Best Banks for Small Business

of November 2024

Best-Banks-for-Small-Business

In This Article

Do you have a plan to embark on the journey to financial empowerment with the right banking partner for your small business? Assess your needs, scrutinize the fees, and prioritize convenience to make an informed decision. Act now to align your business with a bank that propels growth and mirrors your ambition. Your enterprise deserves a foundation as robust as your vision—choose wisely. Below are the banks that you may want to consider.

1. Chase Bank
2. Bank of America
3. BlueVine
4. First Internet Bank
5. Axos Bank
Overview of Best Banks for Small Business
How to Choose Best Banks for Small Business
Pros & Cons of Best Banks for Small Business
What to Watch Out For
Pro Tips

1. Chase Bank

Chase-Bank

Go for Chase Bank for your small business because you can get access to 24/7 customer support, a variety of business accounts, local branches, digital tools, rewards, sign-up bonuses, and financial security.

Pros

  • No minimum opening deposit
  • Unlimited electronic transactions
  • Integrated credit card processing
  • 24/7 customer support
  • Extensive ATM and branch network

Cons

  • High monthly fees
  • Limited free transaction
  • Out-of-network ATM fees
  • Limited cash deposit for free transaction
  • Potential for high fees

Long-standing history: Trust in Chase’s centuries-long legacy. It has been securing finances since 1799.

Massive reach: Use one of its 4,700 branches or 17,000 ATMs nationwide. They cover you wherever you go.

Innovative banking: Take advantage of its cutting-edge mobile app and online banking. Bank on your terms, anytime, anywhere.

Diverse financial services: From personal to business banking, loans to investments, Chase Bank has everything you need under one roof.

Customer-centric approach: Experience its commitment to your satisfaction with multiple support channels, including social media.

2. Bank of America

How-to-Apply-for-a-Bank-of-America-Credit-Card

Choose Bank of America for your small business because it offers a suite of financial tools and services all in one place, making your banking efficient and straightforward. Plus, its nationwide presence means you can easily find a branch or ATM, keeping your business running smoothly wherever you are.

Pros

  • Rewarding program benefits
  • Widespread branch accessibility
  • Comprehensive service variety
  • User-friendly digital platforms
  • Welcoming account bonuses

Cons

  • Potentially costly fees
  • Stiff eligibility requirements
  • Interest-earning limitations
  • Minimum deposit demands
  • Customer service challenges
  • Vast Operation: Bank of America is a titan in the industry, serving around 10.73% of all American bank deposits. With a history stretching back to 1784, it’s the second-largest banking institution in the U.S. and offers a full spectrum of financial services, from personal banking to wealth management.
  • Global Presence: Not just limited to the U.S., Bank of America has a worldwide presence.
  • Innovative Products and Services: Always on the cutting edge, Bank of America is big on tech. It constantly updates its digital platforms, making sure you can bank with ease whether you’re on a desktop or using its mobile app.
  • Supportive Representatives: It is not just a bank; it is a financial partner. Bank of America’s mission is to power your financial success, asking the pivotal question, “What would you like the power to do?” and providing the tools to make it happen.
  • Responsible Growth: Growth and responsibility go hand in hand at Bank of America. It commits itself to sustainable, responsible growth, ensuring it is not just expanding but doing so with integrity and a focus on operational excellence.

3. BlueVine

BlueVine

Consider BlueVine for its competitive interest rates, extensive ATM network, and customizable accounts payable platform, which can be a great fit for your business’s online banking needs

Pros

  • Competitive APY: Earn up to 2.00% APY on balances up to $250,000.
  • Few Fees: Enjoy no monthly maintenance fee and no fees for ACH, overdraft, or ATM use within the network.
  • No Minimums: Open an account with no opening deposit or balance minimums.
  • Extensive ATM Network: Access to over 37,000 ATMs for your convenience.
  • Customizable Platform: Manage your accounts payable with a platform that adapts to your business needs.

Cons

  • No Savings Account: Currently, BlueVine does not offer a separate savings account option.
  • No Physical Branches: If you prefer in-person banking, BlueVine may not be the best fit as it operates entirely online.
  • Weekday Customer Service: Customer service is only available on weekdays.
  • Cash Deposit Fee: There’s a fee for cash deposits, which can add up if your business handles a lot of cash.
  • Out-of-Network ATM Fees: While they have an extensive network, using an out-of-network ATM will incur fees.
  • High APY: Earn a sweet 2.0% APY on balances up to $250,000 if you meet its monthly activity goal.
  • Zero Monthly Fees: Say goodbye to monthly fees, plus enjoy free standard ACH and unlimited transactions.
  • FDIC Insured: Sleep easy knowing your deposits are FDIC-insured up to $3 million through Coastal Community Bank and other program banks.
  • Digital Tools: Deposit checks with your phone and manage bills online with their automated accounts payable system.
  • Team Access: Give your team or accountant secure access to your account for a smooth banking experience.

4. First Internet Bank

First-Internet-Bank

Pick First Internet Bank for its pioneering role as the first state-chartered, FDIC-insured online bank, offering competitive rates on CDs and savings, and a variety of accounts with no or waivable fees. Its digital-first approach means you get full-service banking with the convenience of 24/7 access from anywhere.

Pros

  • High CD Rates: It offers some of the best rates for CDs, which is great if you’re looking to save for the future.
  • Free Accounts: Enjoy free checking and savings account options, which can help keep costs down.
  • ATM Fee Refunds: Get up to $10/month refunded for ATM fees, which adds up over time.
  • Free Overdraft Protection: Avoid the hassle and fees that come with overdrafts.

Cons

  • No Physical Branches: If you prefer in-person banking, the lack of branches may be a downside.
  • Interest Compounded Monthly: While it pays high-interest rates, the interest compounds monthly instead of daily.
  • Higher Savings Rate Elsewhere: You may find higher savings interest rates with other online banks.
  • Monthly Fee for Interest Checking: The interest checking account has a monthly fee unless you maintain a $500 balance.
  • Early Withdrawal Penalty for CDs: Be aware of the penalty for early withdrawal from CDs, which can be up to 360 days’ interest.
  • Digital Pioneer: First Internet Bank is the first state-chartered, FDIC-insured institution to operate entirely online, offering services since 1999.
  • Comprehensive Services: It provides a full suite of banking services, including checking, savings, CDs, loans, and more, tailored for businesses of all sizes.
  • Competitive Rates: Expect some of the best rates for savings and CDs, which can significantly benefit your business’s financial growth.
  • Convenience: Manage your banking entirely online with 24/7 access, making it easy to do business on your schedule.

5. Axos Bank

Axos-Bank

Choose Axos Bank for your small business because it offers a full-service online banking experience with no monthly maintenance fees on its Basic Business Checking account, unlimited domestic ATM fee reimbursements, and QuickBooks compatibility for easy accounting.

Pros

  • Free Business Checking: Enjoy a business checking account with no monthly fees.
  • ATM Fee Reimbursements: Get unlimited refunds on out-of-network ATM fees.
  • New Account Bonus: You may qualify for up to $400 when opening a new checking account.

Cons

  • No Physical Branches: Axos operates entirely online, which might be a downside if you prefer in-person banking.
  • Service Fees: There are monthly service fees on savings and money market accounts unless you meet certain criteria.
  • Mobile App Ratings: The business mobile app has received some low ratings from users.
  • Online Pioneer: Axos Bank is one of the first digital banks, in existence since 2000, and it’s fully online, which means you can manage your business banking anytime, anywhere.
  • Business Checking Options: It offers several business checking accounts, including Basic Business Checking with unlimited domestic ATM fee reimbursements and no monthly maintenance fees, and Business Interest Checking which earns up to 1.01% APY.
  • Savings and Money Market Accounts: Axos provides competitive interest rates with their Business Premium Savings and Money Market accounts, which also come with no monthly maintenance fees if you maintain the required average daily balance.
  • CDs and CDARS: For businesses looking to save for the future, Axos offers Certificates of Deposit (CDs) and the Certificate of Deposit Account Registry Service (CDARS), providing FDIC insurance on large deposits.

Overview of Best Banks for Small Business

Overview of Best Banks for Small Business

Start with Chase if you want a bank that’s everywhere. It has branches and ATMs all over the place, so you’re never stuck looking for a place to do your banking. Plus, it offers a ton of services, from checking accounts to loans.

Go for Bank of America if you’re after a bank that rewards you for growing your balance. It has programs that give you perks like lower loan rates and higher interest on savings, which can really add up as your business grows.

Pick BlueVine if online banking is your jam. It offers great rates on checking balances and they don’t mess around with monthly fees or minimum balance requirements. It’s banking that keeps up with the speed of your business.

Choose First Internet Bank if you’re all about managing your business banking without ever stepping into a branch. It has been doing the online thing since the start, offering everything from checking to loans, all accessible from your computer or phone.

Turn to Axos if you want a bank that’s totally online but still offers all the services you’d expect from a traditional bank. It has checking accounts that earn interest and a whole suite of other services, plus they’re big on cutting out the fees.

How to Choose Best Banks for Small Business

  • Determine what’s crucial for your business. Do you need physical branches, or is online banking sufficient? Consider your cash flow, loan requirements, and the level of customer service you expect.
  • Look at the fee structure. Some banks offer free business checking accounts or ways to waive fees. Think about how these will affect your bottom line.
  • Check the interest rates. If earning interest on your balances is important, compare the rates offered by different banks.
  • Evaluate services. What services does the bank offer? Make sure they align with your business needs, whether it’s merchant services, payroll, or business credit cards.
  • Look at what other small business owners have to say about their experiences with the bank.
  • Choose a bank that can grow with your business. You may start small, but as your business expands, your banking needs may change.
  • Find out what kind of support the bank offers. Good customer service can save you a lot of headaches.
  • Read the terms and conditions carefully. Be aware of any potential fees or charges that could apply in the future.
  • If possible, visit a few branches to get a feel for their service and atmosphere.

Pros & Cons of Best Banks for Small Business

Pros-&-Cons-of-Best-Banks-for-Small-Business
  • Specialized Accounts: Top banks offer accounts tailored to small businesses, providing the tools you need to manage your finances effectively.
  • Competitive Interest Rates: Look for banks that offer competitive rates to help your savings grow.
  • Digital Capabilities: A bank with strong online and mobile banking services can save you time and money.
  • Reputation: Established banks with a solid reputation can offer peace of mind and reliability.
  • Service Variety: The best banks provide a range of services, from checking to loans, to support your business at every stage.
  • Fees: Be aware of monthly maintenance, wire transfer, and stop payment fees, which can add up.
  • Transaction Limits: Some banks impose limits on transactions before fees kick in, so know your business’s activity level.
  • Minimum Balance Requirements: Banks may require a minimum balance to avoid fees or to earn higher interest rates.
  • Physical Branch Availability: If you prefer in-person banking, consider the number of branches a bank has.
  • Customer Service: Ensure the bank you choose has a reputation for good customer service, as this can be crucial for resolving issues quickly.

What to Watch Out For

  • Be ready to pivot and adapt quickly to changes in the market or unexpected events.
  • Stay informed about broader economic trends that could impact your business, like inflation rates and supply chain issues.
  • Monitor your cash flow closely to avoid running into financial trouble.
  • Have a solid marketing plan to attract and retain customers.
  • Ensure a smooth checkout experience and clear communication channels for customer inquiries.

Pro Tips

  • Start by understanding what your business requires from a bank. Do you need physical branches, or are online services enough? Consider your cash flow, loan needs, and customer service expectations.
  • Don’t settle for the first bank you find. Compare different banks to see who offers the best services for your specific business.
  • Look at the range of products and services each bank offers. Make sure they align with what your business will need now and in the future.
  • Be mindful of the fees associated with each account. Some banks offer ways to waive certain fees, which can save you money in the long run.
  • Understand the terms and conditions of your banking agreement. Pay special attention to any potential fees or charges that could apply later.

Recap

In conclusion, the best banks for small businesses are those that not only provide a strong foundation for your financial transactions but also grow with you as your business expands. They offer a blend of convenience, competitive fees, robust services, and digital capabilities tailored to the unique needs of small businesses.

Whether it’s the extensive branch network of Chase, the rewarding programs of Bank of America, the innovative online platforms of BlueVine and First Internet Bank, the fee-free structure of NBKC, or the full-service online experience of Axos Bank, there’s a banking partner out there for every small business. Choose a bank that aligns with your business values, supports your growth, and empowers you to focus on what you do best—running your business. With the right bank by your side, the financial aspect of your business is in good hands, allowing you to soar to new heights. Remember, the key is to research, compare, and select a bank that feels like a financial ally, dedicated to helping you achieve your business goals.

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