Do You Need a Business Bank Account?
Are you starting a business and wondering if you should open a business bank account? If you operate under a registered company name, you’ll need a business bank account. However, you can choose to use your personal bank account if you run the operation in your name.
What is a business bank account?
A business bank account allows the business owner or a company representative to perform banking transactions under the business’s name. These transactions may include deposits and withdrawals, writing cheques, paying bills and more. Although business bank accounts offer many of the same features as personal bank accounts, they have a few perks that may be of particular use to a business owner.
Canada’s Big Six banks and credit unions offer a variety of business bank accounts designed for companies of varying sizes and financial needs. These include basic business accounts with no or low monthly fees with limited free transactions, as well as high-cost business accounts for large corporations with additional features and unlimited transactions.
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Business bank account vs. personal bank account
Business bank accounts include chequing and savings account options. Additionally, business chequing accounts often feature useful extras like a higher overdraft limit or the ability to process an unlimited number of debit and credit card transactions, sometimes referred to as Moneris deposits.
PERSONAL BANK ACCOUNT | BUSINESS BANK ACCOUNT | |
|---|---|---|
Purpose | For use by individuals and some self-employed persons. | For some self-employed persons, incorporated businesses, agriculture, non-profit organizations and other corporations. |
Users | Individual and joint account holders. | Multiple company representatives. |
Features | Regular banking features like chequing, savings, bill payment. | Regular banking features. Plus, payroll services, merchant services and more. |
Who can open a business bank account?
Most self-employed individuals, businesses and non-profit associations can open a business bank account. Similarly, farmers and agriculture-based businesses also qualify for business bank accounts, sometimes classified as agriculture accounts.
Benefits of having a business account
Whether you run a business in your name or under a brand name, you will benefit from having a business bank account, especially as your company starts to grow. Here’s why:
Using the same account for business income and expenses can help you get organized and make your business budgeting and planning process feel less daunting.
Keeping your business and personal transactions separate can make it easier to figure out personal and work-related expenses during the tax season.
Business banking plans often come with payroll and cash management services, saving you a significant amount of time that you can use to grow your business.
Business banking packages may offer a business credit card for eligible customers. If you pay off the statement balance each month, your business can gradually improve its credit, making it easier to get approved for a line of credit or a small business loan.
Types of business banking services
From the basic day-to-day banking needs to the unique financial services, most financial institutions offer an array of business products at varying price points. No matter the size of your business, you’re likely to find several banking and financing options with a traditional or online bank of your choice. These business accounts and services may include:
U.S. dollar accounts
Loans
Credit cards
Cash management tools
Most major banks in Canada require you to provide proof of a sole proprietorship, partnership or corporation before opening a business bank account.
How to open a business bank account
Some banks let you start the process of opening a business bank account online, but you may have to visit a branch to show physical copies of your business documents. Requirements can vary based on your business type and your province or territory.
If you cannot find the list of documents on your bank website, contact the bank ahead of your appointment to confirm what to bring.
Documents you’ll likely need
Along with personal identification for the business owner, banks typically ask for business documents to confirm your business name, structure and registration details.
Sole proprietorships
Sole proprietors usually need to show that the business name is registered (if you’re using one) and that you’re allowed to operate in your area.
Business registration or license
Trade name registration (if applicable)
Partnerships and limited partnerships
Banks typically look for proof the partnership exists and documentation showing who has authority to open and manage the account.
Partnership registration (if required)
Partnership agreement (if a registration isn’t required under provincial law)
Trade name registration or master business license (if operating under a registered trade name)
Corporations
For corporations, banks generally want documents that confirm the company is legally incorporated, currently active and authorized to do business.
Articles of incorporation (or articles of association, depending on the corporation)
Proof the corporation is active and in good standing (for example, certificate of status, existence or compliance.
Corporate profile report (or similar registry report)
Other documents the bank may request include proof of annual filings, your business number (BN), a notice of assessment for income tax and any required business licences.
Frequently asked questions
Why do I need a business bank account?
You are required to have a business bank account if you have an officially-registered business. You may choose to have a business bank account if you’re a sole proprietor but want to keep your business banking separate from your personal banking. Having a separate business account is especially advisable for larger corporations to help track incoming and outgoing money for tax purposes.
Does a self-employed person need a business bank account?
If you are self-employed by an unincorporated small business, it’s considered a sole proprietorship. Assuming you operate under a business name, you’ll need to have a business bank account. However, you can choose to use a business or personal bank account if you operate under your own name.
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