Some chapters collect dues and host events and therefore these chapters will need a bank (checking) account.
How to set up a checking account?
In the US, the first thing you need is a Federal Tax ID number. Then, if your state requires it, you must register with your state. (Usually the Secretary of State's office, or business entity office.) You should call the bank first and ask which documents you will need to set up the account. You'll need to take your original letter from the IRS, verifying your tax status to your bank, along with your bylaws, articles of incorporation, etc. The bank will make copies of these documents for their records.
At least one of the people who will be a signer on the account must go to the bank to set up the account. Your original incorporation documents will include your initial board. Some banks require that you be either the president or the treasurer, in order to be the signer. Otherwise you might need a letter from the full board, signed by the board, attesting to the fact that you are authorized to be a signer.
You should contact multiple banks to see what they offer for non-profits. Some have a very high balance needed in order to avoid monthly service charges, others do not. Make sure the bank is convenient for your chapter.
In Germany, I would not suggest selecting a bank that is only in Berlin, but one that is national as your Board member composition will be constantly changing.
At least 2 people as signers on the account for security and convenience. You do not need to have checks that require 2 signatures. With all signers having online access to the account, you can see all transactions.
Do you need a physical address to set one up?
You can not use a PO Box or registered agent address for your bank account. It must be a physical address.
Who is in charge of keeping the physical checks, writing the checks, and balancing the checkbook?
Typically it is the treasurer or secretary, and they send a copy of the current reporting (as elaborate or as simple as you like), to the President, or the entire board on a monthly basis. ACBS has staff reconcile all accounts monthly, and those reports are sent to the President and Secretary-Treasurer monthly for their information and review. This could be a simple screenshot of a free accounting program, or an Excel spreadsheet tracking your information. If you only have financial activities a few months of the year, the need to forward reports less often might be fine. This can be determined by the individual chapter.
How many chapter leaders should be listed on the checking account?
At least two chapter leaders need to be on the checking account.