proprietor, you can use your Social Security number instead of an EIN. You will still need to provide your business name and address. If your business is structured as an LLC, corporation, or partnership, you must have an EIN — Chase will not open the account without one.

What if I do not have a physical business address?

Chase requires a verifiable business address. A home address works if you operate from home. A UPS box or mailbox service does not. If you use a coworking space or shared office, bring a letter from the space confirming your business operates there, along with a utility bill or lease showing the address.

How long does it take to get my account number?

Your account number is issued at the end of your branch appointment, usually within 30 minutes of completing the process. You can use it when ready for online transfers and bill pay. Physical checks and debit cards arrive separately over the next 7 to 10 days.

Can I open the account if I have had a Chase account closed before?

It depends on why it was closed. If it was closed due to inactivity or at your request, there is no problem. If it was closed by Chase due to fraud, repeated overdrafts, or policy violations, Chase may deny a new account or require you to resolve the previous issue first. Call Chase's business line to ask before explore.

Do I need to open a business savings account at the same time?

No, the checking account stands alone. However, linking a savings account can waive the checking account monthly fee on some account types, so it may be worth considering if you plan to keep business reserves on hand.