How to open a business account in United States, steps and documents

Snapshot

Opening a business account in the United States usually means having your entity registered, getting an EIN, gathering your formation documents and identification, then applying online or in a branch. Fintech accounts often open in a few business days, while some major banks take longer.

Can a non resident open: Often possible remotely with a United States company and EIN. Some banks ask for an in person visit.
Typical timeline: Often a few business days for fintech accounts, longer for the major banks.
Documents needed: EIN, formation documents and a government issued photo ID. Verify with the provider.
Most providers: Online application available

Fees and features as of 14 May 2026Last reviewed 14 May 2026

General information, not financial, legal, or tax advice. Verify current terms and eligibility with the provider before applying.

To open a business account in the United States you usually register your entity, get an EIN from the IRS, gather your formation documents and a government issued photo ID, then apply online or in a branch. A sole proprietor can often open with a Social Security number, while an LLC or corporation opens with an EIN. Fintech accounts such as Mercury, Novo and Relay often open in a few business days, while some major banks take longer. Confirm the exact steps with the provider.

How to open a business account in the United States

The process is mostly about proving who you are and that your business exists. Once your entity is registered with the state and you hold an EIN, the application itself is usually quick. The main differences are which documents a provider wants, whether you can apply online or must visit a branch, and how long the review takes. Information shown as of 14 May 2026.

Documents you usually need

Most providers ask for the EIN, the formation documents such as articles of organization for an LLC or articles of incorporation for a corporation, and a government issued photo ID for the people opening the account. A multi member LLC or corporation may also need an operating agreement or a board resolution that names who can operate the account. A sole proprietor can often open with a Social Security number and a business name registration. Getting an EIN is free from the IRS, and the online process is fast while applying by mail can take about four weeks. Confirm the exact list with the provider.

The steps in order

First, register the entity with the state if you have not already. Second, get the EIN from the IRS, or be ready to use a Social Security number if you are a sole proprietor. Third, gather the formation documents and identification. Fourth, choose the account type that matches how you trade, such as a free fintech account, a multi currency account or a traditional bank account. Fifth, apply online or in a branch and complete the identity and business checks. Timelines vary, so confirm with the provider as of 14 May 2026.

What to check before you apply

Before you apply for a business account in the United States, check these points, as of 14 May 2026. Verify with the provider

Whether your entity type and your residency are eligible for the provider you want.
The full document list, since a multi member entity often needs an operating agreement or board resolution.
Whether the account can be opened online or needs an in person visit, and how long the review usually takes.

How to act

Confirm your entity is registered and that you have an EIN, or a Social Security number if you are a sole proprietor.
Gather your formation documents and identification before you start the application.
Confirm the provider accepts your entity type and residency, then apply and complete the checks.

Compare business accounts available in the United States

These providers accept business customers in the United States and let many of them apply online. Fees and eligibility shown as of 14 May 2026. Confirm current terms with the provider before applying.

Compare business accounts →

Questions about opening a business account in the United States

What documents do you need to open a business account in the United States?

Most providers ask for the EIN, the formation documents such as articles of organization or incorporation, and a government issued photo ID for the signers. A multi member LLC or corporation may also need an operating agreement or a board resolution. A sole proprietor can often open with a Social Security number. Confirm the exact list with the provider as of 14 May 2026.

Do you need an EIN to open a business account in the United States?

Usually yes for an LLC, corporation or partnership. A single member LLC and most companies open with an EIN, which is free from the IRS. A sole proprietor can often open with a Social Security number instead. Confirm the requirement with the provider as of 14 May 2026.

How long does it take to open a business account in the United States?

Often a few business days for a fintech account once your documents are ready, and longer for some major banks. Preparing the documents can take longer, since applying for an EIN by mail can take about four weeks while the online process is much faster. Timelines vary, so confirm with the provider as of 14 May 2026.

Can a non resident open a United States business account?

Often yes. As of 14 May 2026, several fintech providers let a non resident open remotely once a United States company and EIN are in place, while some traditional banks ask for an in person visit. Requirements vary, so verify your situation with the provider.

Fees, features, and eligibility change and vary by region. This page was last reviewed on 14 May 2026. Confirm current terms with the provider before applying.