Running a small or medium-sized business involves juggling countless responsibilities, and managing your finances effectively is essential.
From issuing invoices and paying contractors to managing digital and traditional payment methods and overseeing constantly changing inventory, business owners today need more than just a basic checking account.
To simplify your search, we analyzed numerous business checking accounts that offer both digital and in-person services. We evaluated them based on various factors, including invoicing capabilities, payment flexibility, fees, and interest rates, to identify the best options.
>> Best Business Checking Account Overall – Bluevine >>
10 Best Business Checking Accounts
Evaluating the best business checking accounts generally requires a thorough analysis of several key factors. These include monthly maintenance fees, transaction fees, minimum balance requirements, interest rates, account features, and customer service. Considering these aspects helps business owners find the account that offers the most value and meets their needs.
To create a comprehensive ranking of business checking accounts, it’s essential to gather data from diverse sources. This involves reviewing bank websites and account terms, reading customer reviews and ratings, and consulting financial experts.
Taking a detailed approach to researching and comparing accounts enables business owners to make well-informed decisions and choose the account that best suits their specific requirements.
Bluevine - Best Business Checking Account Overall
Star rating: 4.9/5
No fees and unlimited transactions are standard for online business checking accounts, but Bluevine raises the bar with its free, high-yield business account. With Bluevine, business accounts can earn 2.00% interest on balances up to $100,000, which is one of the best rates available for business checking. Unlike most online-only accounts, Bluevine account holders can deposit cash, albeit with a fee.
Bluevine, a financial technology company founded in 2013, started offering business checking accounts in 2019. Their banking services are provided by Coastal Community Bank, and all accounts are FDIC-insured up to $250,000.
Why we chose it: Bluevine’s user-friendliness, minimal fees, and outstanding interest rate make it the top business checking account currently available.
Pros
- Earn higher-than-average APY on balances up to $100,000
- No monthly fees, balance minimums, ACH payment fees, incoming wire fees, or overdraft fees
- Instantly lock/unlock your Bluevine Business Debit Mastercard® for enhanced security
- Integrate with business tools like PayPal, Stripe, and Expensify
- Unlimited transactions
Cons
- Online-only (not ideal for those who prefer in-person banking)
- No ATM refunds for out-of-network transactions
Fees
Bluevine eliminates most fees that other business accounts still have. There are no monthly fees, minimum balance requirements, overdraft costs, or incoming wire fees. However, a $4.95 fee applies to cash deposits, and outgoing wires cost $15.
Bluevine’s new Premier tier helps small businesses earn even higher interest, access priority support, and cut many payment fees in half. The Premier tier offers up to 4.25% APY, making it exceptionally valuable for businesses with high balances and frequent payments.
Interest Rates
Bluevine offers 2.0% interest on business checking accounts if one of two conditions is met: spend at least $500 monthly on the Bluevine Business Debit Mastercard or receive $2,500 monthly in customer payments. Interest is capped at $100,000, with no earnings beyond that.
Lending
While Bluevine doesn’t have traditional lending, they offer a flexible business line of credit up to $250,000, with approval in as little as five minutes. There’s no account maintenance fee, and interest is only charged on the amount used. Current rates start as low as 4.8%.
Rewards
The 2.0% APY is the primary reward, as there aren’t any additional bonuses for joining right now.
Additional Features
Bluevine allows you to pay bills directly from your account or credit card via ACH, check, or wire. There are no transaction limits each month, and multiple sub-accounts enable you to organize and track your finances efficiently.
>> Check Out Bluevine >>
Novo – Best Low-Fee Business Bank Account
Star rating: 4.8/5
With no monthly fees, unlimited ATM fee refunds, and a strong emphasis on digital banking, Novo’s business checking is an excellent choice for small business owners on the move. Novo features an integrated invoicing tool and direct connections with leading business apps, making it perfect for streamlining financial operations and managing multiple accounts.
Although Novo excels in online services, it can’t handle cash deposits, a critical feature for many businesses. In contrast, several competitors offer cash deposit capabilities with their online-based business checking accounts.
Why we chose it: Novo’s minimal fee structure makes it ideal for small businesses. It’s an excellent choice for startups seeking a reliable bank.
Pros
- No monthly fees or minimum balance requirements
- Unlimited fee-free transactions, no ACH transfer fees, and no incoming wire fees
- Refunds for all ATM fees globally
- Online banking with unlimited invoicing and bill pay, including the ability to send paper checks for free
- Integration with popular business tools like QuickBooks, Xero, Stripe, and Shopify
- Access to discounts on business software and services through your account
Cons
- Unable to deposit cash
- No domestic or international wire transfers (international wires are available via Wise integration)
- No recurring payments through bill pay
- $27 fee for insufficient or uncollected funds
Fees
Novo has minimal fees, but they do exist. In addition to offering a maintenance-free checking account, the bank refunds all ATM fees, no matter where you are in the world. By monitoring your account carefully, you can avoid the $27 overdraft fee.
Interest Rates
Novo’s business checking account doesn’t offer interest, and there’s no savings account for excess funds to grow.
Lending
Novo doesn’t provide lending or line of credit options, which may not be a problem for some, but those needing credit will need to look elsewhere.
Rewards
Novo has partnerships with various business apps and offers significant discounts. For instance, Novo users can access HubSpot’s business tools at a 30% discount. Depending on the software used, you can save up to $4,000.
Additional Features
A well-designed dashboard allows you to send and track invoices easily. The virtual debit card enables online and in-person spending via your preferred payment app without needing a physical card. Novo Reserves allows you to allocate funds to different accounts to prepare for future expenses or significant projects.
>> Check Out Novo Now >>
Axos – Best Full-Service Online Checking Account
Star rating: 4.6/5
Axos Bank made significant updates to its business checking services in March 2022. It now allows cash deposits for all accounts, has removed transaction limits, and has waived deposit requirements for its free business checking account. These updates complement existing features like 24/7 customer support, free nationwide ATM access, and unlimited domestic ATM fee reimbursements.
Axos provides two main business checking accounts: Basic Business Checking and Business Interest Checking, which offer up to 1.01% APY. The basic checking account is free, while the interest-bearing account has a $10 monthly fee that’s waived if the average daily balance is at least $5,000.
Unlike some online business checking accounts that rely on other financial institutions, Axos Bank is a fully FDIC-insured institution that directly offers its own business banking products and services.
This review covers both accounts, but the star rating applies specifically to the Axos Basic Business Checking account.
Why we chose it: Free cash deposits and minimal fees make Axos Basic Business Checking one of the best business accounts available.
Pros
- No monthly fees and unlimited transactions
- Unlimited domestic ATM fee reimbursements
- Cash deposits through MoneyPass and Allpoint ATMs
- Welcome bonus for new customers (terms apply)
- 24/7 customer support
Cons
- No third-party app integrations
- Interest checking APY is good, but not exceptional
Fees
Axos Bank Basic Business Checking doesn’t charge a monthly fee or require a minimum balance. It reimburses ATM fees monthly, making this account effectively free. However, wire transfers cost $35 each, which could add up if you make a lot of them.
Interest Rates
This account doesn’t offer APY, focusing instead on business benefits. For interest, you can open one of Axos’s interest-bearing business savings accounts.
Lending
Axos offers several credit lines and lending options, but qualifications can be strict, such as requiring at least two years in business. This isn’t surprising, given their minimum loan amount is $10 million.
Rewards
Currently, new business owners who open an Axos checking account can earn a $200 welcome bonus. If you’re not new, you can still earn $100 for opening your Axos account.
Additional Features
Axos has over 91,000 ATMs nationwide in its network, but even if you use an out-of-network ATM, you’ll be reimbursed for the fee. They also cover fees for the first two wire transfers each month. Additionally, Axos integrates seamlessly with QuickBooks to help manage your finances.
>> Check Out Axos Bank Now! >>
Capital One – Best for Unlimited Transactions
Star rating: 4.7/5
Capital One, a major online bank, offers a range of personal and business banking services, including checking and savings accounts, with various features. Its business accounts are free to sign up for but incur a monthly fee if balances fall below a specific threshold.
Its Business Savings Account offers a modest 0.2% APY monthly for those with extra funds, though its checking accounts don’t accrue interest. Capital One waives fees for overdrafts, some wire transfers, and a portion of cash deposits.
What sets this service apart is its unlimited free digital transactions. You can transfer as much as you want each month to other people or organizations.
Why we chose it: Capital One removes limits on digital transfers, allowing you to keep your finances in motion.
Pros
- Unlimited business transactions monthly (ideal for businesses with high transaction volumes)
- Next-day funds availability
- Free domestic incoming wires
- Free business debit cards
- Free cash deposits
Cons
- High minimum balance to waive the monthly fee (aimed at businesses with less than $10 million in annual revenue)
- Few physical locations
- No interest offered
Fees
A Capital One Basic Business Checking account has a $15 monthly fee, which is waived if your average balance over the prior 30 or 90 days is at least $2,000. Incoming and outgoing wires incur fees, but digital transfers are free.
Interest Rates
This account doesn’t offer interest, but if you have extra funds, you can move them to one of Capital One’s savings accounts to earn interest.
Lending
Capital One offers many lending options that businesses can benefit from. Applicants need an open business checking account and at least two years in business. Loan and credit lines range up to $5 million each.
Rewards
There aren’t direct rewards for joining Capital One, but this changes with their credit card options. With several to choose from, you’ll likely find a card that suits your business needs and earns rewards on every use.
Additional Features
Unlimited digital transfers allow you to send funds from your bank account to another anywhere in the world. Capital One Basic Business Checking also provides overdraft fee protection and allows up to $5,000 in free cash deposits each month.
>> Check Out Capital One >>
Bank of America – Best for Traditional Banking
Star rating: 4.67/5
Bank of America’s business checking stands out among national and regional banks due to its unlimited fee-free electronic transactions, high cash deposit limits, and three different account opening methods.
Bank of America provides two small-business checking accounts: Business Advantage Fundamentals™ Banking and Business Advantage Relationship Banking. While this review mentions both accounts, the star rating pertains specifically to the Business Advantage Fundamentals™ account.
With 4,200 branches across 37 states and Washington, D.C., Bank of America’s business accounts offer small-business owners digital-friendly banking with the option for in-person services.
Why we chose it: Bank of America offers traditional banking features with thousands of locations and a suite of services.
Pros
- Unlimited fee-free electronic transactions
- High cash deposit limits
- Multiple ways to open an account: online, via phone, or in person
- Access to 16,000 Bank of America ATMs and 4,200 branches across the U.S.
- Business Advantage 360 online banking platform, including mobile banking, a cash-flow monitoring tool, bill pay, and mobile check deposit
Cons
- No free business checking option
- High incidental fees
- Charges for non-Bank of America ATMs: $2.50 for U.S. ATMs, $5 for international ATMs (with possible additional ATM owner fees)
Fees
Bank of America, being a comprehensive bank, has various accounts with different fee structures. Business Advantage Fundamentals has a $16 monthly fee unless you meet one of its waiver requirements, which include maintaining a $5,000 combined average monthly balance or spending at least $250 per month on debit card purchases.
Interest Rates
There is no APY on the Business Advantage Fundamentals checking account. While you can open a business savings account for $10 per month, it offers only 0.01% interest.
Lending
To qualify for Bank of America’s lending options, specific business and revenue requirements must be met. Both loans and lines of credit start at $10,000, with payments varying based on your account balance.
Rewards
Bank of America doesn’t offer special rewards for joining, but its 4,300 branches and online services offer significant flexibility for various banking needs.
Additional Features
As a large bank, Bank of America provides the security and range of services its size allows. Business services are comprehensive, and the bank works with Zelle to make quick payments and transfers.
>> Check Out Bank of America >>
American Express – Best for Membership Rewards
American Express introduced its fully digital Business Checking account in October 2021, bringing a familiar name to a market dominated by lesser-known banks and fintech companies. Currently, the account is exclusive to Amex customers.
This free business checking account aligns with other online accounts, offering no monthly fees or charges for overdrafts, stop-payment requests, or incoming wire transfers. But American Express goes further than most competitors, providing 24/7 customer support, a competitive interest rate, and a substantial welcome bonus.
Account holders can deposit funds via mobile check deposit (iPhones only), ACH, and wire transfers. Withdrawals are free at any of the 37,000+ MoneyPass ATMs, but you can’t deposit cash, and out-of-network ATM fees may apply.
Why we chose it: American Express offers a competitive interest rate and provides rewards points that can be converted into deposits.
Pros
- No monthly fees or minimum opening deposit
- Unlimited fee-free transactions with no overdraft fees
- Earn 1.30% APY on balances up to $500,000
- 24/7 customer support
Cons
- No cash deposits
- Mobile check deposit (via app) only available on Apple iOS
- Only available to American Express customers
Fees
American Express only charges for outgoing domestic wires, and the fee is quite reasonable. There are no monthly fees, NSF penalties, or charges for receiving money from different sources.
Interest Rates
American Express currently offers an interest rate of 1.3% APY, 43 times the national deposit rate. This rate applies to amounts up to $500,000, with no earnings beyond that point.
Lending
Through Kabbage Funding, American Express provides business loans and lines of credit for companies in need. Your business must be at least a year old, generate at least $3,000 in monthly revenue, and have a FICO score of 640 or higher. You can earn $250 by linking your American Express account to Kabbage. For more details, check out our Kabbage Funding review.
Rewards
New members can earn 30,000 reward points just for signing up. To qualify, deposit at least $5,000 into your account, maintain that balance for at least 60 days, and make at least ten qualifying transactions during that period.
Additional Features
Select debit card purchases earn reward points that you can convert into deposits directly into your bank account. Points can also be used for gift cards, travel, and more. American Express provides 24/7 customer support to assist with any points or account-related issues.
>> Check Out American Express >>
Lili – Best for One-Person Businesses
Star rating: 4.57/5
Lili provides the essential tools needed for precise tax filing. Their online business checking account has no monthly fees or minimum opening deposit, plus various digital tools for managing expenses, tracking tax write-offs, saving for taxes, and accepting customer payments, all in one place.
Initially designed for freelancers and independent contractors, Lili is now available for all business types.
Why we chose it: Lili’s low fees and tax optimization software help businesses retain more income. If you’re seeking an online business checking account without credit checks, Lili is an excellent choice.
Pros
- No fees, minimum balance, or opening deposit requirements
- Unlimited fee-free transactions
- Fee-free ATM access through the MoneyPass network and cash deposit via the Green Dot network
- Integrated tools for expense management and tax planning
- Early payment feature with direct deposit, enabling fund access up to two days earlier than traditional banks
Cons
- Cash deposits at Green Dot locations have a fee of up to $4.95 per deposit
- No checkbooks; wire transfers aren't supported
- Limited business features: no joint accounts, multiple debit cards, or third-party integrations
Fees
Lili excels with its free tax software, and business owners benefit from no account or overdraft fees. There’s no fee for foreign transactions or at over 38,000 in-network ATMs in the U.S. Out-of-network ATM usage incurs fees between $2.50 and $5.
Interest Rates
Lili’s Business Checking account doesn’t offer interest. Those who pay for the savings account receive 1.5% APY, but you need at least $34,000 to offset the monthly cost.
Lending
Lili doesn’t provide lending options. You’ll need to look elsewhere for loans or lines of credit.
Rewards
Lili debit cardholders earn cashback with participating merchants directly deposited into their business checking accounts. There are no service or transaction fees for debit card usage worldwide.
Additional Features
Lili’s tax optimizer stands out for helping reduce tax expenses. The software lets you categorize purchases, determine your tax bracket, and file seamlessly. The mobile app also helps track personal and business expenses on the go. Enrollment is straightforward, requires no paperwork, and allows banking within minutes.
>> Check Out Lili Now >>
U.S. Bank – Best for Lending Options
Star rating: 4.5/5
U.S. Bank offers a wide range of loans and lines of credit to address various business needs, from growth opportunities to unexpected expenses. Depending on your business type, specialized merchant services can also benefit you. With 2,400 locations in 26 states, U.S. Bank provides the option for in-person banking if you’re in one of those states.
Why we chose it: U.S. Bank’s lending options accommodate businesses of all sizes, enhancing an already robust business checking account.
Pros
- Access to over 2,000 branches in 26 states, and no fees at more than 4,700 U.S. Bank and 37,000 MoneyPass ATMs
- Convenient account opening methods: online, in-person, or by phone
- Optional fee-based payment processing services, from mobile apps to in-store terminals
- Potential to earn a $400 sign-up bonus (terms apply)
Cons
- Lower cash deposit limits compared to competitors
- Terms and fees are not easily accessible on the bank's website
Fees
U.S. Bank’s Silver Business Checking account lacks service fees, but transaction fees can add up. The first 125 transactions per month are free, with each additional transaction costing $0.50. Non-U.S. Bank ATMs can also incur fees.
Interest Rates
U.S. Bank doesn’t offer attractive interest rates for checking accounts, but its business savings and money market accounts may be worth considering. If you have spare funds, moving them to savings could earn a return depending on the account type.
Lending
U.S. Bank offers abundant lending options, making it stand out for having some of the best business bank accounts. Small and large businesses alike can request loans ranging from $5,000 to several million dollars, depending on their needs. Lines of credit work similarly, with varying amounts based on intended use.
Rewards
U.S. Bank doesn’t offer rewards for signing up or maintaining an account, but they have multiple credit card options with welcome offers worth exploring.
Additional Features
U.S. Bank allows cash deposits of up to $2,500 per statement cycle, which can be helpful if your business doesn’t handle a lot of cash. They offer 50% off your first check order if you plan to use checks. Beyond lending, U.S. Bank provides several other services worth exploring.
>> Check Out U.S. Bank >>
Oxygen – Best for Freelancers
Star rating: 4/5
Oxygen has carved out a niche in the fintech industry, making it an excellent choice for freelancers and boutique sole proprietors. There are no noticeable fees, and purchases from select merchants earn 5% cashback. To enhance security, you can create unlimited single-use debit cards with specific spending limits.
Why we chose it: Oxygen caters to the needs of modern business owners, offering innovative banking features. It’s also one of the best checking accounts for sole proprietors.
Pros
- Tailored for modern business owners
- 5% cashback rewards
- Create virtual single-use debit cards
Cons
- Not mobile-friendly
- No multi-user support
- High price
Fees
Oxygen claims to be fee-free overall but specifies that out-of-network and international withdrawals might incur charges. ACH transfers and account maintenance are free.
Interest Rates
Oxygen’s business checking account doesn’t offer interest, but they provide a business savings account. Balances of $20,000 or less in savings earn 1.0% interest. Larger amounts still accrue interest but at a lower rate.
Lending
Since Oxygen is a mobile fintech company, it cannot offer lending options.
Rewards
Getting cashback on essential purchases like gas, rideshares, or shipping services makes spending a bit more rewarding. These purchases can earn you 5% cashback automatically.
Additional Features
Oxygen is a great choice for business bank accounts for LLCs and even includes formation services as part of its offering. Freelancers seeking the personal protections of an LLC can expedite registration through Oxygen’s mobile app.
>> Check Out Oxygen Now >>
Chase Business – Best Bank Account for Merchant Service
Star rating: 3.8/5
Chase offers various business services, such as payment collection and fraud protection, plus a $300 bonus for signing up. You can also accept credit card payments directly into your account through the Chase app. Although a monthly service fee exists, there are several ways to avoid it.
Why we chose it: Chase goes beyond basic banking with an extensive list of additional business services.
Pros
- No minimum opening deposit
- Unlimited fee-free electronic transactions
- Integrated credit card processing
- Welcome bonus for new customers (terms apply)
- No overdraft fee unless the account is overdrawn by more than $50, and overdrafts beyond that have a 24-hour grace period
Cons
- $15 monthly fee
- Monthly limit on fee-free cash deposits ($5,000) and physical transactions (20)
- Fee for using out-of-network ATMs
Fees
Though a monthly service fee may be off-putting, given the availability of fee-free accounts, there are several ways to waive it. You can maintain a $2,000 minimum daily balance, make $2,000 in net purchases with a business card, or receive $2,000 in deposits via the Chase QuickAccept app.
Interest Rates
Chase Business Complete Checking doesn’t provide interest, but there’s still an option. You can open a Chase business savings account, which complements the checking account. The savings enrollment is free as long as your checking account is active.
Lending
As a Chase customer, you have access to loans and lines of credit. Borrowing limits are up to $500,000, and repayment terms are flexible. Lines of credit also extend up to $500,000, allowing you to draw funds as needed.
Rewards
Chase offers plenty of rewards. The bank will deposit $300 into your Business Complete Checking account if specific requirements are met. Chase offers a variety of credit cards that can earn you cashback or points for travel and more.
Additional Features
Opening a business checking account with Chase provides access to a savings plan at no extra charge. You’ll also gain access to numerous business solutions for financial management and protection.
>> Check Out Chase Business >>
Our Ranking Methodology for the Best Business Checking Account
When it comes to securing the best for your business, not just any checking account will do. We’ve researched the top business checking accounts across multiple banks to find the perfect fit for you. Our top picks were determined using the following criteria:
- Fees: Financial institutions shouldn’t drain your funds with excessive fees. The best business bank accounts keep fees to a minimum and, even if they charge monthly fees, often provide ways to get those costs waived.
- Interest Rates: While interest on business checking accounts is no longer standard, some institutions still reward your deposits each cycle. The best ones offer rates significantly higher than the national average.
- Lending: At some point, you’ll need to borrow funds for expansion or unexpected expenses. Many top business checking accounts simplify borrowing, given your existing relationship. Relying on third parties can increase costs and risks.
- Rewards: Opening an account should benefit both you and the institution. The top-notch business checking accounts offer sign-up bonuses, cashback, or online perks to show their support.
- Transfers: As a business, your funds move frequently, so you don’t want penalties for multiple transfers or difficulty in moving money where it’s needed. The best accounts remove limitations and make connecting with vendors and popular financial apps straightforward.
- Additional Features: Banks and fintech companies vary, so we investigated the unique features each one offers and how you can make the most of them in your business.
Who Should Get a Business Checking Account?
Anyone with a side hustle or small business can benefit from a business checking account, it’s not just for large corporations. It’s a straightforward way to separate personal and business finances, whether you’re a sole proprietor using your Social Security number or have an LLC with its own tax ID.
A business checking account helps track revenue and expenses, allowing you to assess your business’s financial performance before transferring money for personal use.
Be aware, however, that business accounts often have more fees than personal ones, and the minimum balance requirements to waive monthly fees are typically higher due to presumed higher revenue and transaction volume.
Fortunately, many smaller, online-only business checking accounts offer affordable options with no minimum balance requirements or transaction fees.
>> Start Using Bluevine Now! >>
Online vs. Brick-And-Mortar Business Checking Accounts
When deciding between an online business checking account or a traditional bank, consider how you manage your business daily.
Many businesses operate mostly digitally, managing invoicing, payments, accounting, and payroll electronically. However, some businesses still use cash frequently and need a local branch to deposit funds at the end of the day.
Online business checking accounts are convenient and often have helpful features, like mobile check deposits, QuickBooks integration, and Stripe connectivity for credit card payments. However, it may be worth trading these features for the ability to easily deposit or withdraw large amounts of physical cash.
Online-only banks have lower fees and typically lower minimum balance requirements (some as low as $0), so if in-person banking isn’t part of your routine, it might be time to explore new options.
Frequently asked questions
Credit unions often offer low or no monthly fees on business bank accounts and are known for excellent customer service. They also tend to have high cash deposit limits, making them suitable for restaurants and other cash-focused businesses.
However, credit unions typically have fewer branches and ATMs than major banks, which often have a nationwide presence. If you’re eligible for membership, consider them. You can explore top choices in NerdWallet’s Best Credit Unions roundup.
Almost anyone with a side hustle or small business can qualify for a business checking account and it’s not just for large corporations. A business checking account helps separate personal and business finances, whether you’re a sole proprietor using your Social Security number or have an LLC with a tax ID.
Running a business without a business bank account is possible, but it exposes your personal finances to potential risks. In case of lawsuits or debt, your private funds could be at stake.
The key features of a business checking account depend on your business, needs, and banking habits. Business-specific features to consider include integration with accounting tools, e-commerce and payment capabilities, debit card security, and ATM fee rebates.
Bottom Line on Business Checking Accounts
Having the right business checking account can significantly contribute to your company’s success. The best accounts minimize fees while offering perks and rewards for signing up. Many also streamline money management, allowing you to focus on essential matters.
Bluevine Business Checking is currently our top choice, but any option from our list can serve you well.
>> Check Out Bluevine >>