Best Free Business Checking in 2024
Ad Disclosure: This article contains references to products from our partners. We may receive compensation if you apply or shop through links in our content. This compensation may impact how and where products appear on this site. You help support CreditDonkey by using our links.
Avoid hidden fees. Determine the best free business checking account for your small business.
Best Free Checking Accounts for Small Business
© CreditDonkey |
- Bluevine Business Checking: Best overall
- Lili: Best for scaling business
- Found: Best for freelancers and gig-workers
- U.S. Bank Silver Business Checking: Best for convenience
- Chase Business Complete Banking: Best for Chase customers
- Novo Business Banking: Best for tech integrations
- Mercury Banking: Best for startups, e-commerce
- Relay Business Checking: Best for large teams
- Axos Basic Business Checking: Best for less banking activity
- Grasshopper Business Checking: Best for cashback
- Bank of America Business Advantage Banking: Best for fluctuating needs
- Wells Fargo Initiate Business Checking: Best for smaller, growing businesses
- Digital Federal Credit Union: Best credit union for business
Silver Business Checking Package - Up to $800 Bonus
Earn up to $800 bonus when you open a new, eligible U.S. Bank business checking account online with promo code Q3AFL24 and complete qualifying activities, subject to certain terms and limitations. Offer valid through September 30, 2024. Member FDIC. Complete these steps to earn the offer:
Earn your $300.
- Complete $5,000 in new money deposits within 30 days of account opening and maintain for 60 days after account opening.
Earn your $800.
- Complete $30,000 in new money deposits within 30 days of account opening and maintain for 60 days after account opening.
Basic Business Checking - Up to $400 Bonus
- Business owners get up to $400 welcome bonus!*
- Open a business checking account by October 31 and get up to $400 when you use promo code NEW400 on your application.*
- No initial deposit requirement
- No minimum balance requirement
- No monthly maintenance fees
- Free domestic incoming wires. Two (2) outgoing domestic wire fees reimbursed per month.
- Unlimited domestic ATM fee reimbursements
- Unlimited item processing (debits, credits, and deposited items)
- Cash deposits via MoneyPass and AllPoint networks
Free Checking Account for Small Business Owners
- Sign up in 3 minutes; no credit check
- No account fees - $0 monthly fee, overdraft fee, foreign transaction fee, or ATM fees at approximately 40,000 locations
- Automatic Savings
- Get paid up to 2 days early
Free Business Checking
- $0 monthly service fee
- $50 deposit to unlock all features
- ATM fee refunds up to $7 per month
Free Business Banking for the Self-Employed
- Banking, taxes, bookkeeping – all in one place
- Automatically find tax write-offs and save for taxes
- Track and categorize expenses with custom rules
- Free unlimited custom invoices
- Easy sign up; no credit check
Free Business Checking - Up to 2.0% APY
- 2.0% APY on your balance up to $250,000 for customers that meet monthly eligibility requirements
- $0 minimum opening deposit
- $0 monthly service fee
North One Free Business Banking
- Business banking for teams
- Automatic invoice ingestion and payments
- Sales and revenue analytics
- Unlimited account envelopes
- Close to 100 integrations
- Over $5000 in perks for new customers
- No monthly fees, no application fees, no minimum balance
North One is a financial technology company, not a bank. Banking services provided by The Bancorp Bank, Member FDIC.
No-Fee Business Checking
- $0 monthly service fee
- $0 minimum opening deposit
- Open up to 20 individual business checking accounts
- Earn up to 3% APY with automated savings
- Issue up to 50 Visa® debit cards to your team
Are There Free Business Checking Accounts?
There are two main types of free business checking accounts:
- Business checking accounts with NO monthly service fee
- Business checking accounts that are free IF you maintain a minimum balance or meet other criteria
The first type, with no monthly service fee, is usually offered by online banks. These are good if you don't want to worry about maintaining a minimum balance. Just keep in mind that it may be less convenient to deposit cash into an online bank account.
Traditional brick-and-mortar banks usually require a minimum balance to waive the fee. But if you can easily meet the requirement, and it has the convenience and features you need, it could be right for you.
This list covers the best free business checking accounts for both types. Read on to learn more.
Chase Business Complete Banking® - $300 Bonus
- Earn $300 when you open a new Chase Business Complete Checking® account. For new Chase business checking customers with qualifying activities.
- Multiple ways to waive the $15 Monthly Service Fee, including maintaining a minimum daily balance or purchases on your Chase Ink® Business credit card.
- Full-service business banking. Convenient access to all your business banking services in one place -- lending, checking, credit card and payment solutions.
- Your choice of payment types. Choose from a full range of options for accepting payments and making deposits that include Zelle®, Online Bill Pay, wire transfers and ACH payments.
- Convenient access to payment processing. Process all major debit and credit cards with QuickAccept®. It's a built-in feature with your Business Complete Checking account.
- Helping you save money. Multiple ways to waive $15 service fee and unlimited digital transactions helps you keep more of your money.
- Full-featured banking online and on-the-go. Manage your business' finances on your terms with the latest online and mobile banking technology.
- Trusted and secure financial partner. We're committed to helping you grow and protect your business.
Best Free Business Checking Accounts
© CreditDonkey |
This rule helps small business owners remember the key aspects to consider when choosing a free business checking account:
- Deals: Look for promotional offers and incentives.
- Online access: Ensure the account offers robust online and mobile banking.
- No fees: Aim for accounts with no monthly maintenance fees.
- Key features: Check for essential features like unlimited transactions and ATM access.
- Ease of use: The account should be easy to manage.
- Yield: Consider if the account offers any interest or rewards.
Bluevine Business Checking
Best for: Most small businesses
Bluevine is one of the most popular online business checking accounts. It has no monthly fee, no overdraft fee, and unlimited free transactions.
But the biggest perk is that it offers one of the highest interest rates on the market.
Free Business Checking - Up to 2.0% APY
- Minimum Deposit to Open: $0
- Balance Requirement: $0
- Monthly Fee: $0
- APY: 2.0% APY on balances up to $250,000 with monthly eligibility requirements; 0% APY on balances over $250,000
- ATMs: Approximately 40,000 MoneyPass ATMs
- Perks: 2 free checkbooks per year; No non-sufficient funds fee
Bluevine also offers a paid Plus tier that earns a 3% APY without minimum qualifications. With this upgrade, you can reduce most of your payment fees by 20%.
If you upgrade to the paid Premier tier, you'll enjoy a higher 4.25% APY, a 50% reduction in payment fees, and priority support. This can significantly enhance your savings, especially if you have lots of payments to make.
Although Bluevine is online, you can still deposit cash at over 90,000 GreenDot locations and over 1,500 Allpoint+ ATMs (though there's a fee).[1] You also get 2 free checkbooks a year. This is good for small traditional businesses that still deal with cash and paper checks.
You can also create up to 5 subaccounts with their own dedicated account numbers. Your balances in the subaccounts are eligible for interest too (up to $250k on combined balances across all the accounts for Standard tier, up to $250k for Plus tier, and up to $3M for Premier tier).
You can issue up to 4 additional debit cards to authorized users of your business checking account. You can easily manage and monitor transactions for these cards through your Bluevine dashboard. This ensures flexibility and security in business transactions without the need to share card details via text or email.
In addition, Bluevine offers a small business line of credit and invoice factoring. It's a great choice if you're looking for business checking plus financing in one place.
Free Business Checking - Up to 2.0% APY
- 2.0% APY on your balance up to $250,000 for customers that meet monthly eligibility requirements
- $0 minimum opening deposit
- $0 monthly service fee
Lili Business Banking
Best for: Scaling business
Lili offers a basic business checking account with no monthly fee, no overdraft fee, no foreign transaction fee, and unlimited transactions.
Free Checking Account for Small Business Owners
- Minimum Deposit to Open: $0
- Balance Requirement: $0
- Monthly Fee: $0
- APY: N/A
- ATMs: Approximately 40,000 MoneyPass ATMs
- Perks: Get direct deposits up to 2 days earlier
All accounts come with an Emergency Bucket for rainy days or just spare funds. There's no withdrawal limit, so you can move money back to your checking account at any time when you need them.
Another perk is that you can get direct deposits up to 2 days early. Whether you sell on Etsy or Shopify, drive Uber, or directly work with clients, you can get your earnings faster.
If you do upgrade to a paid Lili plan, you get more benefits. You can categorize your transactions and you get a Tax Bucket. This lets you automatically save for taxes, so you're not burdened by a hefty tax payment each quarter.
Free Checking Account for Small Business Owners
- Sign up in 3 minutes; no credit check
- No account fees - $0 monthly fee, overdraft fee, foreign transaction fee, or ATM fees at approximately 40,000 locations
- Automatic Savings
- Get paid up to 2 days early
Are taxes your biggest headache? The next account could be your tax-time game changer.
Found Business Banking
Best for: Freelancers and gig workers who have trouble with taxes
If you're newly self-employed and feel overwhelmed by taxes, Found is for you.
Like Lili, Found tracks your business expenses and automatically saves for taxes. And even better - its tax tools are all available with the free Found plan.
Free Business Banking for the Self-Employed
- Minimum Deposit to Open: $0
- Balance Requirement: $0
- Monthly Fee: $0
- APY: N/A
- ATMs: Any ATM that accepts Mastercard; No ATMs fees from Found, but the owner may have fees
Found always keeps a real-time estimate of your current tax bill. Whenever you get paid or make a business purchase, it updates your tax owed accordingly. And it'll set aside the correct amount for you in a tax savings account.
When it's time to pay those quarterly taxes, you'll already know how much you owe and have the cash on hand to take care of it.
But that's not even the best part. Found Plus takes it one step further by submitting your quarterly tax payment for you - directly to the IRS! No more worrying about missing payments and late penalties. While this feature has a fee, not having to stress over taxes could be worth it.
And last thing - Found offers free unlimited invoices. This is great for freelancers who rely on invoicing for payment. Found will even send payment reminders to your clients for you.
Free Business Banking for the Self-Employed
- Banking, taxes, bookkeeping – all in one place
- Automatically find tax write-offs and save for taxes
- Track and categorize expenses with custom rules
- Free unlimited custom invoices
- Easy sign up; no credit check
Prefer the assurance of a big bank? This next option combines convenience with value.
US Bank Silver Business Checking
Best for: Businessowners who want big-bank convenience
U.S. Bank offers a Silver Business Checking Package with no maintenance fees. It's one of the few free business checking accounts offered by big banks.
It also offers good cash bonuses for new customers. It's a sweet deal considering that the account is free.
Silver Business Checking Package - Up to $800 Bonus
Earn up to $800 bonus when you open a new, eligible U.S. Bank business checking account online with promo code Q3AFL24 and complete qualifying activities, subject to certain terms and limitations. Offer valid through September 30, 2024. Member FDIC. Complete these steps to earn the offer:
Earn your $300.
- Complete $5,000 in new money deposits within 30 days of account opening and maintain for 60 days after account opening.
Earn your $800.
- Complete $30,000 in new money deposits within 30 days of account opening and maintain for 60 days after account opening.
- Monthly Fee: $0 monthly maintenance fee
- ATMs: No fees at US Bank or MoneyPass ATMs
- Perks: 50% discount on first check order up to $50
US Bank is good for newer growing businesses since you only get 125 free transactions per month. New businesses often have fluctuating income, so it's good that you don't need to worry about account minimums.
It's a solid choice if you prefer having a physical branch nearby and building in-person relationships. This can help you get loans and other business services down the road.
U.S. Bank has more than 2,000 branches across the country. Even if you don't live close to a US Bank branch, you can use any of the 37,000+ MoneyPass ATMs with no surcharge.
Already a fan of Chase? Here's how their business checking could streamline your finances.
Chase Business Complete Banking
Best for: Existing Chase customers
Do you process credit cards for your business? Chase Business Complete Banking has built-in card processing included in the checking account.
Plus, Chase often offers cash bonuses for opening a new business bank account, so make sure you check out the current promotions.
Chase Business Complete Banking® - $300 Bonus
- Earn $300 when you open a new Chase Business Complete Checking® account. For new Chase business checking customers with qualifying activities.
- Multiple ways to waive the $15 Monthly Service Fee, including maintaining a minimum daily balance or purchases on your Chase Ink® Business credit card.
- Full-service business banking. Convenient access to all your business banking services in one place -- lending, checking, credit card and payment solutions.
- Your choice of payment types. Choose from a full range of options for accepting payments and making deposits that include Zelle®, Online Bill Pay, wire transfers and ACH payments.
- Convenient access to payment processing. Process all major debit and credit cards with QuickAccept®. It's a built-in feature with your Business Complete Checking account.
- Helping you save money. Multiple ways to waive $15 service fee and unlimited digital transactions helps you keep more of your money.
- Full-featured banking online and on-the-go. Manage your business' finances on your terms with the latest online and mobile banking technology.
- Trusted and secure financial partner. We're committed to helping you grow and protect your business.
This account isn't completely free, but it does offer several easy ways to waive the $15 monthly fee (find them here). The Complete Banking features include:
- QuickAccept mobile card reader and processing via app
- Competitive processing rates at just 2.6% + $0.10 per swipe[2]
- Same-day deposits into your checking account.
A nice perk is that you don't need to open a separate merchant account. You can do banking and processing all from one checking account.
Chase Bank is also known for its great mobile app and good, 24/7 customer service with real reps.
Tech-savvy businesses, pay attention. The upcoming account is designed for you.
Novo Business Banking
Best for: Tech-savvy businesses, software integrations
Novo is one of the best for all types of businesses. It accepts sole proprietors, LLCs, partnerships, and corporations.
Free Business Checking
- Minimum Deposit to Open: $50
- Balance Requirement: $0
- Monthly Fee: $0
- APY: N/A
- ATMs: Up to $7 per month ATM fee reimbursement worldwide
- Perks: Thousands of dollars in exclusive perks from popular business services
Novo stands out for being a tech-savvy banking account. You can integrate your checking with thousands of popular business apps, such as Shopify, Stripe, QuickBooks, Xero, Zapier, and Slack.
It also has a rewards program offering thousands in savings from popular business services. For example, you can get $5,000 in fee-free card processing with Stripe.
You can create up to 20 Reserves. This helps you budget for things like taxes, upcoming purchases, rainy day fund, and more.
There are no foreign transaction fees, so Novo is also great if you travel internationally for business.
Novo is one of the easiest business accounts you can open. It doesn't do a credit check so you can get approved even without great credit. Plus, it's lenient on who counts as a business owner. Freelancers and gig workers are all welcome.
Free Business Checking
- $0 monthly service fee
- $50 deposit to unlock all features
- ATM fee refunds up to $7 per month
Running an e-commerce business? This next account might be your springboard to success.
Mercury Banking for Startups
Best for: Startups, e-commerce, and other digital businesses
Mercury is an online banking platform created specifically for tech startups. It has APIs that let you custom build your own banking experience.
When you open an account with Mercury, you get a completely fee-free checking business account, savings account, debit card, check payments, wire transfers, and financial tools.
There are no monthly fees, minimums, wire fees, or overdraft fees.
Banking for Startups
- Minimum Deposit to Open: $0
- Balance Requirement: $0
- Monthly Fee: $0
- APY: N/A
- ATMs: 55,000+ Allpoint ATMs
What's really unique about Mercury is their Raise program to connect startups to top investors. There's a fundraising round every quarter. If your startup is chosen, it will be shared with over 450 investors in their network. It's a great way to potentially accelerate your seed funding.
You need to be a US-based company and have an EIN to apply. It is not open to sole proprietors.
Managing a growing team? The next option is a banking solution that grows with your business.
Relay Business Checking
Best for: Businesses with lots of team members
Is your business growing and you can't handle everything alone anymore? Relay Financial may fit your needs. It's an online business banking account designed for big teams and bigger financial needs.
The standard Relay account has no monthly fees and no minimums. You can get up to 20 individual checking accounts and up to 50 debit cards at no extra cost. You can also set up automatic transfers from your checking account to your savings and earn interest on your excess money.
No-Fee Business Checking
- Minimum Deposit to Open: $0
- Balance Requirement: $0
- Monthly Fee: $0
- APY: Earn up to 3% APY: Earn 1% APY on savings balances of less than $50,000, 1.5% APY on savings between $50,000 and $250,000, 2% APY on savings balances between $250,000 and $1,000,000 and 3% APY on savings balances of more than $1,000,000.
- ATMs: 55,000+ Allpoint ATMs
- Perks: Up to 20 accounts, 50 debit cards, and free checks
Relay makes it easy to customize money management. With up to 50 debit cards, you can assign each one for a dedicated purpose (for example, marketing expenses). This helps you get a better handle on your operating costs.
Each business checking account has its own unique account number. This is useful if you want specific accounts to bill or pay vendors, save for taxes, track payroll, etc.
There are 7 permission levels, so you can customize control for your team. You can designate managers, bill payers, deposit-only users, cardholders, and read-only access.
No-Fee Business Checking
- $0 monthly service fee
- $0 minimum opening deposit
- Open up to 20 individual business checking accounts
- Earn up to 3% APY with automated savings
- Issue up to 50 Visa® debit cards to your team
Axos Basic Business Checking
Best for: Small businesses with less banking activity
Axos Bank is another online-only bank. Its Basic Business Checking has no monthly fee or balance requirements.
Axos gives you unlimited reimbursements of domestic ATM fees, so you can use any ATM you want. You can also deposit cash for free at cash-taking Allpoint and MoneyPass ATMs.
It's good for small businesses with modest checking needs, as you only get 60 remote check deposits per month. But an added perk is 2 outgoing domestic wire fees reimbursed per month, plus the first set of 50 checks free. This account also integrates with QuickBooks.
Basic Business Checking - Up to $400 Bonus
- Business owners get up to $400 welcome bonus!*
- Open a business checking account by October 31 and get up to $400 when you use promo code NEW400 on your application.*
- No initial deposit requirement
- No minimum balance requirement
- No monthly maintenance fees
- Free domestic incoming wires. Two (2) outgoing domestic wire fees reimbursed per month.
- Unlimited domestic ATM fee reimbursements
- Unlimited item processing (debits, credits, and deposited items)
- Cash deposits via MoneyPass and AllPoint networks
Grasshopper Business Checking Account
Best for: cashback rewards
Founded in 2019, Grasshopper is a digital bank geared towards small businesses in the innovation economy.
Even though it was created for startups, it's ideal for small businesses of all sizes since there's no monthly fee or minimums.
But you'll reap the biggest benefits if you maintain at least $10,000 in your account. You'll get unlimited 1% cashback on debit card purchases. Plus, you earn 2.25% APY on balances of $25,000 to $250,000 and 1.51% APY on balances up to $25,000 and on balances over $250,000.
Innovator Business Checking Account
- Minimum Deposit to Open: $100
- Balance Requirement: $0
- Monthly Fee: $0
- APY: 2.25% APY on balances of $25,000 to $250,000 and 1.51% APY on balances up to $25,000 and on balances over $250,000
- ATMs: 37,000+ MoneyPass and 8,500+ SUM ATMs nationwide
- Perks: 1% cashback if you maintain an average balance of $10,000 or more
The business checking account comes loaded with features. You get unlimited transfers, custom digital invoices, integrations with your accounting software, and cash flow management.
All users get dedicated support from their small business experts. You'll get personalized guidance from real humans when you have business questions.
It also offers APIs so you can design your own banking to fit exactly what you need.
Bank Of America Business Advantage Banking
Best for: Businesses with fluctuating needs
Bank of America has thousands of ATMs and financial centers. It offers a flexible business checking account designed to adapt to your business's evolving needs.
For new businesses, the basic Business Advantage Fundamentals™ Banking account is a great starting point. As your business grows, you can level up to the higher tier and get additional benefits. You can switch between the two tiers anytime as needed.
A really cool feature is that you can connect your checking account with your other business apps, like QuickBooks and more. This lets you get real-time insights of your business metrics all in one place. It automatically projects cash flow, so you can make smarter business decisions.
You'll also get dedicated support from Bank of America's Small Business Specialists. From answering questions to providing guidance, they've got your back.
Business Advantage Fundamentals™ Banking
- Minimum Deposit to Open: $100
- Balance Requirement: None
- Monthly Fee: $16 or $0 – Great news, there's no monthly fee for the first 12 statement cycles. To avoid the Monthly Fee after, meet one of the following requirements each statement cycle:
- Maintain a $5,000 combined average monthly balance.
- Use your Bank of America business debit card to make at least $250 in new net qualified purchases. Starting Nov 1, 2024, the Monthly Fee can be avoided when you use your Bank of America business debit card to make at least $500 in new net qualified purchases.
- Become a member Preferred Rewards for Business.
- APY: N/A
Business Advantage Relationship Banking
- Minimum Deposit to Open: $100
- Balance Requirement: None
- Monthly Fee: $29.95 (can be avoided each statement cycle by maintaining a $15,000 combined average monthly balance or becoming a member of Preferred Rewards for Business)
- Perks: No monthly fee for an extra Business Advantage Relationship Banking account and one Business Advantage Savings account; No fees for incoming wires
Wells Fargo Initiate Business Checking
Best for: Growing businesses
Wells Fargo is the third-largest bank in the US with approximately
4,700 branches. You may consider Wells Fargo if you want the convenience of a large bank with added services.
The Initiate Business Checking account is a basic account designed for growing small businesses. You only need $500 minimum daily balance to waive $10 fee.
One cool perk is that you can get customized debit card and checks with your business logo. This helps make your brand more memorable.
Initiate Business Checking
- 100 free transactions each fee period
- $5,000 in cash deposits processed free each fee period
- $25 minimum opening deposit
- Waive the $10 monthly service fee by maintaining a $500 minimum daily balance or a $1,000 average ledger balance
Digital Federal Credit Union
Best for: Free business checking with credit union
Digital Federal Credit Union offers a Free Business Checking account with no monthly maintenance fees or minimum balance requirements.
It's the best credit union option because anyone can join nationwide. You just need to be a member of one of their participating organizations for as little as $10.
All accounts can get up to 4 business debit cards per account (upon approval) and unlimited free check-writing.
DCU also has a very wide surcharge-free ATM network of 80,000+ Allpoint, SUM, or CO-OP ATMs. That makes it convenient wherever you live.
If you're switching from another account, there's a handy free ClickSWITCH feature. DCU helps you contact all your current billers, so you can quickly switch over payments without going through the hassle yourself.
Best Free Business Checking by Region
Are you looking for a local bank with physical branches? Small local businesses may benefit more from a regional or community bank. You'll have the chance to build a personal relationship with your banker.
Here are some solid business checking options in different regions.
PNC Bank Business Checking (East & Midwest)
PNC Bank has a large presence in the East and Midwest, with approximately 2,300+ locations in 28 states.
The Basic Business Checking account is for small business owners with lower activity. It has low requirements to waive the monthly service fee. The opening deposit is just $100.
You get 150 free transactions and $5,000 in cash deposits per month. It also comes with built-in tools to help you track cash flow, manage payments, and sync accounting software.
As a bonus, PNC Bank often offers cash bonuses for opening a new account.
The $12/mo maintenance fee can be waived by one of the following each statement cycle:[3]
- Maintain an average monthly balance of $500
- Make $500 in eligible purchases with a linked PNC business credit card
- Keep a linked PNC Merchant Services Account and generate at least $500 in qualifying monthly processing deposits
Even if you can't meet one of these criteria once or twice a year, the fee ($12 a month) is low compared to other banks.
Huntington Business Checking 100 (Midwest)
Huntington Bank has more than 1,000 branches in the Midwest. It has a free Business Checking 100 account with no minimums or monthly fees.
This account is ideal for new businesses with limited activity. Each month, you get 100 free transactions and can deposit up to $5,000 in cash in-branch or at an ATM at no charge.
First Horizon BizEssentials Checking (South)
First Horizon Bank offers a BizEssentials Checking account with no minimums or monthly service fee.
This bank is more prominent in the south. But if you're not near a branch, you also get fee-free access to 55,000+ Allpoint ATMs across the nation.
BizEssentials Checking
- $0 monthly fee
- No fee on first 250 transactions each month
- No fee on first $5,000 deposited in coin and currency each month
- ATMs: Fee-free access at 55,000+ First Horizons and Allpoint ATMs
First Citizens Bank (South)
First Citizens Bank's Basic Business Checking account has no monthly account minimum. You need a $100 deposit to open an account, which is pretty reasonable.
First Citizens Bank has over 500 locations primarily in the southern states and some scattered across the West coast.
You need to be an existing First Citizens Business Customer to open an account. The minimum deposit is $100.
Basic Business Checking
- $0 monthly fee
- $100 opening deposit
- 100 free transactions each month
- $5,000 in cash deposits processed free each month
Why You Need A Business Checking Account
As a small business owner, it's smart to separate your company's finances from your personal checking account. Here are just a few reasons why you may want to open a business checking account:
- You will need it to deposit money from a small business loan.
- It's easier to calculate your expenses for tax purposes.
- Your employees can access the account for day-to-day operations.
- The amount of money your business can spend
- Your ability to withdraw cash
- The number of transactions you can make
Keep these in mind as you consider our list of options.
How to Open a Business Account
To open a business banking account, you will need to provide the following information:
- Name, address, and date of birth
- Driver's license or state ID
- SSN or employer identification number (EIN)
- Business license (if your state requires)
- Assumed Name Certificate if operating as a DBA
- Written Partnership or Joint Venture Agreement (for Partnerships)
- Articles of Organization (for LLCs)
- Articles of Incorporation (for Corporations)
Sole proprietors can usually open a business account online. Partnerships, LLCs, and Corporations may require all general partners or members to be present. Find out your bank's requirements.
You should open a business bank account once you're set to begin accepting or spending money as your business.[4]
What to look for in a business checking account
Small business checking accounts come with fine print. To find the right account for your business banking needs, here are some important factors to consider:
- Account Balance Requirements
Free does not always mean free. Some banks require owners to maintain a certain daily or monthly balance. To avoid fees, make sure you can maintain the minimum required balance in the time frame. - Opening Deposit Requirements
Banks may also require a certain dollar amount as an initial deposit. The amount varies greatly by institution - be sure to double-check ahead of time. - Monthly Transaction Caps
Small business checking accounts are free because of the minimal effort it takes banks to maintain the account. These business accounts may have a maximum transaction limit. Look for a bank account that can accommodate your business's transaction amount. - Physical Location
Consider whether having a physical branch nearby is important to you. If you make a lot of deposits and withdrawals, you may want the convenience of a physical branch. If you can manage your business finances completely online, online-only banks will open up a lot of possibilities. - Other Banking Services
Does your business receive wire transfers often? Or do you need to make cash and check deposits? If so, search for a bank that offers these features at lowest cost. For example, some banks offer free incoming wires. - Payment Platform
If your small business uses platforms like Venmo or PayPal, consider those payment platforms when signing up for a free business checking account.Ask about when funds are available across major payment platforms. The difference between a day or two days can be crucial for small businesses. - Software Integration
If your small business uses accounting products like QuickBooks or Quicken, consider whether they will integrate with your new small business checking account. - Size of the Bank
A smaller bank will be more personal and upfront with local ties. A larger bank will have greater technology, more branch locations, and greater flexibility when it comes to fees.
To check if a bank is FDIC-insured:
- Call the FDIC toll-free: 1-877-275-3342.
- Use FDIC's BankFind tool
- Look for the FDIC sign at your bank
- Ask a bank representative
- Submit a request using the FDIC Information and Support Center
Can you open a business checking account with no credit check?
When you apply for a business bank account, the bank will most likely check your credit history. If you're a sole proprietor and use your SSN for business purposes, the bank may check your personal credit. This is only a soft credit inquiry, so your credit score will not be impacted.
If you form an LLC, corporation, or partnership, then you'll get a separate tax identification number (EIN). This number isn't tied to your SSN, so your personal credit may not be checked. If you have business credit, that may be used to see if you qualify.
However, your credit may not be the only thing checked. Banks also usually run your banking history through ChexSystems. This is another reporting agency, but it only reports any negative marks on checking and savings banking activity.
For example, if you've had some overdrafts or didn't pay banking fees, it will show up there.
If your credit or ChexSystem report (request a free one here) doesn't qualify you for a business banking account, you could consider a bank that offers second chance checking. These are designed to help those who have trouble being approved for a normal bank account.
How to Print Business Checks
Most business checking accounts do not offer free business checks. But you can save money by printing them at home using just any blank check paper.
You will need a check printing software, such as Online CheckWriter or Checkeeper. The software will help you design professional checks that you can print anytime with any printer at home. You can also print as many as you like.
To print a check, you will need to enter:
- Your banking institution
- Bank routing number and bank account number
- Your name and address
- Payee name and amount
- Date
The software will do the rest for you and format it to banking standards. You don't need any special ink or printer. For businesses that write a lot of checks, this can offer a much cheaper and more efficient solution to pre-printed checkbooks by your bank.
Most banks do not give free business checks, but here are some that do.
- Bluevine - 2 free checkbooks per year
- Axos - first set of 50 checks free
- Novo - sends paper checks on your behalf for free
Methodology
To come up with the best free business checking accounts, we first focused on business banking accounts with no monthly fees. You don't need to worry about keeping a certain balance.
We also included popular business checking accounts that let you waive the monthly fee. We made sure that the requirements are reasonable and easy to waive for small business owners.
We know that businesses have different needs. So we looked for accounts with unique features that cater to certain kinds of businesses.
Whether you're a single-person business or have a large team, operate a retail store or an online startup, you'll find a suitable account for you.
What the Experts Say
Looking for the right business checking account isn't easy. Take time to figure out what your business needs. CreditDonkey asked a panel of industry experts to answer readers' most pressing questions. Here's what they said:
BOTTOM LINE
Free business checking accounts work best for growing small businesses looking for a way to start up for cheap and save on banking costs.
But only a select few banks offer completely free business checking options. If you meet certain conditions, though, many business bank accounts can be free.
Make sure to double-check the terms and conditions of your business checking account to ensure you can keep the account free long term.
Free Business Checking by State
Free Checking Account for Small Business Owners
- Sign up in 3 minutes; no credit check
- No account fees - $0 monthly fee, overdraft fee, foreign transaction fee, or ATM fees at approximately 40,000 locations
- Automatic Savings
- Get paid up to 2 days early
Free Business Checking - Up to 2.0% APY
- 2.0% APY on your balance up to $250,000 for customers that meet monthly eligibility requirements
- $0 minimum opening deposit
- $0 monthly service fee
No-Fee Business Checking
- $0 monthly service fee
- $0 minimum opening deposit
- Open up to 20 individual business checking accounts
- Earn up to 3% APY with automated savings
- Issue up to 50 Visa® debit cards to your team
Free Business Banking for the Self-Employed
- Banking, taxes, bookkeeping – all in one place
- Automatically find tax write-offs and save for taxes
- Track and categorize expenses with custom rules
- Free unlimited custom invoices
- Easy sign up; no credit check
Free Business Checking
- $0 monthly service fee
- $50 deposit to unlock all features
- ATM fee refunds up to $7 per month
Basic Business Checking - Up to $400 Bonus
- Business owners get up to $400 welcome bonus!*
- Open a business checking account by October 31 and get up to $400 when you use promo code NEW400 on your application.*
- No initial deposit requirement
- No minimum balance requirement
- No monthly maintenance fees
- Free domestic incoming wires. Two (2) outgoing domestic wire fees reimbursed per month.
- Unlimited domestic ATM fee reimbursements
- Unlimited item processing (debits, credits, and deposited items)
- Cash deposits via MoneyPass and AllPoint networks
Free Business Checking in Alabama
Free Business Checking in Arizona
Free Business Checking in Arkansas
Free Business Checking in California
Free Business Checking in Colorado
Free Business Checking in Connecticut
Free Business Checking in Delaware
Free Business Checking in Florida
Free Business Checking in Georgia
Free Business Checking in Hawaii
Free Business Checking in Idaho
Free Business Checking in Illinois
Free Business Checking in Indiana
Free Business Checking in Iowa
Free Business Checking in Kansas
Free Business Checking in Kentucky
Free Business Checking in Louisiana
Free Business Checking in Maine
Free Business Checking in Maryland
Free Business Checking in Massachusetts
Free Business Checking in Michigan
Free Business Checking in Minnesota
Free Business Checking in Mississippi
Free Business Checking in Missouri
Free Business Checking in Montana
Free Business Checking in Nebraska
Free Business Checking in Nevada
Free Business Checking in New Hampshire
Free Business Checking in New Jersey
Free Business Checking in New Mexico
Free Business Checking in New York
Free Business Checking in North Carolina
Free Business Checking in North Dakota
Free Business Checking in Ohio
Free Business Checking in Oklahoma
Free Business Checking in Oregon
Free Business Checking in Pennsylvania
Free Business Checking in Rhode Island
Free Business Checking in South Carolina
Free Business Checking in South Dakota
Free Business Checking in Tennessee
Free Business Checking in Texas
Free Business Checking in Utah
Free Business Checking in Vermont
Free Business Checking in Virginia
Free Business Checking in Washington
Free Business Checking in West Virginia
Free Business Checking in Wisconsin
Free Business Checking in Wyoming
References
- ^ Bluevine. Easy cash deposits and withdrawals., Retrieved 02/25/2024
- ^ Chase. Chase QuickAccept, Retrieved 1/4/2022
- ^ PNC. Basic Business Checking Account, Retrieved 1/4/2022
- ^ U.S. Small Business Administration. Open a business bank account, Retrieved 4/10/2022
Write to Samantha Tatro at feedback@creditdonkey.com. Follow us on Twitter and Facebook for our latest posts.
Note: This website is made possible through financial relationships with some of the products and services mentioned on this site. We may receive compensation if you shop through links in our content. You do not have to use our links, but you help support CreditDonkey if you do.
|
|
| ||||||
|
|
|