Opening a business account at the “in formation” (i.G.) stage is one of the most sensitive steps in setting up a business in Germany. Without an account, you cannot pay in the share capital or complete registration.

What is special about an account for a company in formation

A company i.G. has not yet been entered in the commercial register. Not all traditional German banks open accounts at this stage because of strict checks on beneficial owners under the Money Laundering Act. The managing director should check the bank's willingness in advance.

Traditional banks vs. digital providers

Large branch banks (Commerzbank, Deutsche Bank, Sparkasse) offer reliable service, but opening an account can take three to five weeks. Digital providers for businesses (Qonto, Finom, bunq) often open accounts for companies i.G. entirely online within a few working days.

Documents for the bank's compliance check

The managing director provides the notarised deed of formation, valid passports of all managing directors and beneficial owners with a stake of 25% or more, proof of address and a description of the planned business. If there are foreign companies in the ownership chain, their register extracts with an apostille are required.

Getting the confirmation for the notary

Once the account is active, the founders transfer the share capital. The payment reference should read “Einlage auf das Stammkapital”. The bank issues a statement or a separate confirmation of payment (Einzahlungsbestätigung), which is sent to the notary.

What to check

  • Before seeing the notary, check whether the bank opens accounts for companies in formation.
  • Have proof of address and tax IDs for all key beneficial owners ready.
  • Check the payment reference when paying in the share capital.
  • Ask the bank for an official statement with a stamp or electronic signature for the registration court.

Example situation

The founders contact Qonto straight after the notary appointment, complete video identification within 24 hours and pay in the capital the next day, cutting the account opening time to one week.

Next step

Choose a bank with a clear procedure for companies in formation so that registration does not stall for a month.

Official information on this topic

Checklists and examples are organisational recommendations. Requirements depend on the procedure, the city and your situation; check them with the relevant office before you act. Please discuss legal and tax questions with an authorised professional.

This article was prepared with the help of AI. The example illustrates the approach and does not describe a client case.