The documents you'll need depend on your business structure
Most banks ask for the same core set of documents, but what counts as proof varies by whether you're a sole proprietor, partnership, LLC, or corporation. A sole proprietor opening an account in their own name needs far less paperwork than an LLC owner does. The bank's job is to verify that you are who you say you are, that the business exists, and that you have the right to open an account on its behalf.
Start by calling the bank where you want to open the account and asking for their specific checklist. Banks differ in what they'll accept, and some have streamlined their process for certain business types. Knowing what they need before you visit saves a trip back home for a missing document.
Key Takeaways
- Every business checking account requires a government-issued photo ID for the person opening the account, plus an Employer Identification Number (EIN) or Social Security Number.
- Sole proprietors can often open an account with just an ID and tax ID, while LLCs and corporations must bring formation documents like Articles of Organization or Articles of Incorporation.
- Banks verify your identity against their fraud databases, so bring the exact ID you used when you registered your business if possible.
- Some banks ask for a recent business license, utility bill in the business name, or a lease agreement to confirm the business address.
- The bank will ask you to sign signature cards and account agreements on the spot, so plan for 30 to 45 minutes in person or on a video call.
Personal identification and tax ID documents
Bring a current government-issued photo ID — a driver's license, passport, or state ID card. The bank will scan or photocopy it and check your name and address against their fraud prevention system. If you've moved recently, bring a second document showing your current address, such as a utility bill or lease agreement in your name.
You'll also need to provide your Employer Identification Number (EIN) or Social Security Number. An EIN is a nine-digit number issued by the IRS to identify your business for tax purposes. If you're a sole proprietor and haven't obtained an EIN, you can use your Social Security Number instead — many sole proprietors do. If you have an EIN, bring the IRS letter that assigned it to you, or be ready to provide the number from memory. The bank will verify it with the IRS before opening your account.
Business formation documents for LLCs and corporations
If you've formed an LLC or corporation, bring your Articles of Organization (for an LLC) or Articles of Incorporation (for a corporation). These are the documents you filed with your state's Secretary of State office when you created the business. The bank uses them to confirm that the business legally exists and to see who the owners and managers are.
Some banks also ask for a Certificate of Good Standing, which is a document from your state confirming that your business is in good standing and has paid its fees. You can order this from your state's Secretary of State office, usually online, for a small fee. It's not always required, but having it on hand speeds up the process. If you don't have it yet, ask the bank whether they'll proceed without it.
If your LLC or corporation has a registered agent or a manager who is not you, the bank may ask for documentation showing who that person is and their authority to act on behalf of the business. This is less common for small businesses, but some banks request it.
Business license and address verification
Many banks ask to see a business license issued by your city or county. This shows that you've registered the business locally and are operating legally. Bring the actual license or a recent renewal notice. If you haven't obtained a local license yet, ask the bank whether it's required before you open the account — some states and cities don't require one for all business types.
The bank also needs to verify your business address. If you're operating from a physical location, bring a lease agreement, mortgage statement, or utility bill in the business name. If you're working from home, bring a utility bill or lease in your personal name along with a statement that the business operates from that address. Some banks accept a mail forwarding confirmation or a virtual office agreement if you're using a mail service.
Ownership and authorization documents
If you're opening the account as a representative of the business rather than as the owner, bring a document showing you have the authority to do so. This might be a board resolution (for a corporation), a manager authorization letter (for an LLC), or a power of attorney. For a partnership, bring a copy of the partnership agreement showing the signatory authority.
If there will be multiple people authorized to sign checks or withdraw money, the bank will ask each of them to come in and sign signature cards. Some banks allow you to designate signers later, but it's faster to do it all at once. Bring ID for anyone who will be a signer.
What to bring if you're a new business with no documents yet
If you haven't yet filed your formation documents or obtained an EIN, you can still open an account in most cases, but the process takes longer. Bring your personal ID and Social Security Number, and tell the bank you're in the process of registering the business. The bank may open a temporary account and convert it once you provide the EIN and formation documents, or they may ask you to come back once those are ready.
If you're operating as a sole proprietor and haven't registered a business name with the state, you can open an account under your own name and use it for business. You won't need formation documents in this case — just your ID and Social Security Number.
Documents the bank will provide or create
The bank will prepare several documents for you to sign at the time you open the account. These include the account agreement (which outlines the terms of the account, fees, and your responsibilities), a signature card (which shows who is authorized to sign checks), and a resolution or authorization form (which documents that the business has authorized the account). Read these carefully before signing. The bank will give you copies to keep.
You may also be asked to sign a Beneficial Ownership Certification form, which is a federal requirement for certain business structures. This form asks you to identify the people who ultimately own or control the business. It's a standard anti-money-laundering measure and takes just a few minutes to complete.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I open a business checking account without an EIN?
Yes, if you're a sole proprietor, you can use your Social Security Number instead of an EIN. If you're an LLC or corporation, you need an EIN. You can obtain one from the IRS for free online at irs.gov, and it's issued when ready. Some banks will let you open the account and add the EIN later if you're in the process of getting one.
What if I don't have a physical business address yet?
You can use your home address, a virtual office address, or a mail service address. Bring a utility bill or lease showing that address in your name or the business name. Some banks accept a mail forwarding confirmation or a letter from a virtual office provider confirming you're a client.
Do I need to bring original documents or are copies okay?
Banks typically want to see originals so they can verify them and photocopy them for their records. Bring originals of your ID, formation documents, and any licenses. If you have certified copies (like a Certificate of Good Standing), those are acceptable.
What happens if I'm missing a document when I go to open the account?
Call the bank first and ask which documents are essential and which are optional for your business type. If you're missing something required, the bank will tell you what to bring back. Some banks can open a temporary account and finalize it once you provide the missing document.
Do I need to bring documents if I'm opening the account online?
Most online business checking accounts require you to upload photos or scans of your documents. You'll need the same documents as you would for an in-person visit. Some banks also require a video call where you show your ID to a representative for verification.