Small business owners and founders of startups have so much to consider when it comes to their business needs. On that long list? Where to open a small business checking account and other bank accounts.
Your options are many. From traditional banks and credit unions to online, fee-free “neobanks,” there are many possibilities, and each comes with its own set of benefits.
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Since not all banks and banking services are created equal, it’s important to start your search for the ideal bank with a list of what matters to you.
Do you want a brick-and-mortar bank with local branch locations and free ATMs? Or would you prefer to do your banking with an online business bank account that lets you use mobile check deposit and that offers ATM fee reimbursements?
Then there’s the decision of whether to pay fees or not, because there certainly are free business checking account options to consider. These may offer free cash deposits and withdrawals, however, they may have transaction fees if you make over a certain number of transactions each month.
Consider how much you expect to have as your monthly account balance. Some banks charge a fee if you don’t maintain an average minimum balance each month.
And finally: do you want a bank that can provide other types of business banking services, such as a business savings account, money market accounts, credit card, or loan products? Do you need services like ACH wire transfers or merchant services? You might prefer a bank that can be a one-stop-shop.
While the list we cover here is far from exhaustive, it does give you a starting point in researching banks with different types of features.
We’ll look at both online banking and banks with physical locations, as well as those that charge a monthly maintenance fee and those that have no fees. By the end, you should have a better sense of what you need in a business account.
On our list of the best business checking account options are those that come with enticing account offers. It never hurts to put a few hundred dollars in your bank account right off the bat!
If you’re looking for a bank with branch locations and a great welcome offer, look at the Chase Business Complete bank account. Not only can you manage your funds, accept payments with the QuickAccept app, and get same-day deposits at no extra charge, you also can get a $300 bonus with certain qualifying activities.
There’s a $15 monthly service fee, but you can waive it if you maintain a $2,000 minimum daily balance or complete other qualifying activities.
Some banking services come with cool extras that provide incentives for you to stay a customer long term.
Bank of America offers a variety of services to businesses, including checking and savings, loans, cash management, payroll tools, and more. One of the biggest perks to its Business Advantage program is its Preferred Rewards program.
Customers pay no fees on certain banking services like inbound wire transfers and monthly banking services, and they also can get a 25-75% rewards bonus on business credit cards. Additionally, members can get rate discounts on small business loans and an interest rate booster on savings accounts.
There’s also currently a $100-500 bonus when you open a new account with qualifying activities.
If your business banking needs are simple, look for basic business checking account options with no fees.
One of the best banks for small business owners looking for checking accounts without fees or complications is Axos Bank. This account has no monthly fees and no minimum balance requirements. You get your first 50 checks free and get unlimited ATM fee reimbursement.
Currently, you can earn $100 when you open a new account.
One thing to realize is that even when a bank offers great perks or what seem to be no fees, there are sometimes hidden fees you might not be aware of at first.
Even banks that offer free transactions may charge a fee if you go over a certain number of transactions or withdrawals in a month. You may also be charged a fee for an overdraft or wire transfer, so read the fine print before opening an account.
In terms of interest rates, some checking accounts actually allow you to earn interest on your balance (like Bluevine). If you’re also considering opening a savings account, compare rates from one bank to another. Typically they’re similar, but some will offer different rates for different balance ranges.
Banks realize they have to compete to get your business as a small business owner, and that means you hold the power. Look for a bank that can deliver more than one type of business banking solution to fit your needs, as well as one that offers other perks, whether that’s no fees or rewards like what we discussed above.
You can also benefit from features like being able to order business debit cards for employees who are authorized to make purchases on behalf of your business.
If you decide down the road that you want to take out financing, if your bank is also a lender and offers bank loans, SBA loans, or both, you’ll already have an established relationship with your bank, which may streamline the application process.
Once you’ve created your “must-haves” list for your business bank account, including whether you prefer mobile banking or a physical branch, whether you are okay paying a monthly service fee to get additional features like unlimited transactions, and any other qualifying features you’re looking for, compare one bank to another on your shortlist.
Does this bank have convenient ATMs, or will it reimburse you for using other ATMs?
Is there a minimum opening deposit, and can you meet it?
What fees does the bank charge, and are there ways to waive the monthly service fee?
Next, research how to open a business bank account with the bank you’re considering. Some have very simple online processes, while others require you to come into a physical branch to apply.
Also read reviews online about the bank’s customer support, since you want assurance that any issues you have will be quickly resolved and that customer service reps are responsive.
Whether you have a new business and are opening an account for the first time or you run an established company and are looking for a change, spend time with this decision. It’s an important one.
This article was originally written on October 25, 2021.
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Susan Guillory is a Senior Content Writer for Nav. She’s written books on business and travel, and blogs about small business on sites including Forbes and AllBusiness.
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