Yes, you can open a USD business bank account for your US LLC or C-Corp — fully remotely, without an SSN or ITIN, as long as you have your EIN. Hollis & Co. provides FDIC-insured USD accounts for US-incorporated businesses through Column N.A., Member FDIC.
Why US companies need a USD bank account
A USD business bank account is the operational foundation for any US LLC or C-Corp. You need one to receive customer payments, pay vendors, process payroll, and connect to services like Stripe, Brex, or QuickBooks. For non-US founders who've incorporated in the US to access US markets or raise from US investors, the bank account is also the last — and often most frustrating — step before the business can actually operate.
The problem with traditional banks
For non-US founders, getting from US LLC formation to an open bank account is slower and harder than it should be.
- EIN fax applications take 2–3 months: Non-US residents without an SSN or ITIN can't apply for an EIN online. They must fax Form SS-4 to the IRS and wait — typically 2–3 months — for a response.
- The total timeline is 3–4 months: From LLC formation to EIN to open account, non-resident founders routinely wait 3–4 months before their US entity is operational.
- Bank of America and Wells Fargo require in-person visits: Major US banks require you to appear at a branch with original documents. For founders based outside the US, that means booking a flight to the US.
- Some fintechs restrict by country or industry: Challenger banks and fintechs that do accept remote applications often have prohibited-country lists or industry restrictions that catch non-US founders off guard after they've already spent time on the application.
What documents you need
- 1Articles of Organization (for LLCs) or Articles of Incorporation (for C-Corps), filed with the relevant state
- 2EIN confirmation letter from the IRS — Form CP575 or equivalent IRS letter
- 3Passports and proof of residential address for every owner, member, or director
- 4Specific business description: what the company sells, who its customers are, and how money flows in and out
How to open a USD account for your US LLC or C-Corp
- Obtain your EIN. This is the only federal requirement Hollis needs. If you don't have one yet and don't have an SSN or ITIN, you'll apply via Form SS-4 by fax or phone. Hollis & Co. can help you understand the EIN process.
- Gather your formation documents and KYC materials. Articles of Organization/Incorporation, your IRS EIN letter, and passports with proof of address for every owner.
- Apply with Hollis & Co. Submit fully remotely — no branch visit, no SSN or ITIN required, and your location as a founder doesn't affect eligibility.
- Get approved and start banking. Complete applications are reviewed in days. Once approved, your FDIC-insured USD account is ready for ACH, wires, and payment platform integrations.
How long does it take?
For non-US founders, the total timeline from incorporation to open account at a traditional bank is typically 3–4 months, dominated by the EIN wait time. Hollis & Co. processes complete applications in days once you have your EIN in hand. The EIN itself is outside Hollis's control — but once you have it, the banking step is fast.
How much does it cost?
Hollis & Co. charges a $35 setup fee and no annual fee for US LLCs and C-Corps. There is no minimum deposit required to open or maintain the account.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I open a US business bank account without an SSN or ITIN?
Yes. Hollis & Co. does not require an SSN or ITIN. Your EIN is sufficient. This is the key difference from most US banks, which require a Social Security Number for identity verification of the account owner.
Do I need to travel to the US to open a bank account for my US LLC?
No. Hollis & Co. is fully remote. No branch visit is required at any stage of the application or account setup.
What if I don't have my EIN yet — can I still start the process?
You need an EIN before your account can be opened. However, you can get in touch with Hollis & Co. to understand the EIN process and prepare the rest of your documentation in parallel. That way, the moment your EIN arrives, you're ready to complete your application quickly.