It can be convenient to have a group bank account allowing trusted home group members or the treasurer to keep the finances of the group separate from their personal finances. This would allow clear tracking of common transactions like paying rent, insurance, coffee and literature purchases.
When opening a bank account for your group, the bank may require a Tax ID Number / Employment Identification Number (EIN). If this is the case, we recommend discussing the options with your homegroup members through a group conscience meeting.
While there is no cost in obtaining a Tax ID Number, getting an EIN does not mean your group becomes an LLC or Non-Profit. This is a separate process of getting incorporated (e.g. C Corporation, S Corporation, Limited Liability Company, Non-Profit Corporation, etc.) and usually has both upfront and annual fees associated with it. This should be discussed with a tax adviser and/or lawyer. In most cases, the cost is not justified.
Please note that the Central California Fellowship of Alcoholics Anonymous office does not provide its Tax ID Number to local A.A. groups for the purposes of opening a bank account since each group is autonomous in financial matters, as in all other ways.