Create Bank Packet
Business Bank Packet — What to Bring & How to Open Your Account
This guide shows you exactly what banks typically require, how to prepare your documents, and how to avoid delays. Use the Checklists by Entity Type, then download/prepare the templates in the accordions below.
⚡ Quick Start
- Have your EIN Assignment Notice ready (from IRS).
- Bring your formation documents (Articles/Certificate) and any amendments.
- Prepare your Operating Agreement / Bylaws + the Banking Resolution (template below).
- Know your owners/signers and their IDs (name, DOB, address, SSN/ITIN; passport if no SSN).
- Bring proof of business address (utility bill/lease) if requested.
🏦 What Banks Usually Ask For
- EIN (IRS) — the assignment letter/notice.
- Formation proof — Articles/Certificate + state approval/stamp.
- Governing document — Operating Agreement (LLC) or Bylaws + Initial Resolutions (Corporation), or Trust/Nonprofit docs.
- Banking Resolution — who can open the account and sign.
- Signers & Beneficial Owners — IDs and basic KYC (name, DOB, address, SSN/ITIN; % ownership).
- Business details — activity, website, expected monthly volume, sources/uses of funds.
- Proof of address — sometimes required for business or signers.
✅ Checklists by Entity Type
Single-Member LLC
- EIN Assignment Notice
- Articles/Certificate of Organization (state-stamped)
- Operating Agreement (SMLLC version)
- Banking Resolution (template below)
- Owner ID & KYC info
- Business address proof (if requested)
Multi-Member LLC
- All SMLLC items, plus:
- Operating Agreement showing members/percentages
- Member roster + contact data for each beneficial owner
- IDs for all signers and any owner at or above bank thresholds (often ≥25%)
Corporation (C-Corp / S-Corp)
- EIN Assignment Notice
- Articles/Certificate of Incorporation (state-stamped)
- Bylaws + Initial/Organizational Resolutions
- Banking Resolution (template below)
- Shareholder/Officer list; stock ledger if available
- IDs for signers and beneficial owners
Nonprofit Corporation
- EIN Assignment Notice
- Articles/Certificate (state-stamped)
- Bylaws + Board Resolution authorizing account
- Board officer IDs; minutes naming signers (if required)
- IRS determination letter (if 501(c) approved) — optional for opening but helpful
Trust (with business activity)
- EIN Assignment Notice (trust EIN)
- Trust Agreement (relevant pages naming trustee powers)
- Banking Resolution / Trustee Certificate of Authority
- Trustee ID(s) and KYC info
📄 Templates You Can Use
Banking Resolution — LLC (Sample)
BANKING RESOLUTION OF [Company Legal Name], a [State] Limited Liability Company DATE: [MM/DD/YYYY] WHEREAS, the Members/Manager deem it advisable for the Company to establish banking and financial accounts; RESOLVED, that [Bank Name] (the “Bank”) is hereby designated as a depository and financial institution for the Company; FURTHER RESOLVED, that any one of the following Authorized Signers is empowered to: (a) open and close accounts; (b) sign checks and drafts; (c) initiate wires/ACH; (d) obtain debit/credit cards; (e) access online banking; (f) sign agreements required by the Bank. AUTHORIZED SIGNERS (print name & title): 1) [Name], [Title] 2) [Name], [Title] 3) [Name], [Title] FURTHER RESOLVED, that the Bank may rely upon this Resolution until written revocation is received. CERTIFICATION: I certify this Resolution is true and correct and remains in full force and effect. ______________________________ ______________________________ [Name], [Title: Manager/Member] Date
Beneficial Ownership & Signer Info Sheet (Collector)
BUSINESS: [Legal Name] • EIN: [XX-XXXXXXX] BENEFICIAL OWNERS (≥25% or as bank requires): - Full Name: - % Ownership: - DOB: - Residential Address: - SSN/ITIN (or passport if none): - ID Type & Number: CONTROL PERSON (e.g., Managing Member/Officer): - Full Name: - Title/Role: - DOB: - Address: - SSN/ITIN: - ID Type & Number: AUTHORIZED SIGNERS: - Full Name | Title | Email | Phone | Last 4 SSN
Bylaws / Operating Agreement Banking Clause (Add-On)
The Company is authorized to establish banking and financial accounts with institutions selected by the [Members/Manager/Board]. The [Manager/Officers] may execute documents and instruments necessary to open and maintain such accounts and designate Authorized Signers.
🧭 Process Tips (At the Bank or Online)
- Consistency matters: Legal name must match exactly across Articles, EIN, and governing docs.
- Bring IDs: Many banks require two forms (e.g., driver’s license + passport) for each signer.
- Explain activity plainly: One sentence on what you sell/provide + where customers are located.
- Volumes: Monthly deposits, average balance, and highest expected incoming/outgoing transfer.
- Online banks: Expect a quick digital KYC flow; have PDFs ready.
⚠️ Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Using a nickname or DBA where the legal name is required.
- Missing Banking Resolution (even if your OA/Bylaws imply authority).
- Not having all owner/signers’ IDs ready, causing approval delays.
- Inconsistent addresses among EIN, formation, and application.
🚀 After the Account Is Open
- Set up online banking, mobile app, and alerts.
- Order checks or a virtual debit card if available.
- Connect your accounting (e.g., bank feeds) and lock in user permissions.
- Enable ACH/wires if needed; add dual-control for security.
- Consider a secondary savings or tax set-aside sub-account.
❓ FAQs
Do I need a Banking Resolution if I’m the only owner?
Some banks will open with just your Operating Agreement; many still ask for a simple resolution. It’s quick to prepare and avoids delays.
What if I don’t have an Operating Agreement or Bylaws yet?
Prepare a basic version (Ameen Systems can help). Banks want to see how authority/signers are established.
Can I open the account before my EIN is issued?
Most banks require the EIN first. Open your EIN online the same day and bring the assignment notice.
Will the bank ask for owners’ personal info?
Yes, banks collect KYC details for signers and beneficial owners. Be ready with IDs and addresses.
Can I use a PO Box as the business address?
Bring a real street address for the business; you can add a mailing address/PO Box if your bank supports it.
🛠️ Want Ameen Systems to Assemble the Packet?
We’ll package your EIN, formation approvals, OA/Bylaws, Banking Resolution, signer/owner sheets, and tidy PDFs for a smooth approval.