The paperwork you'll need depends on your business structure
Most banks ask for the same core documents, but what counts as "proof of business" changes based on whether you're a sole proprietor, partnership, LLC, or corporation. A sole proprietor needs less paperwork than an LLC, which needs less than a corporation. The bank's job is to verify that you exist, that you own the business, and that the person sitting across from them has the right to open an account on the business's behalf.
Start by gathering your personal ID and your business documents before you call or visit a bank. Having everything ready means you won't be asked to come back a second time, and you'll know whether a particular bank can work with your setup.
Key Takeaways
- Every business checking account requires a government-issued photo ID and proof that your business exists — the form that proof takes depends on your business structure.
- Sole proprietors typically need only a Social Security number and proof of business name registration, while LLCs and corporations need formation documents filed with the state.
- Banks use an Employer Identification Number (EIN) to distinguish your business from your personal finances, and you can obtain one free from the IRS before opening the account.
- Some banks require a minimum deposit to open the account, and a few ask for a business license or proof of address, so calling ahead saves a trip.
Personal identification the bank will always ask for
Bring a 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 that you have the authority to open an account for the business. This is a federal requirement called Know Your Customer (KYC), and every bank does it.
If you're opening the account in person, bring the original ID, not a copy. If you're opening it online or by mail, the bank will tell you how to submit a copy — some ask you to photograph it, others ask you to upload a scan.
Documents that prove your business exists
For a sole proprietor: You need proof that you're doing business under a name. This is usually a Doing Business As (DBA) certificate, also called a fictitious name registration or trade name certificate. You file this with your county clerk or your state's Secretary of State office — the location varies by state. If you're using your own name as the business name (for example, "Sarah Martinez Consulting"), some banks will accept that without a DBA, but call ahead to confirm.
For 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 to create the business. The bank needs to see the official copy with the state's stamp or filing date. If you don't have the original, you can request a certified copy from your state's Secretary of State office — this usually costs between $5 and $25 and takes a few days.
For a partnership: Bring your Partnership Agreement and proof that the partnership is registered with your state, if your state requires it. Some states don't require formal registration for general partnerships, so check your state's rules first. The bank may also ask for a resolution or written consent from all partners authorizing one person to open the account.
Your Employer Identification Number (EIN) or Social Security number
An Employer Identification Number (EIN) is a nine-digit number the IRS assigns to businesses. It works like a Social Security number for your business — it separates your business finances from your personal finances on tax forms and with creditors. You can get one free from the IRS website (irs.gov) by filling out Form SS-4. The process takes about 15 minutes, and you receive your EIN when ready.
If you don't have an EIN yet, you have two options: get one before you open the account, or provide your Social Security number to the bank and get the EIN later. Most banks prefer you to have an EIN, but they'll accept a Social Security number if you're a sole proprietor. Sole proprietors are not required to have an EIN unless they have employees, but getting one anyway keeps your business and personal finances clearer.
LLCs and corporations are required to have an EIN, so get one before you visit the bank.
Proof of business address and ownership
The bank needs to know where your business operates. If you have a physical office or storefront, bring a lease, deed, or letter from the landlord showing that you occupy the space. If you work from home, bring a utility bill or mortgage statement in your name showing your home address — this proves you live there and operate the business from that location.
Some banks also ask for proof of ownership or control of the business. For an LLC or corporation, the formation documents (Articles of Organization or Incorporation) already show this. For a sole proprietor, the DBA certificate shows you registered the business name. If you're a partner or officer in a partnership or corporation but not the sole owner, bring a document showing your role — this might be the partnership agreement, corporate bylaws, or a board resolution.
What some banks ask for but you might not need
A few banks request a business license, especially if you're in a regulated industry like food service, childcare, or contracting. Check your city or county website to see whether your type of business requires a license. If it does, bring the license or a copy. If it doesn't, tell the bank that your state or county doesn't require one for your business type — they'll accept that.
Some banks also ask for a business plan or proof of income, particularly if you're opening a business savings account or asking for a line of credit at the same time. For a basic checking account, this is uncommon, but it doesn't hurt to have recent tax returns or profit-and-loss statements on hand if you have them.
A few banks require a minimum deposit to open the account — this might be $100, $500, or more. Call the bank before you go in so you know what to bring.
What to bring: a checklist by business structure
| Business Structure | Always Bring | Usually Bring | Call Ahead About |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sole Proprietor | Photo ID, Social Security number or EIN, DBA certificate (if using a business name) | Proof of business address (utility bill or lease) | Whether they accept Social Security number or require EIN; minimum deposit amount |
| LLC | Photo ID, EIN, Articles of Organization (certified copy from state) | Proof of business address, proof of ownership (Articles show this) | Whether they need a business license; minimum deposit amount |
| Corporation | Photo ID, EIN, Articles of Incorporation (certified copy from state) | Proof of business address, corporate bylaws or board resolution authorizing account opening | Whether they need a business license; minimum deposit amount |
| Partnership | Photo ID, EIN, Partnership Agreement, proof of registration (if required by state) | Proof of business address, written consent from all partners or resolution authorizing one person to open account | Whether they need a business license; minimum deposit amount; whether all partners must sign |
How to prepare before you visit or call the bank
Make a list of the documents you have and the ones you need to get. If you don't have a certified copy of your Articles of Organization or Incorporation, order one from your state's Secretary of State office now — this takes a few days. If you don't have an EIN, get one from the IRS website before you go to the bank.
Call the bank's business checking department and tell them your business structure. Ask them to confirm the exact documents they need, whether they require a minimum deposit, and how long the process takes. Different branches of the same bank sometimes have slightly different requirements, so this one call can save you a wasted trip.
Bring originals of everything if you're visiting in person. If you're opening the account online or by mail, the bank will tell you whether they need originals, certified copies, or scans. Keep copies of everything you submit for your own records.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a business license to open a checking account?
Not always. Many businesses don't require a license. Check your city or county website to see whether your type of business needs one. If you don't need a license, tell the bank that — they'll accept it. If you do need one, bring it or a copy.
Can I open a business checking account with just my Social Security number?
For a sole proprietor, yes — most banks will accept a Social Security number instead of an EIN. For an LLC or corporation, no — you must have an EIN. Getting an EIN is free and takes 15 minutes on the IRS website, so it's worth doing before you visit the bank.
What if I don't have a physical business address yet?
You can use your home address if you work from home. Bring a utility bill or mortgage statement in your name. If you're renting a space but the lease isn't signed yet, ask the landlord for a letter confirming you'll occupy it, with the move-in date. Some banks will hold the account open while you finalize the lease.
How long does it take to open a business checking account?
If you have all your documents, opening in person usually takes 20 to 30 minutes. Online applications can take a few days while the bank verifies your information. Some banks fund the account the same day; others take one to three business days.
What if I'm opening the account as an authorized representative but not the owner?
You'll need a document showing you have the authority to do so — this might be a board resolution, partnership agreement, or a letter from the owner. Bring your photo ID and the owner's photo ID if possible. Call the bank first to ask what proof they need.