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Best Business Checking Accounts for Small Businesses for 2024

Review Updated
Brittney Myers

Our Banking Expert

Eric McWhinnie
Many or all of the products here are from our partners that compensate us. It’s how we make money. But our editorial integrity ensures our experts’ opinions aren’t influenced by compensation. Terms may apply to offers listed on this page. APY = Annual Percentage Yield. APYs are subject to change at any time without notice.

As a small business owner, selecting the right bank for your business operations is a critical decision that can have a profound impact on your financial health and sustainability. The vitality of a business often hinges on the robustness of its financial management, and choosing the right business checking account is just the beginning. The best banks for small businesses not only offer essential banking services but also combine them with low fees and exceptional customer support to truly cater to the needs of entrepreneurs.

Our comprehensive guide delves into the various factors you should consider when choosing a new bank for your business. From understanding the fee structures and assessing account features to evaluating the level of customer service and additional support services offered, we'll help you navigate through the options to find a banking partner that aligns with your business goals and financial requirements. This guide aims to arm you with all the necessary information to make an informed decision that will support your business's growth and stability.

  • Our team of experts assessed 100+ banking institutions
  • We evaluate all banking institutions across the same 4 key criteria: annual percentage yield (APY), brand reputation, fees and minimum requirements, and additional perks
  • Our bank ratings are never influenced by our advertising partners
  • We strictly feature products that offer federal insurance and high customer satisfaction, keeping our recommendations unbiased

Robin Hartill, CFP®, is The Ascent’s Head of Product Ratings and has worked for The Motley Fool since 2020. Her work has appeared in various national publications, including Yahoo! Finance, NerdWallet, Investopedia, CNN Underscored, MSNBC, USA Today, and CNET Money. She previously wrote The Penny Hoarder’s syndicated “Dear Penny” personal finance advice column.

Choosing the right business checking account for your needs

There are many business banking options available to you, so here are the picks we feel are worthy of highlighting for your consideration.

A note from our head of product ratings, Robin Hartill, CFP®

We believe a bank should understand the unique financial goals of the small businesses it serves. Here’s what we look for in a good banking partner:

  • Top-notch customer service
  • A range of banking services for checking, savings, loans, and credit cards
  • Low fees and valuable features

These factors are crucial to building a comfortable banking relationship for your small business.

Ratings Methodology
Rates as of Oct 04, 2024

Axos Basic Business Checking

Rating image, 4.00 out of 5 stars.
4.00/5 Circle with letter I in it. Our ratings are based on a 5 star scale. 5 stars equals Best. 4 stars equals Excellent. 3 stars equals Good. 2 stars equals Fair. 1 star equals Poor. We want your money to work harder for you. Which is why our ratings are biased toward offers that deliver versatility while cutting out-of-pocket costs.
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Rating image, 4.00 out of 5 stars.
4.00/5 Circle with letter I in it. Our ratings are based on a 5 star scale. 5 stars equals Best. 4 stars equals Excellent. 3 stars equals Good. 2 stars equals Fair. 1 star equals Poor. We want your money to work harder for you. Which is why our ratings are biased toward offers that deliver versatility while cutting out-of-pocket costs.
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APY
0%
Min. To Earn APY
N/A
  • Welcome bonus
  • No minimum deposit
  • No monthly maintenance fee
  • Unlimited transactions
  • Free domestic incoming wires
  • Unlimited domestic ATM fee reimbursements

  • Clunky web interface and mobile app
  • No branch access; online only
  • Difficult to make cash deposits

The Axos Basic Business Checking account is an affordable and user-friendly option for startups and small businesses. As an online-only bank, it’s able to offer perks, like ATM fee reimbursements, that you don’t typically see with business checking accounts at brick-and-mortar banks. It also has far fewer fees than you typically see, which can help you hold onto more of your cash.

Use promo code NEW400 and apply by December 31st, to earn up to a $400 bonus!

To be eligible to earn all or a portion of the cash incentive as part of the promotional offer "NEW400," an application for a Basic Business Checking account or a Business Interest Checking account must be submitted between 09/30/2023 at 12:00 am PT and 12/31/2023 at 11:59 pm PT. Axos Bank reserves the right to limit each primary account holder or business title to one (1) checking account promotional offer per year. Axos Bank or Axos Bank for Nationwide checking customers or Businesses that have held an Axos Bank or UFB or Axos Bank for Nationwide checking or savings account in the past 12 months under the same title are not eligible for this offer. Promotional terms and conditions are subject to change or removal without notice. Incentive may be taxable and reported on IRS Form 1099-MISC. Consult your tax advisor. After initial requirements above are met, the amount of incentive earned will depend on meeting the additional requirements outlined below:

Small Business Checking bonus up to $400: You must be approved for your new Basic Business Checking or Business Interest Checking account and fund it within 30 days of account opening. An incentive of up to $400 can be earned during the first five (5) statement cycles. A statement cycle is a calendar month consisting of at least one day your account was open during that month. You can earn a maximum of four (4) payouts during the five (5) statement cycles, and the incentive will be deposited into the qualifying account within 10 business days following the end of the statement cycle in which the balance requirement was met.

  • $75 will be earned for each statement cycle, up to $300 when you meet three requirements: 1) the average daily balance in your Basic Business Checking account or Business Interest Checking Account is between $25,000 and $49,999.99, 2) you have completed ten (10) point-of-sale transactions per month using your Small Business Checking Visa® Debit Card for signature-based purchases with a minimum of $3 per transaction, 3) You must also have bill pay set up and connected to your Basic Business Checking account or Business Interest Checking account. The bill pay transaction minimum is $10.
  • $100 will be earned for each statement cycle, up to $400 when you meet three requirements : 1) the average daily balance in your Basic Business Checking account or Business Interest Checking Account is greater than $50,000, 2) you have completed ten (10) point-of-sale transactions per month using your Small Business Checking Visa® Debit Card for signature-based purchases with a minimum of $3 per transaction, 3) You must also have bill pay set up and connected to your Basic Business Checking account or Business Interest Checking account. The bill pay transaction minimum is $10.

Your Small Business Checking account must remain open and in good standing at the time the incentive is paid to be eligible. Furthermore, your Small Business Checking account must remain open for 150 days, or an early closure fee of up to $400 may apply.

U.S. Bank Silver Business Checking

Member FDIC.
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4.00/5 Circle with letter I in it. Our ratings are based on a 5 star scale. 5 stars equals Best. 4 stars equals Excellent. 3 stars equals Good. 2 stars equals Fair. 1 star equals Poor. We want your money to work harder for you. Which is why our ratings are biased toward offers that deliver versatility while cutting out-of-pocket costs.
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4.00/5 Circle with letter I in it. Our ratings are based on a 5 star scale. 5 stars equals Best. 4 stars equals Excellent. 3 stars equals Good. 2 stars equals Fair. 1 star equals Poor. We want your money to work harder for you. Which is why our ratings are biased toward offers that deliver versatility while cutting out-of-pocket costs.
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Special Offer
Earn up to a $400 bonus when you open a new, eligible U.S. Bank business checking account online with promo code Q4AFL24 and complete qualifying activities, subject to certain terms and limitations. Offer valid through January 15, 2025. Member FDIC.
APY
0%
Min. To Earn APY
N/A
  • No monthly fees
  • 125 free monthly transactions
  • Discounted checks
  • Low minimum deposit
  • Large branch and ATM network
  • Card payment processing and cash management services available
  • Not interest-bearing
  • Can be costly for businesses with high transaction volumes
  • Transaction limits

The U.S. Bank Silver Business Checking account is a good fit for small business owners who aren't ready to pay for a business checking account. Its feature list may not be as robust as some of its competitors, but it comes with all the tools you need to manage your funds as well as a decent number of free monthly transactions.

Bluevine Business Checking

Open Account for Bluevine Business Checking

On Bluevine's Secure Website.

Member FDIC.
Rating image, 4.00 out of 5 stars.
4.00/5 Circle with letter I in it. Our ratings are based on a 5 star scale. 5 stars equals Best. 4 stars equals Excellent. 3 stars equals Good. 2 stars equals Fair. 1 star equals Poor. We want your money to work harder for you. Which is why our ratings are biased toward offers that deliver versatility while cutting out-of-pocket costs.
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4.00/5 Circle with letter I in it. Our ratings are based on a 5 star scale. 5 stars equals Best. 4 stars equals Excellent. 3 stars equals Good. 2 stars equals Fair. 1 star equals Poor. We want your money to work harder for you. Which is why our ratings are biased toward offers that deliver versatility while cutting out-of-pocket costs.
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Open Account for Bluevine Business Checking

On Bluevine's Secure Website.

APY
up to 4.25% Rate info Circle with letter I in it. Bluevine Premier customers will earn 4.25% APY; Premier subscriptions cost $95 per month. Bluevine Standard customers will earn 2.0% interest on total balances up to and including $250,000 only if they spend $500 or more on their debit card or receive $2,500 or more in customer payments each month. No interest earned on balances over $250,000.
Min. To Earn APY
$0
  • 2.0% APY on balances up to $250,000 for free customers
  • 4.25% APY without restrictions for paying Premier customers
  • No monthly or overdraft fees and unlimited transactions
  • Can create multiple sub-accounts and securely share access with employees
  • Free customers need to meet monthly activity goal to qualify for maximum APY
  • Highest APY only available to paying customers
  • No physical branches
  • Fee for out-of-service ATM networks
  • Fee to deposit cash

An online-only business checking account with the potential for a very competitive interest rate for those who can meet the requirements. However, if you don't meet the requirements, you don't earn any interest at all that month. You can avoid those requirements and earn a significantly higher rate, but only if you pay a monthly subscription fee.

American Express® Business Checking

Member FDIC.
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4.00/5 Circle with letter I in it. Our ratings are based on a 5 star scale. 5 stars equals Best. 4 stars equals Excellent. 3 stars equals Good. 2 stars equals Fair. 1 star equals Poor. We want your money to work harder for you. Which is why our ratings are biased toward offers that deliver versatility while cutting out-of-pocket costs.
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4.00/5 Circle with letter I in it. Our ratings are based on a 5 star scale. 5 stars equals Best. 4 stars equals Excellent. 3 stars equals Good. 2 stars equals Fair. 1 star equals Poor. We want your money to work harder for you. Which is why our ratings are biased toward offers that deliver versatility while cutting out-of-pocket costs.
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APY
1.30% Rate info Circle with letter I in it. APY = annual percentage yield
Min. To Earn APY
$0
  • Competitive APY
  • No account fee
  • Earn rewards on purchases
  • New account bonus with qualifying activity
  • Online-only account
  • Foreign transaction fees
  • No cash deposits
  • Can't link to personal Amex account

Amex is, well, Amex. The bank and card issuer is known for some of the best customer service around. American Express offers an online-only business checking account with a very competitive APY (annual percentage yield) and the ability to earn Membership Rewards® points on debit card purchases.

EverBank Small Business Checking

Member FDIC.
Rating image, 4.00 out of 5 stars.
4.00/5 Circle with letter I in it. Our ratings are based on a 5 star scale. 5 stars equals Best. 4 stars equals Excellent. 3 stars equals Good. 2 stars equals Fair. 1 star equals Poor. We want your money to work harder for you. Which is why our ratings are biased toward offers that deliver versatility while cutting out-of-pocket costs.
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4.00/5 Circle with letter I in it. Our ratings are based on a 5 star scale. 5 stars equals Best. 4 stars equals Excellent. 3 stars equals Good. 2 stars equals Fair. 1 star equals Poor. We want your money to work harder for you. Which is why our ratings are biased toward offers that deliver versatility while cutting out-of-pocket costs.
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APY
0.50%
Min. To Earn APY
$0
  • No cap to earn APY
  • No monthly maintenance fee
  • ATM fee reimbursements
  • $1,500 to open an account
  • Few physical branches
  • High wire transfer fees

EverBank's small business checking accounts are created exclusively for sole proprietors and single-owner LLCs. The account offers a competitive yield and no monthly maintenance fees. EverBank does not charge ATM fees and will automatically reimburse you up to $15 for the ATM fees paid at other U.S. ATMs each month, regardless of your EverBank account balance. EverBank requires a minimum of $1,500 to open an account, which is rather high.

Chase Business Complete Checking

Member FDIC.
Rating image, 4.00 out of 5 stars.
4.00/5 Circle with letter I in it. Our ratings are based on a 5 star scale. 5 stars equals Best. 4 stars equals Excellent. 3 stars equals Good. 2 stars equals Fair. 1 star equals Poor. We want your money to work harder for you. Which is why our ratings are biased toward offers that deliver versatility while cutting out-of-pocket costs.
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4.00/5 Circle with letter I in it. Our ratings are based on a 5 star scale. 5 stars equals Best. 4 stars equals Excellent. 3 stars equals Good. 2 stars equals Fair. 1 star equals Poor. We want your money to work harder for you. Which is why our ratings are biased toward offers that deliver versatility while cutting out-of-pocket costs.
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APY
0%
Min. To Earn APY
N/A
  • Account fee can be waived
  • New account bonus with qualifying activity
  • Huge footprint of brick-and-mortar locations
  • Great variety of accounts and services
  • Account fee is high if not waived
  • Monthly cash deposit limits

A solid option for business owners who can maintain the requirements for the fee waiver and who want easy access to in-person banking. While the Business Complete account isn't free by nature, meeting the minimum balance to waive the fee is likely doable for many small businesses.

Bank of America Business Advantage Fundamentals

Rating image, 4.00 out of 5 stars.
4.00/5 Circle with letter I in it. Our ratings are based on a 5 star scale. 5 stars equals Best. 4 stars equals Excellent. 3 stars equals Good. 2 stars equals Fair. 1 star equals Poor. We want your money to work harder for you. Which is why our ratings are biased toward offers that deliver versatility while cutting out-of-pocket costs.
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Rating image, 4.00 out of 5 stars.
4.00/5 Circle with letter I in it. Our ratings are based on a 5 star scale. 5 stars equals Best. 4 stars equals Excellent. 3 stars equals Good. 2 stars equals Fair. 1 star equals Poor. We want your money to work harder for you. Which is why our ratings are biased toward offers that deliver versatility while cutting out-of-pocket costs.
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= Excellent
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APY
0%
Min. To Earn APY
N/A
  • Account fee can be waived with qualifying activity
  • Competitive monthly cash deposit limit
  • Large footprint of brick-and-mortar locations
  • Account fee is high if not waived
  • Wire transfer fees

Bank of America is a good choice for cash businesses thanks to a very competitive monthly cash limit and an account fee that can be waived with qualifying activity.

Novo Business Checking Account

Member FDIC.
Rating image, 4.00 out of 5 stars.
4.00/5 Circle with letter I in it. Our ratings are based on a 5 star scale. 5 stars equals Best. 4 stars equals Excellent. 3 stars equals Good. 2 stars equals Fair. 1 star equals Poor. We want your money to work harder for you. Which is why our ratings are biased toward offers that deliver versatility while cutting out-of-pocket costs.
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Rating image, 4.00 out of 5 stars.
4.00/5 Circle with letter I in it. Our ratings are based on a 5 star scale. 5 stars equals Best. 4 stars equals Excellent. 3 stars equals Good. 2 stars equals Fair. 1 star equals Poor. We want your money to work harder for you. Which is why our ratings are biased toward offers that deliver versatility while cutting out-of-pocket costs.
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= Excellent
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APY
0%
Min. To Earn APY
N/A
  • No account fee
  • Unlimited ATM fee reimbursement
  • Free incoming wire transfers
  • 15+ native integrations
  • Minimum balance to open
  • Online-only account
  • Doesn't earn interest

A no-fee business checking account with more than a dozen apps and integrations good for freelancers who don't need brick-and-mortar access.

LendingClub Tailored Checking

Member FDIC.
Rating image, 4.00 out of 5 stars.
4.00/5 Circle with letter I in it. Our ratings are based on a 5 star scale. 5 stars equals Best. 4 stars equals Excellent. 3 stars equals Good. 2 stars equals Fair. 1 star equals Poor. We want your money to work harder for you. Which is why our ratings are biased toward offers that deliver versatility while cutting out-of-pocket costs.
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4.00/5 Circle with letter I in it. Our ratings are based on a 5 star scale. 5 stars equals Best. 4 stars equals Excellent. 3 stars equals Good. 2 stars equals Fair. 1 star equals Poor. We want your money to work harder for you. Which is why our ratings are biased toward offers that deliver versatility while cutting out-of-pocket costs.
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APY
1.50%
Min. To Earn APY
N/A
  • 1.50% APY on balances up to $100,000 and 0.10% APY after that
  • Earn unlimited 1% cash back on qualified purchases
  • Unlimited automatic ATM fee rebates
  • Only two physical branches (Lehi, Utah and Boston, Mass.)
  • Need an account balance of $500 to qualify for no monthly fees

LendingClub is an online-only bank with only two physical branches, one in Utah and the other in Massachusetts. The Tailored Checking account is a business bank account that offers 1% cash back, unlimited ATM rebates, and 1.5% APY on balances up to $100,000. LendingClub offers a robust app where you can create and send digital invoices and also get paid online with Autobooks, an accounting software solution.

What we look for in a great business checking account

While every company will have slightly different needs when it comes to their business bank account, here are a few things all the best small business checking accounts have in common.

1. FDIC insurance

FDIC insurance protects your business funds -- up to $250,000 per person per account type -- against bank failure. However unlikely, you don't want to risk losing all your hard-earned cash just because your bank couldn't keep its doors open. So you must make sure that whichever business checking account you choose is backed by the FDIC. Nearly all brick-and-mortar and online banks have this protection, so it shouldn't limit your options.

2. User-friendly account management tools

Whether you choose a brick-and-mortar or an online bank for your small business checking account, it should include an online portal and a mobile app where you can, at a minimum, view your balance, transfer funds, pay bills, and remotely deposit checks. This is often the fastest and simplest way for businesses to manage their money and it enables you to do so from just about anywhere.

A business checking account fee schedule written out in an informational guide.

Always check the business checking account's fee schedule before you sign up so you know exactly what your bank can charge you for. Image source: Author

3. Reasonable fees

How much you'll pay for your business checking account depends in part on which bank you choose. Some online business checking accounts don't charge maintenance fees or per-transaction fees at all, but these charges are common among brick-and-mortar business checking accounts.

What's considered a reasonable fee depends in part on what you need from your business checking account. An account with a high monthly transaction and cash deposit limit, for example, will likely have a higher maintenance fee than a more basic business checking account. But the best business checking accounts will have fees that are in line with comparable accounts at other banks and won't nickel-and-dime you for every little thing.

4. Good customer service

The best business checking accounts provide customers with multiple avenues for seeking support when they need it. Phone and email support are fairly common, and brick-and-mortar banks have branches where you can get in-person assistance from someone who knows you and your company. The best banks also have high customer satisfaction ratings, which you can gauge by looking at customer reviews and third-party customer satisfaction surveys.

What should I look for in a bank for my small business?

To choose a bank for your business, you need to know what you actually want out of it. The basic things to think about include:

  • Type: The type of bank you choose will dictate everything from how you make deposits to the price you pay for your account. Do you want in-person services, or are you comfortable doing everything online? What kind of accounts do you need, and how much are you willing to pay for them? Answering these kinds of questions can help you decide between traditional banks, online banks, community banks, and credit unions.
  • Services: Nearly every bank that offers small business accounts has a basic checking account option. But most will also offer other services, like business loans and credit cards. Choose a bank with the services that suit your needs.
  • Fees: A few banks offer no fee business checking accounts, especially for entry-level accounts. Others may have fees that can be waived by meeting certain conditions. It's not uncommon to see these fees reach $15 to $25 a month, so it's important to consider if you can (continuously) qualify to have it waived.
  • Interest: Many business checking accounts will earn interest on your balance. Banks with business savings accounts may offer better rates. If you're going to keep your profits in the account long enough to earn interest, it may be worthwhile to look around for a decent rate.

How to choose the best bank for your small business

There are a lot of considerations when comparing your banking options, from the type of institution to the fees they charge. In the end, each business is unique, and you'll need to make the decision based on your specific needs. Here are a few different aspects to consider when making your choice:

The type of institution

You can find many different types of financial institutions for your small business banking needs. The type of institution you choose will influence the services they offer and how you use them.

  • Large traditional bank: Large national -- and multinational -- banks tend to have many brick-and-mortar locations and lots of services. They also typically have higher fees and may not provide the personal service of a smaller institution.
  • Regional/community banks: While the large banks tend to make the headlines, most areas have a number of smaller regional or local banks. These will have fewer locations than larger banks, but may offer better fees and service.
  • Online bank: The last decade or so has seen a massive increase in the number of banks that operate entirely online. These banks have lower overhead than competitors who maintain brick-and-mortar locations, so they often have lower fees and better interest rates. The downside is that you'll need to do everything online, including depositing checks and chatting with customer service.
  • Credit union: A credit union is essentially a bank that is owned by its members (rather than investors). Credit unions typically have small local footprints, with only a few locations. You need to become a member to use their services. All of the credit union's profit is put back into the credit union, so they often have the lowest fees and best rates.

Learn more: Credit Unions vs. Banks

The services offered

You could be looking for a basic business bank account, or a one-stop-shop for all your business's financial needs. Either way, be sure to explore all of the services offered before choosing a bank. Here's a look at a few of the most common services offered by small business banks.

Business checking accounts

This is the most basic service a small business bank should offer. It is the account you use to make payments and deposits. It should also come with a debit card that lets you make purchases and withdraw funds from an ATM. A business checking account is the cornerstone of a well-organized small business.

Business savings accounts

Some business checking accounts offer modest interest rates. But if you want more interest on your deposits, a business savings account may be a better option.

In general, you should aim to keep your everyday funds in your checking account and just use the savings account for money you're hanging onto for a while. That's because most savings accounts limit how many withdrawals you can make from your account each month. This is typically due to the Federal Reserve’s Regulation D, which limits transfers from certain accounts.

Merchant services

Some banks provide merchant services, which let you accept credit and debit cards from customers. Using your bank for this can have a few benefits over third-party services, including quicker funding. That said, you'll still want to compare a few options to find the best rates and fees.

Business loans / credit lines

Small business loans and credit lines can be hard to get before you build a solid business credit history. But a good relationship with the bank could help you secure financing for your business. This seems to be particularly true of smaller banks and credit unions. Having your business bank account and business loan in the same institution can also make it far easier to make payments and manage your accounts.

RELATED: Small Business Loans vs. Personal Loans

Business credit cards

This is perhaps the least important service to look for in a prospective bank for your business. It's relatively easy to get great small business credit cards even if you don't have a banking relationship with the issuer. However, some banks offer rewards or checking bonuses if you have both a bank account and a credit card account, which can be a valuable perk.

RELATED: Best Business Credit Cards

The account fees

Many banks charge monthly maintenance fees for business checking and savings accounts. A basic business checking account fee could be $15 to $25 in some cases. If you want a business account with more features -- higher transfer limits, better interest, etc. -- you may pay even more.

The easiest way to avoid these fees is to choose a bank account with $0 monthly maintenance fees in the first place. Many online banks and credit unions offer business checking accounts without maintenance fees. Keep in mind that these low-cost accounts may not have a ton of features.

Alternatively, many accounts will waive the monthly fees if you meet certain conditions. These commonly include:

  • Meeting a minimum daily balance
  • Making a minimum number of monthly deposits
  • Having/using a credit card from the same bank
  • Opening/linking a higher-tier account

The requirements you need to meet to waive the monthly fee will vary based on the account type and fee amount. Basic accounts with low fees may only require a small daily balance. Top-tier accounts with many features will require you to meet high balance or transaction requirements.

The minimum balance requirements

Certain types of accounts may have minimum balance requirements you need to meet to open and/or maintain the account. These minimums will vary significantly based on the type of account.

For instance, basic, entry-level business checking accounts will have a low ($100 or less) or even $0 minimum balance requirement to open an account. Top-tier checking accounts -- those with lots of features or particularly high interest rates -- may have minimum balance requirements in the five and six figures.

As noted above, accounts without initial balance requirements may have them to waive monthly fees. This also varies by account type, with basic accounts having the lowest requirements.

The interest rates

One feature offered by banks is the ability to earn interest on your balances. A number of popular business checking accounts let you earn interest (albeit at a low rate). But business savings accounts will usually offer a better APY (annual percentage yield).

Some banks will have tiered interest rates that give you a better APY for having a higher balance. Others may offer a boost to your APY if you bundle multiple bank products, such as opening their business credit card. (Just watch out for additional account fees that could reduce the value of that added interest.)

The transaction and transfer limits

How often you need to use a bank's various services can impact which bank you choose. For example, some banks put limits on the number of deposits you can make into a business checking account each month. If you have a cash-heavy business and will need to make nightly or even weekly deposits, it's important to check for these limitations.

Similarly, banks that offer merchant services tend to have caps on how many transactions you can process. These caps may be per day, per month, or even per year. If you process many transactions each day, you'll want a merchant services account that can handle a large volume of transactions.

The security and convenience

Nearly all banks and credit unions these days offer the basics like online banking. Most will also have some sort of mobile banking app. In general, the bigger (and richer) the bank, the better the digital experience will be.

At a minimum, these platforms should all offer the ability to check your balances and perform basic banking functions. For instance, mobile check deposits are pretty much universal. They should also include standard security features, such as:

  • Reporting lost or stolen payment cards
  • Freezing your debit and credit cards
  • Disputing/reporting unauthorized transactions
  • Two-factor authentication

While the digital features are fairly common, if you want the option to pop in and speak with a human, the type of bank you choose will play a part. Online banks don't have brick-and-mortar locations. Community banks and credit unions typically have limited locations. Frequent travelers may find themselves outside their bank's range. In that case, a large national or multinational bank may be the best fit.

Ready To Get Started? How to open a bank account for a business

What you will need in order to open a business checking account

In order to open a business checking account, you'll need the following things.

1. Employer Identification Number or Social Security number

Sole proprietors may be able to open a business checking account with just their Social Security number, but if you want to open an LLC bank account, you will need an Employer Identification Number (EIN), which you can get for free on the IRS website.

2. Personal identification

You'll need a driver's license, passport, or other government-issued photo ID in order to open a business checking account.

3. Business license

Your bank will want to see your business license that proves that you are operating a legitimate business in your state. It should list your name, any business partners' names, and your business name.

4. Business organization documents

You must present your articles of incorporation or articles of organization in order to open a business checking account. What these documents must entail varies slightly from state to state, but it should include your business name and address as well as an outline of how your company is structured, the type of business you do, and who its registered agents are.

5. Certificate of assumed name

If your business advertises to customers using something other than its legal name, you must have a certificate of assumed name, also known as a "doing business as" name. Your bank will need to see this when you open your business checking account.

6. Partnership agreement

If you have business partners, you will need to present your partnership agreement to your bank outlining each partner's rights and responsibilities to the business.

How to compare business checking account options

Choosing the right business checking account is a critical decision that can significantly impact your day-to-day operations. With so many options available, it’s important to compare carefully to find the one that best suits your business needs. Here’s a friendly guide to help you navigate the process:

  • Understand Your Needs: Start by assessing how your business makes and receives payments, the typical number of transactions per month, and any specific banking services you might need, such as wire transfers or high-volume cash deposits. Knowing your transaction habits will guide you in choosing an account that matches your activity level without incurring unnecessary fees.
  • Compare Fee Structures: Look closely at the fee schedules for each account option. Some accounts offer no monthly fees but may require a minimum balance, while others might charge for excess transactions or additional services. It’s crucial to understand what triggers these fees to avoid surprises. For example, if you frequently need to deposit large volumes of cash, ensure the account can handle your volume without hefty fees.
  • Consider Accessibility: Ease of access to banking services can save you a lot of time. Check if the bank offers convenient branch locations, robust online banking services, and mobile banking capabilities. My personal tip is to prioritize banks that offer user-friendly mobile apps, as they make managing finances on-the-go much simpler.
  • Review Additional Services: Some business checking accounts come with perks that can be incredibly beneficial, such as overdraft protection, lines of credit, or even merchant services. Also, consider whether the bank offers integration with your accounting software, which can streamline financial management and reduce administrative work.
  • Evaluate Customer Support: Reliable customer support is invaluable, especially when it comes to handling your business finances. Look for banks known for their strong customer service, and consider how they handle customer issues — whether through a local branch, over the phone, or online. Good support can make a big difference, particularly when you encounter issues or need advice tailored to your business needs.

By taking the time to carefully compare business checking accounts based on these criteria, you can select an option that not only meets your current financial needs but also supports your business as it grows. This proactive approach in selecting your banking partner will ensure smooth financial operations and contribute positively to your overall business success.

When should you get a business checking account

Deciding when to open a business checking account is a pivotal step for any entrepreneur, setting the stage for effective financial management as your venture grows. If you're pondering whether it's the right time to make this move, here are some key indicators that suggest it's time to start:

  • Starting Your Business: As soon as you begin operations, even if you’re starting small, having a business checking account helps you keep personal and business finances separate. This distinction is crucial for tracking your business expenses accurately, simplifying tax reporting, and maintaining a professional image with clients and vendors.
  • Increasing Transactions: If you're noticing an increase in business transactions, it's a good indication that you should open a business checking account. This will help you manage cash flow more efficiently, handle deposits, payments, and payroll, and ultimately give you a clearer picture of your financial status.
  • Planning for Growth: If your business is gearing up for expansion—whether by increasing product lines, hiring employees, or scaling operations—a business checking account becomes essential. It will provide the necessary tools and resources to manage larger volumes of transactions and financial obligations.
  • Legal and Tax Responsibilities: As your business grows, so do your legal and tax obligations. A business checking account helps ensure that you comply with these requirements more seamlessly. It provides organized financial records and easier access to needed documents during audits or financial reviews.

Opening a business checking account at the right time not only helps in managing your day-to-day finances but also plays a crucial role in your business's long-term financial strategy. It sets a solid foundation for handling all monetary transactions and can greatly simplify financial management as your business evolves.

What types of business should have a business checking account?

When it comes to managing finances, one size does not fit all, but one thing is certain: nearly every type of business can benefit from having a business checking account. Whether you’re a freelancer, running a small local shop, or steering a fast-growing startup, the right business checking account is a fundamental tool that supports your financial activities and helps streamline your operations. Here's a closer look at what types of businesses should consider opening one:

  • Freelancers and Sole Proprietors: Even if you're the only person in your business, separating personal finances from business transactions is crucial for tax purposes and personal liability protection. A business checking account can also enhance your professional image when invoicing clients or receiving payments.
  • Small to Medium-Sized Enterprises (SMEs): As your business expands, so do your financial needs. SMEs benefit from business checking accounts as they handle employee payrolls, vendor payments, and large transactions that a personal account might not be able to manage effectively.
  • Corporations and Limited Liability Companies (LLCs): For these entities, a business checking account isn’t just beneficial—it’s often legally required. These accounts help ensure that finances are handled within the legal structure of the business, offering clarity and protection for the financial responsibilities of the company.
  • Nonprofits and Associations: Specialized business checking accounts can also cater to the unique needs of nonprofits and associations, such as handling donations and funding while maintaining transparency and accountability.

In essence, any entity that engages in business activities will find that a business checking account is not just a convenience, but a necessity. It supports growth, aids in financial organization, and ensures compliance with accounting standards, ultimately contributing to the overall health and sustainability of the business.

Discover our other checking account top picks

Our checking account methodology

At The Motley Fool Ascent, we rate checking accounts on a five-star scale (1 = poor, 5 = best). We evaluate all checking accounts across four main criteria: brand and reputation, APY and rewards, fees and minimum requirements, and perks.

Our scores are weighted as:

  • Brand and reputation: 40%
  • APY and rewards: 30%
  • Fees and minimums: 15%
  • Other perks: 15%

Learn more about how The Motley Fool Ascent rates bank accounts.

Banks we monitor

  • Alliant, Ally, All America Bank, American First Credit Union, American Express® National Bank, Arvest Bank, Aspiration, Axos Bank, B2 Bank, Bank of America, Bank5 Connect, Bank7, Barclays, Bask Bank, Betterment, Bluevine, BMO Bank, Bread Financial, Capital One, Carver Federal Savings Bank, Charles Schwab Bank, Chase, Chime, CIT, Citibank, Citizens, Citizens Savings Bank, Columbia Bank, Connexus Credit Union, Consumers Credit Union, Copper, Cross River Bank, Customers Bank, Discover® Bank, E*TRADEEdward Jones, EverBank, Fidelity, Fifth Third Bank, First Foundation Bank, First Internet Bank of Indiana, First National Bank, First Tech Federal Credit Union, Flushing Bank, Freedom Bank, Generations Bank, GN Bank, Golden 1 Credit Union, Greenlight, Harborstone Credit Union, HSBC, Huntington Bank, Ivella, Kabbage by American Express, KeyBank, Laurel Road, LendingClub, Liberty Bank, Liberty Federal Credit Union, Marcus by Goldman Sachs, Mercury, Municipal Credit Union, Mutual of Omaha, NASA Federal Credit Union, Nationwide Bank, Navy Federal Credit Union, NBKC Bank, New York Community Bank, Northpointe Bank, Novo, OceanFirst Bank, Old National Bank, ONE Finance, OneUnited Bank, Oxygen, Pacific Western Bank, PNC Bank, Ponce Bank, Popular Direct, Presidential Bank, Prime Alliance Bank, Quontic, Radius, Raisin, Redneck Bank, Regions Bank, Relay, Republic Bank of Chicago, Revolut, Salem Five Bank, Sallie Mae, Santander Bank, SchoolsFirst Federal Credit Union, Simple, SoFi®, Synchrony Bank, Tab Bank, TD Bank, Third Federal, Truist Bank, U.S. Bank, UFB, Upgrade, USAA, Valley Bank, Vanguard, Varo Bank, Vio Bank, Wealthfront, Wells Fargo, Western Alliance Bank, and Zeta.

FAQs

  • Yes, people who have a small business should have a business checking account. Individual accounts help keep your personal and business finances separated. This makes it easier to budget for your business, as well as being beneficial at tax time.

  • The choice between online and traditional brick-and-mortar banks is largely about personal preference. One big consideration is that online banks don't provide in-person services. Instead, you'll complete all of your banking tasks, including making deposits, through an online account or mobile app. If you're more comfortable with visiting a branch for certain tasks, a traditional bank may be a better choice.

    Online banks can have -- but aren't guaranteed to offer -- lower fees than traditional banks due to the reduced overhead costs. But you can also typically find similar rates at small community banks and credit unions. On the other hand, larger traditional banks frequently offer more services, especially for larger businesses.

  • Yes, you generally need an Employer Identification Number (EIN) to open a business bank account in the U.S. This number acts as a tax identification for your business, similar to a Social Security number for individuals. However, sole proprietors without employees can often use their Social Security number instead of an EIN.

  • The amount of money needed to open a business bank account varies by bank, but it typically ranges from $25 to $100 for initial deposits. Some banks may offer no-minimum deposit accounts, while others require higher balances to avoid monthly fees. Always check with the specific bank for their minimum deposit requirements.