# How to get a US bank account

This guide is designed to help you understand common requirements to obtain a bank account and evaluate options to find the best fit for your business.
## Understand common application requirements
Banking providers typically require the following information and documentation:
**Company formation documents**: Access these from the [Dashboard](https://dashboard.stripe.com/atlas/documents) under **Atlas** > **Documents**.
**Employer Identification Number (EIN)**: Or other tax identification details in the **Atlas** **Company** tab or **Documents** tab of the [Dashboard](https://dashboard.stripe.com/atlas/documents). The IRS typically processes EIN applications in 1–15 business days if you provide a US company address, a US company phone number, and a US Social Security number. If you're missing any of these three pieces of information, the IRS could take 15–50 business days. Atlas emails you when your EIN is available.
**Identity and ownership details**: Personal identification (a passport is sufficient) and ownership percentage for company beneficial owners.
**Addresses**: A physical business address and mailing address.
**Business description**: A detailed description of your business activities.
Requirements vary by provider, business structure, founder location, and other factors. Review each provider’s eligibility criteria before you begin an application.
## Evaluate and compare providers
When researching and comparing banking options, use the following framework to evaluate which provider best fits your business:
**Eligibility**: Confirm whether the provider supports your company structure (C-Corp or LLC), industry, country of residence, and founder citizenship.
**Account capabilities**: Evaluate available features such as domestic and international transfers (ACH, wire, SWIFT), physical or virtual corporate cards, bill pay, multi-currency support, and multi-user permissions.
**Costs**: Identify all monthly fees, transaction fees, foreign-exchange (FX) rates, minimum balance requirements, and any hidden account maintenance fees.
**Support**: Check available support channels (email, chat, phone), hours of operation, and escalation pathways.
**Security and protections**: Verify how customer funds are held (for example, FDIC insurance pass-through) and what fraud protection measures are in place.
**Integrations**: Ensure the provider integrates with your existing accounting (for example, QuickBooks, Xero), payroll, and expense management systems.
## Suggested next steps
**Gather documentation:** Retrieve your company formation and tax documents.
**Define feature requirements**: List the critical account capabilities your business requires.
**Research providers**: Evaluate independent banking providers against your requirements and verify their eligibility rules.
**Compare fee structures**: Analyze the total cost of ownership and account terms across your top choices.
**Apply directly**: Complete the application directly with your chosen provider.
## How Atlas can help
Stripe Atlas can help you retrieve your company formation documents and answer questions about your Atlas account or setup.
For questions regarding banking-provider eligibility, account features, fee schedules, or application status, contact the banking provider directly.