Most nonprofits can open a bank account online, but you will need more paperwork than an individual does

Yes, you can open a nonprofit bank account online at many banks. However, the process is different from opening a personal account. Banks need to verify that your organization actually exists as a legal nonprofit, not just that you exist as a person. This means you will upload documents that prove your nonprofit status before the bank will let you deposit money or write checks.

The speed depends on which bank you choose and how quickly you gather your paperwork. Some banks complete the process in a few business days. Others take one to two weeks. A few still require you to visit a branch in person, even though most have moved online.

The biggest difference from a personal account is that you cannot start with just an ID and a Social Security number. You need proof that your organization is registered with your state and, in most cases, proof that the IRS recognizes you as a nonprofit.

Key Takeaways

  • You will need your nonprofit's Articles of Incorporation or Certificate of Formation from your state, plus your IRS Employer Identification Number (EIN), to open an account online.
  • Banks verify your nonprofit status before opening the account, which usually takes three to ten business days after you submit all documents.
  • Some banks let you start the process online but require a board member or authorized officer to sign documents in person or by video call.
  • The person opening the account must have authority to do so — typically a board president, treasurer, or someone the board has authorized in writing.
  • You will need a board resolution or similar document showing that the board approved opening a bank account and authorized a specific person to manage it.

What documents you will need to gather first

Before you start an online process, collect these documents. Having them ready will speed up the process and prevent delays.

Proof of nonprofit status: Your state's Certificate of Formation, Articles of Incorporation, or Certificate of Good Standing. This is the document your state issued when you registered your nonprofit. If you do not have it, you can usually read it from your state's Secretary of State website or request it by mail.

Your IRS Employer Identification Number (EIN): This is a nine-digit number the IRS assigns to your nonprofit, similar to a Social Security number for organizations. If you have not received one yet, you can request it free from the IRS at irs.gov. The process takes about 15 minutes online, and you get the number when ready.

A board resolution: A written statement signed by board members saying the board approved opening a bank account and naming who is authorized to manage it. This does not need to be fancy — a straightforward one-page document signed by at least two board members (or however many your bylaws require) will work. Some banks provide a template you can use.

Identification for the authorized person: A government-issued ID (driver's license or passport) for whoever will be the primary account holder or authorized signer. Many banks now verify this through video call rather than in person.

Your nonprofit's bylaws or operating agreement: Some banks ask for this to confirm how your organization makes decisions. If you do not have formal bylaws, a straightforward written statement of how your board operates is usually acceptable.

Which banks let you open a nonprofit account fully online

Not all banks offer the same online process. Some complete the entire process and verification online. Others require at least one step in person or by video call. Here are the types of banks that typically support online nonprofit accounts:

Online-only banks: Banks like Lively, Mercury, and Relay operate entirely online and often have streamlined nonprofit account processes. They usually verify your identity and nonprofit status through video call, then complete everything else online. These banks often have lower fees and simpler interfaces, though they may not offer all the services a larger nonprofit needs.

Large national banks: Chase, Bank of America, Wells Fargo, and Citibank all offer nonprofit accounts online. The process starts on their website, but many require you to visit a branch or complete a video call with a banker to finish. Some have nonprofit specialists who can walk you through the process.

Community banks and credit unions: Smaller local banks often have nonprofit accounts and may be more flexible about the process. Many will let you start online but may ask you to come in person or call to finish. Community banks sometimes offer lower fees for nonprofits and more personalized service.

Before you start an process, call the bank's nonprofit banking team or check their website to confirm they support online opening for nonprofits. The process varies by bank and sometimes by location.

The step-by-step process for opening online

The exact steps vary by bank, but most follow this general path:

Step 1: Start the process on the bank's website. Go to the bank's nonprofit or business account page and click the button to open an account. You will enter your nonprofit's name, EIN, and address. This usually takes 10 to 15 minutes.

Step 2: Upload your documents. The bank will ask you to upload your Certificate of Formation, board resolution, and the authorized person's ID. Most banks accept PDF or image files. Make sure the documents are clear and readable — blurry photos will be rejected and delay the process.

Step 3: Verify the authorized person's identity. Many banks now do this through a video call. You will schedule a short call (usually 5 to 10 minutes) where someone at the bank confirms your ID matches your face. Some banks use automated verification instead, where you take a photo of your ID and answer security questions.

Step 4: Wait for approval. The bank reviews your documents and nonprofit status. This usually takes three to ten business days. Some banks will email you updates; others will only contact you if there is a problem.

Step 5: Fund the account. Once approved, the bank will send you account details. You can then deposit money by transfer, check, or wire. Some banks require a minimum opening deposit (often $25 to $100), though many waive this for nonprofits.

What can go wrong and how to avoid it

Your nonprofit is not registered with the state yet. If you have not filed your Articles of Incorporation or Certificate of Formation with your state, the bank cannot verify you are a real nonprofit. You must register your nonprofit with your state before opening a bank account. This process varies by state but usually takes two to four weeks.

You do not have an EIN. The IRS requires nonprofits to have an EIN before opening a bank account. Getting one is free and takes 15 minutes online at irs.gov. Do this before you explore to the bank.

The person opening the account does not have authority. Banks will reject the process if the person signing is not authorized by the board. Make sure your board resolution clearly names the person who is allowed to open and manage the account. If the board has not formally authorized anyone, hold a board meeting and create a resolution before explore.

Your documents are unclear or incomplete. Blurry photos, missing signatures, or incomplete forms will delay approval. Before uploading, check that every document is readable, signed by the right people, and dated. If the bank rejects something, they will tell you what is missing — fix it and resubmit right away.

The bank cannot reach you to verify your identity. If the bank schedules a video call and you miss it, they may close your process. Check your email and phone for messages from the bank, and respond quickly to any requests.

Nonprofit accounts versus regular business accounts

Some banks offer accounts specifically for nonprofits, while others treat nonprofits as regular business accounts. The difference matters for fees and features.

Nonprofit-specific accounts often have lower or waived monthly fees, free checks, and higher interest on savings. Banks market these to nonprofits because they want the business and because nonprofits often have limited budgets. If a bank offers a nonprofit account, choose it over a regular business account.

Regular business accounts work fine for nonprofits but may charge monthly fees ($10 to $25) and have higher minimums. If a bank does not offer a nonprofit account, you can still open a business account, but you will pay more in fees over time.

When comparing banks, ask specifically whether they have a nonprofit account option and what the fees are. The difference can save your organization hundreds of dollars per year.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need an EIN before I can open a bank account?

Yes. Banks require an EIN to verify your nonprofit status. You can get one free from the IRS at irs.gov in about 15 minutes. You do not need to wait for IRS approval of your nonprofit status — the EIN comes when ready.

Can I open a nonprofit account if my organization is brand new?

Only if you have registered with your state and received an EIN. If you have not done either yet, register your nonprofit with your state first, then request an EIN from the IRS, then explore to the bank. This usually takes three to six weeks total.

What if the bank requires me to visit in person?

Some banks still require at least one in-person visit or a video call with a banker. Call the bank's nonprofit team before explore to ask whether you can do everything online or whether a visit is required. If you cannot visit, choose a bank that offers fully online opening.

Can someone other than the board president open the account?

Yes, as long as the board has authorized that person in writing. Your board resolution should name the specific person who is allowed to open and manage the account. The bank will verify this person has authority before approving the account.

How long does it take to open a nonprofit account online?

From start to finish, usually three to ten business days. The process itself takes 15 to 30 minutes, but the bank's verification process takes the most time. Some banks are faster than others — call ahead to ask their typical timeline.