The documents you need depend on your business structure, but most banks want proof of identity, proof of the business itself, and proof of who owns it
Every bank has a slightly different checklist, but the core documents fall into three categories: who you are, what your business is, and who controls it. A sole proprietorship needs fewer papers than an LLC, which needs fewer than a corporation. Before you go to the bank, call ahead or check their website for their specific list — some banks accept digital copies, others want originals, and a few still require notarized documents.
The documents listed here are what most banks ask for. Your bank may ask for more, or may accept less if you already have an account with them. If you are opening an account for a business that is less than a few months old, expect the bank to ask for additional proof that the business is real and operating.
Key Takeaways
- You will need a government-issued ID for the owner or authorized signer, a document that proves the business exists (such as articles of incorporation or a DBA filing), and proof of the business address.
- Sole proprietors usually need only an ID and a Social Security number, while LLCs and corporations need formation documents filed with the state.
- Most banks now accept digital copies of documents, but call ahead to confirm what format your bank takes and whether originals are required.
- If your business is brand new, the bank may ask for a business plan, lease agreement, or proof that you have already started operating.
- An Employer Identification Number (EIN) is not always required to open the account, but you will need one eventually if you have employees or file certain tax forms.
Documents for the business owner or authorized signer
The bank needs to know who you are and confirm you are who you say you are. Bring a government-issued photo ID — a driver's license, passport, or state ID card. The bank will check the name, date of birth, and address on the ID against what you put on the account process.
If someone other than the owner will be signing checks or making withdrawals, the bank will ask for that person's ID as well. Some banks require a separate authorization form signed by the owner naming that person. Others add them as a signer during the account setup process.
Documents that prove the business exists
What you bring here depends on how your business is structured. A sole proprietorship is the simplest: you may not need any formation document at all, only your personal ID and Social Security number. Some banks ask for a DBA (Doing Business As) certificate if you are operating under a name different from your legal name — this is filed with your county or state and costs between $10 and $100.
An LLC needs the Articles of Organization filed with your state. A corporation needs the Articles of Incorporation. A partnership needs the partnership agreement or Articles of Partnership. These documents show the state has registered your business and list the owners. You can request certified copies from your state's Secretary of State office, or bring the originals you received when you filed. Most banks accept either.
If your business is very new and you have not yet filed formation documents, some banks will open an account anyway if you bring a business plan or a lease for the business location. Others will not. This is why calling ahead matters — if your bank will not open an account without filed documents, you know to file them first.
Proof of the business address
The bank needs to know where the business operates. If you have a physical office or storefront, bring a lease, a mortgage statement, or a utility bill in the business name. If you are working from home, some banks accept a home utility bill with your name on it. Others ask for a separate document — a home office lease agreement or a letter from your landlord confirming you can operate a business there.
If you are using a virtual office address or a mail forwarding service, call the bank first. Some banks accept these, others do not. A few require additional documentation, such as a letter from the service confirming your business address.
Tax identification and ownership information
The bank will ask for a Social Security number or an Employer Identification Number (EIN). If you are a sole proprietor with no employees, you can use your Social Security number. If you have an LLC, a corporation, or employees, you need an EIN. You can get one free from the IRS at irs.gov — it takes about 15 minutes online, and you receive the number when ready.
If your business has multiple owners, the bank will ask for the name, address, and Social Security number or EIN of each owner. Some banks ask for this on the account process itself. Others ask for a separate ownership certificate or a copy of the formation documents that list the owners.
Documents for businesses with employees or special circumstances
If you have employees, the bank may ask for proof that you have registered with your state's labor department or unemployment insurance program. This is usually a letter or certificate from the state confirming you are registered. You can request this from your state's Department of Labor or equivalent agency.
If your business is in a regulated industry — such as liquor sales, childcare, or healthcare — the bank may ask for your license or permit. If you are opening an account for a nonprofit, the bank will ask for your nonprofit incorporation documents and your IRS information letter showing you have 501(c)(3) status.
What happens if you do not have all the documents
If you are missing a document, ask the bank whether they will accept something else in its place. Many banks have flexibility — for example, if you do not have a lease, some will accept a utility bill, a property tax statement, or even a recent bank statement showing the business address. If the bank will not budge, you have two options: file the missing document (such as a DBA or an EIN process) and come back, or try a different bank.
Some banks, particularly community banks and credit unions, are more flexible with new businesses than large national banks. If a major bank turns you down, a local bank may not. It is worth asking around before you assume you cannot open an account.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need an EIN before I open a business bank account?
No. If you are a sole proprietor, you can use your Social Security number. You can get an EIN later when you hire employees or file certain tax forms. However, getting an EIN takes 15 minutes online at irs.gov, so many business owners do it anyway to keep their personal and business finances separate from the start.
Can I open a business account online, or do I have to go to a branch?
Many banks now let you start the process online, but most still require you to verify your identity in person or by video call before the account is fully active. Some online-only banks complete the entire process remotely. Call your bank to ask whether they offer remote account opening and what documents they need you to upload.
What if I do not have a physical business address yet?
Some banks accept a home address if you are operating from home. Others require a commercial address. If you do not have one yet, you can use a virtual office address or a mail forwarding service, but call the bank first — not all of them accept these. A few banks will let you update the address later once you have a physical location.
Do I need to bring original documents or are copies okay?
Most banks now accept digital copies or scans, but some still want to see originals. A few require notarized copies of formation documents. Call ahead and ask what your bank takes. If you bring originals, bring copies too — the bank may keep one on file.
How long does it take to open a business bank account?
If you have all the documents and go in person, you can usually open an account the same day. If you are opening online, it may take a few business days for the bank to verify your information and set up the account. If the bank asks for additional documents, it can take a week or more.