The documents and information you'll need before you walk in
To open a business bank account, you need to prove who you are, prove your business exists, and show the bank how your business is structured. Most banks want an ID, a document that shows your business name and ownership, and your tax ID number. The exact list depends on whether you're a sole proprietor, partnership, LLC, or corporation — each structure requires different paperwork.
Banks ask for these things because federal law requires them to verify the identity of business owners and understand who controls the account. This protects both you and the bank. Having these documents ready before you visit or call means the process moves faster and you're less likely to be asked to come back a second time.
Key Takeaways
- You will need a government-issued photo ID for yourself and any owner or authorized signer, plus proof that your business legally exists.
- Your Employer Identification Number (EIN) from the IRS is required for most business structures, though sole proprietors can sometimes use their Social Security number instead.
- The bank will ask for a document showing your business structure — a certificate of formation for an LLC, articles of incorporation for a corporation, or a DBA filing for a sole proprietor.
- Bring a recent business address and be ready to explain what your business does and how you expect to use the account.
- Some banks require a minimum opening deposit, which ranges from zero to several hundred dollars depending on the bank and account type.
Documents for your personal identity
Bring a current government-issued photo ID — a driver's license, passport, or state ID card. The bank needs to verify that you are who you say you are, and this is the standard way they do it. If someone else will be signing checks or making withdrawals from the account, bring their ID too.
The ID needs to be current and not expired. If you've moved recently and your address on your ID doesn't match your current business address, bring a second document showing your current address — a utility bill, lease, or recent bank statement will work. The bank is checking that you actually live where you say you do.
Your business tax ID number
Most business structures need an Employer Identification Number (EIN), which is a nine-digit number the IRS assigns to your business. You get an EIN by filing Form SS-4 with the IRS, either online at irs.gov or by mail. If you file online, you get your number when ready. If you mail it, it takes about four weeks.
Sole proprietors who have no employees can sometimes use their Social Security number instead of an EIN, but many banks prefer an EIN anyway because it keeps your personal and business finances separate in their system. If you haven't received your EIN yet, call the IRS at 1-800-829-4933 and they can tell you the number over the phone while you're on the way to the bank — you don't have to wait for the paper to arrive.
If your business is brand new and you haven't filed taxes yet, you can still get an EIN before opening the account. The bank will accept the EIN confirmation letter from the IRS as proof.
Proof that your business legally exists
The document you need depends on your business structure. If you're a sole proprietor operating under your own name, you may not need anything — your ID is often enough. If you're operating under a different name, bring a DBA filing (also called a "Doing Business As" certificate) from your county clerk or secretary of state.
If you're an LLC, bring your certificate of formation or articles of organization from your state. If you're a corporation, bring your articles of incorporation. If you're a partnership, bring your partnership agreement or certificate of partnership. These documents show the bank that your business is registered with the state and that you have the authority to open an account on its behalf.
If you just filed these documents and haven't received the official copy yet, ask the secretary of state's office for a certified copy or a filing confirmation letter. Most banks will accept either one while you wait for the official document to arrive.
Information about your business and how you'll use the account
The bank will ask what your business does, how long it's been operating, and roughly how much money you expect to move through the account each month. They're not trying to pry — they're required by law to understand the nature of your business and the expected account activity. This helps them spot unusual transactions later and protects your account from fraud.
Be straightforward. If you're a freelancer, say so. If you're a retail store, say that. If you're just starting and don't know yet how much you'll deposit, say "I'm not sure yet, but I expect to start with small deposits." Banks work with new businesses all the time and don't expect you to have perfect numbers.
Your business address and contact information
Have your business address ready. If you work from home, that's fine — use your home address. If you rent a mailbox or use a coworking space, use that address. The bank needs a physical location where they can send statements and documents if needed.
You'll also provide a phone number and email address. The bank uses these to contact you about the account, confirm large transactions, or alert you to suspicious activity. Make sure the phone number is one you check regularly.
Minimum opening deposit and account fees
Some banks require a minimum deposit to open a business account, ranging from zero to several hundred dollars. Others have no minimum but charge monthly fees unless you maintain a certain balance. Before you go to the bank, check their website or call to ask what they require — this varies widely between banks and between different account types at the same bank.
If you're opening the account with very little money, look for banks that offer no-minimum business checking. Many community banks and online banks have these accounts. You can always move to a different bank later if your needs change.
What happens after you bring everything in
Once you hand over your documents, the bank will verify your identity, check your EIN with the IRS, and review your business documents. This usually takes a few minutes if you're in person, or a few business days if you're opening the account online or by mail. The bank may call you to confirm information or ask follow-up questions about your business.
After approval, you'll sign the account agreement and receive your account number, routing number, and debit card. Some banks give you temporary checks right away; others mail them to you. Ask when you can start using the account and how you'll receive your first set of checks.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I open a business account if my business isn't registered yet?
It depends on the bank. Some will open an account for a sole proprietor using just a personal ID and Social Security number, even if you haven't filed a DBA. Others require at least a DBA filing or an EIN. Call the bank first and ask what they need — don't assume you have to wait.
What if I don't have an EIN yet?
You can get one the same day by calling the IRS at 1-800-829-4933, or by filing Form SS-4 online at irs.gov. If you file online, you receive the number when ready. The bank can usually open your account while you're waiting for the official letter to arrive in the mail.
Do I need to bring my business partner or co-owner?
Not always. If you're the only person signing checks, you can open the account alone. If your co-owner will also sign checks or make withdrawals, they should come with you or provide a signed authorization form. Ask the bank what they require before you visit.
Can I use a PO box as my business address?
Most banks will not accept a PO box as your primary business address. They need a physical street address where they can send mail if needed. If you don't have a physical location, use your home address or a coworking space address.
What if the bank rejects my documents?
Ask the banker exactly what's missing or incorrect. Common issues are expired IDs, documents that don't match your name, or a business structure the bank doesn't recognize. Once you know what's wrong, you can fix it and try again, either at the same bank or a different one.