The documents and information you'll need before you walk in

To open a business bank account, you need to bring proof of your business identity, proof of your personal identity, and documentation that shows the bank you're a real business—not just a person with a side hustle. The exact list depends on your business structure (sole proprietorship, LLC, corporation, partnership) and the bank you choose, but the core items stay the same across most institutions.

Banks ask for these things because they're required by federal law to verify who owns the business and who has signing authority. This process is called Know Your Customer (KYC) verification, and it protects both you and the bank from fraud and money laundering.

Key Takeaways

  • You need a government-issued ID for the owner, the business's tax ID number (EIN or SSN), and proof the business exists—such as articles of incorporation, an LLC operating agreement, or a DBA certificate.
  • Sole proprietors can often open an account with just a Social Security number and a driver's license, but some banks now require an EIN even for single-owner businesses.
  • Bring your business formation documents (the actual filed paperwork from your state), not just a business plan or website screenshot.
  • Different banks have different requirements—call ahead or check the bank's website to confirm what they need before you visit.
  • You'll also need to decide on account signers and bring their IDs if they're not the owner.

Personal identification for the owner or authorized signers

Bring a current, government-issued photo ID for every person who will have signing authority on the account. This is usually a driver's license, passport, or state ID card. The bank will photocopy it or scan it into their system.

If you're opening the account as the sole owner, you need only your ID. If you're opening it as a partnership or corporation with multiple authorized signers, bring IDs for all of them. The bank will record each person's name, address, and ID number in their files.

Your business tax identification number

Most banks require an Employer Identification Number (EIN), which is a nine-digit number the IRS assigns to your business. You can get one free from the IRS website (irs.gov) in about 15 minutes, even if you haven't filed any tax returns yet. The IRS will email you a confirmation letter immediately.

If you're a sole proprietor with no employees, some banks will let you use your Social Security number instead of an EIN, but this is becoming less common. Even if it's allowed, getting an EIN is free and takes minutes, so most accountants recommend doing it anyway—it keeps your personal and business finances separate in the eyes of the IRS.

Proof that your business actually exists

The bank needs to see that your business is registered with your state. What counts as proof depends on your business structure:

  • LLC: Bring a copy of your Articles of Organization, filed with your state's Secretary of State office. This is the official document that created your LLC.
  • Corporation: Bring your Articles of Incorporation, also filed with your state.
  • Partnership: Bring your Partnership Agreement and, if you filed one, your Certificate of Partnership with the state.
  • Sole proprietorship: If you're operating under your own name, you may not need anything. If you're using a business name (a "doing business as" or DBA), bring your DBA certificate, filed with your county or state.

The bank will want to see the actual filed document, not a draft or a screenshot. If you don't have a physical copy, you can download it from your state's Secretary of State website or request it from the county clerk's office. Most states let you download these documents for free or a small fee.

Recent business address and ownership information

Have your business address ready. If you're working from home, that's fine—use your home address. If you're renting office space, have the street address. The bank will record this in their system.

You'll also need to provide information about who owns the business and in what percentage. If you're the sole owner, this is straightforward. If there are multiple owners, the bank will ask for each owner's name, address, and ownership stake. Some banks ask for this information on a form they provide; others ask you to fill it in during the appointment.

What to bring if you're not the owner but have signing authority

If someone other than the owner is opening the account on behalf of the business—such as a manager or accountant—the bank will need a document showing that person has authority to act. This is usually a board resolution (for corporations), a manager authorization letter (for LLCs), or a power of attorney.

The authorized person still needs to bring their own government-issued ID. The bank will verify that the document is genuine and that the person's authority is current.

How to prepare before you visit or call the bank

Call your bank ahead of time and ask for their specific checklist. Requirements vary between banks and even between branches of the same bank. Some banks have moved to online account opening, which may require you to upload documents rather than bring them in person. Others still require an in-person visit.

Once you know what the bank needs, gather everything and make copies. Bring the originals and copies—the bank will keep the copies and return the originals to you. If any document is more than a few years old, consider whether you have a more recent version. For example, if your Articles of Organization have been amended, bring the amended version.

Have your EIN confirmation letter ready, even if you just received it by email. You can print it or show it on your phone. Have your business address written down. Have the names and addresses of all owners and authorized signers. The more organized you are, the faster the process moves.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need an EIN if I'm a sole proprietor with no employees?

Not legally, but most banks now require one anyway. Getting an EIN is free and takes 15 minutes on the IRS website, so it's worth doing before you visit the bank. Some banks will accept your Social Security number instead, but calling ahead to confirm saves a wasted trip.

Can I open a business account online, or do I have to go to the bank in person?

Many banks now offer online account opening for business accounts, but the process varies. Some require an in-person visit to verify your ID; others handle it entirely online with document uploads. Check your bank's website or call to find out which option they offer.

What if I don't have my Articles of Organization yet because I just started my business?

File your Articles of Organization with your state first—this usually takes a few days to a few weeks, depending on the state. Once you have the filed copy, you can open your bank account. Some banks will let you open an account with a receipt showing you've filed, but most want the actual filed document.

Do all owners have to be present when I open the account?

Not always. Some banks require all owners to sign the account agreement in person; others let one owner open it and add signers later. Call your bank to find out their policy before you schedule an appointment.

What if I'm opening an account for a nonprofit organization?

Nonprofits need their Articles of Incorporation (filed with the state), their nonprofit tax exemption letter from the IRS (Form 1023 or 1023-EZ approval), and IDs for the board members or officers who will have signing authority. The process is similar to a for-profit corporation but requires the tax exemption documentation.