Sole proprietors and some single-member LLCs can open a business checking account without an employer identification number (EIN) at many financial institutions. You’ll probably have to provide your Social Security number to verify your identity, though.
That said, even if you don’t need an EIN for a business checking account, it’s a good idea to apply for one. These unique business tax ID numbers issued by the IRS are fast and free to get, and you’ll need an EIN if you ever hire employees or contractors.
» MORE: How to apply for your EIN online
Business bank accounts you can open without an EIN
The following financial companies let sole proprietors apply for business bank accounts with a Social Security number instead of an EIN. Some single-member LLCs may be able to apply without an EIN, too.
If you feel comfortable with digital banking, consider an online business checking account. These accounts usually have no minimum opening deposit, unlimited transactions and few fees, though you may run into low cash deposit limits. Accounts available without an EIN include:
Bluevine, which pays 2.00% APY on all balances.
Found, which integrates with many gig work apps.
LendingClub, which pays 1% cash back on debit card purchases.
Lili, which lets you receive some ACH payments up to two days early.
Novo, which comes with built-in invoicing.
Brick-and-mortar banks are more likely to limit the number of transactions you can make each month and charge monthly fees. But if you like being able to walk into a branch location, consider these options:
Bank of America, which allows unlimited electronic transactions.
BMO Harris, which lets customers use an extra 40,000 Allpoint ATMs for free.
Chase, which currently offers a $300 sign-up bonus.
Huntington, which offers a 24-hour grace period when you overdraft.
TD Bank, which provides 24/7 customer service over the phone.
» MORE: Best business bank accounts for sole proprietorships
Compare business accounts available without an EIN
| Product | Monthly fee | APY | Bonus | Min. opening deposit | Learn more |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Bluevine Business Checking NerdWallet Rating 4.7 Learn more at Bluevine | $0 | 2.00% With $0 min. balance for APY | N/A | $0 | Learn more at Bluevine |
Found Small Business Banking NerdWallet Rating 4.4 Learn more at Found | $0 | N/A | $125 Requirements to qualify | $0 | Learn more at Found |
Chase Business Complete Banking® NerdWallet Rating 4.5 Learn more at Chase | $15.00 Waived with $2,000 minimum balance | N/A | $300 Requirements to qualify | $0 | Learn more at Chase |
Lili Basic Business Checking NerdWallet Rating 4.4 Learn more at Lili | $0 | N/A | $300 Requirements to qualify | N/A | Learn more at Lili |
Novo Business Checking NerdWallet Rating 4.4 Learn more at Novo | $0 | N/A | N/A | $0 | Learn more at Novo |
Bank of America® Business Advantage Fundamentals™ Banking NerdWallet Rating 4.5 Learn more at Bank of America, N.A. | $16.00 $0 for the first 12 statement cycles. | N/A | $200 Requirements to qualify | $100 | Learn more at Bank of America, N.A. |
Why do banks need to verify your identity?
Banks must verify customer information before you open an account in order to help prevent fraud and money laundering. Requiring an EIN to prove your business’s identity and the nature of your business is one way to do this. Even if you have an EIN, though, you can’t open a business bank account with an EIN only — some personal information and additional documentation will be required.
Banks don’t always require an EIN to open a business account. But whether or not you have an EIN, you’ll need to provide your Social Security number or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN).
An EIN isn’t mandatory for sole proprietors or single-member LLCs unless you have employees or one is legally required for tax purposes. Consult your accountant or a tax professional if you’re unsure what’s necessary for your business.
If you plan on doing business as a partnership, multi-member LLC or corporation, the federal government requires an EIN.
Benefits of opening a business bank account with an EIN
Even if an EIN isn’t required for your business, there are many benefits to getting one before you open a business bank account.
It’s easy to do. Applying for an EIN is free, and you can get one immediately online through the IRS website. You can also get an EIN via fax or mail. International applicants have to apply by phone.
It'll help separate your personal finances and business finances. Not only is this step important for record-keeping and tax time, but it can also help protect your personal assets if your business runs into legal trouble. Plus, having your business name and branding on your account (rather than your personal information) makes you appear more professional to potential clients or investors.
You'll have access to a wider selection of accounts. Whether you prefer a credit union, national bank or online-only banking experience, having an EIN generally means you’ll have one fewer hurdle to jump to qualify for the account you want. For instance, if you’re a single-member LLC, you may not be legally required to have an EIN. But getting one before you open a business bank account for your LLC will ensure you have as many options as possible.
It sets you up for future growth. Having a bank account tied to your business lays the foundation for other actions that can help you build business credit — for instance, applying for a small-business loan, then spending responsibly and repaying debt on time.
